Simple Ways Madrichim Can Make a Difference

Teens can offer invaluable help to teachers in many classroom settings. The term most often used for such teens is madrichim, which is “best translated as ‘guides,’” according to Lisa Bob Howard in The Madrichim Manual. “They guide younger students toward a positive religious school experience by demonstrating their involvement, their skills at collaboration, and their initiative.”

Schoolwide, think about job divisions and responsibilities, and draw up a list of blocks of time and jobs that need to be done. Then get to know your teens: What do they enjoy, study, and practice? What can they teach (examples might include dance, cooking, or sports)? What are your specific needs?

In a classroom, madrichim can be useful in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas for a Hebrew in Harmony class: 

  • Work one-on-one with students who need to practice reading Hebrew, whether from the printed prayer on first page of each student journal or the Hebrew Helpers section of the journal. Madrichim can listen to students read and correct the Hebrew as needed.
  • Run small group activities and staff stations. For example, in Yotzer Or, madrichim can help students prepare their dance moves.
  • Bring a new spin to an activity. For example, madrichim could lead a drumming session using pencils or boxes or other readily available materials before or after hearing a new piece of music.
  • Show students how to use the Hebrew in Harmony app. 

Have some ideas for making best use of madrichim? Share them to the Hebrew in Harmony Facebook group.

Listen to these madrichim share their reactions to Hebrew in Harmony:

 

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