This profile sets forth the characteristics, skills, and traits that a typical Akiba 8th grade student should possess by the time he or she graduates. We recognize that all children are different, and develop intellectually and personally at their own pace. Therefore, we fully expect that some Akiba graduates may not develop each and every one of the qualities set out in this profile, just as we expect some graduates to proceed beyond one or more of these skills. Moreover, no one student is likely to embody the exact list of qualities described in this profile. Rather, the listing represents a compilation of the traits we expect most Akiba students to develop by the time they graduate.

Ethics, Values, & Life Skills

	Recognizes accountability for one's own actions
	Identifies with and demonstrates Middot Tovot (positive character traits)
	Incorporates moral and ethical values in decision-making process
	Has consideration and respect for all Jewish people and diverse cultures
	Has ability to put others' needs before one’s own
	Demonstrates leadership traits
	Interacts well with peers and adults
	Is able to resolve conflicts calmly
	Seeks opportunities to help others
	Is committed to community service, both in the Jewish and broader communities
	Explores Jewish role of Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) and being "a Light unto the Nations", realizing that personal participation can make our world a better place in which to live
	Identifies with Jewish connection and commitment to the land and State of Israel
	Is a self-motivated, independent learner
	Can research any topic, effectively accessing and utilizing resources
	Utilizes critical thinking skills
	Is familiar with the normal cycle of human growth and development and the responsibilities that ensue
	Understands the value of a healthy lifestyle through good nutrition, regular exercise, and avoidance of drugs and alcohol
	Participates in well-rounded physical fitness activities and is encouraged to participate in team sports.

General Studies
Language Arts/ Literature

	Can express ideas both written and orally in a concise and effective manner
	Utilizes effective public speaking skills
	Has the skill for comprehension, inference, oral expression, and identifying main ideas/details and elements of literature
	Has exposure to a variety of classical and modern literature

Mathematics

	Is adept at problem solving and mathematical reasoning
	Has good computational skills and ability to work with algebraic equations and geometrical concepts
	Can apply mathematical reasoning and problem solving to daily living

Technology/Computer Skills

Can utilize keyboarding, word processing, database, spreadsheet, multimedia, and Internet computer skills

Science

	Understands various systems of the body and their inter-relationships
	Has a good understanding of Earth, Physical, and Life Science
	Can utilize the Scientific Method of Inquiry
	Is adept at performing experiments using formal scientific processes
Social Studies/Civics/History
	Is aware of local, national, and international current events
	Understands how local, state, and national governments work
	Has exposure to the broader Dallas community
	Is familiar with Texas, American, and world history
	Understands how to be a responsible American citizen

Literature/Fine Arts

	Has exposure to the performing arts
	Has exposure to explorers, inventors, composers, artists, and other famous personalities who have made an impact on mankind
	Has had opportunity to express self through various artistic media
	Has had opportunity to participate in choir and to play a musical instrument

Judaic Studies

Jewish Texts Understands general structure and content of Tanach (Bible), Talmud, and classical Jewish writings Possesses ability to analyze Jewish text with commentary Is familiar with content of and lessons to be learned from weekly parsha (Torah portion) Is familiar with laws and sources that guide Jewish living and observance of Shabbat and holidays Appreciates wisdom of Jewish writings and seeks direction from these writings in life's decisions Has learned positive life lessons from experiences of Biblical and post-Biblical Jewish personalities Spirituality Explores and develops personal relationship with Hashem (G-d)   Understands responsibility of bringing honor to Hashem through one's actions Has ability to practice Jewish rituals and customs with an appreciation and understanding of how they enhance our lives and attitudes     Prayer Understands language, purpose, and meaning of prayer and brachot (blessings) Reads prayers fluently and is familiar with layout of Siddur (prayer book) for weekday, Shabbat, and holiday services Has developed skills to follow synagogue protocol Is familiar with laws of brachot Hebrew Language/Jewish History Is capable of reading Hebrew language texts with comprehension and expressing ideas in Hebrew, both orally and in written form Is knowledgeable of Jewish history, from creation through modern state of Israel