About the Study Guide and Source Reader
The Study Guide and the Source Reader each contain nine chapters, whose chronology corresponds almost exactly with that of the nine TV programs. William Hallo wrote the first two chapters of each; David Ruderman, chapters 3, 4 and 5; and Michael Stanislawski, chapters 6 through 9.
The chapters of the Study Guide are accompanied by educational tools written by Benjamin Gampel to help the students through the telecourse. The first section, entitled "Before Viewing the Show," refers students to the relevant maps and charts. This is followed by "Overview of the TV Program" and a section called "Watch for . . . and Think About," which contains points that students can reflect on during or after each program. "While Reading the Study Guide and Source Reader" guides the students through the printed materials. The students are advised on what to watch for so that they can focus their energies while reading the books and be attuned to significant issues. What follows next is the chapter itself, written by one of the three scholars.
Generally each chapter proceeds chronologically and is divided into subsections. These divisions correspond closely with the issues that were noted at the beginning of the unit. At the end of the unit, a section called "After Viewing and Reading" offers more involved questions on the materials. Here, too, the answers can be found in the appropriate subsections. A list of suggested readings ends each unit and can profitably be used by teachers and students. At the end of the Study Guide there is a glossary of key words and concepts.
Throughout the Study Guide, you will frequently encounter the words "See Reading . . ." This notation refers to the Source Reader. Never before has such an impressive array of primary sources documenting Jewish history been assembled in one volume. However, not every selection need be assigned by the teacher; rather, the instructor can choose the sources that best enhance his or her lesson plan. Each source is prefaced by a description of its contents and a brief explanation of its importance. An index by subject matter is included at the end of the volume.