Teacher+Page+for+Kita+Vav

= Return to Home = Kita Vav 5776 will be taught by Morah Barbara Biran May 4: **1st Hour - we get one more sanctuary rehearsal!! Please have your child at CBD ready to go at 4pm!** May 4: 7:00pm - Silicon Valley Yom HaShoah Observance at Congregation Sinai May 6: 6:30pm Last Multi-Generational TGI Shabbat of the year - Kita Alef & Bet Shema & Mezuzah; Italian theme potluck - come support Kita Alef & Bet - your kids know the service!!! May 7 : **Kita Vav Leads the Torah service & chants the Haftarah in the main sanctuary! Services start at 9:30am** May 11: 5:30pm Yom HaZikaron Observance (Israel Memorial Day) into Yom Ha'Atzmaut (Israel Independence Day) Celebration - Israeli food, HaZamir Chorale Performance and special guest speaker Rebecca Avera; Be sure to RSVP (click the link) - Members $5/person in advance; $10/person at the door May 14: Shabbat School May 22: JCore Lag B'Omer Picnic & Awards Day
 * = ==** WELCOME TO JCORE KITA VAV 5776 **== ||=  ||= == SATO RESOURCES == ||
 * IMPORTANT CALENDAR DATES!**

KEEP PRACTICING!!! Following the rehearsal, we schmoozed over donuts and bananas and then went down the street to John Moran Park. Another reward since I had your kids get here so early. While there I did some one on one Hebrew reading testing - all of your kids did fine and then we had a brief discussion on mitzvah projects - please do not wait till your child starts their tutoring to begin their projects or better yet - ongoing service hours!
 * MAY 1**
 * Good rehearsal yesterday although a couple of the class missed most of it. We have one more rehearsal on Wednesday at 4pm - please be on time - meet in the sanctuary!**

Thanks for everyone's participation in the tefillin workshop - special thanks to Rabbi Alexander for a wonderful introduction to tefillin!

Division of the Torah service is based on the tefillot that your child has passed: practice of the Torah service went very well 1st Half: Roni; Brian; Joshua; Will Ashrei: Evan - it would be great if at least one other student would learn/master this! 2nd Half: Ethan; Ron; Benjamin; Evan; Eliot Torah Service Haftarah: Blessings and your child's verses!
 * APRIL 17**
 * Haftarah Trope & Hebrew - Most of the class was completely prepared - thank you! Now they must keep practicing!!**
 * Homework - same as it has been!**

We played another Jewish values game which led to some interesting discussions based on the space landed and matching card. We didn't get very far, which is OK! The cards chosen & resulting discussions were: Role Play: Your parents turn to you and say "We've decided not to bother with Passover this year." Role Play: Ask the question o fyour parents, "How come I have to go to Hebrew School?" Take a Stand: The new kid who moves into your neighborhood is Israeli. What do you do? Take a Stand: Your school chorus decides to go out Christmas caroling. You are a member. Do you go or not? Take a Stand: Your Hebrew School prinicpal offers you a choice between moving into a special advanced Hebrew class or becoming a tutor in a lower grade. What will you do and why?
 * Judaica**

Division of the Torah service is based on the tefillot that your child has passed: practice of the Torah service went very well 1st Half: Roni; Brian; Joshua; Will Ashrei: Evan - it would be great if at least one other student would learn/master this! 2nd Half: Ethan; Ron; Benjamin; Evan; Eliot Torah Service Haftarah: Blessings and your child's verses!
 * MARCH 27**
 * Haftarah Trope & Hebrew - Not quite half of the class knew their 1st verse! By this past Sunday the assignment was to know 2 of their 3 verses! Your child must learn their verses!!**
 * Homework - same as it has been!**

We had a discussion on memories of Passover and their favorite part of Passover
 * Judaica**

At this time these are tied together - **your child's homework is, as it has been**: 1. Torah Service: be sure your child is practicing 2. Haftarah: Blessings Before & After and your child's individually assigned verses! For next Sunday March 27 - your child must know at least their 1st verse; better if they know 2 of their verses! Number of remaining Sunday JCore-Haftarah sessions: March 27 April 3 – yes - the class will meet with Iris as I will be out of town April 17 - **Sanctuary Rehearsal - your child must be ready with everything**! May 1 – **THIS WILL BE OUR LAST SESSION - Final Sanctuary Rehearsal**
 * MARCH 20**
 * Haftarah Trope & Hebrew:** Yesterday was the first run through on the Haftarah - your child was supposed to know the blessings & their 1st verse - most did NOT accomplish this! We also had our first sanctuary rehearsal - this went fairly well. I've split the class into their parts based on the tefillot that each one has mastered so far.
 * It would be great if at least one more student would master Ashrei!!!**
 * From April 4 through April 16 your child must keep practicing and perfect their Haftarah verses!**

We worked on the Mile packet for the Haftarah blessings. The main focus for us in these packets is making meaning of the blessings, how does your child interpret the words - not a literal translation, but what do the words mean to them and how do they relate to their current life, if at all. This is an important process as when they begin the study for their bar/bat mitzvah they will work with a mentor to understand their Haftarah and write a speech. This requires getting under the surface meaning of the words and figuring out the message and how it relates to them personally. I'm happy to say that many of your children are getting the hang of this very difficult skill.
 * Judaica**

More importantly, I handed out the for the class. The goal is for each of your children to chant 3 verses! In order to accomplish this I will meet with each of your children individually to record the verses. It is imperative that your child come in prepared for this session! See the email for the instructions. We continued checking off on tefillot - please have your child view the attached and come in prepared ready to test! We practiced Ein Keiloheinu as a group, worked on basic roots and milot hashavua (words of the week). We started off with a trivia game on Purim and then Shabbat. While on the subject of Shabbat we stopped and had, what I felt to be, a very meaningful discussion on the 10 commandments, focusing on the 5th commandment about honoring your parents - ask your child about it! We ended with reviewing the 2nd & 3rd Mile Packet. The focus of the review is really about understanding and making personal meanings & connections to the specific prayer phrases in the packet - the ones that ask for a translation. The exercise that I'm focusing on is not so much the literal translation - that can be gotten from the 2nd page of the packet; my focus is helping your child learn how to figure out what those words are really saying - find the deeper meaning - and then how does this relate to their life. In my opinion, it is important to find the deeper meaning, otherwise one is just reciting words that don't make sense to them in either Hebrew or English. This deeper understanding is what they will need when they work with their mentor to help them understand their Haftarah and write their speech for their Bar/Bat Mitzvah.
 * MARCH 6**
 * Haftarah Trope:** We've completed all the trope groups as well as all of the blessings. Make sure your child is practicing and is ready to check out on all of the blessings!
 * 1st HOUR HEBREW**
 * 2nd HOUR - JUDAICA**

See February 7 - for what we continued working on - **the most important song for this Friday night, if your child has not been practicing all along is Ahavat Olam - see Feb 7 for the link** See February 7 - instead of independent study, we reviewed the first mile packet; then practiced the Cup Dance - be sure your child is practicing singing Adama v'Shamayim
 * FEBRUARY 28**
 * Haftarah Trope:** We covered through group 9 and learned the 3rd Blessing after the Haftarah - be sure your child is practicing all the trope & blessings taught so far!
 * Next Sunday, we finish learning the trope & the blessings plus I give out the assigned Haftarah verse(s)!**
 * 1st Hour Hebrew**
 * 2nd Hour Judaica**


 * FEBRUARY 7**
 * Haftarah Trope:** We covered through groups 6A & 6B and learned the Blessing before the Haftarah - be sure your child studies & learns this over break!!
 * 1st Hour Hebrew**
 * Continued checking out on the Torah service
 * Continued practicing the Friday night melodies for TGIש - please have your child practice these too!
 * Conversational Hebrew
 * Hi, how are you; where do you live; what's your name; what is your address
 * TPR: stand/rise; jump; turn around; point at: door; window; table; ears; eyes; nose
 * 2nd Hour - Judaica**
 * Independent study - Torah Aura packets on understanding the Torah service; your child's choice to work alone or with a partner or team; each packet covers a basic understanding of a part of the service
 * Cup Dance: while fun the underlying concept is one of teamwork and building community


 * FEBRUARY 1**
 * Haftarah Trope:** We covered through trope group 5B and through the 2nd Blessing after the Haftarah
 * 1st Hour Hebrew**
 * Continued checking out on the Torah service
 * Practiced conversational Hebrew
 * Hi, how are you; where do you live; what is your address; what do you want to do today?
 * 2nd Hour - Judaica**
 * Independent study - Torah Aura packets on understanding the Torah service; your child's choice to work alone or with a partner or team; each packet covers a basic understanding of a part of the service
 * Cup Dance: while fun the underlying concept is one of teamwork and building community

2nd Hour - Judaica Utilizing a bit of gambling style learning (winning & losing paperclips), we learned about the "true" story of Hanukkah which is that the miracle of the oil probably did not occur. Rather the miracle is that, with God's help, a small army, the Maccabees defeated the Syrian/Greek army and that the 8 days of celebration were a celebration of Sukkot that had been missed due to the battles. Also the myth of the oil and the entire holiday of Hanukkah was "invented by the rabbis so that we wouldn't celebrate a military victory, rather we'd celebrate something more Jewish"; more spiritual - being a light to the world - sharing knowledge.
 * DECEMBER 6**
 * 1st Hour - Hebrew**
 * Worked on Friday Night TGIShabbat songs - we've learned thru Mizmor Shir - the class will be helping to lead this service on Friday March 4, 2016 - be sure to mark your calendar!
 * Reviewed the Torah service - your child should be working on mastering the tefillot for the Torah service - individual testing will begin in January; based on what they pass will determine their part in the Vav Shabbat Torah service/Haftarah induction service on Saturday May 7; as I explained to the class yesterday again - the best way to tackle & master Ashrei is one or two verses each week!
 * Reviewed key "roots" - these are the basis for recognizing many other words - also tested out the new "buzzers" that I purchased - was really fun for everyone, including me!

Please be sure your child is practicing - logging into Prayertech; using Quizlet &/or Memrise 2nd Hour we played Middotopoly - the game focused on discussing the values listed on the board & trying to give real life examples of these values in daily life
 * NOVEMBER 14**

Torah Service - we completed going through all of the prayers in our Wednesday Gem! Starting in January, the first 1/2 hour of every Sunday (9:30-10am) will be spent on having your child check off on the tefillot they know! They must be able to chant it on their own to me. They should already be practicing! Also remember Youth Congregation - the more your child attends the better/more familiar they will be with the service and how it flows! Plus bonus - built in practice time on the tefillot!!
 * NOVEMBER 8**
 * HOMEWORK: QUIZLET - MEMRISE - PRAYERTECH; WIKI TEFILLAH - BE ABLE TO CHANT THESE TEFILLOT**
 * Pg 394: Ein Kamokha & Vayihi Binsoa
 * Pg 398: Bei Ana Rahetz; Shema/Ehad/Gadlu; L'kha Adonai
 * Pg 420: Ashrei - best to tackle this 2 verses at a time!!
 * Pg 422: Y'hallelu & Hodo Al Eretz
 * Pg 424: Mizmor L'David
 * Pg 426: Uvnuho Yomar

Hebrew: First thing each Sunday your child will be writing their name, the day & the date in Hebrew. Yesterday we mostly focused on basics - what your child actually knows & does not know that should have been learned in previous years. The following worksheets were done: Judaica: This was the 3rd week of our 6 week SATO (Social Action Tikkun Olam unit); the class went through an exercise of allocation; figuring out wants vs needs; the example: a family of four has a monthly budget of $400 with expenses of rent, gas & electric; water, garbage, food, clothing that exceeds that amount. What will they cut from their budget? We then narrowed the focus to food - a weekly budget of $10 to feed a family of four. What will they buy & can they meet their budget. The class decided upon 1 loaf of bread; 1 dozen eggs; 1 lb potatoes; 1 box dry cereal; 1 gallon milk; 1 large can tuna; 1/2 lb tomatoes - even this small amount came to $17 using the average cost of food in Santa Clara county for Nov 2015 (yes found a website witht his info); we then went on to discuss why it is important to give tzedakah especially here in Silicon Valley where upwards of 60% or more of a budget will oftentimes go towards housing; how not everyone works in a high paying job and that there are families where both parents are working and yet still cannot afford to both pay rent & eat. We identified 3 organizations: Jewish Family Service of Silicon Valley - they feed at least 100 families weekly; Mazon - a Jewish response to hunger and Second Harvest Food Bank.
 * Alef Bet - print & script writing
 * Vowels
 * 5 Books of Moses & TaNaKh
 * Days of the Week
 * Months
 * Counting to 10

Thanks for sharing the day with us at our Shabbaton - any questions - please ask! Torah Service - we completed going through all of the prayers in our Wednesday Gem! Starting in January, the first 1/2 hour of every Sunday (9:30-10am) will be spent on having your child check off on the tefillot they know! They must be able to chant it on their own to me. They should already be practicing! Also remember Youth Congregation - the more your child attends the better/more familiar they will be with the service and how it flows! Plus bonus - built in practice time on the tefillot!!
 * OCTOBER 24, 2015**
 * HOMEWORK: QUIZLET - MEMRISE - PRAYERTECH; WIKI TEFILLAH - BE ABLE TO CHANT THESE TEFILLOT**
 * Pg 394: Ein Kamokha & Vayihi Binsoa
 * Pg 398: Bei Ana Rahetz; Shema/Ehad/Gadlu; L'kha Adonai
 * Pg 420: Ashrei - best to tackle this 2 verses at a time!!
 * Pg 422: Y'hallelu & Hodo Al Eretz
 * Pg 424: Mizmor L'David
 * Pg 426: Uvnuho Yomar

We learned about the organization: Kaima - a program in Israel that uses the skills of organic farming to teach a trade to young people (ages 15-18) who might be struggling with school, home and the law; we touched on Rambam's Ladder and how this program fulfills the highest rung of Rambam's ladder (the next class will be on Rambam's ladder) by not just giving them food but helping them to help themselves and hopefully break the cycle of dependency on society; learn teamwork; build a community and finally did an exercise figuring out which Jewish values apply and to whom they apply - to the participants - to the leaders - to the overall organization
 * OCTOBER 18, 2015**
 * First Hour - Hebrew (Ivrit):**
 * Milot HaShavua - words of the week - is your child learning the words - use Quizlet & Memrise (see above)
 * Basic Roots - also on Quizlet & Memrise
 * Basic Conversation with appropriate responses to: Hi; How are you? What is your name? Where do you live? What is your address? Progressing on this - still a work in progress
 * Write the following sentences: My name is:.... The date is:.... Today is:....
 * 2nd Hour - Judaica**
 * HOMEWORK: QUIZLET - MEMRISE - PRAYERTECH; WIKI TEFILLAH - BE ABLE TO CHANT THESE TEFILLOT**
 * Pg 394: Ein Kamokha & Vayihi Binsoa
 * Pg 398: Bei Ana Rahetz; Shema/Ehad/Gadlu; L'kha Adonai
 * Pg 420: Ashrei; thru line "bet"
 * Pg 422: Y'hallelu & Hodo Al Eretz

We started the day with Youth Congregation at which we had a guest speaker - soon to be Rabbi Sarah Shulman, the director of the NEW CAMP RAMAH here in Northern California located in Monterey! There will be 2 - 2 week sessions and 1 - 1 week session. There are many exciting specialty tracks - enrollment is open now and is expected to fill quickly! Go & explore the site and enroll your child for an amazing summer experience!
 * OCTOBER 10, 2015**

The second hour we covered - Friday night service thru Mizmor L'David as your children will be helping to lead this service on Friday Night March 4th - the Kita Vav TGIש - Friday Night Service Then back by popular demand we played another round of "Feed Your Wolves" which is actually a game that leads to discussions of ethical/moral questions that your child most likely is encountering in their life. Each question leads to some really good & thoughtful insight from everyone - for example one of the questions from yesterday: Someone in front of you in line at the store doesn't notice that he dropped a $20 bill while pulling out a couple of hundreds, just as you realize you don't have quite enough money for your purchase.

