Subject Overview
Junior Certificate Jewish Studies aims to
- enable students to broaden their historical, literary, cultural and religious knowledge and understanding
- foster an appreciation of and respect for Judaism as a major world religion
- foster an appreciation of the contribution that Jews and Judaism have made to the historical, socio-economic and religious development of the western world
- promote some of the skills and attitudes that are important for intercultural living.
Content
The syllabus is presented in seven sections.
- The Irish Jewish Community and the Jewish Home
- Beliefs and Moral Teachings
- The Sacred in Jewish Faith
- Holy Places
- The Holocaust (Shoah)
- Sacred Writings and Commentaries
- Hebrew Language
Within each syllabus section, topics and sub-topics are described, together with learning outcomes. Each section is a self-contained unit of work. Students must study five sections, section 1 and any four other sections. One of these sections will be designated for project work each year.
Assessment
A final written examination paper will assess Jewish Studies. The paper will have two parts. Part I will consist of questions relating to project work and must be answered by all students. Part 1 of the examination paper will be awarded 20% of the total mark. Part II of the written paper will consist of questions on each of the remaining six sections of the syllabus. Students will be required to answer questions on four sections. Part II of the written examination accounts for 80% of the final mark.
Current status
This is a new syllabus approved for implementation September 2010. The first examination in the syllabus will be in June 2013.
Documentation
Junior Certificate Jewish Studies Syllabus
Related links
State Examinations Commission
Department of Education and Skills