In middle school, students will begin to learn halacha from the primary source text. An important focus is given to developing textual skills in the Shulchan Aruch and Mishna Berura.
Seventh Grade
Students will learn from the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch. The year begins with the laws of Elul, Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur and Succos, emphasizing the practical everyday applications using hands-on techniques, such as working with the Slichos and Machzorim. Students will learn the laws of Chanuka, Purim, Pesach from Bedikas Chametz through the Seder, and the laws of the three weeks, concluding with Tisha B’av. Students will also learn the laws of everyday living, such as morning obligations, prayer, meals and other selected material relevant to daily life.
Eighth Grade
In addition to learning about the halachos of Yom Tov, students will study the 39 Melachos of Shabbos in depth.