Wow - finally a regular Sunday program and we did a lot!
 * OCTOBER 4, 2015**
 * HEBREW (IVRIT):**
 * Worked on learning the songs for the Friday Night TIGShabbat service - we are working our way slowly through the booklet so by the time Kita Vav TGIShabbat arrives the class will be able to help fully lead the service!
 * TPR - Total Physical Response; Hebrew thru Action; still in review although having to refresh most of the class; the class responds to action words such as, stand, sit, walk, turn around, jump, point at
 * Conversational Hebrew - working on a basic conversation; goal by the end of October is that everyone will be able to have the following conversation with responses - in Hebrew of course:
 * Hi - how are you?
 * What's your name?
 * Where do you live?
 * What is your address?
 * Tefillah (Prayer) - started working on Ashrei; not just singing - this is where practicing reading happens. I accomplish this by having the class read the lines from the end so they aren't just singing by rote memory
 * **HOMEWORK: Use the wiki; Quizlet; Memrise; PrayerTech; be able to chant the following:**
 * Pg. 394 - Ein Kamokha and Vayihi Binsoa
 * Pg 398 - Bei Ana Rahetz; Shema/Ehad/Gadlu; L'kha Adonai
 * Pg 420 - Ashrei; just the introductory lines - thru "Tehillah L'David"
 * JUDAICA:**
 * Sukkah snack followed by Hoshanot for Hoshanna Rabba - don't know what this is? Ask your child - we had a good discussion about this following Iris' explanation in the sanctuary
 * Introduced the idea of Mitzvot and more importantly that the "Bar/Bat Mitzvah Project" is not the one & only project; doing mitzvot - doing good in the world is all around us; everyone has the opportunity practically every day of their life to be aware of their surrounds and do something to help someone. I've challenged the class to yes bring in mitzvah notes however it is time to step up the game - the mitzvah notes are to reflect an action outside of the home or school; what did your child do to really make a difference - even a small difference; our discussion began with who do they believe would be in most need of assistance and under what circumstances - your children have amazing insights into this! We discussed that there are more ways to give than to just stand up at their Bar/Bat Mitzvah and say "I'm going to donate 10% of the gift money I receive..." while nice, it is a long way from really performing mitzvot - good deeds. We also discussed that there are 3 main components/types of mitzvot - money - time - resources. Eliot shared that he is already starting and what he is doing is utilizing all 3 components: He is making homemade "Jolly Rancher" lollipops & selling them - so he is giving of his time, donating resources & collecting money to donate to a "sport" organization. Eliot is making a personal connection and doing so much more than just "giving 10%..." From there we watched the following video clips - with discussion before & after - again - really wonderful discussions - you should be very proud of your children - I am!
 * Elderly Man
 * Fast Food Worker
 * School Lunch
 * Smiles
 * Disabled Basketball Player
 * Softball

With Rosh Hashanah, a special program this Sunday, Sukkot decorating next Sunday, well we are not going to have an appreciable amount of Kita Vav time until October 4!!! However we did meet yesterday during the first hour of Jewel to begin the Torah service! > G'mar Hatima Tova - May we all be inscribed in the Book of Life!
 * SEPTEMBER 17, 2015**
 * Homework:**
 * Learn Ein Kamokha and Vayihi Binsoa - both on pg 394 in the siddur; recordings are on the tefillah page of this wiki
 * Go onto PrayerTech - Units: Beginning the Torah Service & The Ark is Opened
 * Milot HaShavua - I've added groups 3 & 4 to both Quizlet & Memrise

-Barbara

Hebrew///Ivrit// Judaica QUIZLET/MEMRISE
 * SEPTEMBER 2, 2015**
 * Worksheets on Basic knowledge of Blessings & Shema - yes this is all material that was to be taught in previous years; just checking to see what has been retained
 * Individual testing on basic reading skills - we want to find those students that will need extra help to get caught up
 * TPR - Total Physical Response; your children do the movements that are used - ask your child about "Musical Chairs"!
 * Counting to 10 - everyone knew these; 11 - 20 is definitely a challenge for most of your children; these will be the next Quizlet & Memrise flashcards!
 * Hebrew months - as a group most could sing this together
 * Learned a song about the 10 Commandments - songs are an effective way to remember
 * Exercise on Pirkei Avot - Jumping to Conclusions; discussed about not judging before trying to find out more
 * Questions about God (book): Does God Punish People - Teshuva; read a story (midrash) that centered around the Israelites wandering in the desert - from the Israelites perspective was God punishing them? Discussed about the lenses through which one views the incident (i.e. were they being punished simply because God was not providing the food & water; when Moses went up to Mt Sinai were they being punished by Moses "abandoning them - after all he didn't come back down right away) or were the Israelites "Jumping to Conclusions" about what God was trying to do for them - your children had very wonderful insights & contributions to both discussions.
 * Please encourage your child to use these tools! It really does help them learn the vocabulary!

Our first real day of class - we covered quite a lot! Hebrew///Ivrit// Judaica
 * AUGUST 30, 2015**
 * Worksheets: Every JCore day there will be a worksheet available for your child to complete - this can be done individually or with a partner; these papers will be collected (not today as this was introductory) and put into your child's folder for my use towards being able to fill in the end of year spiral curriculum knowledge sheet. Today's worksheet was the "Shema Quest" - this covered information hopefully covered in Kita Dalet or could have been learned by coming to Youth Congregation &/or by paying attention during Sunday Tefillah with Iris!
 * Learned Or Zarua - Friday night service for TGIShabbat
 * Went through a demo of the 3 websites for online homework (see links above)
 * Learned about Lenses of Questioning; this is a technique for learning critical thinking & thoughtful inquiry; this skill can be used in all areas of learning - not just Judaica! The six lenses are:
 * Blue - the big picture; focus & themes; summary; objective
 * Green - creativity; What if questions
 * Orange - facts; What are the facts
 * Yellow - benefits; what is the best possible scenario
 * Black - caution; what are the risks; potential problems; conflicts
 * Red - emotion; feelings; fears; impact on others
 * We did two exercises - one on Rosh Hashanah and one from the book Questions I have about God - Is the Bible true? Ask your child about these!
 * We had a discussion about //Teshuva// (repentence) - following up on Iris' comments during //tefillah// (prayer) about our //Teshuva// Rap: Reflect - Apologize - Prevent; ask your child to whom do we need to seek repentence and how shoud this happen?


 * HOMEWORK:**
 * 1) Milot HaShavua - use Quizlet &/or Memrise; by the end of day tonight group 2 will be in place
 * 2) PrayerTech - nothing assigned yet but that does not mean that your child cannot already be working on these!The order of study in PrayerTech should be: pg numbers are for Siddur Sim Shalom
 * 3) Ashrei – pgs 420 thru 422
 * 4) Beginning the Torah Service – pg 394; Ein Kamokha
 * 5) The Ark is Opened – pg 394; Vayihi Binsoa HaAron
 * 6) Taking the Torah Out of the Ark – pg 398
 * 7) Pg 398: Bei Ana Rahetz (not part of the exercises but still need to learn this)
 * 8) Pg 398: Shema/Ehad/Gadlu
 * 9) Pg 398: L’kha Adonai
 * 10) Torah Blessings – pgs 400 & 402
 * 11) V’zot HaTorah – pg 410
 * 12) Opening Haftarah Blessing – pg 410 but your child will be getting handouts when we get to Haftarah trope in January
 * 13) Closing Haftarah Blessings – pg 410 but your child will be getting handouts when we get to Haftarah trope in January
 * 14) Returning the Torah to the Ark
 * 15) Pg 422: Y’hallelu/Hodo al Eretz
 * 16) Pg 424: Mizmor L’David
 * 17) <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13.3333px;">Pg 426: Uvnuho Yomar

Hello & welcome to Kita Vav! It is going to be an exciting fast paced year - feel free to scan through last years postings to give you an idea of what we will be doing this year. What was covered with your children: We discussed the Kavod (Honor/Respect) code and then each child signed a copy of the code. We covered the ways that everyone has an equal opportunity to earn at least 5 stickers every Sunday we are in session by: We discussed the possibility of pooling shekels for an end of year party. The class came to consensus - goal of 4500 shekels for a pizza & ice cream party. Evan has been the designated keeper of the shekels for the class. There will be ample opportunity for earning shekels - from randomly within class, to Wednesday Jewel sessions, to Youth Congregation (actually earn the most in YC!)
 * 1) Arriving on time (early even better) or within 10 minutes, however MUST enter without disturbing the class in order to earn stickers
 * 2) Having a kippah or head covering on their head without being reminded - this includes the girls - **PLEASE - in my class your child will need to wear a head covering - if they do not want to wear a kippah then have them find a hat/cap/headband that is special just for Religious School**
 * 3) Bringing their own siddur
 * 4) Bringing tzedakah
 * 5) Writing the 2 sentences in their mahberet (notebook) in Hebrew: My name is __and The date is__ __ (Hebrew date - not the English date)

We began a review of tefillot (prayers) starting with:
 * Tallit Blessing (pg 4 - siddur)
 * Friday Night Kiddush (pg 318 - siddur) - please have your child listen & review/learn to the best of their ability - recordings are on the tefillah page

5775 Class Updates: IMPORTANT CALENDAR DATES! MAY 9 (Shabbat School) - THIS SATURDAY! MAY 17 Rewards Day BEGINNING NIGHT OF MAY 23 - SHAVUOT AT BETH DAVID MAY 24 - LAST DAY OF JCORE (SUNDAY PROGRAM)/SHAVUOT PILGRIMAGE PICNIC - FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY!

UPDATE MAY 4 ** Yesterday I had the class test the long awaited long overdue Torah Aura program that I was going to use for the homework program this year - obviously that did not happen! Your children provided excellent feedback which I've already forwarded on to Torah Aura including two points which make me very proud as their teacher!
 * 1) Why does the reward game have us killing things?
 * 2) The exercises need to be made harder and the amount of reward time they give (in order to play a game) is too much for the effort!

The second hour was our Family Education Tefillin Workshop & Pizza party! Thank you to those parents that came to be a part of this wonderful session. Rabbi Ohriner taught about why we don tefillin, what is inside them and how to put them on and yes your children had the opportunity to put on tefillin for the first time. Next year as part of Kita Zayin, your children will be receiving their own set of tefillin and will learn with Rabbi Alexander during tefillah as they become more comfortable with laying tefillin.

We ended with the Pizza party - your children decided to pool most of their shekels earned during the year in order to make this happen. They've already inspired the next Kita Vav class to do the same - 2 members of that class already told me that they are going to do this!


 * UPDATE MARCH 29 **
 * Torah Service including the Haftarah.** The service part is well prepared. The Haftarah - make sure your child is practicing - not only their verse(s) but also the blessings before & after!
 * 2nd Hour - Chocolate Seder** - your children rocked their version of the 4 Questions - yes they wrote most of it!

**UPDATE MARCH 21**

 * First - Haftarah!!!** We did a run through of the Haftarah - from the blessing before - through the verses assigned to each of your children - through the blessings after. The mantra continues to be **PRACTICE - PRACTICE AGAIN - THEN PRACTICE MORE!** Not just on their individual verse(s) but also on the blessings - especially the 3rd & 4th ones after!!
 * IVRIT** - We did a run through of the Torah service - this next Sunday your children will be assigned to their specific part - either the 1st half (pgs 394 & 398) or the 2nd half (pg 420 thru 426) - again the mantra is **PRACTICE!!**
 * JUDAICA** - We refined & practiced the 4 Questions that your children will be presenting at the Chocolate Seder next Sunday as well as practiced the presentation for the Zmirkudiya on April 26

**UPDATE MARCH 15**

 * The mantra -**
 * Haftarah - Practice - Practice - Practice!** Everyone has received their verse(s)! By this Saturday, March 21:
 * 1) If your child has only one verse they should be able to chant half of that verse - words & trope together smoothly
 * 2) If your child has more than one verse they should be able to chant at least one of those verses
 * PLEASE CONTACT ME TO SET UP A 1-1 TIME WITH YOUR CHILD TO HELP THEM PUT THEIR WORDS & TROPE TOGETHER & MAKE A RECORDING**
 * Ivrit -** we continued with individual testing - most of your children are doing very well
 * Judaica** - We worked on the class presentation for the Zmirkudiya on April 26 and for Passover - reviewed the 4 Questions (Yes Passover!) After one time through of chanting the 4 Questions to the traditional melody the class split into 2 groups (girls vs boys) their choice and each group created their interpretation of the 4 Questions - only ground rule - it needed to cover the same 4 topics - the class decided that the boys version was best! We'll practice this version this Saturday during Shabbat school for presenting at the school Chocolate Seder on March 29!!

**UPDATE MARCH 8**

 * Haftarah - Practice - Practice - Practice!** Everyone has received their verse(s) today! By next Sunday they should:
 * 1) Minimally be able to read their verse(s) smoothly - notice I did not say fast
 * 2) I would also highly suggest they break down their verse(s) into trope groups & identify those groups
 * PLEASE CONTACT ME TO SET UP A 1-1 TIME WITH YOUR CHILD TO HELP THEM PUT THEIR WORDS & TROPE TOGETHER & MAKE A RECORDING **
 * Ivrit -** we continued with individual testing - most of your children are doing very well
 * Judaica** - Purim - fun day - learning/reviewing the high level overview of the Purim story via[[file:global_purim.pdf]]
 * Zmirkudiya -** We started learning our songs; please have your children listen as often as possible - the more they listen the more they'll learn it - even without the words!
 * Dan Nichols - L'Takein (aka the Na Na Song)
 * Rick Recht - The Hope - focus on the chorus

**UPDATE MARCH 1**

 * Haftarah - Practice - Practice - Practice! Next week I will be giving out the verse(s)!!**
 * Ivrit -** we continued with individual testing - most of your children are doing very well!
 * Judaica** - Today's focus was learning about the prophets & specifically having each child learn who is the prophet for their respective Haftarah on the day of their Bar/Bat Mitzvah. We went over the MILE packet for the Haftarah blessings - we got about halfway through it - we will finish it next week. Much of the discussion revolved around understanding the Maftir aliyah, the Maftir reading and the Haftarah reading and who does what as regards to their Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Included in this learning: Maftir means the one who concludes and that Haftarah means the conclusion; the overview meanings/gist of the Blessings before & after the Haftarah so hopefully they will be able to connect to what they are chanting!

**UPDATE FEBRUARY 8**

 * Haftarah - Practice - Practice - Practice!**
 * Ivrit -** we continued with individual testing - most of your children are doing very well!
 * Judaica** - we once again focused on meaning of the tefillot (prayers) - we reviewed from the Shema all the way through the Torah service; not fun or exciting yet information that should have been disseminated and hopefully learned through the years - sadly; it was presented and not absorbed by most; this was our last session on reviewing this information.

** UPDATE FEBRUARY 1 **
We began the day with your children continuing to work on passing their tefillah (prayers) for the Torah service; this will help me determine who leads what part of the service on April 25 in the main sanctuary (you have this on your calendar - right!) Next all the grades had the opportunity to create their own works of art with Mordechai Rosentein - our visiting Artist in Residence Finally we returned to class and went through everyone's understanding of the different parts of the service - Shema & Blessings; Amidah and Torah service. I'm going to be giving out the quiz answer sheets for your children to study - yes eventually there will be a quiz on this information.
 * Haftarah Trope: see January 18 - it is VERY IMPORTANT that your child practices!!!**

** UPDATE JANUARY 18 **
Inside the folder that your child received are:
 * Haftarah Trope:** Haftarah trope moves at a much faster pace than Torah trope! Please be sure that your child practices at least 5 minutes every day! All the recordings are on the wiki!!
 * Syllabus - schedule of what will be covered on which date
 * Information about trope - we'll be covering this in class
 * Trope worksheets
 * Trope shortcut sheet
 * Blessings Before & After Haftarah

**UPDATE JANUARY 25**
It's official - we've broken ground! 9am - 9:30: Haftarah Trope - we are progressing much more rapidly than with Torah trope. It is imperative that your child study the trope! 5 minutes/day is all it takes! 9:30 - 10:30: We spent the one hour we had yesterday working first together as a group on the Torah service and then moved to individual testing on the tefillot of the Torah service. In order to know exactly what your child knows or does not know the first 30 minutes of each Sunday will be spent on individual practice/testing. Using this information I will be able to assign your child to the part of the Torah service at which they will best succeed. I will have a record for each child of what they've passed plus put a chart up on the wall so anyone can check their own progress at any time.

