In a mini-unit connected to Hanukkah, Judaic Studies Teacher Suzanne Caster explored with her Grade 3 students the symbols of the Maccabean revolt against the Seleucid army in 165BCE, asking the same questions about symbols as students asked in their Indigenous Peoples unit. They studied symbols of resistance in art and identified those that were meaningful to the Maccabees, as well as how Indigenous artists utilize different symbols in their pottery.

 

A highlight in the study was the opportunity to create their own ancient oil lamp designed with symbols that were meaningful to the Maccabees and to Indigenous artists through their pottery. The clay workshop was facilitated by local artist, Abby Maeir, who has led art studies at CJDS for many years and whose art imprint can be found throughout our campus!