Jacqui Cohen – Hebrew Teacher

SHAVU’A IVRIT — שבוע עברית — Hebrew Week 2021

When life gives us LIMONIM לימונים  — we turn them into LIMONADA לימונדה! This was certainly the case for Hebrew Week 2021, where COVID-19 and home-based study meant that the High School Hebrew department had to find new and exciting ways to celebrate Hebrew with the students.

The week was launched with an announcement of our song competition winners. Ashley Cohn and Daliah Smagarinsky made an impressive cover version of the Hebrew Song Katan Aleinu קטן עלינו, “We Got This” (watch the original here with English subtitles). The song features famous Israeli singers, encouraging the public to stay strong because they have struggled through many challenges before and remember that they (and we) will get through this pandemic. The girls performed an impressive rendition, including a fast-paced rap section and even recruited their family members to join in the performance. KOL HAKAVOD!

Every year, Morah Harvey sends illuminating Word of the Day emails, promoting deeper understanding of Hebrew words. Thankfully that tradition could continue with no interruption. A beautiful addition to these emails was a selection of videos that Morah Gaida made to demonstrate the words, showing their Hebrew sign language gestures. The morning emails were further accompanied by a second daily message from me presenting a favourite Hebrew song with a little background and the reason for its choosing. (You can access a Spotify playlist of the seven songs here).

OOH MA OD?  ומה עוד And what else? During tutor periods, the students were challenged with a “Know your Hebrew” Kahoot competition created by Morah Erika. Morah Jemma and I were interviewed by the Year 9 Hebrew Radio Kol Ha-Ivrit students about our connection to Hebrew and our paths to becoming Hebrew teachers. The Year 9 students also hosted a Zoom session offering a few Emanuel teachers a Hebrew challenge : what do you think of Mr Majsay’s and Mr Messiah’s Hebrew pronounciation? Finally, our wonderful High School Madrichim planned a special Hebrew Week – themed Kabbalat Shabbat.

The TSEVET IVRIT צוות עברית  Hebrew team at Emanuel relishes the opportunity each year to show our passion for Hebrew and love of Israeli culture. This year was no different. We hope you enjoyed the journey with us this week!