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Below is a list of offered workshops, followed by a short explanation of each:
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Receiving the Torah - Grades 1 and 2
The goals of this workshop are twofold: 1) to gain familiarization with the Torah Scroll, its elements and symbols, and 2) to emphasize the value of study and knowledge of Jewish tradition. The workshop, of 1½ hours duration, begins with a staged presentation, followed by two activities of 30 minutes each, performed by groups in turn. One activity is preparation of a decorated 'Yad' (pointer used in reading from the Torah scroll), and the other is a game which teaches about the scribe, cantillation marks, scroll accessories and more.
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Rosh Chodesh (New Month) - Grades 3 and 4
The goal of this workshop is to teach the meaning of Rosh Chodesh and its establishment in the Jewish calendar. The workshop lasts for about 2 hours, beginning with a staged story of Rabbi Gamliel and the fixing of the calendar, and continuing with group activities which last for 35 minutes each. The activities include handicrafts and games which impart information on the lunar calendar and how the new month is marked.
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Mishna and the Sages - Grades 5 and 6
The goal of this workshop is to emphasize the spiritual foundation of the nation of Israel. The 2- hour workshop begins with a staged story about Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai, followed by learning in small groups (including parents) on the Talmud, how it was compiled, and its role in perpetuating the Jewish people.
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Tu B'shvat - Grades 1 through 4
The goal of this workshop is to teach the meaning of Tu B'shvat and its related concepts, as well as past and present ways of its celebration. After a short introduction by the workshop leader, children and parents proceed to one of two stations: one involves games and quizzes through which the Seven Species of the Land of Israel are collected; and the other provides realizations of different types of Tu B'shvat celebrations through songs and games. Total duration of the workshop is 1½ hours.
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Tu B'shvat - Grades 5 and 6
The goal of this 2-hour workshop is the same as above, with the additional aspect of the role of nature in linking the generations. After a short introduction by the workshop leader, children and parents proceed to two stations: one is a staged presentation of a well-known story about tree planting, followed by group discussions on trees and the legacy they provide for future generations; the second is an actual Tu B'shvat 'seder' accompanied by the songs of Naomi Shemer.
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Chanukah - Grades 1 through 6
The goals of this 2-hour workshop are learning about: 1) holiday customs, especially those related to candle lighting and publicizing the miracle; 2) what makes a 'chanukkiah' (menora) kosher; and 3) the holiday from an archaeological perspective. The workshop consists of 3 stations: an informative game, a creative session making kosher chanukkiot, and an activity that teaches about archaeological discoveries related to Chanukah.
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