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We Are Divine Creations (Tolerance) (Private-Religious)

Unit of 3 lessons

6th-8th Grade

Subjects:

Language Arts, Philanthropy, Science and Social Studies

Key Words/Concepts click to view

Lesson 1 :	ELA:	Cause/Effect; Ethics; Group Discussions; Interview; Questioning; Voice
	PHIL:	Activism; Advocacy; Altruism; Caring/Sharing; Community; Family; Helping; Judaism; Kindness; Respect; Tolerance; Tradition
	SOC:	Discrimination; Parochial
Lesson 2 :	ELA:	Analyze/Interpret; Cause/Effect; Ethics; Group Discussions; Interview; Questioning; Summarizing/Paraphrasing; Voice
	PHIL:	Activism; Advocacy; Altruism; Caring/Sharing; Community; Family; Helping; Judaism; Kindness; Respect; Tolerance; Tradition
	SOC:	Discrimination; Parochial
Lesson 3 :	ELA:	Presentation; Research
	PHIL:	Activism; Advocacy; Altruism; Caring/Sharing; Community; Family; Helping; Judaism; Kindness; Respect; Service Plan; Service Project; Tolerance; Tradition
	SOC:	Discrimination; Parochial

Unit Overview:

The Torah teaches that humanity was created in the Divine image. This unit focuses on the practical implications of that belief.

Unit Purpose:

This unit focuses on the texts that deal with the creation of humanity, b’tzelem elohim (in the Divine image) and the commandment to love one’s neighbor as oneself. Students create commentary on the texts, learn about organizations that fulfill the Rambam’s concept of loving, and create a project that provides support to such an organization. The learners will grow in their understanding and be able to demonstrate faith-based responses to the question, How we are to treat one another and why we are expected to do so?

Unit Objectives:

The learner will:

explain the creation of humanity being b’tzelem elohim, (in the Divine image).

cite examples of how their family and community acts on the commandment to love your neighbor as yourself as defined by Maimonides.

summarize, analyze, interpret, and paraphrase selected texts that contain ethical mitzvot (commandments) concerning the relationship between people (ben adam l’chavero).

demonstrate an awareness of how these texts can be used in their own lives.

identify and relate personal experiences in which the mitzvot ben adam l’chavero have played a role in their own lives.

acknowledge the implications/consequences of their choices/actions.

demonstrate an ability to assess one’s choice to act, leading to moral growth.

describe the work of selected individuals in honoring the divinely-created humanity of others.

define the values inherent in the described efforts of identified people and organizations

detail and explain their personal commitment to support one of the programs.

Service Experience:

Although lessons in this unit contain service project examples, decisions about service plans and implementation should be made by students, as age appropriate.

Lesson Two students are asked to keep a personal mitzvah journal.
Lesson Three provides optional service opportunities.

Unit Assessment:

Learner assessments are identified under the heading Assessment found in each lesson.

School/Home Connection:

Throughout this unit the learner is required to engage his/her family and community in discussions and interviews concerning how they interpret and act on the commandment to: Love your neighbor as yourself as defined by Maimonides and the commandments contained in the ethical mitzvot addressing the relationship between people - ben adam l’chavero.

Notes for Teaching:

More specific information, alternative approaches, reminders, and helpful hints are scattered throughout these lessons and indicated by the words Teacher Note.