TeachersFirst's Jewish Americans' Contributions to American Culture

The tapestry of American culture is richly woven with the contributions of Jewish Americans, a narrative that spans the breadth of the nation's history. From the earliest days of independence, Jewish citizens have played a pivotal yet often unrecognized role in shaping the United States, infusing the American ethos with a spirit of innovation, resilience, and a profound commitment to community. This collection of resources explores the influence of Jewish Americans and their impact on everything from the arts and sciences to politics and social reform. It celebrates the indelible imprint of Jewish intellectual, artistic, and ethical contributions to the American landscape. View our collections related to Hanukkah, Passover, Rosh Hashanah, and Yom Kippur.

   

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Jewish Americans: Identity, History, Experience - ICS Resources

Grades
6 to 12
The "ICS Jewish Americans: Identity, History, and Experience" lesson plan provides a comprehensive resource for teaching students about Jewish American history, diversity, and identity....more
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The "ICS Jewish Americans: Identity, History, and Experience" lesson plan provides a comprehensive resource for teaching students about Jewish American history, diversity, and identity. It includes essential questions, learning outcomes, primary source documents, multimedia resources, and hands-on activities like the Identity Iceberg and Jewish American Diversity exercises. The lesson encourages students to explore visible and invisible aspects of identity, analyze historical experiences, and draw connections between Jewish Americans and other ethnic groups. This resource is ideal for fostering classroom discussions on culture, heritage, and inclusion.

tag(s): cultures (226), diversity (46), identity (37), jews (52), perspective (20), religions (113)

In the Classroom

Students can analyze the visible and invisible aspects of identity by creating their own "icebergs," identifying elements of their identity that are seen versus those that are hidden. Have students compare Jewish American identity struggles with those of other ethnic groups, discussing themes of immigration, discrimination, and cultural preservation. They can create Venn diagrams on paper or using Canva's Venn Diagram Creator, reviewed here or Venn Diagram Creator, reviewed here. Students can also create a short story, poem, or digital presentation using Powtoon, reviewed here, imagining the journey of a Jewish American immigrant based on historical sources.
 This resource requires PDF reader software like Adobe Acrobat.
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10 Jewish Americans Who Changed History - ThinkTV

Grades
4 to 12
 
ThinkTV's article "10 Jewish Americans Who Changed History" highlights the significant contributions of notable Jewish Americans, including Albert Einstein, Gloria Steinem, Irving Berlin,...more
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ThinkTV's article "10 Jewish Americans Who Changed History" highlights the significant contributions of notable Jewish Americans, including Albert Einstein, Gloria Steinem, Irving Berlin, Jerry Lewis, and Elizabeth Taylor. The resource provides brief biographies and accompanying videos, making it an engaging way for students to learn about these influential figures. Educators can use this content to introduce students to diverse individuals who have shaped American history and culture through science, social activism, music, entertainment, and film.

tag(s): acting (21), composers (20), cultures (226), famous people (28), immigrants (48), jews (52), religions (113)

In the Classroom

Assign each student a historical figure from the list to research. They can give clues about their person's achievements while the class guesses who they are. Students can choose one figure and research how their contributions shape society today. They can present their findings through a written essay or a slideshow using Visme reviewed here or Google Slides reviewed here. Assign students to compare one of the Jewish Americans from the list with another historical figure from a different background but in the same field (ex., Albert Einstein vs. Marie Curie in science, Gloria Steinem vs. Susan B. Anthony in activism). They can create a Venn diagram on paper or digitally using Canva's Venn Diagram Creator reviewed here.
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Unpacked for Educators - Jewish American Heritage Month - OpenDor Media

Grades
6 to 12
 
The Unpacked for Educators - Jewish American Heritage Month page offers videos, articles, and other educational resources to explore Jewish American history and contributions. It covers...more
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The Unpacked for Educators - Jewish American Heritage Month page offers videos, articles, and other educational resources to explore Jewish American history and contributions. It covers influential figures, cultural impacts, and Jewish involvement in social justice movements. The site provides engaging multimedia content to help teachers integrate Jewish-American heritage into their curriculum. It's recommended to check if YouTube is accessible on school networks if planning to use these resources in the classroom.
This site includes advertising.

