1. Socratic Seminars
English IV

2. Purpose
Socratic seminars are named for their embodiment of Socrates’ belief in the power of asking questions.
The purpose of a Socratic Seminar is to achieve a deeper understanding about the ideas and values in a text.

3. Purpose
“The Socratic seminar is a formal discussion, based on a text, in which the leader asks open-ended questions.  Within the context of the discussion, students listen closely to the comments of others, thinking critically for themselves, and articulate their own thoughts and their responses to the thoughts of others.  They learn to work cooperatively and to question intelligently and civilly.” 
Israel, Elfie.  “Examining Multiple Perspectives in Literature.”  In Inquiry and the Literary Text: Constructing Discussions n the English Classroom.  James Holden and John S. Schmit, eds.  Urbana, IL: NCTE, 2002.

4. How It Works
In the Seminar, participants systematically question and examine issues and principles related to a particular content, and articulate different points-of-view.
The group conversation assists participants in constructing meaning through disciplined analysis, interpretation, listening, and participation.

5. How It Works
Good discussions occur when participants study the text closely in advance, listen actively, share their ideas and questions in response to the ideas and questions of others, and search for evidence in the text to support their ideas.

6. Setting the Ground Rules
Don’t raise hands
Listen carefully
Address one another respectfully
Base any opinions on the text
What other rules do you want to include?

7. Don’t talk over others
No yelling
State your position, don’t argue
Use appropriate language
Everybody say something
No side conversations

8. Don’t interrupt
Respect the opinions of others
It’s not an argument/debate, but a
conversation
Don’t get mad
Everyone deserves the opportunity to
speak
No food, drink or phones
Show you are listening
Write good points people make
Refer to notes
Back up statements with quotes and examples

9. No shutting someone down
Question everyone
Be polite
Try to keep your voice down

10. Be respectful
Everyone must participate at least once
Have your book ready
Don’t laugh at the ideas or opinions of others
Ask questions if there’s something you don’t understand