Grade 4/5 Jewish History Through Maps

The fourth and fifth graders have been learning about Jewish history through the lense of geography. We have enjoyed 4 classes so far, and the enthusiasm and energy of this group makes each class full of surprises. 

Each session begins with a general geography review. Using a giant world map, we are focusing not only on locations that are central to what we are discussing each week, but also their relative locations, and basic map concepts. This warm-up allows the students to review what they have learned the previous week, and scaffold upon that foundation.

We then transition to the new material, and consider the specific history and time period by viewing a variety of color maps.

In week one, we traced the evolutions of humans through their migration out of Africa and the Agricultural Revolution, the shift from nomadic life to farming in the Fertile Crescent that took place in roughly 10,000 BCE. We discussed the characteristics of nomadic life and how farming directly led to the development of towns and city states.Our second week took a closer look at the patriarchs of Judaism; we traced the migrations of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Joseph. In our third week, we explored the period known as the "Judges", the Hebrew settlement of Canaan following the Exodus (roughly 1500 BCE to 1200 BCE). Week four concentrated on the reigns of Saul and David and the establishment of the national capital in Jerusalem circa 1000 BCE. We looked at maps and plans of the construction of the Temple during Solomon's tenure, and continued to keep an eye on developing trade routes in the Mediterranean and Near East.

Every fifth class will be a review of the previous four lessons. This will allow students to recall and then solidify their knowledge in a fun game format.

Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you for your support!

Cheers,

Jilly