tag(s): cultures (226), famous people (28), harlem (10), identity (37), inventors and inventions (81), jews (52), perspective (20), religions (113), scientists (71), sports (85), supreme court (30)

In the Classroom

Have students explore key events in Jewish American history by analyzing newspaper headlines from different decades. They can then create their own headlines for major contributions made by Jewish Americans in politics, science, or the arts. Have students create a short video using Adobe Express Video Maker, reviewed here, a podcast using Buzzsprout, reviewed here, or a blog post using Telegra.ph, reviewed here reflecting on a theme from Jewish American heritage. They can incorporate interviews, personal reflections, or an analysis of historical events. Assign a video from "Unpacked for Educators" (ex., A Jewish American Tale). Students can take notes, discuss key themes, and connect the content to broader American history and social movements.
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Jewish American Heritage Month - American Association of School Librarians

Grades
K to 12
 
The Jewish American Heritage Month page from the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) provides resources for educators to celebrate and explore Jewish Americans' rich history...more
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The Jewish American Heritage Month page from the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) provides resources for educators to celebrate and explore Jewish Americans' rich history and contributions. It highlights activities and educational materials that can be used to teach students about the Jewish American experience, fostering awareness and understanding in the classroom. You can find more detailed resources and ideas for promoting Jewish American Heritage Month on the site.

tag(s): composers (20), cultures (226), famous people (28), immigrants (48), immigration (84), inventors and inventions (81), jews (52), perspective (20), religions (113)

In the Classroom

Set up a gallery walk featuring famous Jewish Americans in literature, science, politics, and the arts (ex., Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Albert Einstein, Emma Lazarus). Students rotate, take notes, and discuss contributions. Have students read and analyze excerpts from Jewish American authors like Maurice Sendak (Where the Wild Things Are) or Emma Lazarus (The New Colossus). Discuss themes of immigration, identity, and resilience. Students can create a poem, illustration, or digital artwork using a tool such as Google Drawings, reviewed here honoring a Jewish American historical figure or cultural contribution, explaining their impact. Introduce students to Jewish American musicians like Irving Berlin or Bob Dylan. Play samples of their work and discuss how their heritage influenced their music and American culture.
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Jewish American Heritage Month - Yale Library

Grades
11 to 12
 
Discover this curated collection that highlights the contributions of Jewish American scholars, activists, and leaders. The site includes a selection of eBooks, audiobooks, and streaming...more
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Discover this curated collection that highlights the contributions of Jewish American scholars, activists, and leaders. The site includes a selection of eBooks, audiobooks, and streaming videos available to current Yale affiliates and a display of selected print books at Marx Library. These featured resources provide valuable opportunities for educators to explore Jewish American history and culture, integrate diverse perspectives into their teaching, and encourage students to engage with primary and secondary sources. This initiative is part of the library's ongoing effort to spotlight important cultural heritage months and promote inclusive learning.

tag(s): audio books (29), cultures (226), diversity (46), ebooks (47), jews (52), perspective (20), religions (113)

In the Classroom

Assign students a Jewish American scholar, activist, or leader featured in the library's collection. Students can create a short presentation slide deck using Visme, reviewed here or Google Slides, reviewed here to share their findings. Students can also use these tools to design a digital or physical exhibit showcasing the achievements of Jewish American leaders. Provide students with excerpts from writings, speeches, or articles by Jewish American figures and have them present their findings in a short written reflection or group discussion.
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Jewish American Heritage Month - Library of Congress

Grades
4 to 12
  
The Jewish American Heritage Month website is a valuable resource for educators looking to integrate Jewish American history and culture into their curriculum. It provides access to...more
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The Jewish American Heritage Month website is a valuable resource for educators looking to integrate Jewish American history and culture into their curriculum. It provides access to primary sources, lesson plans, videos, and exhibits from institutions like the Library of Congress, the National Archives, and the Smithsonian. Teachers can use these materials to explore Jewish contributions to American society, discuss historical events, and engage students in activities that promote cultural understanding. The site also includes virtual exhibits and suggested readings, making it a versatile tool for classroom learning.

