Mosaic Law Curriculum Guide

Our 1st Grade -Kitah Aleph class meets on Sundays, from 9:30am to 12:15pm

As children continue their study of Judaism at our school, we feel it is important to create a warm, supportive and loving atmosphere. Our curriculum seeks to involve our students in living and celebrating Judaism. Music, art and storytelling are important vehicles in conveying the goals of our curriculum. By experiencing Judaism we hope to foster positive feelings, encourage love of Torah and tradition, and impart knowledge that will help each student build a positive self-image.

There are several different subject areas that will be covered. Each grade builds and expands upon knowledge gained in prior class levels. While there is a review of previously studied materials, new materials, skills and concepts are introduced each year.

First graders focus on “All About My Synagogue”.

Goals of the Class:

Create a learning environment that develops a love of Judaism;
Continue to use Hebrew as a living language with emphasis on oral language;
Develop a positive Jewish identity;
Familiarize the students with Jewish objects found in the home and synagogue;
Develop a sense of meaningful Shabbat and holiday observances through customs and ceremonies;
Reinforce Bible stories from Abraham through Moses;
Develop a sense of curiosity about Israel; and
Create an environment in which students’ inquiries are encouraged and students’ potential is challenged.

Content:

My Synagogue: Bet Knesset, Torah, Ark, Rabbi Taff, Hazzan Alpert, Eternal Light.

Holidays: A more in-depth view of Shabbat and holidays, with an emphasis on home and synagogue observance, including focus on: Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Simchat Torah, Chanukah, Tu B’Shevat, Purim, Pesach, Yom HaAtzmaut, Shavuot.

Jewish Symbols: Kiddush cup, candlesticks, Chanukiah, Lulov and Etrog, Torah, Seder, Affikoman, Seder Plate, Mezzuzah, Megillah, and the Flag of Israel.

Bible Stories And Heroes: A more in-depth study of Bible stories and values, as well as Biblical personalities (Abraham through Moses).

Values: Basic Jewish values and ideas related to Tzedakah and Mitzvot – how to treat each other, respect for parents, hospitality, etc.

Prayer/Hebrew: Brachot for Shabbat, holidays and everyday use. Introduction of prayers found in Shabbat service, Candle Lighting, Kiddush, Blessings over bread, Blessings over cake, Blessings over juices, Blessings over fruit, Modeh Ani, Sh’ma, the Chanukah candle blessing, Pesach – first two of the four questions, Shehecheyanu, Oseh Shalom, Adon Olam. Students will be introduced to the Hebrew Alef-Bet, their names, and also sounds and basic Hebrew vocabulary through stories, songs, and games.

Israel: Promoting an understanding of K’lal Yisrael (Jewish children and Jewish families are all part of the community of Jews).