A jigsaw puzzle of the map of Israel

Overview

Teens will learn important facts about Israel by physically exploring the map of Israel. Through an interactive session and discussion, teens will gain insight into the unique geographical, historical, religious and social character of Israel. This activity will help students clarify their own personal connections to Israel.

Target age group: Ages 12-18 (may be adjusted).

Connection to curriculum: Geography, social studies, Jewish history, Jewish studies.

Time required: Approx. 45 minutes.

Materials required: The IsraelExperts Puzzle Map or a large Israel map; globe or world map for reference; 3" x 5" cards - to be prepared by instructor prior to activity (see activity below for examples); one sheet of white paper (8.5" x 11") per each participant; markers/pens.

Potential objectives

Teens will:

• Gain insight into the Israel experience - history, people and cultures.
• Engage in the different 'faces' of Israel by creating their own Israel narrative.
• Draw their own personal Israel map.
• Discuss the relationship between American Jewry and Israel.

Activity procedure

Opening: Place map in the center of the room and ask teens to sit around the map. Begin by asking participants to think about the following opening questions during the activity:

• What is Israel?
• What does Israel mean to me?
• Should I/can I make a place for Israel in my heart?
• What is my role as an American Jew in relation to Israel?

Activity 1: "Get to know Israel": Each teen takes a 3" x 5" card with the name of a city on one side and some statements on the other side. In turn, each participant will stand with his/her card at the correct spot on the map. As each participant takes his/her place on the map, a discussion about the statements can begin.

Example of cards:

• Tel-Aviv - Center of Israel, culture center, new, beach, Zionism.
• Jerusalem - Holy, divided, Western Wall, Temple mount.
• Haifa - co-existence, north of Israel.
• Safed - Jewish mysticism, Jewish art center.

Activity 2: "My Israel map": Turn the IsraelExperts Puzzle Map over. Teens will receive paper and markers and be given 5 minutes to draw their own personal map of Israel as they understand it.

Closing: Teens will share and explain their maps. Discussion of opening questions can take place in order to bring it all together. The discussion should cover what the participants learned in this lesson and what they will take home with them.

• A giant floor map puzzle for activities with large groups and classrooms
• Size: 38” x 94” / 98 X 238 cm
• 60 jigsaw pieces made of quality cardboard.
• 4 lesson plans* designed by IsraelExperts.
• Price: ONLY $124.00. See our special offers above.
• Price includes shipping. 
• Delivery within 21 days.
• The first activity will be sent along with the map, and 3 more will follow over the next 12 months.

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Email: ipm@israelexperts.com