**UPDATE JANUARY 10**
Welcome back - it was great to see everyone! Following Youth Congregation we practiced the Torah service focusing on pages 420 thru 426. Please have your children practice daily! They all know the first part just fine so no need to keep practicing that however the 2nd half needs work by many - suggested weekly study schedule from now till the **Kita Vav Shabbat on April 25 (mark your calendar!)** Sunday: Ashrei - intro thru dalet; Y'hallelu and Mizmor L'David; haftarah Monday: Ashrei - hey thru het; Mizmor L'David; haftarah Tuesday: Ashrei - tet thru lamed; Mizmor L'David; haftarah Wednesday: skip - Jewel program Thursday: Ashrei - mem thru pey; Uvnuho Yomar; haftarah Friday: Ashrei - tzadi thru end; Uvnuho Yomar; haftarah

We continued on with learning reviewing the song we are singing for the groundbreaking ceremony - Am Ehad Lev Ehad Finally we finished up with Ma La'Asot - our book that discusses ethics - the class really wanted to do the chapter entitled Dr Death which covers what is the Jewish opinion regarding doctor assisted suicide. We had a very meaningful discussion from what they each felt in their own hearts to Jewish law, which is against suicide all together, to Jewish burial practice in regards to suicide. I believe all of your children contributed meaningfully however probably still have questions regarding this very difficult topic.

** UPDATE DECEMBER 7 **

 * Ivrit (Hebrew):** Continued working on Torah service - focusing on Uvnuho Yomar (pg 426); also worked on Milot HaShavua - your kids matched the words Hebrew to English then made sentences using those words; then we finished up with commonly used roots - playing for paper clips which were then traded for shekels
 * Rikud (Dance):** Donna introduced a new dance - Mowgli - sorry could not find a link for it
 * Yahadut (Judaica):** We learned the "true story of Hanukkah" - not the most exciting lesson, I'm still trying to figure out how to make this one more engaging; in any case, ask your kids about the "miracle of the oil"!

**UPDATE NOVEMBER 22**
We had a wonderful discussion surrounding Thanksgiving - what we are thankful for and to remember to think about those less fortunate than us. We discussed ways to give such as purchasing extra food while shopping this week and if the store does not have a 2nd Harvest Food Bank bin then to bring the food to the Beth David lobby - we always have bins. You may also donate online directly to Second Harvest Food Bank Other ways to donate: 10th Anniversary Applied Materials Turkey Trot - have fun & donate to good causes at the same time Sacred Heart Martha's Kitchen - a little local soup kitchen providing for the homeless for the past 33 years

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!!

**UPDATE NOVEMBER 16**

 * **Ivrit:** We continued to work on Ashrei (pg 420) and began on Y'hallelu and Hodo Al Eretz (pg 422)
 * **Rikud:** Dance - on dance days our Hebrew hour is cut to 30 minutes as to share with dance; our new dance instructor & Beth David member Donna Frankel is introducing new dances to the kids - yesterday they learned Sulam Ya'kov
 * **Judaica:** We learned about Tzfat, kabbalah - an intro to the idea, and micrography (google search Jewish Micrograph) - your kids made fabulous works of micrography and then also created more cards for our Jewminion game about Tzfat.

**UPDATE NOVEMBER 1**
Thanks for sharing in the Shabbaton! I know we covered a lot of material. If you have any questions, concerns or suggestions, please do let me/us know.

**UPDATE OCTOBER 26**

 * First Hour - Ivrit (Hebrew); we continued to learn Ashrei; worked on learning numbers 11 thru 20; worked on learning basic roots; TPR - total physical response - your children respond physically to Hebrew directions such as get up; sit on a chair; walk to...; point at...
 * Dance - we have a new dance teacher - Donna Frankel; while new to teaching dance for the JCore program Donna is a long time member of Beth David; it was a fun session with 2 new dances taught to the class!
 * Second Hour - Judaica: we had two different discussions - first one: I Have Some Questions About God - Chapter 7; we read the story about the little boy with the flute which then led into a great discussion about how each of us talks to God and where each of us finds God; second: A Kid's Mensch Handbook - Chapter 4; our discussion centered around looking at the past week and sharing what was great and what we wished we could do-over which led back to really repenting (teshuva) which finally led to respecting ourselves, others and the environment.

**UPDATE OCTOBER 18**

 * First hour - Youth Congregation; I'm so very happy that your children already know the opening part of the Torah service very well! We will be starting to focus on the 2nd half including really mastering Ashrei - for those that do not yet know it.
 * Second hour - Judaica; we had a discussion on mitzvot and started thinking about b'nei mitzvah - mitzvah projects - lots of good participation and input including:
 * 1) Mitzvahs should be an ongoing part of our lives - not just a one shot deal for their bar/bat mitzvah
 * 2) Mitzvahs do not have to be about giving money - can also be about giving items or giving time; we actually discussed at length about giving of time and thinking of easy ways to give time in the community such as scheduling a regular visit to a senior center to play an instrument; discussed possibly putting together and leading a monthly Kabbalat Shabbat at Chai House (I would put this together but welcome you & your children to participate)
 * 3) Played a card game based on Jewish based values; evolved from a domino style - which value would connect to the previous one on the table; to getting 5 value cards that your child put into order of most important to least (very difficult) & explaining their reasoning; to finally as a group putting 3 value cards in order of importance (even more difficult to get group consensus) but they did it.
 * Ruah Rally & Lunch - fabulous to see a good portion of your children participating. Remember you & your children are always invited to participate in the Ruah Rally & stay for kiddush lunch - does not have to be a Shabbat School day; actually staying for the lunch will give you ideas about what you want (or don't want) for your child's lunch on the day of their bar/bat mitzvah!

**UPDATE OCTOBER 12 - GAME DAY IN HONOR OF SUKKOT!**
Be sure to ask your kids about our fun day!
 * Ivrit (Hebrew): Using flashcards for matching games we worked on: Hebrew months; Jewish Holidays & what month they occur; Books in the Torah; Mitzvot & Middot
 * Sukkah Snack: Our annual tradition of building a sukkah out of graham crackers, marshmallow cream, pretzels & assorted candy!!
 * Hoshanot: With Rabbi Ohriner we learned about the etrog & parts of the lulav, said the blessing over the lulav and then marched singing Hoshanot
 * Judaica: We tested out the questions the kids made on Sept 28, plus had relay races using flashcards for Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret & Simhat Torah

** UPDATE SEPTEMBER 28 **
First Hour: Second Hour: Sam Pickholtz brought in his copy of Dominion; we've got the basic understandings now; slight modification we'll make to the trivia card section so some actual learning goes on during the game playing; so after we finally all understood the game, the class broke down into teams and wrote their first set of questions surround the holidays of Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot & Simhat Torah. In order to write the questions your children actually really need to know the information. Other aspects of self direction that I am including this year:
 * Ivrit (Hebrew): Continuing to review previously learned material
 * Rikud (Dance)
 * Ability to earn M&M Stickers: each child has the ability to earn stickers as soon as they walk in the door by being on time; wearing a kippah; bringing their own siddur; bringing tzedakah; writing the 2 Hebrew sentences (a) My name is.... (b) The date is ....
 * Bathroom/Water breaks during class time: There will be 2 passes for each hour; if by the end of the day all 4 passes still remain each person in attendance earns a M&M sticker; 5 shekels & one candy; it will be up to the class to decide if someone gets to go out during class to the bathroom or to get water as there are ample opportunities to go to the bathroom before arriving to Beth David; during break; going to & from tefillah (just to be clear, going out because of illness is not included in this)
 * Working as part of the team: If at any time a team feels that one of their members is not participating &/or working as part of the group the team may tell that person that they are no longer a part of their team. That individual will then be required to work on their own & must complete an individual task. Should the individual decide that they are ready to work, they may plead their case to their team - it will be up to the team to decide if they are welcome back or not.

Looking forward to an exciting year of learning & creating something that can be used for years to come!

-Barbara

**UPDATE - SEPTEMBER 21**
Fabulous first session! The first hour is Ivrit (Hebrew); we're starting with review of what was to have been covered in previous years & we have also started on the Torah service. Second Hour - Yahadut (Judaica): The driving question for the class - how would you want to learn the topics we need to cover this year starting with the holidays, that would also be enticing for others to play? The class brainstormed and then divided themselves into 2 groups: Group 1: decided upon a games approach - possibly a video game and possibly "Jewminion" based on the Dominion game (which I will now need to learn) Group 2: started writing a song!

Your kids are fabulously creative and I hope that by the end of the year we have successfully answered the driving question with successful ideas that can be used by the entire school!

When I met with your kids we spent some time bonding - ask your kids if they remember their handshakes! We discussed the Kavod (Honor/Respect) code and then each child signed a copy of the code which has been turned into the office. We covered the ways that everyone has an equal opportunity to earn at least 5 stickers every Sunday we are in session by: I'll be adding a 6th possibility by assigning a bulletin board for them to look at & bring me back a completed BBIL note (available on each board)
 * 1) Arriving on time (early even better) or within 10 minutes, however MUST enter without disturbing the class in order to earn stickers
 * 2) Having a kippah or head covering on their head without being reminded - this includes the girls
 * 3) Having their own siddur
 * 4) Having tzedakah
 * 5) Writing the 2 sentences in their mahberet (notebook) in Hebrew: My name is __and The date is__ __ (Hebrew date - not the English date)

We had our first game going over the "Milot HaShavua" - words of the week; we are going to work hard on growing our conversational Hebrew vocabulary by using these Hebrew words instead of English. Finally we discussed a possible end of year reward class party - possibly to happen on that Saturday evening of the Haftarah Trope Induction ceremony. I've asked for ideas for places to go - the restaurant needs to be Kosher (that limits to Jerusalem Grill) or vegetarian or pizza or we can plan a party... to be determined! I welcome input from all of you as well. Look on it as the prep for your child's Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebration!!

Looking forward to great year!

-Barbara

5774 Updates:

<span style="display: block; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; text-align: center;">IMPORTANT CALENDAR DATES May 10: Last Shabbat School of the Year - 9:30am! May 11: NO RELIGIOUS SCHOOL - HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! MAY 18: LAST DAY OF JYEP! Rewards Ceremony @ 11am followed by Lag B'Omer (33rd day of the Omer) BBQ

MAY 7** Last Shabbat was a fabulous milestone - I'm very proud of your children as I am sure you are as well! I have received numerous complements from congregants who were //kvelling// along with you about your children!! We spent time this past Sunday in discussion on two areas:
 * 1) What to do with the funds raised from the Purim carnival as well as the tzedakah collected throughout the year. Your children decided as a class to donate the money (approx $450) to the Next 50 Capital Campaign - directed to the new play area for the school!
 * 2) Next we had a feedback session on the year regarding the Sunday JCore program only. Overall the class was very happy with the year and felt like they learned alot - high points include the use of games to further learning; the use of technology based games (which when we get our new building will be easier to implement). I'll be sending a report to Iris with all of their feedback but again overall the class was happy with the year and is looking forward to their Kita Zayin year!

Finally - BBYO Connect (6th - 8th grade) is having a "Day of Jewish Summer Camp" program on May 18th which begins at 1:00pm on May 18th!!

Fabulous practice yesterday on the Haftarah & the Torah service! Thank you to the class for being on time & working hard! Also thank you for understanding that I needed to leave to go to the unveiling for my friend's daughter - I explained to the class briefly about an unveiling before I left. Also I heard wonderful reports back from the TMTrs & teachers! Seder Steps Rap - fabulous! Thanks for working & being cooperative!
 * MARCH 31**


 * What to do over Passover break? PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE - TORAH SERVICE & HAFTARAH! When we come back we have one more sanctuary rehearsal & then that is it!**

MARCH 25
 * _**
 * The year has sped by! We are in full review & practice of the Torah service and the Haftarah for May 3rd! Remember trope this Sunday at 9:00am! Be sure your children are practicing!!**

FEBURARY 8 HAFTARAH TROPE & TORAH SERVICE - THE MORE YOUR CHILD ATTENDS YOUTH CONGREGATION THE BETTER PREPARED THEY WILL BE! I've sent a request asking for RSVPs for May 3 - I am going to assign each of your children a verse - there is the potential for more than one verse for a few - once your child learns their verse I will ask them if they want to take on another until all the verses have been assigned. I will be sending out the assignments on Thursday with instructions - PLEASE PRINT OUT THE ATTACHMENT IN THAT EMAIL PLUS THE INSTRUCTIONS FOR YOUR CHILDREN!!! **Trope** - know all the trope groups; this means being able to chant the trope without the recording - also be looking at the trope symbols to become familiar/memorize them **All the Blessings** - both Before & After the Haftarah: again, this means being able to chant them without the recording **TORAH SERVICE** - goal is to be able to sing these without the recording Pg 394: Ein Kamokha & Vayihi Binsoa Ha'aron Pg 398: Bei Ana Rahetz; Shema thru Gadlu; Lkha Adonai Pg 420: Ashrei (reviewed on Feb 8) - This was taught in Kita Dalet - break it down to practice: Day 1: Intro thru Bet Day 2: Gimmel thru Vav; Review from Intro Day 3: Zayin thru Yud; Review from Intro Day 4: Caf thru Sameh: Review from Intro Day 5: Ayin thru Kuf: Review from Intro Day 6: Reish to the end: Review from Intro Pg 422: Y'hallelu & Hodo Al Eretz (learned on Feb 8) Pg 424: Mizmor L'David Pg 426: Uvnuho Yomar & Etz Hayim He
 * I can't stress the importance of practicing! Most of your children have a lot of homework from school so the best suggestions I can offer are:**
 * Practice Haftarah trope & the Torah service before they start their school homework - plan on 15 minutes max per day!
 * Get all the audio files downloaded onto an MP3 player - use the car time for study time! Listening is the way most of us learn songs/melodies! They will still need to spend time with the written material to be sure they are pronouncing words correctly but it helps tremendously with the memorization of the melodies for both the trope and the tefillot (prayers)!!
 * HOMEWORK FOR TROPE & TORAH SERVICE**


 * SECOND HOUR - YOUTH CONGREGATION**

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">FEBRUARY 2 HAFTARAH TROPE & TORAH SERVICE - THE MORE YOUR CHILD ATTENDS YOUTH CONGREGATION THE BETTER PREPARED THEY WILL BE!** I can't stress the importance of practicing! Most of your children have a lot of homework from school so the best suggestions I can offer are:
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">We covered a lot yesterday starting with trope at 9am! **
 * Practice Haftarah trope & the Torah service before they start their school homework - plan on 15 minutes max per day!
 * Get all the audio files downloaded onto an MP3 player - use the car time for study time! Listening is the way most of us learn songs/melodies! They will still need to spend time with the written material to be sure they are pronouncing words correctly but it helps tremendously with the memorization of the melodies for both the trope and the tefillot (prayers)!!
 * HOMEWORK FOR TROPE & TORAH SERVICE**
 * Trope - know thru trope group 9 (PAZER); this means being able to chant the trope without the recording - also be looking at the trope symbols to become familiar/memorize them
 * All the Blessings - both Before & After the Haftarah: again, this means being able to chant them without the recording
 * TORAH SERVICE - goal is to be able to sing these without the recording
 * 1) Pg 394: Ein Kamokha & Vayihi Binsoa Ha'aron
 * 2) Pg 398: Bei Ana Rahetz; Shema thru Gadlu; Lkha Adonai
 * 3) Pg 424: Mizmor L'David (started working on this yesterday)
 * 4) Pg 426: Uvnuho Yomar & Etz Hayim He (did this last week)

Focused on understanding the acronym TaNaKh - Torah - Torah Nevi'im - Prophets Ketuvim - Writings We also delved into learning how to find the correct readings in each of the following resources:
 * SECOND HOUR - JUDAICA**
 * Etz Hayim Humash
 * Tanakh
 * Tikkun

We also spent time at Rikud (dance); tefillah (Morning service) and playing Hebrew games (my creations) No One Left Behind & Baseball!