tag(s): cultures (226), jews (52), religions (113)

In the Classroom

Students can explore primary sources from the Library of Congress or the National Archives on Jewish American contributions. In pairs, they can analyze an artifact (ex., a historical photo, letter, or newspaper article) and present their findings. Assign students a prominent Jewish American figure (Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Albert Einstein, Emma Lazarus). They can research their impact using resources from the site and create a short podcast using Spotify for Podcasters, reviewed here or video using Adobe Express Video Maker, reviewed here. Students can also interview other students, as if they were that historical figure. Students can explore Jewish contributions to literature, science, politics, and civil rights and create digital slides with Visme, reviewed here or Genially, reviewed here highlighting key figures, inventions, or cultural traditions.
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Ruth Bader Ginsburg for Kids - Bedtime Stories

Grades
3 to 5
 
The "Ruth Bader Ginsburg for Kids" video provides an engaging and accessible overview of Ruth Bader Ginsburg's life, highlighting her perseverance, dedication to education, and advocacy...more
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The "Ruth Bader Ginsburg for Kids" video provides an engaging and accessible overview of Ruth Bader Ginsburg's life, highlighting her perseverance, dedication to education, and advocacy for gender equality. Teachers can use the video in the classroom to introduce students to important themes such as resilience, breaking barriers, and social justice. The video's storytelling approach makes it ideal for sparking discussions about historical gender discrimination, the role of the Supreme Court, and how individuals can create change. Incorporate the video into lessons on influential women in history, civic engagement, or career exploration. As a follow-up activity, students can reflect on challenges they have faced, research other trailblazers, or discuss ways to promote fairness and equality in their communities. If your district blocks YouTube, then the video may not be viewable.
This site includes advertising.

tag(s): courts (24), jews (52), supreme court (30)

In the Classroom

Students can create a timeline of key events in Ruth Bader Ginsburg's life using drawings, captions, or digital tools such as Timelinely, reviewed here or Padlet, reviewed here. Students can research another historical figure who fought for fairness (ex., Malala Yousafzai, Thurgood Marshall, Rosa Parks). They can present their findings in a "living museum" where they act as the person. Divide students into small groups and assign roles: judge, lawyer, and citizens. Then, present a simple fairness-related scenario (ex., "Should recess time be equal for all grades?"). Students debate both sides before the "judge" makes a decision, practicing critical thinking and public speaking.
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Ruth Bader Ginsburg - National Geographic Kids

Grades
3 to 7
View this engaging article on Ruth Bader Ginsburg, highlighting her life, achievements, and impact on the U.S. Supreme Court. The student-friendly article explores Ginsburg's fight...more
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View this engaging article on Ruth Bader Ginsburg, highlighting her life, achievements, and impact on the U.S. Supreme Court. The student-friendly article explores Ginsburg's fight for gender equality, her role as a trailblazing justice, and her lasting influence on American law. With accessible language and engaging visuals, this resource is ideal for classroom discussions on influential women in history, social justice, and the Supreme Court's role in shaping society. Teachers can use it to spark conversations about perseverance, fairness, and civic responsibility.

tag(s): civil rights (219), courts (24), jews (52), religions (113), supreme court (30)

In the Classroom

Display some of Ruth Bader Ginsburg's famous quotes (ex, "Fight for the things that you care about...") and have students match them to their meanings. Set up a mock Supreme Court scenario where students act as justices, lawyers, or petitioners. Present a simple, kid-friendly case about fairness, such as equal rights in sports teams, and let students debate and make a ruling. Students can also use an online debate tool like Kialo Edu reviewed here. Have students create a timeline using Class Tools, reviewed here or Timeline Infographic Templates, reviewed here of important moments in Ginsburg's life and compare them with key events in U.S. history. Inspired by RBG's famous collars, students create their own "justice badge" that represents a cause they care about. Students can use Canva Infographic Creator, reviewed here to make the badge online.
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Teachers- Holocaust Museum Houston - Holocaust Museum Houston

