Know Before You Go will empower students with the knowledge to address the anti-Zionist sentiment on University campus and strengthen their pride in the state of Israel and Zionism.
With generous funding from the Erdi Foundation, Unpacked for Educators has recently developed a curriculum titled Know Before You Go to empower students with the confidence and knowledge to confront anti-Zionism on university campuses. This educational curriculum, complete with lesson plans and further learning resources, is designed for Australian secondary students, particularly in years 11 and 12.
The transition from school to university can be challenging for many Jewish students. On top of the regular stresses of coursework, assignments and exams, many students are being forced to confront disturbing anti-Israel sentiment on social media and on campus. Zionism is being increasingly stigmatized by professors and student activists alike and antisemitism on campus has sharply increased since Oct. 7. Know Before You Go will equip educators with the tools they need to inspire secondary students as they navigate these challenges while also strengthening their pride in the state of Israel and Zionism.
Know Before You Go contains six individual lessons — each one includes a detailed lesson plan including UNPACKED video clips, discussion questions and learning activities. Topics include ‘Is Zionism Settler Colonialism?’ and ‘Can Israel be both Jewish and Democratic?’
“Many Jewish students have a deep love of Israel but are not adequately prepared with facts and context when approached with anti-Zionist and antisemitic sentiments post-secondary school,” says Avi Posen, Senior Director of Israel Education at Unpacked for Educators. “This curriculum will give them the tools and confidence they need to confront these complex issues in adulthood and strengthen their Jewish identity and relationship to Israel.”
Simone Szalmuk-Singer, CEO & Director of the ERDI Foundation, emphasized the importance of proactively building the community’s resilience. She stated “The ERDI Foundation is proud to support a program that empowers our secondary school students by giving them practical tools and knowledge to prepare them for the challenging tertiary environment.”
About OpenDor Media:
For well over a decade, OpenDor Media has been at the forefront of producing engaging, informative, and inspiring Jewish- and Israel-related educational media, bringing ideas, values, and stories to life for a global audience of millions. Through a network of educational institutions, communal organizations, and digital channels, OpenDor Media enhances the understanding and enduring personal connection of young Jews and their peers to Judaism, Israel, and the Jewish people.
