Through four folktales from different parts of the world and wisdom traditions, learners explore how to make decisions in difficult situations. They define discernment and wisdom and give examples of each in real-life situations.
Filter by subjects:
Filter by audience:
Filter by unit » issue area:
find a lesson
Unit: Generosity of Spirit Folktales
When times are hard, it is sometimes difficult to remember that the things that count are not material, and the people who make a difference in our lives are the ones we often take for granted. We read five Jewish folktales that reveal gifts of generosity in everyday events of life. Through...
All cultures have practices and customs regarding hospitality, or how we treat guests. In these folktales, we learn about different expectations and degrees of these customs and how travelers test the limits of hospitality and feel the effects of their host's generosity.
Unit: Lights! Camera! Take Action!
Young people view and discuss the film The Gift of All: a Community of Givers and identify the influences and attributes of the generous people interviewed. They read biographies of generous people and make a...
Unit: Nature and You (Stewardship) (Private-Religious)
This lesson introduces the concept that trees are just one of many elements in nature that are of fundamental importance to our lives. Learners will explore various reasons why we need nature, why we should be stewards of the environment and will be inspired to work harder to protect Mother...
Unit: Respecting the Environment (Private-Religious)
This lesson will teach learners G-d’s appreciation for trees and the importance of planting and preserving trees for our future. The learners will identify these concepts in Biblical verses, Talmudic passages and modern Jewish associations. They will also develop an understand of and an...
Unit: Surviving Auschwitz (9-12)
This lesson focuses on two young Jewish survivors of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the Nazi death camp. As they return to their home town and the concentration camp, they each tell their story and explain why they were willing to return to such an...
Unit: This Land Is Our Land (Stewardship) (Private-Religious)
This lesson guides students to recognize the importance of taking care of the world by reducing trash. Students will recognize the benefits of recycling and reusing.
Unit: Philanthropy at Home and Abroad
Students read an old quote about the interconnection of all life on the planet and recognize that we are each affected by what happens to others and the environment. They will analyze current local, state, national and international issues addressed in the evening news. They become...
Unit: Telling Our Stories of Giving
Students become familiar with the structure of the newspaper and the purpose of the different types of articles as they explore "stories" about acts of giving and sharing time, talent, and treasure for the common good. Students recognize the types of voices and articles in the newspaper. They...