Tal Am: A Natural Approach to Hebrew Language Acquisition

In light of recent neuro-scientific research on brain-based learning and applied research on language instruction, it is imperative that we reconsider our approach to Hebrew teaching in Jewish day schools. In this paper, we will examine ways in which this research has been incorporated in our development of the Tal Am curriculum. We will discuss the significance of the age variable, instructional design, methods of instruction, types of pedagogic materials, and the learning environment. We will also relate to the potential tension in Hebrew language instruction between Hebrew as a communicative language and Hebrew as a heritage language. Concrete examples that demonstrate the implications of the research for Hebrew curriculum development will be incorporated.