Grades
K to 12
   
The Holocaust Museum Houston's Educators page provides a comprehensive collection of resources tailored for teachers at both elementary and secondary levels. It offers specialized lesson...more
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The Holocaust Museum Houston's Educators page provides a comprehensive collection of resources tailored for teachers at both elementary and secondary levels. It offers specialized lesson plans, classroom activities, and professional development opportunities to enhance Holocaust education. These materials are designed to support educators in delivering accurate and engaging content about the Holocaust, fostering critical thinking and empathy among students. Additionally, the museum provides contact information and avenues for further assistance, ensuring educators can access the support they need. The videos are hosted on YouTube. If your district blocks YouTube, then they may not be viewable.

tag(s): critical thinking (137), ebooks (47), empathy (37), holocaust (43), immigrants (48), immigration (84), jews (52), professional development (393), religions (113)

In the Classroom

Using the museum's digital artifact collection, students can select an item (for example, a diary, identification card, or photograph) and analyze its significance. Then they can write a short reflection or narrative from the perspective of the artifact's owner. Students can examine examples of Nazi propaganda versus resistance writings (e.g., underground newspapers, speeches, or poems). They then create their counter-propaganda messages promoting human rights and resilience. Students research a current human rights issue and compare it to lessons learned from the Holocaust. They then design a "Take Action" campaign, including posters, social media posts, or letters advocating for change. Posters and social media templates can be found on Canva Edu, reviewed here.
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9 Jewish American Heritage Month Activities for Children - Britt Hawthorne

Grades
K to 8
Britt Hawthorne's blog post on Jewish American Heritage Month activities provides teachers with engaging ways to celebrate Jewish contributions to U.S. history in the classroom. The...more
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Britt Hawthorne's blog post on Jewish American Heritage Month activities provides teachers with engaging ways to celebrate Jewish contributions to U.S. history in the classroom. The site includes book recommendations, discussion prompts, hands-on crafts, and interactive activities suitable for elementary and middle school students. Educators can use these resources to foster inclusivity, cultural appreciation, and meaningful conversations about Jewish identity and history. The activities are adaptable across subjects and promote critical thinking, making them a valuable addition to classroom celebrations during Jewish American Heritage Month.

tag(s): blogs (73), crafts (76), cross cultural understanding (178), cultures (226), identity (37), immigrants (48), immigration (84), jews (52), religions (113)

In the Classroom

Reach out to local community centers or synagogues in nearby cities to inquire about any planned events or programs in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM). Have students read books and movies that highlight Jewish American experiences. They can present their thoughts through a podcast using Adobe Podcast reviewed here or a slide presentation using Google Slides, reviewed here. Introduce students to Tikkun Olam (the Jewish concept of repairing the world). As a class, brainstorm and complete a community service project, such as writing letters to elders, organizing a classroom donation drive, or creating kindness posters for the school.
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The Jewish Americans - JTN Productions

Grades
8 to 10
  
The PBS lesson plan "Who Are You?" is designed for grades 8-10 and focuses on exploring individual identity and its intersection with broader historical events. Aligned with history,...more
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The PBS lesson plan "Who Are You?" is designed for grades 8-10 and focuses on exploring individual identity and its intersection with broader historical events. Aligned with history, social studies, humanities, and language arts subjects, the lesson encourages students to reflect on their identities and understand how various factors shape them. Through activities like journal entries and class discussions, students examine the complexities of identity formation and its relevance in historical contexts.

tag(s): cultures (226), identity (37), immigrants (48), immigration (84), jews (52), religions (113)

