Socratic Circles Starting a dialogue

Who was Socrates? Greek Philosopher 470(?) – 399 B.C. “The unexamined life is not worth living.” – Socrates

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.

What is a Socratic Circle? A strategy in which students engage in a conversation to collectively seek a deeper understanding of complex ideas. The goal is for students to create a dialogue.

Dialogue vs. Debate Dialogue Debate Oppositional 1. Collaborative 2. Listening to find agreement and meaning 3. Enlarges and possibly changes point of view 4. Complicates positions and issues Debate Oppositional 2. Listening to find flaws and weaknesses 3. Affirms one’s own point of view 4. Simplifies positions and issues

Roles of A Socratic Circle The Inner Circle A question is posed to start the dialogue. Students engage in dialogue about the question. Students decide how they will respond. Students must be respectful of other members of the inner circle.

Roles of Socratic Circles The Outer Circle Observes the process. Does not speak while dialogue is occurring. Reflects on the dialogue of the inner circle. Provides feedback to the inner circle after the dialogue has concluded. For example: What were positive parts of the dialogue? Negative? How effective was the dialogue? Etc.

The Inner and Outer Circles Inner Circle

Assessment and Evaluation Student Role You will be asked to complete a preparation sheet. You will be asked to peer-evaluate another student in the Socratic Circle using a check-list You will be asked to reflect on what you learned during the Socratic Circle in a written composition. Teacher Role I will observe your contributions to the Socratic Circle and use a check-list to evaluate you. I will collect your preparation sheet, peer-evaluation and reflection and assess it.

Important to Remember A Socratic circle is meant to create dialogue. Disrespectful comments will not be tolerated. There are no wrong comments.

References Copeland Matt. “Socratic Circles: Empowering Student Centered Dialogue” Power Point. Kansas State Department of Education, Topeka, Kansas. April 15, 2011. <www.ksde.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=KnyfYA84nHA %3D>.