Posted on December 7, 2009
As we prepare for Chanukah, I wanted to provide a resource for educators interested in utilizing Service-Learning in their educational program. Below is a Service-Learning Plan that Areyvut developed for Chanukah that can help educators address Chanukah meaningfully in their classrooms.
Possible Themes:
Weak vs. Might Power of One
Assimilation
Miracles
Adding light to world
Israel
Heroes
Related Curricular Goals:
Jewish history
Jewish culture
Study of God
Biblical stories
Hebrew
Tikkun Olam
Chanukah story
Community Needs:
During winter, people need shelter and/or clothing
People may not have sufficient food
People may not be able to fully participate in the holiday due to financial constraints
Sick and elderly people are often lonely
Fire Safety
Texts:
Talmud Shabbat 21A, Picture from Frederick Brenner’s Jews in America of Billings, Montana, Chanukah songs, prayers, Adam Sandler’s song
Partnering Agencies: (Name/Contact/Phone/E-mail)
Shelters, food pantry/soup kitchen, restaurants, super markets, hospitals, synagogues, churches, police, firemen
Resources for Further Research:
Books, internet, videos, organizations
Projects Ideas:
Visit a shelter, clothing drive, soup kitchen or food deliveries, toy drive, make toys for kids in hospital, performance for nursing home and/or hospital, safety fair
Timeframe:
Begin the week after Succot by choosing theme and contacting potential partnering agencies. Spend 2-3 weeks researching before beginning project.
Budget:
$100 for classroom supplies, transportation costs, food, publishing, etc.
Additional Considerations:
Are volunteers needed to help?
Do parents have related skills that will be helpful?
Does school have permission to take students on trips?
Can other classes be involved?