In the Classroom

After discussing factors that shape identity (family, culture, experiences), have students create a collage using images, words, and symbols representing who they are. Create the collages on paper or digitally using a tool like PhotoCollage, reviewed here or Photo Joiner, reviewed here. Students can select a historical or literary figure (Jewish American or otherwise) and create an identity map using Yed Live, reviewed here outlining factors that shaped this person's identity. Students can write a short personal narrative describing a moment that shaped their identity.
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Jews & the Arts:10 Innovators - PBS

Grades
6 to 12
The PBS article "Jews & The Arts: 10 Innovators" introduces students to ten influential Jewish-American artists who have significantly impacted various creative fields. The resource...more
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The PBS article "Jews & The Arts: 10 Innovators" introduces students to ten influential Jewish-American artists who have significantly impacted various creative fields. The resource provides brief biographies of figures such as lyricist E.Y. "Yip" Harburg, feminist artist Judy Chicago, and graphic designer Milton Glaser, highlighting their contributions to music, visual arts, and design. This compilation serves as a valuable tool for educators aiming to explore Jewish Americans' diverse cultural and artistic contributions in their curriculum.

tag(s): artists (87), composers (20), cultures (226), famous people (28), immigrants (48), jews (52), religions (113)

In the Classroom

Students can create posters or digital slides using Canva Edu, reviewed here showcasing an artist's biography, artwork, and impact. Display the projects around the classroom, and have students walk around the room in small groups to learn from each other. Students select one artist from the list, research their life and work, and present their findings to the class. They can use multimedia, such as images of the artist's work or short video clips with moovly, reviewed here to make their presentation more engaging. After learning about one of the artists, students can create their own piece of artwork, whether it's visual, musical, or a poem, inspired by the themes or styles of the artist they researched. They can present their work to the class and explain the influences they drew upon.
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Who Are American Jews? - Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History

Grades
6 to 12
The "Who Are American Jews?" section on the Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) website offers educators valuable resources to explore the multifaceted nature of Jewish identity in...more
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The "Who Are American Jews?" section on the Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) website offers educators valuable resources to explore the multifaceted nature of Jewish identity in the United States. It includes materials such as Facing History & Ourselves' insights into Jewish identity, Pew Research Center's "10 Key Findings About Jewish Americans," and the "Perspectives and Lived Experiences of Jews of Color" report by the Jews of Color Initiative. These resources provide a comprehensive understanding of the diversity within the American Jewish community, making them ideal for classroom discussions on cultural identity and diversity.

tag(s): cultures (226), diversity (46), identity (37), immigrants (48), immigration (84), jews (52), perspective (20)

In the Classroom

After reading the Facing History & Ourselves section on Jewish identity, students can create a word cloud using Aha Slides, reviewed here using words that describe their own identities. Have them compare their results with the key aspects of Jewish American identity. Students can analyze movies, TV shows, or literature that feature Jewish characters or themes. They can discuss how Jewish identity is represented, compare portrayals to real-life perspectives from the website, and present their findings in a class discussion or written analysis. After reading the Jews of Color Initiative report, students compare the experiences of Jews of Color with broader Jewish American experiences. They can create a Venn diagram on paper or using Venn Diagram Creator, reviewed here.
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The Jewish Americans - The Jewish American Project

Grades
6 to 12
  
The Jewish Educator Portal offers four lesson plans based on the 2008 PBS series The Jewish Americans. These lessons guide students through identity, assimilation, immigration, discrimination,...more
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The Jewish Educator Portal offers four lesson plans based on the 2008 PBS series The Jewish Americans. These lessons guide students through identity, assimilation, immigration, discrimination, and cultural change. The plans can initiate broader explorations of American Jewish history and facilitate comparisons with other immigrant groups' experiences.

tag(s): cultures (226), immigrants (48), immigration (84), jews (52)

In the Classroom

Have students create a collaborative digital using Timeline, reviewed here or Timeline Graphics Timeline Maker, reviewed here or a physical timeline tracing key events from The Jewish Americans PBS series. They can add images, quotes, and reflections to make historical moments more meaningful. Students can research and present a personal or family immigration story (or a historical immigrant's journey) through a short video using Adobe Express Video Maker, reviewed here, podcast with Buzzsprout reviewed here, or written narrative. If clips from The Jewish Americans series are available, students can watch, take notes, and respond to guiding questions. They can discuss themes like identity, discrimination, and resilience in small groups or write a reflective journal entry.
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Jewish American Heritage Month - Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History

