“This lesson plan, designed for elementary students in grades 4-5, explores the concept of tzedakah by comparing the different approaches of Abraham and David. It teaches that tzedakah is about more than just giving money; it's about the manner and timing of helping others. The lesson uses a variety of interactive methods, including a warm-up activity, a text study of Avot D'Rabbi Natan 33, and group discussions, to help students understand these different values and apply them to their own choices. The goal is for students to see that both Abraham's and David's ways of helping are valuable and that they can choose to be generous and fair in their own lives.
Learning Objectives
- The learner will be able to compare and contrast Abraham’s and David’s approaches to giving tzedakah and apply those values to their own choices and actions.
Materials Needed
- Avot DeRabbi Natan 33 (Source Sheet attached below)
- Guided Questions worksheet (available in Download section)
- Character name tags or simple props
- Sketch paper and crayons / markers
- Chavruta worksheets (Available in Downloads section)
- Play money
How Abraham and King David Gave Tzedakah
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