Source: Chalav u'Dvash
Chalav u’Dvash is a new, innovative Hebrew language instruction program bringing everyday Hebrew to children everywhere. The program, designed for children aged three to six includes a broad range of developmentally appropriate activities and interactive teaching aids. In just a few half-hour sessions a week taught in Hebrew by a Hebrew speaking teacher, children can master simple conversational Hebrew.
Chalav U'Dvash comes as a kit that includes the materials needed to successfully implement the program:
- User's Guide
- Five teachers Guides
- Bentzi, the Hebrew speaking turtle puppet from Israel
- CDs with original music
- Story books
- Illustrated cards
- Posters and games
- A CD containing the graphic images used in the program
The program includes a User's Guide which provides an overview and rationale, guidelines for working with the program and instructions on how to incorporate holiday vocabulary into the units of study. There are also five teacher's guides with enough material for three or more years of instruction. Each guide is comprised of 35 study units (lessons). The format of each unit is the same – a brief instructional segment and then a variety of activities for review and practice. Teachers choose from among many suggestions those that are appropriate for their particular group of children. Every lesson uses a variety of teaching strategies and teaching aids. Sample lessons can be viewed on the website.
The Chalav u'Dvash program has an extensive training and support system. Annual training seminars take place in Israel, North America and other countries as well. Individual training sessions are available for teachers visiting Israel. Information about training is posted on the website several months prior to the training dates.
Wherever the program is taught it includes:
- A helpful hotline
- Email, video and teleconferencing
- A password protected “Teachers Only” section on the program website offering new ideas and materials as well as instructional video clips