We learn Torah using commentary (Midrash), whether it is the Midrash of the Rabbis or the more modern interpretations we assign to the text.  Whenever we ask a question that the text cannot completely answer, we indulge in Midrash.  This gives Midrash a unique place in our tradition.  Through study of the Midrash, we can identify what issues were important to those who wrote them, learn more about the development of our tradition and ourselves as well.
        "Pshat" is the Hebrew word that describes the "literal" meaning of the text.  When we talk about Pshat, we give the text its own voice  Recognizing that all intrepreattion contains an element of subjectivity, we try to stay with the literal meaning.
        The goals of these curricula include teaching the student to recognize the difference between "Pshat" and "Midrash." as they relate to Biblical literature and to be able to relate the issues brought up in the Pshat and Midrash to similar issues facing the Jewish community today.

The Story Of Noah:  4th Grade and Above
    This is a curriculum about Noah and the flood.  However, in a very real sense, it is also a curriculum about good and evil, and what makes a person "righteous."  Do not make the mistake so many educators do and teat this as a children's story.  It is not.  Noah teaches us very profound lessons on leving in evil societies - and surviving.  The materials are all provided in the text.
    The text is used to trigger discussions of; Is it harder to be an O.K. person in an evil society, or a good person in a good society, should one accept fate or fight against it, is it better to be a vegetarian, and why are symbols important? 

The Story of Sarah:  5th Grade and Above
    One of the most important parts of the book of Genesis describes the Covenantal relationship between Abraham and God.   What about Sarah?  There is a poignant Midrash that asks "Whose faith was greater, Abraham or Sarah?"  The Midrash answers "Sarah.  Abraham heard the voice of God speaking to him.  Sarah only heard the voice of Abraham."  
    The text is used to introduce value-questions such as; is it true that a person who serves the community will be more effective without a family, reward and punishment, shalom bayit (peace in the home), and are marriages made in heaven?
    As one of the pivotal characters in the Biblical story, Sarah plays an important role that should be better appreciated. 

The Roots of Ruth:  5th Gade and Above
We don't usually give Ruth much attention.  Her book is read as the school year winds down.  However, the themes in Ruth are universal and applicable at any time of the year.  Caring for the elderly, conversion, Tzedaka, and most of all Chesed (usually mistranslated as "lovingkindness).  Ruth is a role model for everyone to emulate.

Jonah:  Tall Tale Or Moral Lesson?  5th Grade and Above
    Traditionally, we read the book of Jonah on Yom Kippur afternoon.  Jonah against his will, calls upon the people of Nineveh to repent.  their immediate and enthusiastic response to Jonah's.  their immediate and enthusiastic response to Jonah's message saves the city from destruction.  Thus this story teaches the importance of repentance and atonement, timely concepts for us remember at the end of Yom Kippur.  More importantly, the story of Jonah teaches us that repentance works.  This curricula explores the story and the themes within it.