What is a Socratic Seminar?

I believe in the power of

asking questions!

Socratic Seminars

Elfie Israel says:“The Socratic seminar is:• a formal discussion based on a

text • in which the leaders 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 responses to the thoughts of others. • They learn to work cooperatively • and question intelligently and civilly.”

Ahh

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Choose a Text

Authentic text that invites inquiry.

Confusing Scripture passage.

Ambiguous short story.

Controversial social issue.

Interpretations of an historical

event.

Applications for a new discovery.

Two opposing primary

documents.

Prepared Students:

• Read carefully.• Take notes.• Read commentary or

criticism.• Formulate questions,

theories, observations.

• Each observation, question, statement should relate to specific areas of text.

Role of Discussion Leader

To prepare and ask

types of questions.3

Questions to interpret the text:

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? • Main idea or underlying value?

• Author’s purpose or perspective?

• Meaning of a particular phrase?

• Better title?

• Most important word/sentence/paragraph?

Questions to move the discussion along

• Different perspective?

• All had a chance to speak?

• Textual evidence?

• Clarify?

• Relates to?

• Text unclear?

• New perspective?

Leader’s questions stir group to move forward

Questions that finalize and apply the discussion.

• How do the ideas in the text relate to our lives?

• What do they mean for us personally?

• Why is this material important?

• Is it right that….?

• Do you agree with the author?

THINK!

Establish Student Expectations

Rebuttal

Debate

Argue

Persuade

Clear Sides

Socratic Seminars use:

• well-informed inquiry

• discussion

• question and answer

• communal spirit

Teacher role during discussion: Minimal

Should we move back to the text?Are we done with this concept?

Mrs.Wagner-Woodrum

Assessing Effectiveness

Assign essays and reflections covering content and process.

Provide a rubric days before Socratic Seminar takes place or the assessment is due

A test may be another option.