1. The Power is in the question
Socratic Seminar
The Power is in the question

2. What is it? Class activity Focused on a text
Full on student engagement
Students ask and answer questions of each other
Teacher is on the side lines…refereeing

3. What isn’t it? IT’S NOT A DEBATE!!
A debate = persuasion, prepared rebuttals, clearly sided
Socratic Seminar = discussion, inquiry, responding to the thoughts of others

4. Why does it work? Inquiry > Information Discussion > Debate
Learning is a SOCIAL activity

5. How does it work? Read the text
Prepare OPEN-ENDED questions (questions that have no right/wrong answers)
Good questions start with “Why do you think…?” or “What do you think…?” “How could…?”

6. How does it end? It doesn’t – you will continue thinking and learning
The discussion is over when all questions have been asked and answered
Your reflective writing: describe your participation and set goals for future seminars