How Jews mark Purim today
I can describe different ways Purim is celebrated and the symbolism of some traditions.
How Jews mark Purim today
I can describe different ways Purim is celebrated and the symbolism of some traditions.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- During Purim the story of Esther is read at the synagogue.
- There are different local customs connected to Purim such as acting out the story and wearing fancy dress.
- Special foods are eaten including symbolic pastries.
- The festival reminds Jews of God's power to save them and overcome evil.
- It is traditional to give to charity and to give gifts of food.
Keywords
Hamantaschen - triangular pastries
Purim - a festival that commemorates the saving of the ancient Jewish community in Persia
Mitzvah - a good deed
Charity - giving help to people in need
Common misconception
All festivals are solemn.
In this festival, Jewish children act, shout, eat and dress up.
To help you plan your year 5 religious education lesson on: How Jews mark Purim today, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 5 religious education lesson on: How Jews mark Purim today, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 2 religious education lessons from the Jews: how does remembering maintain Jewish identity? unit, dive into the full secondary religious education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.