Grades 7 to 10 will take two different core classes each semester, each class taught by a different instructor. They will also receive a 1/2 hour mini class. This model allows us to cover a diversity of topics with a wider pool of teachers.

Structure:
2 – 1 hour core classes each week, service and mini class alternate every other week.

8TH GRADE

1st Semester
Core 1: The Holocaust
Students will be able to describe the major events of the Holocaust, identify and supply causes of the Holocaust (including racism, scape-goating, and the role of the Christian Church), and evaluate Jewish responses, including resistance movements, Nazi hunting (Simon Wisenthal Center), Holocaust memorials, and the recognition of Righteous Gentiles

Core 2: Why Israel Matters/Conflict in the Middle East
What is the historic connection between Israel and Judaism all about? Students will describe and analyze the cause and effect relationships of major events leading to the establishment of the modern state of Israel, justify reasons for governmental and personal support of Israel, and examine how current conflicts in the Middle East affect or are affected by Israel's existence.

Mini Class: Current Events

2nd Semester
Core 1: Torah Study/the Values in Teaching Text
Reading the weekly Torah portion (Parashat Hashavuah), examine how we might apply principles from the narrative and law to our own Jewish lives.

Core 2: Jewish Virtues
Students actively participate in discussions concerning how Jewish texts teach them to live their lives with virtues such as Justice, Truthfulness, Awe, Loving, Humility, etc.

Mini Class: Current Events

Parent Involvement:
Parents are expected to insure their child attends Religious School regularly and on time. In addition, parents will be responsible for reading all materials sent home and reinforcing the lessons learned during Religious School. Parents are expected to read the novels their child is reading and be able to discuss the issues raised with their child. Parents are expected to participate in parent/child learning experiences planned by the teacher and/or Religious School.