Download the lesson plan in the blue box to the right.

On the American holiday of Thanksgiving, families gather to enjoy a festive meal and partake in the bounty of the earth. In this lesson, students will study Birkat Hamazon (the Blessing after Meals), to explore how its theme of hakarat hatov, recognizing the good that God provides, resonates on Thanksgiving. Students will then create a project that brings the value of hakarat hatov to their families' Thanksgiving celebrations.

- Students will study and discuss an excerpt from Birkat Hamazon and consider how the blessing after meals is an expression of appreciation for the gifts that God has bestowed on the Jewish People.

- Students will analyze additional Jewish texts to explore the concept of hakarat hatov, showing appreciation and gratitude to God.

- Students will explain how giving thanks to others can also be a way to thank God.

- Students will craft thank-you decor to add a Jewish element to their Thanksgiving holiday tables.