The Zoo Torah program for children stretches over four days, one of which involves a trip to the zoo. The other days involve workshops that explore each of the four ZooTorah topics: Inspiration, education, identification, and interaction (see Program Content). These are based on a stimulating 30-page education pack. In most locations, it is also possible to borrow biofacts from the zoo, and in some cases live animals can be brought to the school.
"You were wonderful with our students and made a true Kiddush HaShem in opening up for them vistas and exposing them to thoughful explanations of Torah." Rabbi Avrum M. Kowalsky, Shalheves High School, Baltimore, Maryland
The Zoo Torah Teacher Training Program enriches your team of educators with new ideas, tools, and knowledge, based on Zoo Torah's own success at leading student programs. The sessions impart a wealth of information that can be used not only in your institution's own Zoo Torah programs, but also in many different school subjects. Of no less importance, the program conveys the passion and enthusiasm that befits this topic. The curriculum is based on the refinement of several years of Zoo Torah programs. It is suitable for educators working with students from grades 4 through 12.
Relating to Animals as a Source of Inspiration (1 hour)
Man's Status Vis-a-vis the Animal Kingdom (1.5 hours)
Judaism's Reasons for Kindness to Animals (1 hour)
Laws of Kindness to Animals (1 hour)
Principles and Laws of Interactions with Animals (2 hours)
Conservation and the Environment (1 hour)
Identifying Animals in the Torah – Methodology and Examples (1 hour)
The Jewish Approach to Zoology (1 hour)
The Symbolism and Jewish Significance of Different Animals (The following topics are available as examples; each is discussed in a session lasting 1 hour):
Elephant, Giraffe, Hippopotamus, Lion, Bear, Leopard, Hyena, Wolf, Fox, Dog, Monkey, Ape, Camel, Pig, Ibex, Oryx, Weasel, Gazelle, Sheep, Cattle, Horse, Donkey, Buffalo, Eagle, Vulture, Songbirds, Owl, Dove, Crow, Stork, Ostrich, Cormorant, Locust, Bee, Crocodile, Fly, Frog, Chameleon, Gecko, Snake, Rat, Ant, Mole, Rabbit.
A Visit To The Zoo (half day or full day)
Science and God (1 hour)
Dinosaurs and the Age of the Universe (1 hour)
Evolution (2 hours)
Methodology for approaching conflicts between religion and science (1 hour)