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">JANUARY 27 <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Wow, it has been a long time since we've had a regular Sunday! <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">**HAFTARAH TROPE:** For next week, your child must know: REMEMBER - ALL RECORDINGS & ASSIGNMENTS ARE ON THE WIKI: <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">http://cbdshulschool.wikispaces.com/Torah+and+Trope <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">http://cbdshulschool.wikispaces.com/Tefillah
 * 1) Through trope group 6B (Kadma-Geresh)
 * 2) Blessing Before Haftarah
 * 3) First 2 Blessings After Haftarah


 * <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">HEBREW: **<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> We continued working on the Torah service focusing on reading Uvnuho Yomar - pg 426 in the siddur; **Do you have Saturday May 3 marked on your calendar?** If not please do! Kita Vav - aka your children - will be leading the Torah service & chanting the Haftarah in the main congregation! We also spent some time on Hebrew vocabulary & testing out my new game - Hebrew Baseball - ask your kids about it!

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">**FAMILY ED - TEFILLIN:** An interesting hour of learning about tefillin and how to lay them correctly! Next year in Kita Zayin each of your children will receive their own set (part of the registration fee). That way the keshers (knots) can be tied & fitted exactly to your child. Also remember - **mark your calendars for the Kita Vav Shabbat Mishpa__h__a Experience (SME) & Potluck - Friday February 28** - each of your children will be receiving their own __H__umash. A potluck sign up went around yesterday - if you were not there to sign up, please contact Andrea in the Religious School office!

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Any questions - feel free to call or email me!

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> -Morah Barbara <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">biran@beth-david.org <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"><span class="skype_c2c_print_container">408-366-9106 <span class="skype_c2c_container"><span class="skype_c2c_highlighting_inactive_common"><span class="skype_c2c_textarea_span"><span class="skype_c2c_text_span">408-366-9106

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Dec. 8, 2013 <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Hi all –

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Wow, it seems like forever since we had our last Sunday session! <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">First Hour – Ivrit/Hebrew; about half the class went out with our teen madrich (aide) and spent the hour working on reading Hebrew conversations with inflection & understanding – they went through the entire book! I’m going to have to find them something new!! The other half stayed with me and we worked on basic concepts – responding to what is my name; counting to 100; days of the week and the months. Yes, these have been covered in previous years but most of the group still could not get through these successfully – happily by the end of the hour most had a much better grasp and were able to respond verbally to questions!

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Second Hour – this was led by Irene while I was leading shira (singing) – the session covered and intro to Genealogy and understanding their own names.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">So parents, most of your children do NOT know their complete Hebrew name! The complete Hebrew name is: <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Your child’s name, son/daughter of father’s Hebrew name and mother’s Hebrew name (where applicable)

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Please help your child know their complete Hebrew name! If one or both of you have never been given a Hebrew name and would like one, I would be happy to set up a time for you to meet with one of our rabbis and they can help you decide upon one!

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Any questions, suggestions, comments please do let me know!

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">-Barbara

Wow - what a busy real first complete day of JCORE! Our Teen Madrichim (TMTrs) are Mayer Adelberg and Anton Gotlib! It is great to have their assistance in the room! This is a school based program in Sacramento that teaches tolerance and how it affects, and has affected millions of people. It includes discussing the Holocaust. Five years ago, the children in this group decided they wanted a way to represent not only the 6 million that perished in the Holocaust, but more specifically to remember the 1.6 million children that were murdered. The Bandage Project was created for this reason. To support this effort, our JYEP (Jewish Youth Education Program) is collecting new bandages (of all shapes, sizes, patterns & colors) for the Tolerance Kids! Collection will go through the end of November! Look for the collection box at Barbara Biran’s desk (main office).
 * SEPTEMBER 30, 2013 **
 * Hebrew - Ivrit ( ** **עִברִית)** - I started off by using the 10 Minute Reader - I am happy to say that most of your children exceed the level of reading in this book and so will be choosing a different book for reading going forward! For those not up to this level, they will stay with this book and most times go out with one of our Teen Madrichim for individual work.
 * MILE PROGRAM** - we began work in the 1st Packet - Taking the Torah Out: The entire Torah service is a metaphor/re-enactment of our receiving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai. This packet covers the prayers of Ein Kamokha thru L'kha Adonai. Your children should begin studying these prayers - or if they've attended Youth Congregation regularly and know them be reviewing them! All of the prayers are here on the wiki: TEFILLAH
 * Dance - Rikud (** **רִיקוד)** - We had our first dance session with Rachel! Your children are quite the dancers - great job remembering the steps to the dances taught in previous years!
 * Judaica - Yahudt (** **יהדות)** - We had our first SATO session - we discussed why & how we give tzedakah - main reason is because we are commanded to do so! Also tzedakah is not just about giving money, it is also about giving of our time or needed items. We also discussed the concept of Hiddur Mitzvah - doing a mitzvah to the best of your ability. The projects today were in direct relation to our discussions:
 * 1. **** Tolerance Kids Bandage Project - the class decorated the box - PLEASE HELP & PARTICIPATE IN THIS PROJECT! **
 * 2. Tzedakah Boxes** - your children decorated their own tzedakah canisters. The goal - fill the canister & return it at the end of the year - the funds to go into the class SATO fund! This would be in addition to any tzedakah that your children would bring in each week.
 * HOMEWORK PROGRAM: Please work with your children on completing the homework! It is reading focused! **
 * LASTLY - YOUTH SERVICES! ** I do know that many of your children have other commitments, however, the more your child attends youth services the better prepared they will be when training begins for their bar/bat mitzvah! Also, please do remember that there is a minimum attendance requirement - see our Youth Services page for the details and to check attendance records.

Welcome to Kita Vav & an exciting 5774 with changes for everyone! A program that will NOT change is the SATO Tikkun Olam program that was introduced last year! We'll have time to discuss this at Back to School on September 8!
 * AUGUST 20, 2013 **

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parents –

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I’m very excited to once again be presenting our Social Action/Tikkun Olam program to Kita Vav. I’m sending this letter to you so that when we meet for Back to School on September 8, we can have a meaningful discussion. Please take the time to review this information with your child before September 8. SATO sessions will be on the following dates/times: <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 1.5;">This is a 2 year program since much of the information that is taught is invaluable to helping your children choose their own mitzvah project for their Bar/Bat Mitzvah. The SATO program is one in which your children elect to become part of a “Board of Directors” of their own charitable fund. They will be responsible for naming, management and direction of this fund.
 * **DATE** || **TIME** ||
 * SEPT 29 || 11:45 - 12:15 ||
 * OCT 6 || 9:30 - 10:30 ||
 * Oct 20 || 11:45 - 12:15 ||
 * Nov 3 || 9:30 - 10:30 ||
 * Dec 8 || 9:30 - 10:30 ||
 * Jan 26 || 9:30 - 10:30 ||
 * Mar 2 || 9:30 - 10:30 ||

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">One of the key ways to get money into the fund involves a commitment from you and your child(ren) as a family. The idea is that instead of giving gifts to each other for their respective b’nei mitzvah celebrations, each family instead would donate to the fund an amount roughly equivalent to what they would spend on gifts. It is these monies that will establish the base for the fund. The monies you give will be entirely tax deductible as there will be a special account set up in the Beth David records specifically for this. The money may be paid into the fund over the course of this year and next**. PLEASE DISCUSS THIS WITH YOUR CHILD(REN) before we meet on September 8 at Back to School.**

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Additionally, other fundraising projects will occur so that a sufficient amount of money may be pooled. Your children will join together as a part of this process to decide how these funds will be allocated. Each child will receive a base amount for their own mitzvah project with the surplus being further allocated. The ultimate goal of this program is not the allocation of the money, rather it is about teaching the importance of giving back to the world – not just as one time event but throughout their life, opening their eyes to the wide variety of needs surrounding us in society, and connecting with our responsibility as Jews to give.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The suggested donation for each family is $18 per gift times 14 (current number of students in the class) for a total of $252 per family. Should everyone contribute the suggested total then the class would end up with a base amount of $3,518!! Families are welcome to contribute more, and please also understand that no one is being asked to give at a level that would create any undue hardship for them. The suggested donation amount is merely a guideline. **All donations will be held in the strictest confidence.**

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Areas to address:
 * 1) <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">1. The students will still receive many presents from guests other than their classmates – do they have to share these?
 * 2) <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">2. Participation in the program does not preclude giving each other additional gifts should they so desire
 * 3) <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">3. Does the organization they choose need to be Jewish?
 * 4) <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">4. Participation in the fund is voluntary. Even if the family chooses not to or is not able to participate financially, all students will still be involved in the program

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">While we cannot force everyone to participate in the fund, we hope that all families will decide to do so to the best of their abilities. Inherent in this is your child(ren)s and your willingness to give the money they would possibly receive as gifts to the fund.


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Please take the time to discuss this with your child(ren). **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> I look forward to discussing this exciting program with all of you at Back to School on September 8.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">-Morah Barbara

* 5773 Teacher Class Updates: MAY 2, 2013 What a fantastic day yesterday! First in Hebrew, your kids helped me in the creation of my next new game, based on a TV show that I saw recently. Your kids came up with some great suggestions to help with the implementation. We'll be trying it out again next Wednesday once I've figured out how to incorporate their suggestions!

SATO - our last SATO session of the year.Yesterday we focused on taking the theoretical to the practical. How do your kids find their mitzvah project?There are the 4 questions:1. What do I like to do?2. What am I good at?3. What am I passionate about?4. What bothers me so much that I want to change it?Using the answers to these questions, the goal is to figure out, is there an organization that fits?Is there a Jewish organization that fits? Is there an Israeli organization that fits?What is the Jewish value?How do I find these organizations?If there is not an organization - then what?

Answering the 4 questions will be up to your child in discussion with you. To finding the organizations, we looked at several websites: All of these organizations in some way rank the organizations; list the percentages to overhead (should look for an organization with 85% or higher going to the cause it serves and have many more valuable resources Charity Naviagator Chairty Watch Israel GivesNot as comprehensive as the US counterparts but effective Embrace Israel

Want to find out Jewish sources to support your case - meaning text from the Torah, Talmud etc: On 1 Foot

Finally we watched 4 videos from last year's Teen Diller Foundation Awards. The Diller Foundation is a local program in the Bay Area that supports teen philanthropy. The purpose of the videos were to help your children realize that there is much still to be done and that yes - they can be the ones to make the change. You can see these plus many more: YouTube Diller Teen Awards

-Morah Barbara

APRIL 4, 2013

Hafarah!!!! There is Haftarah trope this Sunday at 9:00!!! Also the 50th Anniversary Kick Off Event - Milestones & Memories immediately follows Religious School. It would be great to have you stay & participate in the program - including a song (Mirembe) during the teacher tribute! See the CBD website for more info.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR SATURDAY MAY 18 KITA VAV WILL LEAD THE TORAH SERVICE & THE CONCLUSION PLUS BE CHANTING THE HAFTARAH! If you/your child will NOT be in attendance on that Shabbat please email me as soon as possible!

It is a MUST that your child practice over the breaks! If you would like me to work with your child one on one - please call or send me an email to set this up! <span class="skype_c2c_print_container">(408) 366-9106 <span class="skype_c2c_container"><span class="skype_c2c_highlighting_inactive_common"><span class="skype_c2c_textarea_span"><span class="skype_c2c_text_span">(408) 366-9106   or biran@beth-david.org. So far I've only had one parent contact me!!

Holocaust (Shoah) Museum & Discussion
 * Yesterday your kids toured the museum (a few chose not to go in). Before entering the museum we spent time discussing what the kids thought they already knew as well as their feelings about how the Holocaust (Shoah) - possible fears, anger, anxiety. Following the tour we spent the 2nd hour continuing to decompress. Your children had much to share with us and Hemy had much to share about her own experiences growing up in Israel in the years following the Shoah. While it was not the planned curricula for the 2nd hour it was much needed and beneficial.**


 * -Morot Barbara & Hemy**

MARCH 22, 2013 Hard to believe but yes Passover is next week and with the breaks coming up there is little time left to accomplish lots more Hafarah!!!! MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR SATURDAY MAY 18 KITA VAV WILL LEAD THE TORAH SERVICE & THE CONCLUSION PLUS BE CHANTING THE HAFTARAH! It is a MUST that your child practice over the breaks! If you would like me to work with your child one on one - please call or send me an email to set this up! <span class="skype_c2c_print_container">(408) 366-9106 <span class="skype_c2c_container"><span class="skype_c2c_highlighting_inactive_common"><span class="skype_c2c_textarea_span"><span class="skype_c2c_text_span">(408) 366-9106   or biran@beth-david.org
 * Your kids (except for those that were absent - I'll scan those on Monday & send them to those that were out) have been given their assignment for the Haftarah Induction service.**


 * Your kids also signed up for the part of the Torah service that would like to lead: I'll post these on Monday - forgot to bring the sign up sheet home with me**
 * OPENING (Pgs 394 & 398)**
 * PRAYER FOR ISRAEL & ASHREI (Pg 416; Pgs 420-222)**
 * CLOSING (Pgs 422; 424; 426)**
 * Everyone will lead the conclusion: (Pgs 508; 510; 514)**


 * Tanakh**
 * The class has been learning about the Prophets with Morah Hemy - this past week they even learned Rashi script!**

Happy Passover!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

FEBRUARY 27, 2013REMINDER - KABBALAT SHABBAT - HUMASH CEREMONY - TOMORROW (MARCH 1) NIGHT @ 6:30PM FOLLOWED BY POTLUCK DINNERBRING YOUR PAREVE SIDE DISHES/DESSERTS TO MPR AREA BEFORE THE SERVICE! Wow - what a great Purim Shpiel - Thanks to Dave Graubart - if you missed it or just want to see it again :Purim Shpiel Also - the class booths were fantastic and everyone that participated in the manning of the booths were over the top great! The raffle for the 2 jars of Smarties went super well - final total of money collected - slightly different number than told the class yesterday - $380.77!!!! And one of our very own class members - Anat Baird was one of the winners with the correct EXACT guess of 300 packages!!Additionally, tzedakah funds collected since January: $38.01So the total going into the Kita Vav TnT fund today is: $418.79 - WAY TO GO KITA VAV!! IVRIT - HEBREW**The class worked on the Haftarah Blessing Work Packet - speaking of Haftarah - everyone should be working on @Trope** Trope resumes this Sunday at 9am!!! TANAKH - Torah, Nevei'im Ketuvim**The class learned about King Saul and had a lively discussion led by Morah Hemy** FEBRUARY 21, 2013 Hope everyone has been enjoying the break - REMEMBER - NO HAFTARAH TROPE ON SUNDAY INSTEAD - PURIM!!!SCHEDULE FOR SUNDAY FEBRUARY 24 - EVERYONE ARRIVES AT 9AM FOR SET UP!!!**I realize that many kids were out due to Science camp when we did the sign ups and also that some families may not be back from vacation even though the kids signed up - the work schedule will need to be flexible based on who is there and how many kids want to do what.

