Why does it always sound different in English? And how do you say "shutafim" in English? An innovative Partnership 2000 program in Kikar Sdom was designed to answer these questions and many more. Every common denominator must be promoted in order to forge a real dialogue between Israeli and American teens. Recognizing the need to bring Israelis and Americans closer together and the fact that many Israelis in general and in Kikar Sdom in particular lack the necessary English skills a new project called "Spoken English" was launched. At the beginning of November 2001, a little apprehensive as to the way this would be achieved but driven by a singular purpose to improve their English, a group of about 20 teens gathered at the Youth Club in Kikar Sdom.
 
Ofra Schwartz, a seasoned educator and long time resident of Neot Hakikar, designed and nurtured with great care this initiative which offers a new and innovative experience. Setting aside traditional teaching methods she offered young students an opportunity for a positive and inspiring learning experience. Finding the right facilitators was crucial. Claire and Maria, English born residents of Kikar Sdom and neither of who are teachers by profession, embraced the challenge exposing teens to authentic English. The lessons, which are conducted entirely in English, utilize diverse learning and teaching methods such as games, dialogues, drama and simulations all aimed to stimulate this young audience and facilitate the learning process.

We heard from the students how much they love the creativity of the lessons and how this helps them overcome their shyness and encourages them to speak English freely. More than 40 teens are now involved in the project and their regular attendance and diligence attests to the project's success. The project's importance transcends the teaching of English, as it also forges community identity and motivates residents to actively partake in attaining a common goal.

Confident that a small step such as this can encourage future unmediated communication between Israelis and Americans, Partnership 2000 understood the importance of such a project especially in isolated localities such as those of Kikar Sdom.

Iyar 5762 - May 2002