We are commanded to “master the earth”. How one elects to do that, is a product of one’s understanding of the concept of mastery. This lesson enables learners to create a personally meaningful model and action plan of mastery/stewardship based upon their interpretation of traditional texts.

It would seem that contradictions abound in the Bible! Finding interpretations that allow these contradicting texts to coexist is both a traditional religious concern and a contemporary dynamic enterprise. It is also a pursuit that will determine how one comes to understand the role of Biblical imperatives in his/her personal life.

In this lesson, the students are empowered to explore charities related to their own interests and make an impact of their own. Students research different charitable organizations and choose one to represent in a creative way at a tzedakah fair. The students invite family and community members to the fair to raise awareness about the charities that mean the most to them. Visitors learn about the different charities and have the opportunity to contribute while at the fair or on their own using information provided by the students.

This lesson focuses on eight levels of tzedakah (charity) that were identified by a great Jewish thinker known as Rabbi Moses Maimonides. Students will investigate various ways to give charity and gain an appreciation of how people give of their time, talent or treasure. They will create their own tzedakah box to begin collecting money at home. 

Using texts and experiential learning experiences, this lesson emphasizes the reasons why giving tzedakah, or charity, is a fundamental concept in Judaism.

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 Earth.

This lesson will familiarize students with the Biblical passages that describe the creation of the world. Learners will develop an appreciation for the uniqueness of each species and will inform their school community about the importance of protecting endangered species.

This lesson will familiarize students with the Biblical passages that describe Adam’s responsibility to care for the Garden of Eden. Learners will develop an understanding of what this responsibility required of Adam and model this responsibility to nature by taking care of a garden of their own.

This lesson will raise awareness of what constitutes a nutritious meal as well as the price of a healthy meal. Students will learn that some people lack the funds to pay for nutritious meals. It will also motivate the students to raise money to pay for meals

This lesson will help students learn the importance of helping people in need, and teach them to take an active role in helping others.  It will allow the students to be aware of what kind of items and quality of items should be donated, how to communicate an idea to others by visual means, and how to speak in front of others.