Socratic Seminar A Model for Civil Discussion

What is a Socratic Seminar? Teacher observes; students lead Students come prepared with notes and questions Sometimes students are assigned to lead Everyone participates as both a speaker and an observer

The Set Up Split the class into two groups The inner circle (desks arranged in a circle) discuss The outer circle observe

Procedure 1. Everyone in the inner circle has a partner in the outer circle. The partner keeps track of participation and body language on a checklist. 2. After some discussion, half time is called and partners meet up for “coaching.” 3. The inner circle partner returns for a few more minutes of discussion. 4. Switch seats, continue discussion with new inner circle (there is always more to talk about).

How to Prepare -Read the novel carefully. -Reflect on anything that would deem interesting in a class discussion. -Fill out the Discussion Questions sheet with at least ten discussion questions from the section being discussed.

How You Will Be Assessed Data will come from the teacher’s observations, your partner’s observations, and sometimes from notes/questions collected. The first three discussions will be practice and go in the Daily Assignment category. The final two discussions will count for a summative grade and go in the Summative Assessment category.

How You Will Be Assessed I am looking for the following: - Positive body language -Audible voice -Meaningful additions/connections -Silent observation (outer circle) -Helpful coaching -Referencing the text -Keeping the discussion on topic -Inviting reticent or quiet individuals

Content Standards: SL.1 “Initiate and participate effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners on grades 9-10 topics, texts, and issues, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly and persuasively.” SL.1.A “Come to discussions prepared, having read and researched material under study; explicitly draw on that preparation by referring to evidence from texts and other research on the topic or issue to stimulate thoughtful, well-reasoned exchange of ideas.” SL.1.B “Work with peers to set rules for collegial discussions and decision-making, clear goals and deadlines, and individual roles as needed.” SL.1.C. “Propel conversations by posing and responding to questions that relate the current discussion to broader themes or larger ideas; actively incorporate others in the discussion; and clarify, verify, or challenge ideas and conclusions.” SL.1.D “Respond thoughtfully to diverse perspectives, summarize points of agreement and disagreement, and, when warranted, qualify or justify their own views and understanding and make new connections in light of the evidence and reasoning presented.”