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Year 2: Preparing for a visit to a synagogue

Introduction:

This lesson prepares the children for a visit to a local synagogue. It uses a website which offers a virtual tour of a synagogue

Resources

  • A projector and whiteboard for whole-class teaching
  • Computers with access to the internet

Previous learning

Children would benefit from having studied the Jewish faith and from having an understanding that some things are special.

Learning Objectives

The children will learn:

  • how to show respect for a place that is special to some people
  • about the main points of significance in a synagogue.

What to do

Tell the children that soon you are going to visit a special place, a synagogue. A synagogue is a place of worship for Jewish people. Explain that because it is special the children will have to show respect for the Jewish people by behaving in certain ways:

  • They must talk quietly at all times in the synagogue
  • Boys must cover their heads
  • Boys and girls may have to sit separately

Using this website http://www.hitchams.suffolk.sch.uk/synagogue/index.htm, or one of the other URLs supplied, take the children on a virtual tour of the synagogue. Highlight that the synagogue is a house of assembly, a meeting place where Jewish people meet to pray. Show the children some of the things they will see and explain how special these things are and that it is an honour to be shown these things.

In pairs or small groups let the children explore the website writing down any questions that occur to them.

Differentiation

Some children may benefit from following the synagogue ‘starter sections’ on the above website. Others may enjoy the synagogue ‘full section’, which has more detailed text. Some children can be supported more closely in formulating their questions.

The role of ICT

The use of the websites provides a valuable set of resources. Key information can be shared with the children quickly and effectively so more time is available for thinking and talking about the visit.

Follow-up suggestions

Plan a real visit to a local synagogue. The children can ask the questions they have generated during this lesson.

Assessment

Ask the children what questions they have come up with. Make a list of questions to ask when the visit takes place. Why do the children think the synagogue is a special place? What are they looking forward to seeing.

Weblinks

Choose from the selection of virtual tours below.

References

QCA Schemes of Work ICT Unit 2C: Finding information
http://www.standards.dfes.gov.uk/schemes2/it/itx2c/?view=get

QCA Schemes of Work RE Unit 2A What is the Torah and why is it important to Jewish people?
http://www.standards.dfes.gov.uk/schemes2/religion/rel2a/?view=get