1. Socratic Seminar The power of the question

2. What is a Socratic Seminar A strategy to encourage students to engage in critical thinking, listening and communication A forum where students determine the flow of classroom discussion and teachers serve as facilitators An atmosphere of intellectual engagement, cooperation, and conversation where students learn the difference between dialogue and debate The goal is not to answer questions, but to generate more questions

3. Socratic Seminar: Guidelines Group sits in a circle, allowing all participants to make eye contact Silence is not a negative Discussion will flow on its own Mutual respect is key to success One person speaks at a time

4. Student responsibility Be prepared for the seminar Direct the flow of the discussion Utilize critical thinking, listening and communicating skills Respect and honor the opinions and voices of all other participants Ask questions

5. Seminar rules Do not raise hand during the seminar Do not interrupt or talk when another is speaking Be respectful of other’s opinions Direct your comments to the other participants (not the teacher) Support your opinions with evidence Don’t be afraid to ask questions Remember there is not one “Right Answer”