Hot Topics: Should Students Criticize Israel's Policies?

Written by Behrman House Staff, 29 of October, 2014
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Our latest Hot Topics lesson plan for high school students touches a very sensitive subject--the current debate over whether and how to criticize the State of Israel and its policies.

Some Israel supporters feel that open dialogue with Israel’s critics can increase understanding and awareness of other viewpoints, leading to a broader grasp of the complicated issues and, ultimately, a more effective peace process. Others feel we should not ever criticize Israel. What do you and your students think?

This edition of Hot Topics includes an article featuring the disagreement between Benjamin Sheridan and Binghamton University’s Hillel over whether to invite a Palestinian activist to speak on campus typifies the current debate.  In this lesson, students consider how they can love Israel and still disagree with some of its policies.

OBJECTIVES

  • Students will identify their praises and criticisms of Israel.
  • Students will understand that it is not a contradiction to be committed to and critical of Israel.
  • Students will create a graphic representation of their feelings about Israel.

You can find the Hot Topics:Critiquing Israel lesson here.

Each Hot Topics edition includes an article, a lesson plan for a 50 minute class,  and glossary of terms, for for grades 9-10. A new topic will become available every two weeks for $3.99. Other subjects include: Body image, gun control, marijuana, and social media.

Did you miss the first Hot Topics, Social Media? It's free and you can get it here.

Do you have a Hot Topic you want to address with your high schoolers? Let us know!

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