Gabi Cameron || Noa Shir Morayah || Samantha || Danielle Adam G || Samantha Lia |||| Jacob R || Noa Shir || Mariel Anat || Gabi Marc || Jacob R Carly || Gabi || Jacob O Anat || Marc Samantha || Adam G Carly || Morayah || **NEED AS MANY AS POSSIBLE TO STAY TO CLEAN UP AT 2PM!!!**
 * || 11am || Noon || 1pm ||
 * TICKETS || Lia
 * RAFFLE || Adam K
 * FACE PAINTING || Morayah
 * PAPER CRAFTS || Jacob O
 * BALLOON CRAFTS || Mariel

**EVEN THOUGH NO TROPE - KEEP PRACTICING TROPE & BLESSINGS!**

**SAVE THE DATE - MARK YOUR CALENDARS - FRIDAY MARCH 1 @ 6:30PM****KITA VAV KABBALAT SHABBAT & HUMASH CEREMONY**Remember it is a meat meal - please make the dishes that you signed up to bring pareve (NOT DAIRY). If you missed signing up or do not remember what you signed up to bring please email Andrea at ReligiousSchool@beth-david.org

**FEBRUARY 4, 2013**** Haftarah Trope - complete syllabus, worksheets & recordings are on the trope wiki page **

**FAMILY ED WITH RABBI OHRINER - RITUAL OBJECTS** Fantastic discussion regarding the tallit & tefillin - got some wonderful pics of everyone trying out putting on tefillin. If you took pics as well - please send them to Iris! **FEBRUARY 9 - VAV SHABBAT SCHOOL - BAT MITZVAH SHIR SHELEF - NO CLASS ON SUNDAY FEBRUARY 10** **PLEASE BRING THE BAKED GOODS TO THE BETH DAVID KITCHEN BY NO LATER THAN 5PM ON THURSDAY FEBRUARY 8** **APPROPRIATE DRESS & BEHAVIOR (AS DISCUSSED IN CLASS)** **FRIDAY NIGHT MARCH 1 - KITA VAV KABBALAT SHABBAT & __H__UMASH CEREMONY** Mark your calendars! Remember it is a meat meal - please make the dishes that you signed up for pareve! If you missed signing up please email me or Andrea at ReligiousSchool@beth-david.org
 * Learn thru trope group 5B
 * Chant the 1st two blessings After the Haftarah
 * 1) Arrive @ 9:30am - go to multi-purpose D - breakfast & discussion with one of the rabbis
 * 2) Approx 10:15 - go to sanctuary for Torah service
 * 3) Approx 11:15 - go to multi-purpose D - discussion with Irene
 * 4) Approx 11:45 - go to sanctuary for Musaf; concluding part of service
 * 5) Approx 12:15 - Kiddush Lunch!
 * NO shorts, jeans, t-shirts, spaghetti strap tops, clothes with holes, flip flops
 * Boys - nice slacks, button down shirt or polo style shirt or for those who asked - yes a suit
 * Girls - same as for boys or if a dress or skirt - be sure the length is below your fingertips
 * EVERYONE wears a NICE head covering
 * NO chewing gum or food of any kind in the sanctuary
 * Cell phones OFF or better yet - unless you need them to call a parent at the end of the day - leave them at home!
 * While in the sanctuary use your quietest indoor library voice however DO NOT have prolonged conversations! Remember - the quietest whispers from each of you if you are all whispering at the same time means a LOUD noise
 * You do not have to sit with the class - you may sit with your parents but it is really great to sit as a group!

Today I had the pleasure of substituting in Kita Vav. We did a special class on Hatikvah. I sent the materials home with your students with the hope that parents will also read and perhaps have a dinner conversation about whether the words of Hatikvah need to be changed to accommodate a large non-Jewish minority. The following document contains the questions we discussed in class:
 * JANUARY 9, 2013 **

View this video about Hatikvah: [|Video: Hatikvah with Dr. Astrith Baltsan]

Let me know if you come up with some interesting decisions! Iris

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13px;">Sometimes we just need to go with what is happening with current events in the world. Part of Social Action is Advocacy & Activism – standing up for a cause and participating in demonstrations – yesterday I spoke with your children about the atrocious action by the Taliban against Malala Yousufzai, that took place in Pakistan on October 9. Malala is a 14 year old girl that dared to state her mind about the importance of education - especially for young girls in Pakistan.
 * OCTOBER 22, 2012**

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13px;">Your children decided that they wanted to act in support of Malala and so created a group video. Additionally Miriam created a wonderful poem. I recorded both yesterday (sorry it was sunny so some of the kids are only halfway in the video) – if & when I receive approval I will post the link to the videos. In the meantime, here are the words to the beautiful poem that Miriam created for Milala.

Do you sometimes think no thing is fair, You know girls and boys deserve the same care. You should stand up for what's right - There should be no reason for people to fight! People deserve a good education - Nobody should really be subject to exclusion. EVERYONE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE! -Miriam T.

You'll need Skype Credit <span class="skype_c2c_menu_toll_free">Free via Skype

<span class="skype_c2c_menu_toll_callcredit">You'll need Skype Credit <span class="skype_c2c_menu_toll_free">Free via Skype = Return to Home = Kita Vav 5776 will be taught by Morah Barbara Biran PrayerTech: (for Tefillah/prayer) If you do not have the email with your child's login information please contact me! This email contains the link to download the app and also your child's login information. <span class="wiki_link_ext">**[|Quizlet:]**You will be asked to join the site; this way I can check weekly who has been on the site practicing the **//Milot HaShavua//** - Words of the Week <span class="wiki_link_ext">**Memrise:** You will be asked to join the site; this way I can check weekly who has been on the site practicing the **//Milot HaShavua//** - Words of the Week
 * = ==** WELCOME TO JCORE KITA VAV 5776 **== ||=  ||= == SATO RESOURCES == ||

November 6 - TGIש - TGI SIGD Ethiopian Shabbat - Potluck - not necessary to bring an Ethiopian Dish - sign up now! November 11 - Veteran's Day Field Trip - have you RSVP'd for your child to attend? November 14 - Jewish Time Travel - have your registered!
 * IMPORTANT CALENDAR DATES!**

Starting in January, the first 1/2 hour of every Sunday (9:30-10am) will be spent on having your child check off on the tefillot they know! They must be able to chant it on their own to me. They should already be practicing! Also remember Youth Congregation - the more your child attends the better/more familiar they will be with the service and how it flows! Plus bonus - built in practice time on the tefillot!!
 * STANDING HOMEWORK!**
 * HOMEWORK: QUIZLET - MEMRISE - PRAYERTECH; WIKI TEFILLAH - BE ABLE TO CHANT THESE TEFILLOT**
 * Pg 394: Ein Kamokha & Vayihi Binsoa
 * Pg 398: Bei Ana Rahetz; Shema/Ehad/Gadlu; L'kha Adonai
 * Pg 420: Ashrei - best to tackle this 2 verses at a time!!
 * Pg 422: Y'hallelu & Hodo Al Eretz
 * Pg 424: Mizmor L'David
 * Pg 426: Uvnuho Yomar


 * NOVEMBER 1, 2015**
 * Hebrew - Ivrit**
 * Practiced Pg 426 - Uvnuho Yomar
 * Worked on Mizmor Shir - part of TGIש - Shabbat Friday night service
 * Milot HaShavua - words of the week - is your child learning the words - use Quizlet & Memrise (see above)
 * Basic Roots - also on Quizlet & Memrise
 * Basic Conversation with appropriate responses to: Hi; How are you? What is your name? Where do you live? Progressing on this - still a work in progress
 * Write the following sentences: My name is:.... The date is:.... Today is:....
 * Judaica - 2nd of 6 sessions covering SATO - Social Action Tikkun Olam**
 * We** began with a worksheet on Why Jews "Do Tzedakah" - the predominant answer was that it is good to help others and while this is true, through the text study we learned that it is actually part of a covenant (pact) that Abraham made with God - God promises to make Abraham a great nation and Abraham promises to teach his children and his descendants (us) to do what is just & right (tzedakah) - thus we learned that we are commanded in the Torah to do tzedakah.
 * The next part** of the discussion focused on who are those in need - great answers - poor, homeless, those that have lost jobs, sick, elderly, former prisoners (yes your children identified this group), soldiers surffering from PTSD (yes - your children again!)
 * Finally**, we did an exercise on Rambam's Ladder which focuses on the order of giving with a focus on kavod (respect), kedushah (holiness) and dignity to all involved. The class worked in pairs to first order 8 different "characters" and their response to "Do you give tzedakah?"; then they received cards with Rambam's description of each rung of giving and ordered those from highest to lowest; finally we compared their rankings to Rambam's - the class did very well at matching Rambam's ladder - and then I let them know about a Jewish organization that fulfills the highest ranking - helping a person to learn how to help themself - American Jewish World Service

Thanks for sharing the day with us at our Shabbaton - any questions - please ask! Torah Service - we completed going through all of the prayers in our Wednesday Gem! Starting in January, the first 1/2 hour of every Sunday (9:30-10am) will be spent on having your child check off on the tefillot they know! They must be able to chant it on their own to me. They should already be practicing! Also remember Youth Congregation - the more your child attends the better/more familiar they will be with the service and how it flows! Plus bonus - built in practice time on the tefillot!!
 * OCTOBER 24, 2015**
 * HOMEWORK: QUIZLET - MEMRISE - PRAYERTECH; WIKI TEFILLAH - BE ABLE TO CHANT THESE TEFILLOT**
 * Pg 394: Ein Kamokha & Vayihi Binsoa
 * Pg 398: Bei Ana Rahetz; Shema/Ehad/Gadlu; L'kha Adonai
 * Pg 420: Ashrei - best to tackle this 2 verses at a time!!
 * Pg 422: Y'hallelu & Hodo Al Eretz
 * Pg 424: Mizmor L'David
 * Pg 426: Uvnuho Yomar

We learned about the organization: Kaima - a program in Israel that uses the skills of organic farming to teach a trade to young people (ages 15-18) who might be struggling with school, home and the law; we touched on <span class="wiki_link_ext">Rambam's Ladder and how this program fulfills the highest rung of Rambam's ladder (the next class will be on Rambam's ladder) by not just giving them food but helping them to help themselves and hopefully break the cycle of dependency on society; learn teamwork; build a community and finally did an exercise figuring out which Jewish values apply and to whom they apply - to the participants - to the leaders - to the overall organization
 * OCTOBER 18, 2015**
 * First Hour - Hebrew (Ivrit):**
 * Milot HaShavua - words of the week - is your child learning the words - use Quizlet & Memrise (see above)
 * Basic Roots - also on Quizlet & Memrise
 * Basic Conversation with appropriate responses to: Hi; How are you? What is your name? Where do you live? What is your address? Progressing on this - still a work in progress
 * Write the following sentences: My name is:.... The date is:.... Today is:....
 * 2nd Hour - Judaica**
 * HOMEWORK: QUIZLET - MEMRISE - PRAYERTECH; WIKI TEFILLAH - BE ABLE TO CHANT THESE TEFILLOT**
 * Pg 394: Ein Kamokha & Vayihi Binsoa
 * Pg 398: Bei Ana Rahetz; Shema/Ehad/Gadlu; L'kha Adonai
 * Pg 420: Ashrei; thru line "bet"
 * Pg 422: Y'hallelu & Hodo Al Eretz

We started the day with Youth Congregation at which we had a guest speaker - soon to be Rabbi Sarah Shulman, the director of the NEW CAMP RAMAH here in Northern California located in Monterey! There will be 2 - 2 week sessions and 1 - 1 week session. There are many exciting specialty tracks - enrollment is open now and is expected to fill quickly! Go & explore the site and enroll your child for an amazing summer experience!
 * OCTOBER 10, 2015**

The second hour we covered - Friday night service thru Mizmor L'David as your children will be helping to lead this service on Friday Night March 4th - the Kita Vav TGIש - Friday Night Service Then back by popular demand we played another round of "Feed Your Wolves" which is actually a game that leads to discussions of ethical/moral questions that your child most likely is encountering in their life. Each question leads to some really good & thoughtful insight from everyone - for example one of the questions from yesterday: Someone in front of you in line at the store doesn't notice that he dropped a $20 bill while pulling out a couple of hundreds, just as you realize you don't have quite enough money for your purchase.

Wow - finally a regular Sunday program and we did a lot!
 * OCTOBER 4, 2015**
 * HEBREW (IVRIT):**
 * Worked on learning the songs for the Friday Night TIGShabbat service - we are working our way slowly through the booklet so by the time Kita Vav TGIShabbat arrives the class will be able to help fully lead the service!
 * TPR - Total Physical Response; Hebrew thru Action; still in review although having to refresh most of the class; the class responds to action words such as, stand, sit, walk, turn around, jump, point at
 * Conversational Hebrew - working on a basic conversation; goal by the end of October is that everyone will be able to have the following conversation with responses - in Hebrew of course:
 * Hi - how are you?
 * What's your name?
 * Where do you live?
 * What is your address?
 * Tefillah (Prayer) - started working on Ashrei; not just singing - this is where practicing reading happens. I accomplish this by having the class read the lines from the end so they aren't just singing by rote memory
 * **HOMEWORK: Use the wiki; Quizlet; Memrise; PrayerTech; be able to chant the following:**
 * Pg. 394 - Ein Kamokha and Vayihi Binsoa
 * Pg 398 - Bei Ana Rahetz; Shema/Ehad/Gadlu; L'kha Adonai
 * Pg 420 - Ashrei; just the introductory lines - thru "Tehillah L'David"
 * JUDAICA:**
 * Sukkah snack followed by Hoshanot for Hoshanna Rabba - don't know what this is? Ask your child - we had a good discussion about this following Iris' explanation in the sanctuary
 * Introduced the idea of Mitzvot and more importantly that the "Bar/Bat Mitzvah Project" is not the one & only project; doing mitzvot - doing good in the world is all around us; everyone has the opportunity practically every day of their life to be aware of their surrounds and do something to help someone. I've challenged the class to yes bring in mitzvah notes however it is time to step up the game - the mitzvah notes are to reflect an action outside of the home or school; what did your child do to really make a difference - even a small difference; our discussion began with who do they believe would be in most need of assistance and under what circumstances - your children have amazing insights into this! We discussed that there are more ways to give than to just stand up at their Bar/Bat Mitzvah and say "I'm going to donate 10% of the gift money I receive..." while nice, it is a long way from really performing mitzvot - good deeds. We also discussed that there are 3 main components/types of mitzvot - money - time - resources. Eliot shared that he is already starting and what he is doing is utilizing all 3 components: He is making homemade "Jolly Rancher" lollipops & selling them - so he is giving of his time, donating resources & collecting money to donate to a "sport" organization. Eliot is making a personal connection and doing so much more than just "giving 10%..." From there we watched the following video clips - with discussion before & after - again - really wonderful discussions - you should be very proud of your children - I am!
 * Elderly Man
 * Fast Food Worker
 * School Lunch
 * Smiles
 * Disabled Basketball Player
 * Softball

With Rosh Hashanah, a special program this Sunday, Sukkot decorating next Sunday, well we are not going to have an appreciable amount of Kita Vav time until October 4!!! However we did meet yesterday during the first hour of Jewel to begin the Torah service! > G'mar Hatima Tova - May we all be inscribed in the Book of Life!
 * SEPTEMBER 17, 2015**
 * Homework:**
 * Learn Ein Kamokha and Vayihi Binsoa - both on pg 394 in the siddur; recordings are on the tefillah page of this wiki
 * Go onto PrayerTech - Units: Beginning the Torah Service & The Ark is Opened
 * Milot HaShavua - I've added groups 3 & 4 to both Quizlet & Memrise

-Barbara

Hebrew///Ivrit// Judaica QUIZLET/MEMRISE
 * SEPTEMBER 2, 2015**
 * Worksheets on Basic knowledge of Blessings & Shema - yes this is all material that was to be taught in previous years; just checking to see what has been retained
 * Individual testing on basic reading skills - we want to find those students that will need extra help to get caught up
 * TPR - Total Physical Response; your children do the movements that are used - ask your child about "Musical Chairs"!
 * Counting to 10 - everyone knew these; 11 - 20 is definitely a challenge for most of your children; these will be the next Quizlet & Memrise flashcards!
 * Hebrew months - as a group most could sing this together
 * Learned a song about the 10 Commandments - songs are an effective way to remember
 * Exercise on Pirkei Avot - Jumping to Conclusions; discussed about not judging before trying to find out more
 * Questions about God (book): Does God Punish People - Teshuva; read a story (midrash) that centered around the Israelites wandering in the desert - from the Israelites perspective was God punishing them? Discussed about the lenses through which one views the incident (i.e. were they being punished simply because God was not providing the food & water; when Moses went up to Mt Sinai were they being punished by Moses "abandoning them - after all he didn't come back down right away) or were the Israelites "Jumping to Conclusions" about what God was trying to do for them - your children had very wonderful insights & contributions to both discussions.
 * Please encourage your child to use these tools! It really does help them learn the vocabulary!

