Chumash

 The Chumash program will be constructed of two 2-year cycles, based on our grouping of 9-10th grades and 11-12th grades together. Over the next few years the sequence of materials will be as follows:

9 - 10                                       11-12
2006-2007                               Shemot                  Vayikra
2007-2008                               Devarim                 Devarim
2008-2009                               Shemot                  Bereisheet
2009-2010                               Devarim                 Bamindbar

 The Chumash curriculum focuses on developing the skills, values, and themes that will enhance and augment the study of the respective Chumashim. Reading for comprehension, understanding what’s bothering Rashi, developing a sophisticated vocabulary, using a Concordance and other reference works, and comparing similar texts are important skills we hope to impart to our students. Connections to various mitzvot, delving into the moral lessons of our midrashic traditions, understanding the nature of man and the Jewish people, and discussing Jewish leadership and Jewish nationhood are among the values and themes that will feature in the program.

Chumash classes with honors designations will be characterized by their high level of independent reading (requiring competencies in Hebrew reading comprehension), more abstract classroom conversations, and more writing exercises (requiring proficiencies in written expression).

The Chumash program includes a summer reading assignment that is reinforced by a school-wide quiz given during the first week of the school year.