Discovering the Diversity of Jewish Americans | The Center for Jewish-Inclusive Learning Portal

Topics

Jewish American Heritage
Jewish Identity

Summary

Jewish American identity is multifaceted. It is a complex interplay of ancestry, culture, religion, and personal experience. This lesson examines how Jewish Americans, whose origins span the globe and appearances reflect that diversity, think about their identities, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage they bring to the United States.

Essential Questions

In what ways are Jewish Americans a diverse ethnic group?
What bonds Jewish Americans across diversity?
How does the term “Jewish peoplehood” relate to the concept of identity for Jewish Americans?
What are key positive and negative experiences of Jewish Americans both historically and today?

Learning Objectives

Students will be able to:
Understand what makes Jewish Americans an ethnic group
Learn about the geographic origins of Jewish communities
Evaluate the impact of immigration on the development of Jewish American identity
Develop empathy and perspective-taking skills

More ICS Mini-Lessons for JAHM

Video

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Grades:

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Grades:

6 - 8

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Grades:

6 - 8

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Lesson

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Grades:

6 - 8