Middle school Torah study includes the study of the five books of the Torah, Prophets, Writings, Mishnah and an introduction to Gemara, as well as associated commentaries. An emphasis is placed on close-reading of text with attention to biblical language, thematic patterns and inconsistencies that lead to the process of interpretive analysis. Students learn to pay close attention to the text, make nuanced observations, ask questions and explore a wide range of commentators as they search for answers. Through this in-depth exploration of Jewish text students have many opportunities to grapple with challenges, explore ethical dilemmas and ultimately, to find a sense of personal connection to Torah learning. Through in-depth text study, commentaries, partner-based (Chevruta) learning and discussion, students:

Compare and contrast the work of different commentators

Write at least one Dvar Torah (Torah portion commentary) to be shared with the community

Analyze the moral and legal issues in the Tanakh (written Torah)

Examine maps and how they contribute to the understanding of the text

Explore the development of Halakha (Jewish law) from its source in the Chumash through modern times

Investigate the relationship between the written Torah (Tanakh) and the oral Torah (Toshba)

Middle school Hebrew students, in collaboration with their advisor, are able to choose the right level of Hebrew for their needs. In the multi-aged Hebrew classrooms, middle school students strengthen their vocabulary, hone their grammar skills, and build their confidence with both spoken and written Hebrew. Through games, drama, music, discussion, literature study, grammar work and writing, students:

Express ideas coherently in both spoken and written Hebrew

Engage in class discussions in Hebrew

Prepare and successfully deliver Hebrew oral presentations

Read complex Hebrew texts with fluency and expression

Show understanding of Hebrew texts through a variety of modalities including writing, drawing and speaking

Write Hebrew dialogues, short stories, summaries and structured paragraphs using accurate Hebrew grammar and a rich Hebrew vocabulary

Explore Israeli literature

Middle school Jewish History and Culture allows students to deeply enjoy the chance to explore a huge array of topics related to the development and contributions of the Jewish people. From the story of Masada to Ethiopian Jewish culture, from oral histories of the Shoah to understanding present conflicts in Israel, students relish the chance to learn about the struggles and triumphs of our people as they build a sense of themselves within that history. Through research projects, literature study, visual arts, primary sources and discussion, students:

Articulate their opinion using textual evidence

Identify the hidden bias of a particular text or statement

Distinguish between fact, opinion and reasoned judgment in a text

Examine events within a timeline

Conduct interviews

Engage in research about World War II or the development of Zionist ideas

Compare and contrast information found within different sources and from different perspectives

Share knowledge through oral reports, art and the use of media, in addition to written assignments

WBBM courses provide content aligned to student interest, while building strong skills for independent learning. Through deep text study, ongoing collaboration and a problem-solving approach, students develop their abilities at a variety of levels. Over the course of their three years in the WBBM students build the following skills:

Text and Language Skills

Develop questions and take steps to access commentaries that address those questions

Analyze words, grammar and patterns in biblical and rabbinic text to develop meaningful interpretations

Use logic and evidence to substantiate interpretations and analysis

Articulate ideas, interpretations and analysis through writing and presentation

Develop genuine enjoyment of the Hebrew language

For advanced Hebrew speakers: Work within an immersion Hebrew environment, access a wide breadth of commentators, participate in Hebrew-based partner work

For Hebrew speakers in need of extra support: Work with English sources within an English speaking Judaic studies environment, navigate texts with greater ease, access commentaries in translation

Collaboration Skills

Build strong working relationships with other students

Share responsibility for learning in Chevruta

Challenge peers to expand their thinking

Engage in active listening strategies

Reflect on one’s role within partner and group work

Independent Learning Skills

Reflect on challenges and set goals for growth

Advocate for one’s needs and interests as a learner

Express a positive attitude about learning, resulting in self-direction

Learn how to manage time, materials and complex tasks