Public Speaking Contest and Writing Contest Topics 2016

1. In the Jewish community we are committed to giving money to tzedakah, as well as volunteering our time to make changes in this world. Explain why you believe it is more important to donate money or donate time, or why they are of equal importance.
    
2. Our name says a lot about us. Sometimes it tells us where we came from; sometimes it tells us the dreams our parents have for us. What does your name say about you?
    
3. You have been commissioned to create a flag that represents the Jewish community of Vancouver. Explain what elements you would include and why.
    
4. We all have our favourite picture books that our families read to us. Choose one of your favourite picture books and explain a Jewish value that you learned from it. Some of the values you could think about are: respect for parents, honesty, being a good friend, caring for the environment, and taking responsibility for the well-being of others (e.g. siblings, pets).
    
5. Discuss whether you believe Jews should limit themselves to giving to Jewish organizations, or if it is equally important to give tzedakah to those outside of our Jewish community.
    
6. Our holidays are full of wonderful traditions, some old and some new. Choose a Jewish holiday and create a new family tradition for it, and explain why you feel it creates a modern connection to the holiday.
    
7. There is a concept in Judaism that one mitzvah generates another mitzvah. Agree or disagree with this concept, and explain why you think that.
    
8. Schools have a zero tolerance policy for bullying. Explain why not being a bully and helping out those who are being bullied is a Jewish concept.
    
9. Describe a day in the life of an Israeli soldier, as you imagine it.
    
10. If I were Prime Minister of Israel I would….
     
11. Topic of your own choice.