The Hebrew Alphabet and Script (20 minutes)

A. Overview of the Hebrew Script:

1. Right-to-left writing direction: Hebrew is written and read from right to left, which is the opposite of languages like English that are written from left to right. This can be an adjustment for new learners, but with practice, it becomes second nature.
2. Abjad script (consonantal alphabet): Hebrew is an abjad script, which means that it primarily represents consonants, and vowels are often not written explicitly. This is different from alphabetic scripts, like English, where both consonants and vowels are represented in writing.

B. Introduction to the Alef-Bet (Hebrew Alphabet):

1. Presentation of each letter, with examples and pronunciation: Introduce each letter of the Hebrew alphabet, providing its name, pronunciation, and an example word that uses the letter. This will help students familiarize themselves with the shape and sound of each letter. Using visual aids, such as flashcards or a chart, can be beneficial.
2. Group or individual practice: writing and recognizing the letters: After presenting each letter, have students practice writing and recognizing the letters. This can be done through group activities, like tracing letters on a whiteboard, or individual exercises, like copying letters on paper or in a workbook.

C. Vowels and Vowel Marks (Nikud):

1. Explanation of the Nikud system: Explain that in Hebrew, vowels are often not written explicitly but are instead indicated by a system of diacritical marks called Nikud. These marks are placed above, below, or within the letters and provide information about the pronunciation of vowels in a word. The Nikud system is often used in texts for beginner learners, religious texts, or in situations where precise pronunciation is important.
2. Presentation of the main vowel marks and their pronunciation: Introduce the main vowel marks, such as Kamatz, Patach, Tzere, Segol, and others, and explain their corresponding vowel sounds. Provide examples of words with each vowel mark to help students understand how the marks affect pronunciation.
3. Practice: reading simple words with vowel marks: Have students practice reading simple words that include vowel marks. This can be done through activities like flashcard drills, reading exercises, or games. The goal is to help students become comfortable with recognizing and pronouncing words that include the Nikud system.

By the end of this 20-minute lesson, students should have a basic understanding of the Hebrew alphabet and script, as well as some experience with writing and recognizing letters, and reading simple words with vowel marks. This foundational knowledge will serve as a solid starting point for further study and practice of the Hebrew language.