1st/2nd grade 12/15/13

Dear 1st/2nd Grade Families,

Now that Hanukkah has past, our class is continuing our journey through the Torah by studying the lives of two very unique brothers, Jacob and Esau. Although they were twins, they were completely different in the ways they looked and acted. The story of Jacob and Esau teaches us many great lessons including, but not limited to, understanding how important it is to be kind, truthful, and loving to siblings and family members. Please ask your child to tell you one or more thing(s) they learned about each brother and/or the story in general. If they "forgot," have them show you the comparison sheet he or she made during class. For extra information, the attached video tells the story in a very simple and fun way.

In addition to studying Jacob and Esau, we read a well wrtitten and beautifully illustrated folktale. One City, Two Brothers, tells the story of two bickering brothers who stand before the wise King Solomon where he decides to share with them the story of two other brothers who lived long before their time. By retelling the story of how Jerusalem came to be, he offers guidance in hopes that they will learn to appreciate one another and the value of family. I want to encourage all of you to take some time out of your hectic week or during winter break to read this story and/or something similar with your family. Books like these really encourage and highlight the value of helping others, especially the ones you love.

I hope that you have a wonderful winter break and I look forward to seeing you all in the new year!

Shavua tov,

Nia Taylor