The final Portions in the Book of B’reishit tell the dramatic story of Joseph. The range of emotions expressed and the intensity of the action make these Portions ideally suited to classroom theatre. The following activity is designed to help students understand the feelings of Joseph’s brothers in the Portion, Vayeshev. (Students may work in small groups.)
Make a pipe cleaner figure for each group of students. Dress one figure in striped cloth. This will be Joseph. Dress the other figures in plain cloth or brown paper. These will be some of Joseph’s brothers. Put each figure in a paper lunch bag or an envelope. Let each group of students choose a bag or an envelope.
Now for the theatrical part – with you, the teacher, as the director. Give lots of positive attention to the group that has the Joseph figure. Call on them to answer questions about the Portion. Give the Joseph group candy treats and keep mentioning how clever and outstanding they are. Pay scant attention to the groups that have the brother figures. Don’t give them treats and or positive reinforcement.
Assign a short worksheet and have the Joseph group check on the brother groups and report back to you regarding the brother groups’ work.
Provide the Joseph group with a copy of Chapter 37, Verses 4-11 of Vayeshev. Ask them to read Joseph’s dreams out loud in a boastful manner. Praise the readers and require the brother groups to listen attentively.
At this point, end the exercise and ask the brother groups to describe what has been happening. Ask how they feel toward the Joseph group. Ask all of the students to explain how the exercise is related to Vayeshev.
Praise all of the students for participating in Torah Theatre.
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