Our first real day of class - we covered quite a lot! Hebrew///Ivrit// Judaica
 * AUGUST 30, 2015**
 * Worksheets: Every JCore day there will be a worksheet available for your child to complete - this can be done individually or with a partner; these papers will be collected (not today as this was introductory) and put into your child's folder for my use towards being able to fill in the end of year spiral curriculum knowledge sheet. Today's worksheet was the "Shema Quest" - this covered information hopefully covered in Kita Dalet or could have been learned by coming to Youth Congregation &/or by paying attention during Sunday Tefillah with Iris!
 * Learned Or Zarua - Friday night service for TGIShabbat
 * Went through a demo of the 3 websites for online homework (see links above)
 * Learned about Lenses of Questioning; this is a technique for learning critical thinking & thoughtful inquiry; this skill can be used in all areas of learning - not just Judaica! The six lenses are:
 * Blue - the big picture; focus & themes; summary; objective
 * Green - creativity; What if questions
 * Orange - facts; What are the facts
 * Yellow - benefits; what is the best possible scenario
 * Black - caution; what are the risks; potential problems; conflicts
 * Red - emotion; feelings; fears; impact on others
 * We did two exercises - one on Rosh Hashanah and one from the book Questions I have about God - Is the Bible true? Ask your child about these!
 * We had a discussion about //Teshuva// (repentence) - following up on Iris' comments during //tefillah// (prayer) about our //Teshuva// Rap: Reflect - Apologize - Prevent; ask your child to whom do we need to seek repentence and how shoud this happen?


 * HOMEWORK:**
 * 1) Milot HaShavua - use Quizlet &/or Memrise; by the end of day tonight group 2 will be in place
 * 2) PrayerTech - nothing assigned yet but that does not mean that your child cannot already be working on these!<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13.3333px;">The order of study in PrayerTech should be: pg numbers are for Siddur Sim Shalom
 * 3) <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13.3333px;">Ashrei – pgs 420 thru 422
 * 4) <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13.3333px;">Beginning the Torah Service – pg 394; Ein Kamokha
 * 5) <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13.3333px;">The Ark is Opened – pg 394; Vayihi Binsoa HaAron
 * 6) <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13.3333px;">Taking the Torah Out of the Ark – pg 398
 * 7) <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13.3333px;">Pg 398: Bei Ana Rahetz (not part of the exercises but still need to learn this)
 * 8) <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13.3333px;">Pg 398: Shema/Ehad/Gadlu
 * 9) <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13.3333px;">Pg 398: L’kha Adonai
 * 10) <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13.3333px;">Torah Blessings – pgs 400 & 402
 * 11) <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13.3333px;">V’zot HaTorah – pg 410
 * 12) <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13.3333px;">Opening Haftarah Blessing – pg 410 but your child will be getting handouts when we get to Haftarah trope in January
 * 13) <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13.3333px;">Closing Haftarah Blessings – pg 410 but your child will be getting handouts when we get to Haftarah trope in January
 * 14) <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13.3333px;">Returning the Torah to the Ark
 * 15) <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13.3333px;">Pg 422: Y’hallelu/Hodo al Eretz
 * 16) <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13.3333px;">Pg 424: Mizmor L’David
 * 17) <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13.3333px;">Pg 426: Uvnuho Yomar

Hello & welcome to Kita Vav! It is going to be an exciting fast paced year - feel free to scan through last years postings to give you an idea of what we will be doing this year. What was covered with your children: We discussed the Kavod (Honor/Respect) code and then each child signed a copy of the code. We covered the ways that everyone has an equal opportunity to earn at least 5 stickers every Sunday we are in session by: We discussed the possibility of pooling shekels for an end of year party. The class came to consensus - goal of 4500 shekels for a pizza & ice cream party. Evan has been the designated keeper of the shekels for the class. There will be ample opportunity for earning shekels - from randomly within class, to Wednesday Jewel sessions, to Youth Congregation (actually earn the most in YC!)
 * 1) Arriving on time (early even better) or within 10 minutes, however MUST enter without disturbing the class in order to earn stickers
 * 2) Having a kippah or head covering on their head without being reminded - this includes the girls - **PLEASE - in my class your child will need to wear a head covering - if they do not want to wear a kippah then have them find a hat/cap/headband that is special just for Religious School**
 * 3) Bringing their own siddur
 * 4) Bringing tzedakah
 * 5) Writing the 2 sentences in their mahberet (notebook) in Hebrew: My name is __and The date is__ __ (Hebrew date - not the English date)

We began a review of tefillot (prayers) starting with:
 * Tallit Blessing (pg 4 - siddur)
 * Friday Night Kiddush (pg 318 - siddur) - please have your child listen & review/learn to the best of their ability - recordings are on the tefillah page

5775 Class Updates: IMPORTANT CALENDAR DATES! MAY 9 (Shabbat School) - THIS SATURDAY! MAY 17 Rewards Day BEGINNING NIGHT OF MAY 23 - SHAVUOT AT BETH DAVID MAY 24 - LAST DAY OF JCORE (SUNDAY PROGRAM)/SHAVUOT PILGRIMAGE PICNIC - FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY!

UPDATE MAY 4 ** Yesterday I had the class test the long awaited long overdue Torah Aura program that I was going to use for the homework program this year - obviously that did not happen! Your children provided excellent feedback which I've already forwarded on to Torah Aura including two points which make me very proud as their teacher!
 * 1) Why does the reward game have us killing things?
 * 2) The exercises need to be made harder and the amount of reward time they give (in order to play a game) is too much for the effort!

The second hour was our Family Education Tefillin Workshop & Pizza party! Thank you to those parents that came to be a part of this wonderful session. Rabbi Ohriner taught about why we don tefillin, what is inside them and how to put them on and yes your children had the opportunity to put on tefillin for the first time. Next year as part of Kita Zayin, your children will be receiving their own set of tefillin and will learn with Rabbi Alexander during tefillah as they become more comfortable with laying tefillin.

We ended with the Pizza party - your children decided to pool most of their shekels earned during the year in order to make this happen. They've already inspired the next Kita Vav class to do the same - 2 members of that class already told me that they are going to do this!


 * UPDATE MARCH 29 **
 * Torah Service including the Haftarah.** The service part is well prepared. The Haftarah - make sure your child is practicing - not only their verse(s) but also the blessings before & after!
 * 2nd Hour - Chocolate Seder** - your children rocked their version of the 4 Questions - yes they wrote most of it!

**UPDATE MARCH 21**

 * First - Haftarah!!!** We did a run through of the Haftarah - from the blessing before - through the verses assigned to each of your children - through the blessings after. The mantra continues to be **PRACTICE - PRACTICE AGAIN - THEN PRACTICE MORE!** Not just on their individual verse(s) but also on the blessings - especially the 3rd & 4th ones after!!
 * IVRIT** - We did a run through of the Torah service - this next Sunday your children will be assigned to their specific part - either the 1st half (pgs 394 & 398) or the 2nd half (pg 420 thru 426) - again the mantra is **PRACTICE!!**
 * JUDAICA** - We refined & practiced the 4 Questions that your children will be presenting at the Chocolate Seder next Sunday as well as practiced the presentation for the Zmirkudiya on April 26

**UPDATE MARCH 15**

 * The mantra -**
 * Haftarah - Practice - Practice - Practice!** Everyone has received their verse(s)! By this Saturday, March 21:
 * 1) If your child has only one verse they should be able to chant half of that verse - words & trope together smoothly
 * 2) If your child has more than one verse they should be able to chant at least one of those verses
 * PLEASE CONTACT ME TO SET UP A 1-1 TIME WITH YOUR CHILD TO HELP THEM PUT THEIR WORDS & TROPE TOGETHER & MAKE A RECORDING**
 * Ivrit -** we continued with individual testing - most of your children are doing very well
 * Judaica** - We worked on the class presentation for the Zmirkudiya on April 26 and for Passover - reviewed the 4 Questions (Yes Passover!) After one time through of chanting the 4 Questions to the traditional melody the class split into 2 groups (girls vs boys) their choice and each group created their interpretation of the 4 Questions - only ground rule - it needed to cover the same 4 topics - the class decided that the boys version was best! We'll practice this version this Saturday during Shabbat school for presenting at the school Chocolate Seder on March 29!!

**UPDATE MARCH 8**

 * Haftarah - Practice - Practice - Practice!** Everyone has received their verse(s) today! By next Sunday they should:
 * 1) Minimally be able to read their verse(s) smoothly - notice I did not say fast
 * 2) I would also highly suggest they break down their verse(s) into trope groups & identify those groups
 * PLEASE CONTACT ME TO SET UP A 1-1 TIME WITH YOUR CHILD TO HELP THEM PUT THEIR WORDS & TROPE TOGETHER & MAKE A RECORDING **
 * Ivrit -** we continued with individual testing - most of your children are doing very well
 * Judaica** - Purim - fun day - learning/reviewing the high level overview of the Purim story via[[file:global_purim.pdf]]
 * Zmirkudiya -** We started learning our songs; please have your children listen as often as possible - the more they listen the more they'll learn it - even without the words!
 * Dan Nichols - L'Takein (aka the Na Na Song)
 * Rick Recht - The Hope - focus on the chorus

**UPDATE MARCH 1**

 * Haftarah - Practice - Practice - Practice! Next week I will be giving out the verse(s)!!**
 * Ivrit -** we continued with individual testing - most of your children are doing very well!
 * Judaica** - Today's focus was learning about the prophets & specifically having each child learn who is the prophet for their respective Haftarah on the day of their Bar/Bat Mitzvah. We went over the MILE packet for the Haftarah blessings - we got about halfway through it - we will finish it next week. Much of the discussion revolved around understanding the Maftir aliyah, the Maftir reading and the Haftarah reading and who does what as regards to their Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Included in this learning: Maftir means the one who concludes and that Haftarah means the conclusion; the overview meanings/gist of the Blessings before & after the Haftarah so hopefully they will be able to connect to what they are chanting!

**UPDATE FEBRUARY 8**

 * Haftarah - Practice - Practice - Practice!**
 * Ivrit -** we continued with individual testing - most of your children are doing very well!
 * Judaica** - we once again focused on meaning of the tefillot (prayers) - we reviewed from the Shema all the way through the Torah service; not fun or exciting yet information that should have been disseminated and hopefully learned through the years - sadly; it was presented and not absorbed by most; this was our last session on reviewing this information.

** UPDATE FEBRUARY 1 **
We began the day with your children continuing to work on passing their tefillah (prayers) for the Torah service; this will help me determine who leads what part of the service on April 25 in the main sanctuary (you have this on your calendar - right!) Next all the grades had the opportunity to create their own works of art with Mordechai Rosentein - our visiting Artist in Residence Finally we returned to class and went through everyone's understanding of the different parts of the service - Shema & Blessings; Amidah and Torah service. I'm going to be giving out the quiz answer sheets for your children to study - yes eventually there will be a quiz on this information.
 * Haftarah Trope: see January 18 - it is VERY IMPORTANT that your child practices!!!**

** UPDATE JANUARY 18 **
Inside the folder that your child received are:
 * Haftarah Trope:** Haftarah trope moves at a much faster pace than Torah trope! Please be sure that your child practices at least 5 minutes every day! All the recordings are on the wiki!!
 * Syllabus - schedule of what will be covered on which date
 * Information about trope - we'll be covering this in class
 * Trope worksheets
 * Trope shortcut sheet
 * Blessings Before & After Haftarah

**UPDATE JANUARY 25**
It's official - we've broken ground! 9am - 9:30: Haftarah Trope - we are progressing much more rapidly than with Torah trope. It is imperative that your child study the trope! 5 minutes/day is all it takes! 9:30 - 10:30: We spent the one hour we had yesterday working first together as a group on the Torah service and then moved to individual testing on the tefillot of the Torah service. In order to know exactly what your child knows or does not know the first 30 minutes of each Sunday will be spent on individual practice/testing. Using this information I will be able to assign your child to the part of the Torah service at which they will best succeed. I will have a record for each child of what they've passed plus put a chart up on the wall so anyone can check their own progress at any time.

**UPDATE JANUARY 10**
Welcome back - it was great to see everyone! Following Youth Congregation we practiced the Torah service focusing on pages 420 thru 426. Please have your children practice daily! They all know the first part just fine so no need to keep practicing that however the 2nd half needs work by many - suggested weekly study schedule from now till the **Kita Vav Shabbat on April 25 (mark your calendar!)** Sunday: Ashrei - intro thru dalet; Y'hallelu and Mizmor L'David; haftarah Monday: Ashrei - hey thru het; Mizmor L'David; haftarah Tuesday: Ashrei - tet thru lamed; Mizmor L'David; haftarah Wednesday: skip - Jewel program Thursday: Ashrei - mem thru pey; Uvnuho Yomar; haftarah Friday: Ashrei - tzadi thru end; Uvnuho Yomar; haftarah

We continued on with learning reviewing the song we are singing for the groundbreaking ceremony - Am Ehad Lev Ehad Finally we finished up with Ma La'Asot - our book that discusses ethics - the class really wanted to do the chapter entitled Dr Death which covers what is the Jewish opinion regarding doctor assisted suicide. We had a very meaningful discussion from what they each felt in their own hearts to Jewish law, which is against suicide all together, to Jewish burial practice in regards to suicide. I believe all of your children contributed meaningfully however probably still have questions regarding this very difficult topic.

** UPDATE DECEMBER 7 **

 * Ivrit (Hebrew):** Continued working on Torah service - focusing on Uvnuho Yomar (pg 426); also worked on Milot HaShavua - your kids matched the words Hebrew to English then made sentences using those words; then we finished up with commonly used roots - playing for paper clips which were then traded for shekels
 * Rikud (Dance):** Donna introduced a new dance - Mowgli - sorry could not find a link for it
 * Yahadut (Judaica):** We learned the "true story of Hanukkah" - not the most exciting lesson, I'm still trying to figure out how to make this one more engaging; in any case, ask your kids about the "miracle of the oil"!

**UPDATE NOVEMBER 22**
We had a wonderful discussion surrounding Thanksgiving - what we are thankful for and to remember to think about those less fortunate than us. We discussed ways to give such as purchasing extra food while shopping this week and if the store does not have a 2nd Harvest Food Bank bin then to bring the food to the Beth David lobby - we always have bins. You may also donate online directly to Second Harvest Food Bank Other ways to donate: 10th Anniversary Applied Materials Turkey Trot - have fun & donate to good causes at the same time Sacred Heart Martha's Kitchen - a little local soup kitchen providing for the homeless for the past 33 years

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!!

**UPDATE NOVEMBER 16**

 * **Ivrit:** We continued to work on Ashrei (pg 420) and began on Y'hallelu and Hodo Al Eretz (pg 422)
 * **Rikud:** Dance - on dance days our Hebrew hour is cut to 30 minutes as to share with dance; our new dance instructor & Beth David member Donna Frankel is introducing new dances to the kids - yesterday they learned Sulam Ya'kov
 * **Judaica:** We learned about Tzfat, kabbalah - an intro to the idea, and micrography (google search Jewish Micrograph) - your kids made fabulous works of micrography and then also created more cards for our Jewminion game about Tzfat.

**UPDATE NOVEMBER 1**
Thanks for sharing in the Shabbaton! I know we covered a lot of material. If you have any questions, concerns or suggestions, please do let me/us know.

**UPDATE OCTOBER 26**

 * First Hour - Ivrit (Hebrew); we continued to learn Ashrei; worked on learning numbers 11 thru 20; worked on learning basic roots; TPR - total physical response - your children respond physically to Hebrew directions such as get up; sit on a chair; walk to...; point at...
 * Dance - we have a new dance teacher - Donna Frankel; while new to teaching dance for the JCore program Donna is a long time member of Beth David; it was a fun session with 2 new dances taught to the class!
 * Second Hour - Judaica: we had two different discussions - first one: I Have Some Questions About God - Chapter 7; we read the story about the little boy with the flute which then led into a great discussion about how each of us talks to God and where each of us finds God; second: A Kid's Mensch Handbook - Chapter 4; our discussion centered around looking at the past week and sharing what was great and what we wished we could do-over which led back to really repenting (teshuva) which finally led to respecting ourselves, others and the environment.

