Alabama Social Studies SS24.7.8a

Social Studies7th GradeAncient Civilizations in the Greater Mediterranean

The Standard

SS24.7.8: Explain the geographic and cultural development of ancient Israel.

Identify the central tenets of Judaism, and compare Judaism to the polytheistic religions of other Mediterranean ancient civilizations.

2024 Alabama Course of Study: Social Studies

Teacher's field guide

What Students Need to Do: Students identify belief in one God, the covenant with God, and the Torah as a guide to worship and conduct. They compare these with ancient Greek worship of several gods.
What Mastery Looks Like: A student can explain how the Torah and covenant shaped Jewish practice. They can use Zeus and Athena to show how Greek religion differed, while noting that both traditions included offerings.
Common Misconceptions: Students may mistake the Torah for a god rather than sacred writings. They may think ancient Jews made no offerings, or that Zeus was the only Greek god.
How to Assess It: On an exit ticket, ask: Name two Jewish beliefs or practices. Give one difference and one similarity between ancient Judaism and Greek religion.

Lesson moves

Have pairs sort cards labeled Torah, covenant, Zeus, Athena, and offerings into a Judaism, Greek religion, or both chart.
Show a short passage from the Shema and a Greek myth naming Zeus and Athena. Ask students what each says about gods.
Play a matching game with Torah and Jewish teachings, Athena and Greek goddess, then ask where offerings fit.
Show a photo of a Torah scroll in a present-day synagogue. Ask students which ancient Jewish teaching is still studied today.

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