Teaching Israel at Camp
Educators Portal
Below is a selection of resources to support you in developing Israel education and programming for camp. This list in by no means exhaustive, and we welcome your suggestions! Email Amy Meltzer, Director, Programs, at amy.meltzer@jewishcamp.org.
Recommended Resource Banks:
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Goodman Camping Initiative for Modern Israel History
The Goodman Camping Initiative for Modern Israel History engages independent Jewish camps in North America in developing an Israel Education Curriculum. It offers dozens of free program and activity ideas that mix fun camp experiences with meaningful learning about Israel’s people, history, and culture.
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iCenter Educational Resources
Free activities and resources about Israel today. Search the database for topics or camp programs, as the iCenter supports the largest network of Israel educators across North America.
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Celebrating Israel: Learn and See the Beauty of Israel
A collection of resources and activities—including Jewish food videos, cookbooks, Spotify/YouTube playlists, Google map tours, and more—adaptable for camp programs without heavy tech use. Curated by Shy Ashkenazi, Teaching Israel at Camp Coach.
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FJC Israel-themed Resources
Access a comprehensive collection of camp programs and resources. Enter “Israel” in the “Search Resources” input bar, then select “Program” under the drop-down selector for “Type” and click “Search”, to see the collection of Israel-themed resources.
- Resouces for Camps from Unpacked for Educators (free account required)
Unpacked for Educators: Who are Israelis?
Beyond the conflict, what defines Israeli society? Over half of Israel’s Jews come from Mizrahi, Russian, Ethiopian, and other diverse backgrounds. This resource includes a PDF and an accompanying Kahoot to deepen understanding.
Unpacked for Educators: How Immigrants Shaped the Jewish State
This resource challenges the misconception of a solely Ashkenazi Israeli population by highlighting the diverse immigrant contributions to the Jewish state.
ICS: MAPS OF THE REGION AND BORDERS
Displays maps showing Israel’s changing borders and control from ancient times to the present day.
J Street Map of Israel with Green Line
Offers a map of Israel with the Green Line, with accompanying videos explaining its significance.
Gallery of Images Around Israel
Features beautiful photos and videos showcasing Israel’s natural and cultural beauty.
A Timeline of Jewish Life in Israel
An interactive digital timeline covering the land of Israel from 1006–930 BCE until October 7, 2023, empowering college students to take action against antisemitism, discrimination, and misinformation.
A collection of teaching activities and primary sources that prompt creative thinking. The National Library of Israel serves as the prime institution of national memory for both Israel and the Jewish people worldwide, preserving items of national, historic, and cultural significance for future generations.
ICS History of Israel Video Series
A five-part animated overview of the history of Israel; part of a 6–12 curriculum called Teaching the Arab-Israeli Conflict.
Unpacked for Educators: 1948 Israel’s Battle for Statehood
A video offering a Jewish perspective on the events leading up to the War of Independence in 1948.
Unpacked for Educators: What is Nakba Day?
Explores the Palestinian remembrance of May 1948 as the beginning of a long struggle to reclaim their land.
This video explains Jerusalem’s profound significance for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, serving as a central spiritual symbol for over three millennia.
Everyone Counts: The #BringThemHomeNow Educational Toolkit
A values-based toolkit empowering educators and individuals to learn and act at home, in school, and in the community.
Religion and Politics in the Middle East
A lesson examining the role of religion in shaping the politics of Egypt, Israel, Lebanon, and Iran.
Israel Story Podcast: Ancient Land, Modern Tales
An award-winning podcast sharing extraordinary stories about ordinary Israelis, complete with facilitator guides and additional resources.
Environmental Challenges & Cooperation
Explores how environmental challenges in the Middle East inspire cooperative efforts among Israelis, Jordanians, and Palestinians.
M² Resources and Activities about Israel Post-Oct.7
High School+ educational resources addressing current issues in Israel and rising antisemitism, helping educators design relevant and meaningful Jewish learning experiences.
Culture/Religion Research Links
A list of links to research or learn about different people in Israel, including Muslims, Arabs, Bahai, Druze, Bedoin, and Christians.
Environmental Solutions in Israel
Articles and resources on how Israel addresses environmental challenges, including insights into technological and scientific innovations.
Center for Israel Education: Geography
An overview of Israel’s physical geography, natural resources, and cultural-historical significance.
Unpacking Israeli History Podcast
This podcast offers fresh perspectives on controversial and significant historical events in Israel.