Adam Carpenter – Head of Jewish Life Primary

To begin our journey of Jewish learning, Year 5 grappled with four questions posed by one of our ancient sages Ben Zoma and recorded in Pirkei Avot 4.1. Like many teachers and Rabbis today, Ben Zoma used questions to engage and encourage critical and creative thought. Ben Zoma also liked to answer his own questions! Before hearing and discussing Ben Zoma’s answers, students came up with their own responses to Ben Zoma’s questions which were recorded and now decorate their classrooms.

Ben Zoma asked:

1. Who is wise?
2. Who is brave?
3. Who is rich?
4. Who is honoured? 

As you can see from the class examples, our students came up with thoughtful, creative and insightful responses.