Students will understand basic tenants of Judaism and begin to compare Judaism to other religions. Students will be able to: • understand the importance of the central theme of a cycle, a Mahzor, and how the year follows a pattern with the moon as our spiritual and daily compass • understand how to use computers to research other religions Students will understand events, trends, individuals, and movements shaping Jewish history. Students will be able to: • describe the story of Exodus from Egypt to the land of Israel • begin to discuss the Holocaust through an introductory unit • begin a foundation of understanding of the Diaspora Jewry, how and why Jews were dispersed over the course of history • Demonstrate knowledge of the roots of Sephardic and Ashkenazic Jewry
Mathematics Chicago Jewish Day School’s math program is centered on creating a mathematical environment in which children are encouraged to think, invent, investigate, and make connections. The teachers pose questions and set up challenges and then observe, question, and listen as children get busy building meaning for themselves. Every child will bring something personal and unique to the exploration and will glean something different from the experience. Various problem-solving strategies are accepted and, in fact, encouraged, as they help children gain confidence and take risks. Our goal is to produce mathematically powerful thinkers and problem-solvers who are confident and feel comfortable using mathematics in their daily lives. We celebrate the diversity of thinking and focus on the children’s ideas, their reasons and explanations, rather than solely on answers. Mathematical Components
• Real-Life Problem By making connections between their own knowledge and their experiences both in school and outside of school, children learn basic math skills in a meaningful context so that the mathematics become “real.” • Basic Skills Practice Children practice basic skills in a variety of engaging ways such as written and choral fact drills, mental math routines, practice with fact triangles (flash cards of fact families), daily sets of review problems called math boxes, homework, timed tests, and a wide variety of math games. • Emphasis on Communication Throughout the math curriculum, students are encouraged to explain and discuss their mathematical thinking in their own words. Opportunities to verbalize their thoughts and strategies give children the chance to clarify their thinking and gain insight from others. • Home/School Partnership Math homework provides opportunities for family members to participate in the students’ mathematical learning. The homework includes information about daily lessons in addition to periodic letters that introduce units and new concepts and skills.
Academic Curriculum
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