1. How to have successful discussion
Socratic Seminars
How to have successful discussion

2. What’s a Socratic Seminar?
Named for the philosopher Socrates
Questions + Discussion = key to learning
Formal discussion where each participant shares their thoughts and asks questions
NOT the same as a debate!

3. Debate vs. Discussion Dialogue... Debate...
•expects others’ reflections will improve their own thinking
•is temporarily suspending one’s beliefs
•searches for strengths
•respects others and seeks not to alienate
•assumes that cooperation can lead to greater understanding
•remains open-ended
Debate...
•defends thinking to show that it is right
•calls for investing in one’s beliefs
•searches for weaknesses
•rebuts contrary positions and may devalue others
•assumes a single right answer
•demands a conclusion

4. What does the Socratic Seminar look like?
The class will be split into two groups: A and B
Group A will spend the first round in the middle circle, while Group B sits outside
Group A will discuss different questions relating to the Triangle Factory Fire passages
Group B will observe and take notes
After twelve minutes, groups A and B will trade places

5. Students’ Responsibilities
• Being prepared for the seminar
• Directing the flow of the discussion within the seminar
• Determining the meaning of the seminar
• Constructing their own analysis of the seminar
• Utilizing critical thinking, listening, and communicating skills
• Respecting and honoring the opinions and voices of all other participants

6. Rules for the Inner Circle
You must make at least 5 comments or questions (one per question)
Take turns letting other people speak - don’t dominate the conversation
Let other people finish their sentences - NO interrupting!
Be extremely polite - even if you disagree with someone
Instead of: “That’s stupid! You’re stupid!!! OBVIOUSLY the author meant…”
Try: “That’s an interesting point. I thought of it like this…”

7. Rules for the outer circle
Absolutely NO talking! You’ll get your chance!
No standing/moving around the room/rustling through your backpack
Listen attentively to the discussion
Choose 3 “outer circle questions” to answer

8. You will be scored on:
Preparedness: Did you bring your question sheet with notes?
Respectfulness: Did you participate? Were you polite? Did you facilitate discussion?
Attentiveness: Did you complete “outer circle” questions?
Exit ticket: Did you reflect on your contributions to the team?

9. Materials to be Turned In After the Seminar
Completed questions (Team A or B)
Outer Circle Questions (to be handed out tomorrow)
Exit Ticket (to be handed out tomorrow)

10. Team A (pink) Team B (blue)
Period B
Team A (pink) Team B (blue)
Shalese Valerie Molly Jackson
Ruby Julia Maya Jerry
Dillon Alexa Anna Aries
Jase Josh Ella Mike
Naomi Madeline Rebekka
Drew Alyssa

11. Team A (pink) Team B (blue)
Period C
Team A (pink) Team B (blue)
Jason Zach Macy AK
Delaney Brianna Hunter Kenny
Makayla Allison Brooke Victoria
Raina Lindsey Anna Destiny
Alyssa Caitlyn Adam
Mara David
Haylee Janiyah

12. Team A (pink) Team B (Blue)
Period F
Team A (pink) Team B (Blue)
Mya Sydney Blake Parker
Tyler Layla Alyssa-Michelle Don
Saige Ethan R. Gabe
Kayli Daniel
McKayla Jessie
Frank Emma
Pragun Ethan L.

13. Team A (Pink) Team B (Blue)
Period D
Team A (Pink) Team B (Blue)
Joseph Lacen Charlie Zach
Scout Mallory Kiera Will
Brady Mason Jacquez Timothy
Harmony Karys John Ethan
Luke Chris
Wyatt Kaylee
Torin Bryce