Lesson

Israel and Its Neighbors: History and Its Influence

Students learn the history of the city of Jerusalem over the last 4000 years, noting and researching significant events. In groups, they then read and research three other countries in the region—Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. Next, they explore the background to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its ongoing nature. Finally, they are introduced to a youth program that brings together young people from two sides of a conflict.

Preview the Lesson Back to Southwest Asia and North Africa

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Overview

In this experience, students learn the history of the city of Jerusalem over the last 4000 years, noting and researching significant events. In small groups, they then read and research three other countries in the region—Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. Next, they explore the background to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its ongoing nature. Finally, they are introduced to a youth program that brings together young people from two sides of a conflict.

In scene 2 and scene 3, students will work in small groups.

Objectives:

Identify different peoples and empires that have ruled Israel and its neighbors and describe their impact.
Describe the founding of Israel and the major Arab-Israeli conflicts since 1948.

In this experience, you’ll learn about the history of Israel, Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria—histories that are intertwined and complex.

Objectives:

Identify different peoples and empires that have ruled Israel and its neighbors and describe their impact.
Describe the founding of Israel and the major Arab-Israeli conflicts since 1948.

a walled city and a golden dome, in the distance

Name the city shown in the above photo. If you do not know, take a guess. (Hint: It is in the region you are studying.)

Post your answer

What purpose do you think the wall around the city serves?

Post your answer

Many students will likely be able to recognize Jerusalem. The wall was built for defense of ancient Jerusalem against invading armies. The wall was built, destroyed, rebuilt, and expanded during different historical periods.

Divide students into their small groups. Assign a reporter to upload the work of each group, or tell the students to choose their own reporter.

When everyone is ready to continue, unlock the next scene.

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