 “Know Thyself”

 Classical Greek Athenian philosopher B.C.  Generally regarded as one of the wisest philosophers of all time. He held discourses on virtue, justice, piety.  Also regarded as a great teacher whose primary method of instruction included more questions than answers.  He wanted to improve the moral and intellectual character of Athenians.  His life, character, and thought have had a major impact on ancient and modern philosophy.  Imprisoned for teaching heresy, he willingly took the hemlock poison that served as his punishment, thus ending his life.

 It is not a teacher-led discussion.  It is not an opportunity for one or two students to dominate the discussion.  It is not a debate.  It is not necessarily a place to have your questions answered.  It is not an opportunity to “zone out” and let others do the talking.  It is not a free day.  It is not a place to intentionally bring up controversial issues in an attempt to get a reaction.

 A comfortable place where everyone can participate in meaningful dialogue or conversation.  It’s where we suspend judgment.  It’s a place to examine our own thought/work without defensiveness.  Seminar is an opportunity to listen to what our peers have to say.  It is an opportunity to consider differing opinions.  It’s a place to think deeply.  It’s an opportunity to build community and know each other better.

 Questions should be open-ended and allow for a thoughtful answer. They should not require a one word answer.  Types of questions to ask: o World Connection Questions: Write a question that connects the text to the real world. o Open-Ended Questions: Insightful questions about the text that will require group discussion and “construction of logic.” o Universal Theme/Core Questions: These questions deal with the theme of the text and encourage group discussion about the universality of the text. o Literary Analysis Questions: These deal with how an author chose to compose a literary piece. How did the author manipulate point of view, character, setting, plot, archetypal hero patterns?

 Refer to your notes and/or the text when needed. Seminar is not a test of your memory.  It’s OK to “pass” if you have nothing to contribute.  Be fully prepared to participate.  Do not be confused; ask for clarification.  Stick to the point; make notes about ideas you want to raise.  Don’t raise hands; take turns speaking.  Don’t interrupt the speaker.  Talk to each other – not just the leader/teacher.  Discuss ideas rather than opinions.  Show respect.

 Speak loudly and clearly.  Cite reasons and evidence for your statements.  Use the text for support.  Listen respectfully.  Stick to the subject.  Talk to each other. Call each other by name.  Paraphrase accurately.  Support each other.  Ask for clarification.  Speak politely. Avoid hostility.  Come prepared to participate.

 At the end of the seminar, you will be given time to complete and turn in the following:  Pre-Seminar Questions (simply the questions you had prepared before the seminar – no answers necessary)  One goal for the seminar (written before the seminar)  Self-evaluation (How many times did you speak? How would you rate yourself as a speaker/listener?)  Paragraph response to the Seminar (What did you learn about the subject? About yourself? Your participation?)  Write a goal for the next seminar.