Palo Alto School for Jewish Education
3rd Grade: Jewish Values
In years when 3rd and 4th grades are combined in a single classroom, this curriculum alternates with the 4th grade curriculum in a 2-year cycle, so that all students learn both parts.
Main Focus - 3rd
Various texts, including the Talmud, are used to enhance student understanding of issues regarding the Jewish life cycle and the modern Jewish family.
Holidays and Celebrations - 3rd
Celebrate major holidays as a part of the school-wide celebrations.
Bible Stories - 3rd
Lessons on values and ethics conveyed in the Bible: King Solomon; Amos; Isaiah; the sages Hillel and Shammai.
Jewish Values and Ethics - 3rd
Articulate the meaning of being a "mensch" (a good human being). Learn how our actions "ripple out" and affect others. Learn the guiding principles of Jewish ethics: Tikkun Olam, tzedakah, justice, mitzvot.
History and Israel - 3rd
Study about Israeli villages where Jewish and Arab Israelis live and are learning about each other.
Prayers, Blessings - 3rd
Blessings for the holidays and Shabbat.
Music/Dance/Arts & Crafts - 3rd
Music: weekly
Dance: monthly
Arts and crafts: art projects are an integral part of every lesson.
Cooking projects: used for holidays and for making food for others as holiday gifts (shalah-manos for Purim, for example).
Textbook - 3rd
A Kid’s Mensch Handbook
