Learn the words in Hebrew to figure out the joke below:

דני, איך היו לך השאלות בחשבון?

השאלות היו קלות, אבל התשובות היו ממש קשות!

שאלות questions

חשבון math

קלות- easy

תשובה- תשובות answer/s

קשה- hard

Solution:

Danny, how did you find the math questions?

The questions were easy, but the answers were really hard!

Teacher Insight:

It’s wonderful to see when students feel confident about understanding the material—that’s always a great starting point! However, if they find certain aspects, like answers or solutions, more challenging, it’s a sign that we may need to focus on breaking things down step by step. This approach helps students navigate tricky areas with support, and I’m here to guide them through the process.

For many students, the idea of learning a new language, such as Hebrew, can feel overwhelming. Even hearing the word “Hebrew” might seem intimidating at first. While the goal is to make the class fun and engaging, the initial unfamiliarity can sometimes create anxiety.

To address this, I always reassure my students that learning a language is a gradual process. We take it step by step, repeating key concepts over several sessions. This repetition allows the material to sink in naturally without overwhelming them with the pressure of memorization. Over time, the class becomes less intimidating and more enjoyable as they gain confidence.

I also emphasize the importance of regular review and practice. Consistency is essential for learning a new language, as it helps train the brain to think in new ways. With patience, repetition and encouragement, students can build their skills and make steady progress.

Parents can support this journey by encouraging their children to review lessons at home and celebrating their small victories along the way. Together, we can create a positive and supportive learning environment that fosters growth and success.

Maya Yehezkel is a Hebrew teacher at Yeshivat Noam middle school. For private tutoring, all levels, email [email protected].