Grades
K to 12
The Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) Toolkit, provided by the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, offers educators a variety of downloadable resources to celebrate...more
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The Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) Toolkit, provided by the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, offers educators a variety of downloadable resources to celebrate and raise awareness of JAHM each May. The toolkit includes social media posts, posters, a resource guide, and logos. Additionally, companion resources are available for the poster series featuring notable Jewish Americans. Educators seeking professional development opportunities and further teaching materials can find them through the toolkit. For specific needs, the JAHM team is available year-round to assist schools and organizations in finding appropriate resources.

tag(s): cultures (226), jews (52), social media (50)

In the Classroom

Use the JAHM posters and resource guides to create an interactive bulletin board. Encourage students to add facts, reflections, or connections to what they're learning in other subjects. Incorporate Jewish American heritage into literature, social studies, and art. Read works by Jewish American authors, analyze their impact, or explore how Jewish American experiences connect with broader historical events. Have students research notable Jewish Americans featured in the toolkit's posters. They can create timelines using Preceden, reviewed here or Sutori, reviewed here, or create short essays highlighting these individuals' contributions to history, science, arts, or politics.
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American Jewish History and Culture - NYU Libraries

Grades
7 to 12
The NYU American Jewish History research guide provides a curated collection of primary sources, including historical documents, newspapers, photographs, and archival materials related...more
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The NYU American Jewish History research guide provides a curated collection of primary sources, including historical documents, newspapers, photographs, and archival materials related to Jewish American history. This resource is ideal for teachers looking to incorporate authentic historical evidence into their lessons, helping students analyze Jewish immigration, cultural contributions, and civil rights efforts. With links to digital archives and research databases, this guide supports inquiry-based learning and critical thinking in middle and high school social studies, history, and civics classes.

tag(s): civil rights (219), critical thinking (137), cultures (226), immigration (84), inquiry (30), jews (52)

In the Classroom

Students can choose a primary source, such as an immigrant's letter or an editorial, and write a response as if they were a contemporary witness to that moment in history. In small groups, students can select primary sources from the NYU guide to design a virtual museum exhibit on a theme such as Jewish immigration, civil rights, or cultural contributions. They can present their "exhibit" using Google Slides, reviewed here or Venngage, reviewed here. Students can also explore the guide's digital archives to find a historical newspaper article, photograph, or document related to Jewish American history. Students can share their findings in small groups, discussing the historical significance and connections to broader U.S. history.
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Jewish American Heritage Month Resources - American Jewish Committee

Grades
6 to 12
 
The American Jewish Committee (AJC) website provides a collection of resources for Jewish American Heritage Month, helping educators highlight the impact of Jewish Americans on U.S....more
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The American Jewish Committee (AJC) website provides a collection of resources for Jewish American Heritage Month, helping educators highlight the impact of Jewish Americans on U.S. history and culture. It features historical background, profiles of influential Jewish figures, videos, and articles covering topics such as civil rights, immigration, and contributions to various fields. These materials support meaningful classroom discussions and activities, making them valuable for middle and high school social studies, history, and civics lessons. The videos are hosted on YouTube. If your district blocks YouTube, then they may not be viewable.

tag(s): civil rights (219), cultures (226), immigration (84), jews (52)

In the Classroom

Use articles and videos from the AJC website to analyze historical documents or speeches about Jewish American experiences. Students can work in groups to interpret the sources and present their findings. Students can create a short podcast or video featuring a Jewish American figure, event, or cultural contribution, including interviews, historical analysis, or reflections on the topic's significance. Students can use Castbox Creator Studio, reviewed here or Buzzsprout, reviewed here to make podcasts, and Adobe Express Video Maker, reviewed here or moovly, reviewed here to make videos. Students can explore current issues related to antisemitism and civil rights, using AJC resources. They research advocacy efforts and develop an awareness campaign or action plan to educate their school community.
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The Jewish Americans - PBS

