Passover

Passover, also known as Pesach, is a major Jewish holiday that commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. The festival is observed for seven or eight days, beginning on the 15th day of Nisan in the Hebrew calendar.

History

The story of Passover is found in the biblical book of Exodus, where the Israelites were enslaved in Egypt under the Pharaoh. The holiday marks the events leading up to their exodus from Egypt, including the ten plagues, the institution of the Passover sacrifice, and the parting of the Red Sea.

Traditions and Customs

Passover is marked by various traditions and customs, including the Passover Seder, a ritual meal that retells the story of the Exodus through the Haggadah (the text that outlines the order of the Seder). Other customs include removing leavened products from the home, eating matzah (unleavened bread), and drinking four cups of wine to symbolize the promises made to the Israelites.

Significance

Passover is a time for Jewish people to reflect on the themes of freedom, redemption, and the importance of faith. It is a time for families to come together and participate in the Seder, passing down the traditions to the next generation.

Study Guide

What is the significance of Passover in Jewish culture?
Describe the customs and traditions associated with the Passover Seder.
What biblical events does Passover commemorate?
How is the story of Passover recorded in the Bible?
What are the key elements of the Passover celebration?

◂Social Studies Worksheets and Study Guides Eighth Grade. Ancient Israel

The resources above cover the following skills:

National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies (NCSS)

TIME, CONTINUITY, AND CHANGE

SOCIAL STUDIES PROGRAMS SHOULD INCLUDE EXPERIENCES THAT PROVIDE FOR THE STUDY OF THE PAST AND ITS LEGACY.

KNOWLEDGE - Learners will understand:

Key historical periods and patterns of change within and across cultures (e.g., the rise and fall of ancient civilizations, the development of technology, the rise of modern nation-states, and the establishment and breakdown of colonial systems).

National Center for History in Schools (NCHS)

Historical Thinking Standards

Historical Comprehension

Reconstruct the literal meaning of a historical passage.

World History Content Standards

Era 2: Early Civilizations and the Emergence of Pastoral Peoples, 4000-1000 BCE

The major characteristics of civilization and how civilizations emerged in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus valley.

The student understands how Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus valley became centers of dense population, urbanization, and cultural innovation in the fourth and third millennia BCE.

The student understands how commercial and cultural interactions contributed to change in the Tigris-Euphrates, Indus, and Nile regions.

Major trends in Eurasia and Africa from 4000-1000 BCE.

The student understands major trends in Eurasia and Africa from 4000 to 1000 BCE.

Era 3: Classical Traditions, Major Religions, and Giant Empires, 1000 BCE-300 CE

Innovation and change from 1000-600 BCE horses, ships, iron, and monotheistic faith.

The student understands the emergence of Judaism and the historical significance of the Hebrew kingdoms.