Kitah Alef - Grade 1

Teacher:
Morah Amy Rosenbaum

Curriculum

Torah:
Students will explore selected stories in the book of Bereshit/Genesis guided by these questions: Who are the members of our Torah family?  What do we learn from our Torah family about how to treat each other and the world?  The Torah curriculum includes connections to Hebrew, prayers, holidays, mitzvot (laws), and middot (values).  Torah is learned and experienced through children's literature, art, music, drama, and social action activities. 

Holidays and Shabbat:  
BJL Beginnings pamphlets with family learning component
Through engaging, experiential, and age-appropriate activities, students will explore the meaning of the Jewish holidays, including their rituals, mitzvot and the way they are celebrated in Israel.  Students' holiday experiences outside of class will enrich their understanding of and personal connection to each holiday. 

Spirituality and Prayer:
Students will learn the meaning of and practice several Shabbat morning prayers.  Students will prepare in class to lead prayers in Junior Congregation.  First graders will explore "Who are the People in Our Synagogue" including the roles they have in our Bet Am Shalom community. 

Hebrew:
First graders study the Hebrew letters through art, music, playdough, movement, and additional engaging activities to meet each student's learning style.  

Israel:
Israel is incorported into the first grade Torah and holidays curriculum.