**UPDATE OCTOBER 18**

 * First hour - Youth Congregation; I'm so very happy that your children already know the opening part of the Torah service very well! We will be starting to focus on the 2nd half including really mastering Ashrei - for those that do not yet know it.
 * Second hour - Judaica; we had a discussion on mitzvot and started thinking about b'nei mitzvah - mitzvah projects - lots of good participation and input including:
 * 1) Mitzvahs should be an ongoing part of our lives - not just a one shot deal for their bar/bat mitzvah
 * 2) Mitzvahs do not have to be about giving money - can also be about giving items or giving time; we actually discussed at length about giving of time and thinking of easy ways to give time in the community such as scheduling a regular visit to a senior center to play an instrument; discussed possibly putting together and leading a monthly Kabbalat Shabbat at Chai House (I would put this together but welcome you & your children to participate)
 * 3) Played a card game based on Jewish based values; evolved from a domino style - which value would connect to the previous one on the table; to getting 5 value cards that your child put into order of most important to least (very difficult) & explaining their reasoning; to finally as a group putting 3 value cards in order of importance (even more difficult to get group consensus) but they did it.
 * Ruah Rally & Lunch - fabulous to see a good portion of your children participating. Remember you & your children are always invited to participate in the Ruah Rally & stay for kiddush lunch - does not have to be a Shabbat School day; actually staying for the lunch will give you ideas about what you want (or don't want) for your child's lunch on the day of their bar/bat mitzvah!

**UPDATE OCTOBER 12 - GAME DAY IN HONOR OF SUKKOT!**
Be sure to ask your kids about our fun day!
 * Ivrit (Hebrew): Using flashcards for matching games we worked on: Hebrew months; Jewish Holidays & what month they occur; Books in the Torah; Mitzvot & Middot
 * Sukkah Snack: Our annual tradition of building a sukkah out of graham crackers, marshmallow cream, pretzels & assorted candy!!
 * Hoshanot: With Rabbi Ohriner we learned about the etrog & parts of the lulav, said the blessing over the lulav and then marched singing Hoshanot
 * Judaica: We tested out the questions the kids made on Sept 28, plus had relay races using flashcards for Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret & Simhat Torah

** UPDATE SEPTEMBER 28 **
First Hour: Second Hour: Sam Pickholtz brought in his copy of Dominion; we've got the basic understandings now; slight modification we'll make to the trivia card section so some actual learning goes on during the game playing; so after we finally all understood the game, the class broke down into teams and wrote their first set of questions surround the holidays of Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot & Simhat Torah. In order to write the questions your children actually really need to know the information. Other aspects of self direction that I am including this year:
 * Ivrit (Hebrew): Continuing to review previously learned material
 * Rikud (Dance)
 * Ability to earn M&M Stickers: each child has the ability to earn stickers as soon as they walk in the door by being on time; wearing a kippah; bringing their own siddur; bringing tzedakah; writing the 2 Hebrew sentences (a) My name is.... (b) The date is ....
 * Bathroom/Water breaks during class time: There will be 2 passes for each hour; if by the end of the day all 4 passes still remain each person in attendance earns a M&M sticker; 5 shekels & one candy; it will be up to the class to decide if someone gets to go out during class to the bathroom or to get water as there are ample opportunities to go to the bathroom before arriving to Beth David; during break; going to & from tefillah (just to be clear, going out because of illness is not included in this)
 * Working as part of the team: If at any time a team feels that one of their members is not participating &/or working as part of the group the team may tell that person that they are no longer a part of their team. That individual will then be required to work on their own & must complete an individual task. Should the individual decide that they are ready to work, they may plead their case to their team - it will be up to the team to decide if they are welcome back or not.

Looking forward to an exciting year of learning & creating something that can be used for years to come!

-Barbara

**UPDATE - SEPTEMBER 21**
Fabulous first session! The first hour is Ivrit (Hebrew); we're starting with review of what was to have been covered in previous years & we have also started on the Torah service. Second Hour - Yahadut (Judaica): The driving question for the class - how would you want to learn the topics we need to cover this year starting with the holidays, that would also be enticing for others to play? The class brainstormed and then divided themselves into 2 groups: Group 1: decided upon a games approach - possibly a video game and possibly "Jewminion" based on the Dominion game (which I will now need to learn) Group 2: started writing a song!

Your kids are fabulously creative and I hope that by the end of the year we have successfully answered the driving question with successful ideas that can be used by the entire school!

When I met with your kids we spent some time bonding - ask your kids if they remember their handshakes! We discussed the Kavod (Honor/Respect) code and then each child signed a copy of the code which has been turned into the office. We covered the ways that everyone has an equal opportunity to earn at least 5 stickers every Sunday we are in session by: I'll be adding a 6th possibility by assigning a bulletin board for them to look at & bring me back a completed BBIL note (available on each board)
 * 1) Arriving on time (early even better) or within 10 minutes, however MUST enter without disturbing the class in order to earn stickers
 * 2) Having a kippah or head covering on their head without being reminded - this includes the girls
 * 3) Having their own siddur
 * 4) Having tzedakah
 * 5) Writing the 2 sentences in their mahberet (notebook) in Hebrew: My name is __and The date is__ __ (Hebrew date - not the English date)

We had our first game going over the "Milot HaShavua" - words of the week; we are going to work hard on growing our conversational Hebrew vocabulary by using these Hebrew words instead of English. Finally we discussed a possible end of year reward class party - possibly to happen on that Saturday evening of the Haftarah Trope Induction ceremony. I've asked for ideas for places to go - the restaurant needs to be Kosher (that limits to Jerusalem Grill) or vegetarian or pizza or we can plan a party... to be determined! I welcome input from all of you as well. Look on it as the prep for your child's Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebration!!

Looking forward to great year!

-Barbara

5774 Updates:

<span style="display: block; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; text-align: center;">IMPORTANT CALENDAR DATES May 10: Last Shabbat School of the Year - 9:30am! May 11: NO RELIGIOUS SCHOOL - HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! MAY 18: LAST DAY OF JYEP! Rewards Ceremony @ 11am followed by Lag B'Omer (33rd day of the Omer) BBQ

MAY 7** Last Shabbat was a fabulous milestone - I'm very proud of your children as I am sure you are as well! I have received numerous complements from congregants who were //kvelling// along with you about your children!! We spent time this past Sunday in discussion on two areas:
 * 1) What to do with the funds raised from the Purim carnival as well as the tzedakah collected throughout the year. Your children decided as a class to donate the money (approx $450) to the Next 50 Capital Campaign - directed to the new play area for the school!
 * 2) Next we had a feedback session on the year regarding the Sunday JCore program only. Overall the class was very happy with the year and felt like they learned alot - high points include the use of games to further learning; the use of technology based games (which when we get our new building will be easier to implement). I'll be sending a report to Iris with all of their feedback but again overall the class was happy with the year and is looking forward to their Kita Zayin year!

Finally - BBYO Connect (6th - 8th grade) is having a "Day of Jewish Summer Camp" program on May 18th which begins at 1:00pm on May 18th!!

Fabulous practice yesterday on the Haftarah & the Torah service! Thank you to the class for being on time & working hard! Also thank you for understanding that I needed to leave to go to the unveiling for my friend's daughter - I explained to the class briefly about an unveiling before I left. Also I heard wonderful reports back from the TMTrs & teachers! Seder Steps Rap - fabulous! Thanks for working & being cooperative!
 * MARCH 31**


 * What to do over Passover break? PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE - TORAH SERVICE & HAFTARAH! When we come back we have one more sanctuary rehearsal & then that is it!**

MARCH 25
 * _**
 * The year has sped by! We are in full review & practice of the Torah service and the Haftarah for May 3rd! Remember trope this Sunday at 9:00am! Be sure your children are practicing!!**

FEBURARY 8 HAFTARAH TROPE & TORAH SERVICE - THE MORE YOUR CHILD ATTENDS YOUTH CONGREGATION THE BETTER PREPARED THEY WILL BE! I've sent a request asking for RSVPs for May 3 - I am going to assign each of your children a verse - there is the potential for more than one verse for a few - once your child learns their verse I will ask them if they want to take on another until all the verses have been assigned. I will be sending out the assignments on Thursday with instructions - PLEASE PRINT OUT THE ATTACHMENT IN THAT EMAIL PLUS THE INSTRUCTIONS FOR YOUR CHILDREN!!! **Trope** - know all the trope groups; this means being able to chant the trope without the recording - also be looking at the trope symbols to become familiar/memorize them **All the Blessings** - both Before & After the Haftarah: again, this means being able to chant them without the recording **TORAH SERVICE** - goal is to be able to sing these without the recording Pg 394: Ein Kamokha & Vayihi Binsoa Ha'aron Pg 398: Bei Ana Rahetz; Shema thru Gadlu; Lkha Adonai Pg 420: Ashrei (reviewed on Feb 8) - This was taught in Kita Dalet - break it down to practice: Day 1: Intro thru Bet Day 2: Gimmel thru Vav; Review from Intro Day 3: Zayin thru Yud; Review from Intro Day 4: Caf thru Sameh: Review from Intro Day 5: Ayin thru Kuf: Review from Intro Day 6: Reish to the end: Review from Intro Pg 422: Y'hallelu & Hodo Al Eretz (learned on Feb 8) Pg 424: Mizmor L'David Pg 426: Uvnuho Yomar & Etz Hayim He
 * I can't stress the importance of practicing! Most of your children have a lot of homework from school so the best suggestions I can offer are:**
 * Practice Haftarah trope & the Torah service before they start their school homework - plan on 15 minutes max per day!
 * Get all the audio files downloaded onto an MP3 player - use the car time for study time! Listening is the way most of us learn songs/melodies! They will still need to spend time with the written material to be sure they are pronouncing words correctly but it helps tremendously with the memorization of the melodies for both the trope and the tefillot (prayers)!!
 * HOMEWORK FOR TROPE & TORAH SERVICE**


 * SECOND HOUR - YOUTH CONGREGATION**

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">FEBRUARY 2 HAFTARAH TROPE & TORAH SERVICE - THE MORE YOUR CHILD ATTENDS YOUTH CONGREGATION THE BETTER PREPARED THEY WILL BE!** I can't stress the importance of practicing! Most of your children have a lot of homework from school so the best suggestions I can offer are:
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">We covered a lot yesterday starting with trope at 9am! **
 * Practice Haftarah trope & the Torah service before they start their school homework - plan on 15 minutes max per day!
 * Get all the audio files downloaded onto an MP3 player - use the car time for study time! Listening is the way most of us learn songs/melodies! They will still need to spend time with the written material to be sure they are pronouncing words correctly but it helps tremendously with the memorization of the melodies for both the trope and the tefillot (prayers)!!
 * HOMEWORK FOR TROPE & TORAH SERVICE**
 * Trope - know thru trope group 9 (PAZER); this means being able to chant the trope without the recording - also be looking at the trope symbols to become familiar/memorize them
 * All the Blessings - both Before & After the Haftarah: again, this means being able to chant them without the recording
 * TORAH SERVICE - goal is to be able to sing these without the recording
 * 1) Pg 394: Ein Kamokha & Vayihi Binsoa Ha'aron
 * 2) Pg 398: Bei Ana Rahetz; Shema thru Gadlu; Lkha Adonai
 * 3) Pg 424: Mizmor L'David (started working on this yesterday)
 * 4) Pg 426: Uvnuho Yomar & Etz Hayim He (did this last week)

Focused on understanding the acronym TaNaKh - Torah - Torah Nevi'im - Prophets Ketuvim - Writings We also delved into learning how to find the correct readings in each of the following resources:
 * SECOND HOUR - JUDAICA**
 * Etz Hayim Humash
 * Tanakh
 * Tikkun

We also spent time at Rikud (dance); tefillah (Morning service) and playing Hebrew games (my creations) No One Left Behind & Baseball!

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">JANUARY 27 <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Wow, it has been a long time since we've had a regular Sunday! <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">**HAFTARAH TROPE:** For next week, your child must know: REMEMBER - ALL RECORDINGS & ASSIGNMENTS ARE ON THE WIKI: <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">http://cbdshulschool.wikispaces.com/Torah+and+Trope <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">http://cbdshulschool.wikispaces.com/Tefillah
 * 1) Through trope group 6B (Kadma-Geresh)
 * 2) Blessing Before Haftarah
 * 3) First 2 Blessings After Haftarah


 * <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">HEBREW: **<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> We continued working on the Torah service focusing on reading Uvnuho Yomar - pg 426 in the siddur; **Do you have Saturday May 3 marked on your calendar?** If not please do! Kita Vav - aka your children - will be leading the Torah service & chanting the Haftarah in the main congregation! We also spent some time on Hebrew vocabulary & testing out my new game - Hebrew Baseball - ask your kids about it!

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">**FAMILY ED - TEFILLIN:** An interesting hour of learning about tefillin and how to lay them correctly! Next year in Kita Zayin each of your children will receive their own set (part of the registration fee). That way the keshers (knots) can be tied & fitted exactly to your child. Also remember - **mark your calendars for the Kita Vav Shabbat Mishpa__h__a Experience (SME) & Potluck - Friday February 28** - each of your children will be receiving their own __H__umash. A potluck sign up went around yesterday - if you were not there to sign up, please contact Andrea in the Religious School office!

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Any questions - feel free to call or email me!

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> -Morah Barbara <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">biran@beth-david.org <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"><span class="skype_c2c_print_container">408-366-9106 <span class="skype_c2c_container"><span class="skype_c2c_highlighting_inactive_common"><span class="skype_c2c_textarea_span"><span class="skype_c2c_text_span">408-366-9106

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Dec. 8, 2013 <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Hi all –

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Wow, it seems like forever since we had our last Sunday session! <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">First Hour – Ivrit/Hebrew; about half the class went out with our teen madrich (aide) and spent the hour working on reading Hebrew conversations with inflection & understanding – they went through the entire book! I’m going to have to find them something new!! The other half stayed with me and we worked on basic concepts – responding to what is my name; counting to 100; days of the week and the months. Yes, these have been covered in previous years but most of the group still could not get through these successfully – happily by the end of the hour most had a much better grasp and were able to respond verbally to questions!

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Second Hour – this was led by Irene while I was leading shira (singing) – the session covered and intro to Genealogy and understanding their own names.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">So parents, most of your children do NOT know their complete Hebrew name! The complete Hebrew name is: <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Your child’s name, son/daughter of father’s Hebrew name and mother’s Hebrew name (where applicable)

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Please help your child know their complete Hebrew name! If one or both of you have never been given a Hebrew name and would like one, I would be happy to set up a time for you to meet with one of our rabbis and they can help you decide upon one!

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Any questions, suggestions, comments please do let me know!

