1. Small Group Discussions
Things Fall Apart – Socratic Seminar #3

2. Small Group Discussions Protocol:
Similar to a whole class Socratic Seminar, this should be a natural discussion.
One person should speak at a time, but everyone will be required to participate (share their ideas).
Respect differing opinions, and share ideas and opinions respectfully, but don’t be afraid to disagree – learning how to discuss ideas with someone whom you don’t agree is a very valuable life skill!
Record down important insights and ideas shared throughout the discussion on your prep. sheet or a separate sheet of paper (staple to prep. and turn in after discussion).

3. How does this work?
5 MINUTES: Each person will share their thesis (it’s okay if it’s a draft) with the group. The group will help them work through improving their argument. 15 MINUTES: Each person will then share the quotes (7) they found and explain their reasoning behind using the quote to support their argument. The group will help each member find more quotes (if necessary), or find new quotes if they find better examples. 15 MINUTES: Each group member will ask at least 2 of their prepared questions and facilitate a discussion about the question. Each group member will be taking notes on the discussion to use in preparation of their essay later – the more notes you take, the more material you can use when writing your essay!

4. Post Discussion Evaluation:
Assess yourself according to the rubric. Respond to each of the bullet points.
Write down one significant (new) thing you learned.
Rate yourself on a scale of 1 (not so great) – 5 (amazing!) for your participation today.
Skill
How Well Did You Do the Following?
Conduct & Listening
-patient with differing opinions
-asks for clarification
-brings others into dialogue
-focused on dialogue
Speaking
-speaks to all participants (not just one)
-takes a leadership role without dominating conversation
Reasoning
-cites relevant text
-relates topic to background knowledge
-makes connections between own thoughts and others’
-willing to take an alternate viewpoint
-asks questions to further dialogue