Lesson Summary:
Judaism is one of the world’s oldest religions still practiced. It originated in the beliefs, practices, and experiences of the ancient Israelites. Today, Judaism is practiced by millions of Jews living in every inhabited continent.
Part of a larger unit on “Judaism and Jewish History,” this lesson is an introduction to key features of Judaism including: holidays, text, symbols, practices, traditional practices, and Israel.
Aims
1) Students will be able to provide an overview of Jewish history in America and will recognize that
Jews have been part of American society throughout its history.
2) Students will be able to discuss tolerance, acceptance, and opportunity in America as it relates
to Jews. In particular, they will recognize that throughout its history, America has offered Jews
relatively more tolerance, acceptance, and opportunity than other countries, but that the
struggle for greater equality is part of the history of Jews in America.