On Tuesday morning, Grade 4 students concluded their Age of Exploration unit with a dynamic culmination event, celebrating an interdisciplinary approach that connected learning across General Studies, Hebrew, and Judaic Studies. Throughout the unit, students explored the lives and legacies of various explorers, evaluating the lasting effects, both positive and negative, of their discoveries. They discussed how, in the study of history, explorers are often credited for achievements and developments that in reality belonged to the Native People who were already living on the land. Students researched a wide range of figures, from Leif Erikson to Atahualpa, creating interactive social studies notebooks filled with reading responses, research notes, and reflections. In Judaic Studies, they learned about the travels of the Jewish explorer Benjamin of Tudela, and in Hebrew, students created Israeli-style passports for their chosen explorers or historical figures.

Families were then treated to an immersive experience, with students stepping confidently into their roles through costumes, vibrant acting, singing, and dancing skills, and a strong knowledge base developed over weeks of study. After the performance, students proudly presented their interactive notebooks, letters written with ink and quill, sharing the story of Benjamin of Tudela, and their Israeli passports. 

Todah rabah to the Grade 4 team, Morot Makenna Hirsch, Maya Cohen, Suzanne Caster, Julia Grinberg, and Dorit Rogan for guiding students through this meaningful and inspiring educational journey.