Intro to Socratic Seminars Ms. Hutchinson Thomas Grover Middle School 7G IRLA
Debate Dialogue Is oppositional One listens to form counter arguments Creates a close-minded attitude Debate assumes a single right answer Demands a conclusion Is collaborative One listens to find common ground Creates an open-minded attitude Assumes that cooperation leads to greater understanding Remains open-ended
What is a Socratic Seminar? *A Socratic seminar is a way of teaching founded by the Greek philosopher Socrates. *Socrates believed that: students learn best by asking questions. *It is the teacher’s job to moderate the discussion instead of leading the discussion.
Socrates and the Theory of Knowledge Socrates believed the answers to all human questions reside within us and that through disciplined conversation we can discover ultimate truth. Classical Greek philosopher 470(?) – 399 B.C.
The Vision Socrates believed that enabling students to think for themselves was more important than filling their heads with “right answers.”
The Inner and Outer Circles Inner Circle
The Roles Inner Circle: Discusses the topic or text Outer Circle: Observes the discussion and then provides feedback on the strengths and weaknesses of the discussion as a whole and individual participants
The Rules Speak so that all can hear you. 2. Listen closely. Make eye contact. 3. Speak without raising hands. 4. Refer to the texts. 5. Talk to each other, not just one person. 6. Ask for clarification. Don’t stay confused. 7. Invite and allow others to speak. 8. Consider all viewpoints and ideas. 9. Know that you are responsible for the quality of the seminar.
Three Elements An effective seminar consists of three elements: 1. the text being considered 2. the questions raised 3. the participants
The Text Socratic Seminar texts are chosen for their richness in ideas, issues, and values, and their ability to stimulate extended, thoughtful dialogue.
The Question An effective opening question leads participants back to the text as they speculate, evaluate, define, and clarify the issues involved. Opening question has no right answer Responses generate new questions Line of inquiry evolves on the spot rather than being predetermined by the leader.
The Participants Most effective when participants: study the text closely in advance listen actively share their ideas and questions in response to to others refer to the text to support their ideas
Seminar Procedures Craft the opening question Prepare on your own Review seminar procedures Conduct the seminar (With both the inner and outer circles completing their roles) Debrief the seminar
Even Numbers (group 1): Is Max a static or dynamic character Even Numbers (group 1): Is Max a static or dynamic character? Odd Numbers (group 2): Is Kevin a static or dynamic character?