aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	Religion
What age group	Year or Grade 5
What topic	I am subbing for a class where the teacher is not here for the day. They have a very misbehaved class and I need to teach them this weeks parsha which is parsha nitzavim. I want them to really enjoy the lesson and be engaged how can I accomplish this. I could also teach them about rosh hashana
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

Engaging Lesson Plan for Parsha Nitzavim and Rosh Hashanah

Introduction: "The Journey of Our People"

Objective

To capture the students' attention and create an engaging atmosphere that connects them to the themes of Parsha Nitzavim and Rosh Hashanah.

Materials Needed

• A large piece of butcher paper or whiteboard
• Markers in various colors
• A timer (or a phone timer)

---

The Opening Activity: "Journey Map"

Instructions

1. Create Zones: Arrange the classroom into "zones" that represent different stages of the Jewish journey:

   • The Beginning: Creation and the start of the Jewish people
   • The Desert: The struggles and lessons learned in the wilderness
   • Mount Sinai: Receiving the Torah and the covenant with God
   • Today: Our lives now and our responsibilities

2. Set the Mood: Begin by explaining that today's lesson will be like embarking on a journey together. Use a mysterious tone as you describe how every great story has a beginning, middle, and end, just like the Jewish people's experiences shared in Parsha Nitzavim.

3. Timing: Give each group 5 minutes to brainstorm or draw their "zone" on the butcher paper or whiteboard. Assign one group to each zone and provide them with markers in different colors.

4. Sharing Time: After the timer goes off, each group will present their zone for 1 minute to the class. This should include what they think are the important lessons or events that happened in that location.

---

Transition to Parsha Nitzavim and Rosh Hashanah

• After sharing, highlight how Parsha Nitzavim focuses on standing together as a community and re-choosing our commitments. Connect this to the upcoming Rosh Hashanah, when we reflect on our actions and resolve to improve ourselves for the new year.

Engage Them:

• Ask, "What does it mean to stand together as a community?"
• Let them discuss in pairs for a minute and share their ideas when everyone is ready. This encourages participation and respect for each other's thoughts.

---

Closing Reflection: "Our Own Commitments"

Activity

1. Commitment Cards: Hand out blank cards and colored pencils. Ask each student to write or draw their personal commitment for the new year inspired by Parsha Nitzavim and Rosh Hashanah. Remind them that their commitment can be anything from improving their behavior to helping a classmate.

2. Share and Display: Allow some time for students to share their commitments aloud, if they wish. Then, collect the cards and create a “Commitment Wall” in the classroom as a reminder of the promises they’ve made this Rosh Hashanah.

---

Conclusion:

By starting with a "Journey Map," you not only engage the students in a visually creative and interactive manner but also create a connection to the significant themes of unity, reflection, and personal growth tied to both Parsha Nitzavim and Rosh Hashanah. This approach fosters a sense of community and encourages meaningful participation while keeping the class focused and lively.