Abstract

Jerusalem has, and will continue to be, a central location of religious significance to Jews, Muslims and Christians. Unfortunately, as a result, Jerusalem is also the source of multiple controversies, both religious and political. Why is Jerusalem essential to the Jewish people and Jewish State? How might Israel balance the different political and religious claims of different groups concerning the nature of Jerusalem? Learners will have the opportunity to research the various religious and political controversies within both the Jewish community, as well as between different religious communities in the city, using the jigsaw method. Afterwards, students will discuss the various viewpoints and articulate their thoughts as to how these dilemmas should be navigated.

Lesson Attachments​

The learners will: 

  1. understand why the status of Jerusalem is complex

  2. know why Jerusalem holds religious significance for all three major religions and how that impacts political viewpoints and policies.

be able to explain the various points of view on the political and religious controversies around the status of Jerusalem, and to form an opinion of their own.

Unpacked for Educators materials include:

  1. An educator’s guide that  contains many rich components. These are organized under the following titles: 

  • review (questions that relate to the video)

  • discussion

  • activities

  • reflection

  • further learning

  1. A video designed to spark interest in the topic.

  2. A lesson plan (link in the attachment above) that incorporates additional building blocks for the construction of an engaging and interactive lesson.

Please note that in this particular resource, the educator’s guide contains much additional educational content that is beyond the scope of the lesson plan attached above. Additional lesson plans can be constructed around these materials that will enrich the learners’ perspectives on and appreciation for Jerusalem as a focal point of Jewish life.

Computer, Projector, Student Handout

The website link includes a “further learning” section in the educator’s guide.

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