Kindergarten
This week we learned about more things around the temple. We learned that the menorah we are in our synagogue is different than a Hanukkah menorah because it symbolizes the 7 days of the week. We also learned that the Hebrew word for star of David is called Magen David. Lastly, we took a tour of the stained glass around the temple to see how it shows a story and how beautiful the colors are. Ask your student: 1. What is Magen David? 2. Why are there only 7 placeholders on the menorah in temple?
1st Grade
This week we learned what Tza' ar ba- aley haim means (taking care of animals). We also learned about what is Noah's Ark. We discussed what animals give us and why they are important. Ask your student: Why did Noah bring two of each animal? Name three ways we take care of animals.
2nd Grade
This week we had a Tu Bishvat seder. We were able to taste foods that are important to the holiday, and participate in the practice of changing from winter to spring. Ask your student: What was your favorite food you tasted? What was your least favorite food? Why did you mix white and red grape juice?
3rd Grade
Judaics
Students will attend Art class with Morah Laura. The theme is: Tu Bi-Shvat. Ask your student: What does the name Tu Bi-Shvat mean? Why is Tu Bi-Shvat celebrated by Jews the world over?
Applied Hebrew
We began learning about Tu B’shvat, which is the celebration of the birthday of the trees. We learned about the Seven Minim (species) of the land of Israel: Wheat, barley, vines, fig trees, pomegranates, olive oil and honey. These are the seven food groups that were consumed by the Jewish people in biblical times. Afterwards, we read a story called “The Giving Tree,” which led us to a having a conversation about taking care of the environment around you. Ask your student: 1) What does the holiday of Tu B’Shvat symbolize? 2) If you were the main character in “The Giving Tree,” would you act the same or differently and why?
4th Grade
Judaics
We started looking at the story of Passover and talking about the 4 questions. The students came up with 4 questions that are important to them. Ask your student: Which of 'their' 4 questions is most important to them? Can WE really make a difference?
Applied Hebrew
We will study about the Mitzva to plant a fruit tree when you come to Israel. Each student will creat a "TREE" of themself: like the tree gives fruit to the world, we give as well "fruit" to this world. Ask your student: What is their "fruit" and why? Why does the Torah teach us to plant a fruit tree? Why is it important to do that?
5th Grade
Judaics
This week we finished up the story of Joseph! We talked about the tricks he played on his brothers, his reconciling with them, and the eventual reunification of his family in Egypt. We also talked about how Joseph saved Egypt but also transformed it into a land of slavery. Ask your student: Q1) What did pharoah’s two dreams (about cows and wheat) mean? Q2) Why did Joseph trick his brothers numerous times when they came to him for help?
Applied Hebrew
We will look at the Hebrew calendar try to find "why" we call this Holiday Tu B'shvat and why this holiday is special and different from the "Jewish High Holidays." Students will learn about Tu B'shvat tradition, and planting a tree as the wonderful Mitzva they may share with Eretz Israel. later we will listen to the story of "Honi the Circle Maker and make the connection to the phrase "L'dor Vador" 1/ Please share with us some new information about Tu b'shvat. 2/ How can we celebrate Tu B'shvat in America?
6th Grade
Another fabulous week is in the books! On Sunday the students had the chance to spend time with our shinshinit, Nicole, as she taught them all about the Israeli Election process. She will be heading back to Israel in the next few weeks for vacation, but she will be staying a few extra days because the Israeli government is about to hold it’s THIRD election as the K’nesset tries to form a coalition and elect its next Prime Minister. In the previous two elections, no coalition was formed, causing the second, and now third election process.
After Nicole departed, in honor of Tu Bishvat (the New Year of the Trees), the class learned about Israel’s agricultural strategies and contributions to the world, especially through the following areas:
1. Drip Irrigation
2. Desalination
3. Pulling water from the air!
Another Reminder!: I hope that you and your 6th grader will talk about the chance for them to attend NFTY 678 HaTikvah Kallah at Camp Thunderbird. It’s an amazing first opportunity to check out the youth movement for our Reform Jewish community and to meet other teens from across the region. Click HERE to learn more.
7th & 8th Grades
This week we looked at why trees and planting are so important in Judaism. We then used the story of Honi the Circle Maker to discuss Tu Bishvat and then created a practice shpiel using the story. We will work on creating our Purim Shpiel for the whole school in 2 weeks when we are back! Ask your student: Who do we plant for? What can trees be symbols of?
Don't forget about NFTY 678 HaTikvah Kallah at Camp Thunderbird. This is an AWESOME opportunity to meet new friends from across our NFTY region. Click HERE to learn more!
