Fifth graders continue to explore Torah text with increasing depth, noticing themes, asking deep questions and exploring the many possible interpretations of these complex texts. Through partner work, text-study, hands-on projects and in-depth discussions, students:

Study Sefer Shemot/Exodus

Learn from a variety of commentators, traditional and contemporary

Express independent thinking in their reflections of the Torah text study

Explore rabbinic interpretation of passages of Parashat Hashavua/weekly Torah portion

Write a weekly take-home dvar Torah, sharing content learned in class and their own thinking

Dive into the study of Mishna through Masechet/Tractate Berachot.

Prepare for each holiday through the study of Mishna

Describe the development of the Jewish people as a nation

Assess the importance and role of leadership in moments of transition

Identify patterns within the text and learn to derive meaning from the interpretation of these patterns

Examine the relationship between the Jewish people and G-d in the narratives of the Book of Exodus

Begin to engage in the study of the Mishna

Fifth graders are challenged to use their solid Hebrew language skills to access literature, historical content and to express themselves in writing. Through songs, games, drama activities, reading, writing and discussion, students:

Engage in discussions on diverse topics

Articulate key ideas from a text read in class

Create oral presentations in Hebrew

Summarize texts read in class

Develop reading fluency

Explore Jewish history through Hebrew texts

Explore Israeli literature

Identify parts of speech in a wide variety of Jewish texts from biblical to modern

Apply peer-editing skills to Hebrew writing

Continue to strengthen Hebrew reading fluency, comprehension and written expression

Fifth graders are able to engage with complex spiritual questions and concepts as they build their unique identity in relationship to prayers, rituals and celebrations. Through songs, text-study, partner work and in-depth discussion, students:

Examine the impact place and time have in the development of Jewish legal systems

Compare and contrast customs from different Jewish communities

Analyze changes and patterns in Jewish history

Develop language to explore and articulate the concepts of emuna (faith), ahava (love) and kedusha (holiness)

Explore the concept of the “miraculous”, both in the past and in the present

Fifth graders engage deeply in a year-long study of Jewish diaspora cultures as they build a new level of understanding of the land of Israel and its people. Through music, stories, research, cooking and art, students:

Compare and contrast the diverse diaspora communities of the Jewish people

Develop an understanding of what makes the Jewish people united across differences

Appreciate the variety of ethnicities and cultures that make-up the Jewish people.

Understand the process that led to the establishment of the State of Israel

Explore the value of passing down of one's personal heritage to the next generation

Understand the topography and geography of Israel and the Middle East