Mattot . Middah/ Jewish Value Activity Early Years & Foundation Stage 0 - 5 The parashah mentions the laws concerning making vows - Doing what we say we'll do The concept of a 'promise' is hard for this age group, but we can emphasize the importance of doing what we say we will do. Talk about some examples from their own experiences such as: "I'll clear up the toys when I've finished playing". "I'll let my sister have a turn on the bike soon". Sing this song. Tune: London Bridge is Falling Down Always do what we say, what we say, what we say, Always do what we say, what we say. Clear the toys when we say etc Take our turn when we say etc Key Stage 1 5 - 8 The Tribes of Reuven, Gad and half the Tribe of Menasheh asked Moshe if they could stay on the east side of the River Jordan, as it was good grazing land for their animals. Moshe agreed only after the leaders of these tribes promised to first help the rest of the Bnei Yisrael to settle in Eretz Yisrael - Thinking of others Sometimes we can only see a situation from our own point of view. We should always try and think what impact our actions have on others. Using scenarios from everyday life, have groups of willing children prepare and act out scenes to illustrate the above. Examples of situations: Having friends come round to play, School break-time Key Stage 2 8 - 11 The parashah tells us that when a person makes a promise they must keep it - Being careful with our words Although the parashah focuses on keeping promises, which can be made thoughtlessly and then not kept, we must be careful with all the 'words' we say in our daily lives. Carelessly spoken words can often humiliate or offend people. Below are some examples of situations that could be handled in a sensitive or insensitive manner. Pairs of children examine these scenarios, with each showing either a good or bad way of the verbal handling the situation. Choosing a team for sport Giving directions to a tourist who doesn’t speak good English Meeting a new pupil to your class