2015 SPRING ELECTIVE COURSES

Academic Electives
Shaking the Foundations (*New) Is Divine justicejust? Explore the texts of
the Tanach (Bible) to learn which actions supposedly God rewards, which He
punishes and why. Can the same definitions of good and evil found in these texts
be applied in the world today? Are the punishments fair? Is there any evidence of
these punishments actually operating in the world today??
Bet Midrash (*New) - This is an independent study class in which students will
chose 1-3 topics of Jewish interest, and research and study them through texts and
additional sources material with a study partner. Students will prepare some
presentation to be made orally before the class, or a written paper, as evidence of
their learning. It is expected that students will increase their knowledge of Hebrew
though some combination of select vocabulary, phrases, and expressions relevant
to their topic.
Devils, Angels and Spirits Do Jews believe in vampires? why or why not? Do
we have good angels who protect us? Learn the answers to these and other issues
of Jewish spirituality and Kabbalah.
OMG You are past the age of believing God is an old man with a beard in the
sky. But what really is God? The answer lies in this class!
Pilpul or Ping Pong? - Critical thinking is a modern term, but the Rabbis were
fully familiar with it. What are good thinking skills and critical thinking Where
do we find the secrets of critical thinking in Jewish texts?
ZAPS Learn to advocate for Israel using the skills and techniques of public
speaking. Learn the issues, and how to express yourself articulately in a crowd, a
debate, a speech, etc.
Hidden Stories, Hidden Meanings Sex is not a dirty word in the Torah. Read
the stories your teachers skipped in Hebrew School, and learn the Jewish view on
issues like abortion, birth control, etc.
RESIST - Many Jews in the Holocaust dared to stand up, either through words or
deeds, rather than be helpless victims. Learn about their courage, and the lessons
they have taught us.

**Twinning Partners** - The School Twinning Program, partially subsidized by

the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles, is an exchange program between
teenagers from Ironi Dalet High School in Tel Aviv and our Los Angeles Hebrew
High School students. They join together for the first time in April, when the
Israelis visit Los Angeles to learn about and experience Jewish pluralism. The
Israelis stay with LA Hebrew High host families and learn about their partners
daily life and practices as American Jews. In December, a delegation from Hebrew
High visits Tel Aviv, reuniting with their partners and having the opportunity to
understand Israeli culture and history. The goal of this program is to foster and
create ongoing relationships and dialogue between the citizens and institutions of
both cities in order to benefit both communities.

General Electives
Girl Talk (*New) Jewish teenaged girls have more issues than ever to juggle
these days. This course tackles the pressure you experience from both peers and
elders by opening the floor for healthy conversation and practical, Jewish
guidance. Recommended primarily for girls in grades 8, 9, and 10.
Jewish Ha-Ha You think that was funny Let me tell you one! Laugh as you
learn the different styles of Jewish humor, from early times through the songs of
Alan Sherman, and the image of Adam Sandler
JTAPS - Are you computer savvy? Could you help create the first computer app
for Jewish teens? Work together as a team as you examine what makes a good app,
and brainstorm to create one.
Snapshot - Students combine their love for Judaism and photography by
experiencing the view of life through a Jewish and Israeli perspective. They learn
the basics of composition and lighting in order to create and critically think about
photography from a Jewish standpoint.
Step in Time - Students learn the best of Israels newest and hippest songs and
dances and enjoy old favorites.
Krav Maga - Exposes students to a personal defense system that is taught to
regular and special forces in the IDF. Developed in Israel, Krav Maga involves
striking techniques, wrestling, and grappling.

Crafty Art - Students are encouraged to experiment, shape, and discover their
roots through the use of a variety of artistic media in a learner-friendly
environment.
Tra La La - This class is designed for experienced musicians interested in
developing their talents and performing at Hebrew High holiday celebrations with
their instruments.
Tastes Mmm - Students expand their culinary repertoire as they explore the tastes
of Kosher and Jewish cooking and entertainment.