Teaching Guide:
Introduction
Note: This activity was created
as a sample webquest for J-Wit , Summer 2003. A webquest is an inquiry-based
activity, requiring students to develop skills using Internet-based research,
with an emphasis on Judaic textual resources
Aim
Developing Torah based inquiry of text source study, Halachic investigation,
research skills, presentation skills, team work, and writing skills using
Internet-based research skills.
Rationale
The Mitzvah of Shaatnez is a
concrete and applicable Mitzvah that students are familiar with, but are not usually aware of its intricate complexities. This webquest is designed to
deepen the students' understanding of all aspects of the
Mitzvah, from its source in the oral and written Torah to its practical
applications in everyday life. While completing the activity, students are
required to delve into relevant texts and other internet sources, and draw
conclusions to complete the task.
Audience
This webquest is designed for students grade 6-8 to research and develop
and understanding of the Mitzvah of Shaatnez. Students should be able to
read and understand פסוקים and מפרשים
independently.
Prerequisites
Students should have already
acquired the skills and knowledge necessary for locating and understanding basic
textual sources in
תנ'ך
and
מפרשים.
Students should have already
developed basic skills for internet research.
Subject Matter
מצות שעטנז- Understanding
the Torah prohibition of wearing any garment or fabric that contains both wool
and linen.
Goals and Objectives
This
webquest covers a wide range of
knowledge and skills, including:
 |
Locating and
interpreting sources of the מצווה in
the Torah, |
|
Analyzing the
interpreting the
טעמי
המצווה (reasons) according to
commentaries. |
|
Comparing the various
sources in which the Mitzvah is mentioned. |
|
Understanding the
Halachic implications of the Mitzvah according to Talmud, Rambam, and
contemporary sources. |
|
Understanding the
Mitzvah in the broader context of כלאיים (forbidden
mixtures) |
|
Researching internet
sites for practical applications and background information involving the
production of wool and linen. |
Instructional Plan
The
students are divided into groups of four for the purpose of the inquiry-based
project. It is recommended to form heterogeneous groups, as the roles are
staggered in skill level for that purpose. Some of the students will
be required to read and understand the מקורות.
Other students will review and analyze the process and laws involved in
the Mitzvah and draw necessary conclusions as to their own needs within the
community and the Shaatnez lab. The roles of Daykan and Lamdan are more
challenging than the other two roles The teacher serves as a guide in helping
students understand difficult passages or areas of confusion.
Materials
Internet sources and textual
sources, as well as any materials gathered by students for visual presentation.
Assessment and
Evaluation
A rubric is used as an evaluation tool to assess the final product.
Evaluation is based on students' demonstrated understanding of the material,
thorough research of the subject matter, and the ability of students to
synthesize and present information in a presentation form. Emphasis is
placed on cooperative learning and group cooperation and in the students'
ability to present their findings in a cohesive and thorough way that will
demonstrate their understanding of both the literary sources of the Mitzvah and
its practical applications..
feedback or
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