Talmud 156a: Major topics include: the first chapter of Gittin, dealing primarily with the laws pertaining to the divorce contract and its similarities and differences to financial contracts is addressed. Students prepare the applicable talmudic texts as well as the major halakhic opinions of various rishonim and acharonim , including Rashi, Tosafos, and the other commentaries as assigned by the instructor. The instructor guides students in understanding the issues raised, and assists them in deducing and elucidating the crux of these issues. Instruction includes, but is not limited to, discussion of the major relevant halakhic topics. Talmud 256a or 356a: In addition to the above, students are introduced to techniques in advanced conceptualization of talmudic text and commentaries. Talmud 456a: In addition to the above, students are expected to achieve proficiency in techniques of advanced conceptualization of talmudic text and commentaries. Topics include: how an agent delivers a bill of divorce in the Diaspora; checking for potentially fraudulent contracts and notes; the exact borders of the Land of Israel; details necessary for the writing and signing of a bill of divorce; types of witnessing necessary for a bill of divorce; limitations on the use of music; details of contracts for the freeing of slaves; bills of divorce originating in non-Jewish courts; acting as an agent where the principle did not appoint said agent; lack of ability to act on one's behalf after his death; maamad shloshtom. NOTE: Students in all four courses study the same course materials. While the scope of instruction is the same, the depth of study and nature of analysis depends upon which course the student is enrolled in.