The shekel, a currency with ancient origins and modern implications, is a topic that can open numerous avenues of discussion and learning for students. Understanding the shekel’s history, how it functions in contemporary society, and how it relates to global economics allows students to build critical thinking skills and a broader awareness of the world. This article will provide educators with an outline of key points for teaching students about the shekel.
Historical Background
1. The Ancient Shekel: Begin by exploring the ancient origins of the shekel as a unit of weight used in Mesopotamia and surrounding regions. Discuss its significance in trade and its appearance in various forms across different empires.
2. Biblical References: Introduce students to the shekel’s mentioning in biblical texts. This can lead to discussions on the importance of currency in religious and cultural contexts during ancient times.
3. Development into Coinage: Delve into the transformation of shekels from units of weight to actual coins, taking into account the implications this had on trade, commerce, and societal structures.
Modern Usage
1. The Israeli New Shekel (ILS): Introduce students to the current use of the shekel as Israel’s official currency since 1986. Discuss factors such as inflation that led to the replacement of the old Israeli shekel with the ILS.
2. Exchange Rates and Global Economics: Teach students about exchange rates between the ILS and other currencies, highlighting its relationship with major global powers like the United States and Eurozone countries. Incorporate discussions on international trade and foreign exchange markets.
3. Monetary Policies: Educate students on fiscal and monetary policies influenced by Israel’s central bank (Bank of Israel) that impact the value, stability, and circulation of the Israeli new shekel.
Practical Applications
1. Pricing Goods and Services: Encourage students to practice converting currencies and understanding the relative value of goods and services across different nations. This can aid in improving numeracy skills and fostering a global perspective.
2. Analyzing Economic News: Assign students current events articles discussing global economic affairs that mention or impact the Israeli new shekel. Discuss potential implications, trends, and what this means for various international stakeholders.
Conclusion
Teaching students about the shekel provides an engaging opportunity to explore historical perspectives, modern economic policies, and global interconnections. By offering this comprehensive guide, educators can inspire curiosity and foster critical thinking skills in their students as they navigate the complexities of global economics.
