Grade 3
Jewish Studies
Unit One: Welcome to Torah: Let’s Start with Genesis!
Students learn how to read the Torah text and understand how the Torah conveys its messages both through the story and the manner in which the stories are told. Students begin to master the plot—the p’shat (the plain meaning of the text or plot). They will know the characters, places and dramatic happenings in each segment studied. Students begin to understand the lessons of the Torah and learn about the Biblical stories from creation through Isaac.
Unit Two: Israel 101—People, Culture, Geography, Weather, Food, Language, Cities and History
Students develop an understanding of where Israel is located in relation to where they live and of the size of Israel relative to other places with which they are familiar. They will identify countries surrounding Israel, as well as the locations of key cities, bodies of water and regions within Israel. They learn why Israel is called the Jewish homeland.
Unit Three: Reviewing Our Jewish Year
Students will review the rhythm and flow of the year through the use of a spiral curriculum especially developed for Shir Tikva.
Hebrew Language Studies
In Grade 3, students continue to refine their letter recognition and early reading skills. Syllables will be sounded out to pronounce words. Students continue to practice Hebrew print, and Hebrew script will be introduced.
Tefillah (Prayer)
Grade 3 students review sanctuary etiquette. By the end of the school year, they will be able to stay on track within each prayer during an entire service, and also understand the choreography of the prayers they are learning. The focus is on the Shema and her blessings. Grade 3 leads the Shema during Wednesday afternoon tefillah and participates in two designated Shabbat morning services during the year. At Siyum Hasefer—our Grade 3 milestone event—students lead the community in prayer. Grade 3 students also learn to sing Israel’s national anthem.
Tzedakah
Grade 3 supports Birthday Angels—an organization based in Israel that creates birthday parties for underprivileged children.
Family Education
#1: Let’s Learn About Israel
Parents and children create a connection to Israel through a simulated archeological dig. The organization Dig the Past provides a powerful educational program that combines hands-on fun, learning and a real taste of Israel. Parents will have a chance to learn about the Passport to Israel savings plan and will have an opportunity to share their own Israel experiences with the group.
#2: Preparing for Siyum Hasefer
Parents learn about the Siyum Hasefer service and this special milestone program at Shir Tikva. They study the prayer V’ahavta—its meaning, its place in the service and its choreography. Parents have an opportunity to ask questions and explore the concept of tefillah (prayer) in a general sense. They explore the purpose of tefillah and learn why students become part of a praying community in Grade 3. At this session, parents receive instructions about the inscription project. This project involves the creation of a special tribute which is pasted into each child’s siddur (prayer book). The inscription and the siddur are presented to the Grade 3 children at the Siyum Hasefer service.
Enrichment Programs
Grade 3 students are offered the option of participating in the Kef Lanu program. Kef Lanu, translated as “Our Fun,” provides an opportunity for all students to have fun, socialize with friends, and learn more about Judaism in an innovative, experiential manner. The program is offered three times per year, immediately following Sunday classes from 11-12:30.
Social Programming
The fall PJ Party is a social highlight for our Grade 3 students. They spend a Saturday evening at Shir Tikva in their pj’s, where they share Havdalah, enjoy dinner, play games, watch a movie, and socialize with one another.