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">-Barbara

Wow - what a busy real first complete day of JCORE! Our Teen Madrichim (TMTrs) are Mayer Adelberg and Anton Gotlib! It is great to have their assistance in the room! This is a school based program in Sacramento that teaches tolerance and how it affects, and has affected millions of people. It includes discussing the Holocaust. Five years ago, the children in this group decided they wanted a way to represent not only the 6 million that perished in the Holocaust, but more specifically to remember the 1.6 million children that were murdered. The Bandage Project was created for this reason. To support this effort, our JYEP (Jewish Youth Education Program) is collecting new bandages (of all shapes, sizes, patterns & colors) for the Tolerance Kids! Collection will go through the end of November! Look for the collection box at Barbara Biran’s desk (main office).
 * SEPTEMBER 30, 2013 **
 * Hebrew - Ivrit ( ** **עִברִית)** - I started off by using the 10 Minute Reader - I am happy to say that most of your children exceed the level of reading in this book and so will be choosing a different book for reading going forward! For those not up to this level, they will stay with this book and most times go out with one of our Teen Madrichim for individual work.
 * MILE PROGRAM** - we began work in the 1st Packet - Taking the Torah Out: The entire Torah service is a metaphor/re-enactment of our receiving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai. This packet covers the prayers of Ein Kamokha thru L'kha Adonai. Your children should begin studying these prayers - or if they've attended Youth Congregation regularly and know them be reviewing them! All of the prayers are here on the wiki: TEFILLAH
 * Dance - Rikud (** **רִיקוד)** - We had our first dance session with Rachel! Your children are quite the dancers - great job remembering the steps to the dances taught in previous years!
 * Judaica - Yahudt (** **יהדות)** - We had our first SATO session - we discussed why & how we give tzedakah - main reason is because we are commanded to do so! Also tzedakah is not just about giving money, it is also about giving of our time or needed items. We also discussed the concept of Hiddur Mitzvah - doing a mitzvah to the best of your ability. The projects today were in direct relation to our discussions:
 * 1. **** Tolerance Kids Bandage Project - the class decorated the box - PLEASE HELP & PARTICIPATE IN THIS PROJECT! **
 * 2. Tzedakah Boxes** - your children decorated their own tzedakah canisters. The goal - fill the canister & return it at the end of the year - the funds to go into the class SATO fund! This would be in addition to any tzedakah that your children would bring in each week.
 * HOMEWORK PROGRAM: Please work with your children on completing the homework! It is reading focused! **
 * LASTLY - YOUTH SERVICES! ** I do know that many of your children have other commitments, however, the more your child attends youth services the better prepared they will be when training begins for their bar/bat mitzvah! Also, please do remember that there is a minimum attendance requirement - see our Youth Services page for the details and to check attendance records.

Welcome to Kita Vav & an exciting 5774 with changes for everyone! A program that will NOT change is the SATO Tikkun Olam program that was introduced last year! We'll have time to discuss this at Back to School on September 8!
 * AUGUST 20, 2013 **

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parents –

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I’m very excited to once again be presenting our Social Action/Tikkun Olam program to Kita Vav. I’m sending this letter to you so that when we meet for Back to School on September 8, we can have a meaningful discussion. Please take the time to review this information with your child before September 8. SATO sessions will be on the following dates/times: <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 1.5;">This is a 2 year program since much of the information that is taught is invaluable to helping your children choose their own mitzvah project for their Bar/Bat Mitzvah. The SATO program is one in which your children elect to become part of a “Board of Directors” of their own charitable fund. They will be responsible for naming, management and direction of this fund.
 * **DATE** || **TIME** ||
 * SEPT 29 || 11:45 - 12:15 ||
 * OCT 6 || 9:30 - 10:30 ||
 * Oct 20 || 11:45 - 12:15 ||
 * Nov 3 || 9:30 - 10:30 ||
 * Dec 8 || 9:30 - 10:30 ||
 * Jan 26 || 9:30 - 10:30 ||
 * Mar 2 || 9:30 - 10:30 ||

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">One of the key ways to get money into the fund involves a commitment from you and your child(ren) as a family. The idea is that instead of giving gifts to each other for their respective b’nei mitzvah celebrations, each family instead would donate to the fund an amount roughly equivalent to what they would spend on gifts. It is these monies that will establish the base for the fund. The monies you give will be entirely tax deductible as there will be a special account set up in the Beth David records specifically for this. The money may be paid into the fund over the course of this year and next**. PLEASE DISCUSS THIS WITH YOUR CHILD(REN) before we meet on September 8 at Back to School.**

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Additionally, other fundraising projects will occur so that a sufficient amount of money may be pooled. Your children will join together as a part of this process to decide how these funds will be allocated. Each child will receive a base amount for their own mitzvah project with the surplus being further allocated. The ultimate goal of this program is not the allocation of the money, rather it is about teaching the importance of giving back to the world – not just as one time event but throughout their life, opening their eyes to the wide variety of needs surrounding us in society, and connecting with our responsibility as Jews to give.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The suggested donation for each family is $18 per gift times 14 (current number of students in the class) for a total of $252 per family. Should everyone contribute the suggested total then the class would end up with a base amount of $3,518!! Families are welcome to contribute more, and please also understand that no one is being asked to give at a level that would create any undue hardship for them. The suggested donation amount is merely a guideline. **All donations will be held in the strictest confidence.**

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Areas to address:
 * 1) <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">1. The students will still receive many presents from guests other than their classmates – do they have to share these?
 * 2) <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">2. Participation in the program does not preclude giving each other additional gifts should they so desire
 * 3) <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">3. Does the organization they choose need to be Jewish?
 * 4) <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">4. Participation in the fund is voluntary. Even if the family chooses not to or is not able to participate financially, all students will still be involved in the program

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">While we cannot force everyone to participate in the fund, we hope that all families will decide to do so to the best of their abilities. Inherent in this is your child(ren)s and your willingness to give the money they would possibly receive as gifts to the fund.


 * <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Please take the time to discuss this with your child(ren). **<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> I look forward to discussing this exciting program with all of you at Back to School on September 8.

<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">-Morah Barbara

* 5773 Teacher Class Updates: MAY 2, 2013 What a fantastic day yesterday! First in Hebrew, your kids helped me in the creation of my next new game, based on a TV show that I saw recently. Your kids came up with some great suggestions to help with the implementation. We'll be trying it out again next Wednesday once I've figured out how to incorporate their suggestions!

SATO - our last SATO session of the year.Yesterday we focused on taking the theoretical to the practical. How do your kids find their mitzvah project?There are the 4 questions:1. What do I like to do?2. What am I good at?3. What am I passionate about?4. What bothers me so much that I want to change it?Using the answers to these questions, the goal is to figure out, is there an organization that fits?Is there a Jewish organization that fits? Is there an Israeli organization that fits?What is the Jewish value?How do I find these organizations?If there is not an organization - then what?

Answering the 4 questions will be up to your child in discussion with you. To finding the organizations, we looked at several websites: All of these organizations in some way rank the organizations; list the percentages to overhead (should look for an organization with 85% or higher going to the cause it serves and have many more valuable resources Charity Naviagator Chairty Watch Israel GivesNot as comprehensive as the US counterparts but effective Embrace Israel

Want to find out Jewish sources to support your case - meaning text from the Torah, Talmud etc: On 1 Foot

Finally we watched 4 videos from last year's Teen Diller Foundation Awards. The Diller Foundation is a local program in the Bay Area that supports teen philanthropy. The purpose of the videos were to help your children realize that there is much still to be done and that yes - they can be the ones to make the change. You can see these plus many more: YouTube Diller Teen Awards

-Morah Barbara

APRIL 4, 2013

Hafarah!!!! There is Haftarah trope this Sunday at 9:00!!! Also the 50th Anniversary Kick Off Event - Milestones & Memories immediately follows Religious School. It would be great to have you stay & participate in the program - including a song (Mirembe) during the teacher tribute! See the CBD website for more info.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR SATURDAY MAY 18 KITA VAV WILL LEAD THE TORAH SERVICE & THE CONCLUSION PLUS BE CHANTING THE HAFTARAH! If you/your child will NOT be in attendance on that Shabbat please email me as soon as possible!

It is a MUST that your child practice over the breaks! If you would like me to work with your child one on one - please call or send me an email to set this up! <span class="skype_c2c_print_container">(408) 366-9106 <span class="skype_c2c_container"><span class="skype_c2c_highlighting_inactive_common"><span class="skype_c2c_textarea_span"><span class="skype_c2c_text_span">(408) 366-9106   or biran@beth-david.org. So far I've only had one parent contact me!!

Holocaust (Shoah) Museum & Discussion
 * Yesterday your kids toured the museum (a few chose not to go in). Before entering the museum we spent time discussing what the kids thought they already knew as well as their feelings about how the Holocaust (Shoah) - possible fears, anger, anxiety. Following the tour we spent the 2nd hour continuing to decompress. Your children had much to share with us and Hemy had much to share about her own experiences growing up in Israel in the years following the Shoah. While it was not the planned curricula for the 2nd hour it was much needed and beneficial.**


 * -Morot Barbara & Hemy**

MARCH 22, 2013 Hard to believe but yes Passover is next week and with the breaks coming up there is little time left to accomplish lots more Hafarah!!!! MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR SATURDAY MAY 18 KITA VAV WILL LEAD THE TORAH SERVICE & THE CONCLUSION PLUS BE CHANTING THE HAFTARAH! It is a MUST that your child practice over the breaks! If you would like me to work with your child one on one - please call or send me an email to set this up! <span class="skype_c2c_print_container">(408) 366-9106 <span class="skype_c2c_container"><span class="skype_c2c_highlighting_inactive_common"><span class="skype_c2c_textarea_span"><span class="skype_c2c_text_span">(408) 366-9106   or biran@beth-david.org
 * Your kids (except for those that were absent - I'll scan those on Monday & send them to those that were out) have been given their assignment for the Haftarah Induction service.**


 * Your kids also signed up for the part of the Torah service that would like to lead: I'll post these on Monday - forgot to bring the sign up sheet home with me**
 * OPENING (Pgs 394 & 398)**
 * PRAYER FOR ISRAEL & ASHREI (Pg 416; Pgs 420-222)**
 * CLOSING (Pgs 422; 424; 426)**
 * Everyone will lead the conclusion: (Pgs 508; 510; 514)**


 * Tanakh**
 * The class has been learning about the Prophets with Morah Hemy - this past week they even learned Rashi script!**

Happy Passover!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

FEBRUARY 27, 2013REMINDER - KABBALAT SHABBAT - HUMASH CEREMONY - TOMORROW (MARCH 1) NIGHT @ 6:30PM FOLLOWED BY POTLUCK DINNERBRING YOUR PAREVE SIDE DISHES/DESSERTS TO MPR AREA BEFORE THE SERVICE! Wow - what a great Purim Shpiel - Thanks to Dave Graubart - if you missed it or just want to see it again :Purim Shpiel Also - the class booths were fantastic and everyone that participated in the manning of the booths were over the top great! The raffle for the 2 jars of Smarties went super well - final total of money collected - slightly different number than told the class yesterday - $380.77!!!! And one of our very own class members - Anat Baird was one of the winners with the correct EXACT guess of 300 packages!!Additionally, tzedakah funds collected since January: $38.01So the total going into the Kita Vav TnT fund today is: $418.79 - WAY TO GO KITA VAV!! IVRIT - HEBREW**The class worked on the Haftarah Blessing Work Packet - speaking of Haftarah - everyone should be working on @Trope** Trope resumes this Sunday at 9am!!! TANAKH - Torah, Nevei'im Ketuvim**The class learned about King Saul and had a lively discussion led by Morah Hemy** FEBRUARY 21, 2013 Hope everyone has been enjoying the break - REMEMBER - NO HAFTARAH TROPE ON SUNDAY INSTEAD - PURIM!!!SCHEDULE FOR SUNDAY FEBRUARY 24 - EVERYONE ARRIVES AT 9AM FOR SET UP!!!**I realize that many kids were out due to Science camp when we did the sign ups and also that some families may not be back from vacation even though the kids signed up - the work schedule will need to be flexible based on who is there and how many kids want to do what.

Gabi Cameron || Noa Shir Morayah || Samantha || Danielle Adam G || Samantha Lia |||| Jacob R || Noa Shir || Mariel Anat || Gabi Marc || Jacob R Carly || Gabi || Jacob O Anat || Marc Samantha || Adam G Carly || Morayah || **NEED AS MANY AS POSSIBLE TO STAY TO CLEAN UP AT 2PM!!!**
 * || 11am || Noon || 1pm ||
 * TICKETS || Lia
 * RAFFLE || Adam K
 * FACE PAINTING || Morayah
 * PAPER CRAFTS || Jacob O
 * BALLOON CRAFTS || Mariel

**EVEN THOUGH NO TROPE - KEEP PRACTICING TROPE & BLESSINGS!**

**SAVE THE DATE - MARK YOUR CALENDARS - FRIDAY MARCH 1 @ 6:30PM****KITA VAV KABBALAT SHABBAT & HUMASH CEREMONY**Remember it is a meat meal - please make the dishes that you signed up to bring pareve (NOT DAIRY). If you missed signing up or do not remember what you signed up to bring please email Andrea at ReligiousSchool@beth-david.org

**FEBRUARY 4, 2013**** Haftarah Trope - complete syllabus, worksheets & recordings are on the trope wiki page **

**FAMILY ED WITH RABBI OHRINER - RITUAL OBJECTS** Fantastic discussion regarding the tallit & tefillin - got some wonderful pics of everyone trying out putting on tefillin. If you took pics as well - please send them to Iris! **FEBRUARY 9 - VAV SHABBAT SCHOOL - BAT MITZVAH SHIR SHELEF - NO CLASS ON SUNDAY FEBRUARY 10** **PLEASE BRING THE BAKED GOODS TO THE BETH DAVID KITCHEN BY NO LATER THAN 5PM ON THURSDAY FEBRUARY 8** **APPROPRIATE DRESS & BEHAVIOR (AS DISCUSSED IN CLASS)** **FRIDAY NIGHT MARCH 1 - KITA VAV KABBALAT SHABBAT & __H__UMASH CEREMONY** Mark your calendars! Remember it is a meat meal - please make the dishes that you signed up for pareve! If you missed signing up please email me or Andrea at ReligiousSchool@beth-david.org
 * Learn thru trope group 5B
 * Chant the 1st two blessings After the Haftarah
 * 1) Arrive @ 9:30am - go to multi-purpose D - breakfast & discussion with one of the rabbis
 * 2) Approx 10:15 - go to sanctuary for Torah service
 * 3) Approx 11:15 - go to multi-purpose D - discussion with Irene
 * 4) Approx 11:45 - go to sanctuary for Musaf; concluding part of service
 * 5) Approx 12:15 - Kiddush Lunch!
 * NO shorts, jeans, t-shirts, spaghetti strap tops, clothes with holes, flip flops
 * Boys - nice slacks, button down shirt or polo style shirt or for those who asked - yes a suit
 * Girls - same as for boys or if a dress or skirt - be sure the length is below your fingertips
 * EVERYONE wears a NICE head covering
 * NO chewing gum or food of any kind in the sanctuary
 * Cell phones OFF or better yet - unless you need them to call a parent at the end of the day - leave them at home!
 * While in the sanctuary use your quietest indoor library voice however DO NOT have prolonged conversations! Remember - the quietest whispers from each of you if you are all whispering at the same time means a LOUD noise
 * You do not have to sit with the class - you may sit with your parents but it is really great to sit as a group!

Today I had the pleasure of substituting in Kita Vav. We did a special class on Hatikvah. I sent the materials home with your students with the hope that parents will also read and perhaps have a dinner conversation about whether the words of Hatikvah need to be changed to accommodate a large non-Jewish minority. The following document contains the questions we discussed in class:
 * JANUARY 9, 2013 **

View this video about Hatikvah: [|Video: Hatikvah with Dr. Astrith Baltsan]

Let me know if you come up with some interesting decisions! Iris

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13px;">Sometimes we just need to go with what is happening with current events in the world. Part of Social Action is Advocacy & Activism – standing up for a cause and participating in demonstrations – yesterday I spoke with your children about the atrocious action by the Taliban against Malala Yousufzai, that took place in Pakistan on October 9. Malala is a 14 year old girl that dared to state her mind about the importance of education - especially for young girls in Pakistan.
 * OCTOBER 22, 2012**

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 13px;">Your children decided that they wanted to act in support of Malala and so created a group video. Additionally Miriam created a wonderful poem. I recorded both yesterday (sorry it was sunny so some of the kids are only halfway in the video) – if & when I receive approval I will post the link to the videos. In the meantime, here are the words to the beautiful poem that Miriam created for Milala.

Do you sometimes think no thing is fair, You know girls and boys deserve the same care. You should stand up for what's right - There should be no reason for people to fight! People deserve a good education - Nobody should really be subject to exclusion. EVERYONE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE! -Miriam T.

You'll need Skype Credit <span class="skype_c2c_menu_toll_free">Free via Skype

<span class="skype_c2c_menu_toll_callcredit">You'll need Skype Credit <span class="skype_c2c_menu_toll_free">Free via Skype