Grades
6 to 12
The PBS Jewish Americans website provides educational resources exploring Jewish history, culture, and contributions in the United States. It includes lesson plans, discussion guides,...more
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The PBS Jewish Americans website provides educational resources exploring Jewish history, culture, and contributions in the United States. It includes lesson plans, discussion guides, and primary source materials that help teachers integrate Jewish American experiences into their curriculum. The site covers topics such as immigration, civil rights, and notable Jewish figures, making it a valuable tool for fostering historical understanding and cultural appreciation in the classroom.

tag(s): civil rights (219), cultures (226), immigration (84), jews (52)

In the Classroom

Utilize the links on the PBS resources page to visit virtual exhibits from institutions like the Museum of Jewish Heritage or the Lower East Side Tenement Museum. Assign students to explore specific exhibits and share their findings with the class. Guide students to use JewishGen, a genealogy resource linked on the PBS site, to research Jewish immigration patterns. Students can investigate family histories or community case studies and then present their insights on how these migrations influenced local cultures. After researching Jewish American music, art, or literature using the PBS resources, students can create artistic pieces inspired by their findings. This could include composing music, creating visual art, writing poetry, or performing scenes that reflect Jewish American cultural themes.
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Jewish American Heritage Month: A Commemorative Observances Legal Research Guide - Library of Congress

Grades
9 to 12
The "Commemorative Observances Legal Research Guide" from the Library of Congress provides a valuable resource for exploring the legal framework and history behind commemorative observances...more
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The "Commemorative Observances Legal Research Guide" from the Library of Congress provides a valuable resource for exploring the legal framework and history behind commemorative observances in the United States. It includes information on federal laws, presidential proclamations, and public laws establishing official observances such as holidays, awareness months, and significant anniversaries. The guide offers links to key legal documents, historical context, and research tips, making it an excellent tool for teachers designing lessons on civic education, American history, or government. Its accessible format helps students and educators better understand how national observances are legally and culturally recognized.

tag(s): holidays (194), jews (52), religions (113)

In the Classroom

Assign students to investigate how a commemorative observance becomes official, from public advocacy to federal laws or presidential proclamations. They can use examples from the guide, such as the creation of Juneteenth as a federal holiday. Students can then write a short essay or give a presentation explaining the process. Use the guide's links to access examples of presidential proclamations for national observances. Assign students to analyze one proclamation, examining its language, tone, and purpose. They can summarize its main points and discuss why such proclamations are significant. Challenge students to select and research a lesser-known commemorative observance (ex., National Hispanic Heritage Month or Constitution Day) using the guide. Students can also create these presentations using a resource such as Google Slides, reviewed here or Padlet, reviewed here.
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African, Jewish, and Middle Eastern Studies - Library of Congress

Grades
6 to 12
The website African and Middle Eastern Jewish Studies: Research Guides from the Library of Congress provides a detailed overview of the Library's resources related to the history, culture,...more
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The website African and Middle Eastern Jewish Studies: Research Guides from the Library of Congress provides a detailed overview of the Library's resources related to the history, culture, and experiences of Jewish communities in Africa and the Middle East. It includes access to primary and secondary sources such as books, manuscripts, maps, photographs, and digital collections. The guide is organized by themes such as regional histories, diasporic movements, and cultural contributions, making it an excellent resource for educators and students exploring the intersection of Jewish, African, and Middle Eastern studies.

tag(s): africa (170), jews (52), middle east (50), religions (113)

In the Classroom

Assign students to read articles or watch videos from the site and facilitate an online discussion board using a tool like Padlet, reviewed here. Use digital mapping tools like Google My Maps, reviewed here or a paper map to create maps showing migration patterns, key cities, and historical events. Provide students with printed art samples or lyrics from traditional songs. Students can analyze them in groups and present their interpretations through live discussions, essays, or visual recreations.
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