Socratic Seminar
K-12
BIG IDEA
Directions
Be prepared with a large amount of sticky notes so the kids on the outside circle can be recording their thinking or writing down observations as the inside circle discusses.
First, situate kids in two concentric circles (also known as an Inside-Out Circle), It works if they are on the floor or at desks.
Next, Pose a questions for the inside circle to debate. Coach the kids to utilize sentence stems when they are discussing and to be well-versed in the Norms for a successful Socratic Seminar. ** See Below
Socratic Seminar Ground Rules (provided by @Dr.YemiS)
2. Listen closely.
3. Speak without raising hands.
4. Refer to the text.
5. Talk to each other, not just the facilitator.
6. Ask for clarification. Don't stay confused.
7. Invite and allow others to speak.
8. Consider all viewpoints and ideas.
9. Know that you are responsible for the quality of the seminar.
Sentence Stems (provided by @Dr.YemiS)
* Can you clarify what you mean by "..."?
* I'd like to piggyback/add on to ___________________'s statement about...
* In my opinion...
* I believe that...
* I respectfully disagree with ______________________ because....
Outer Circle
* ______________'s statement was strong because....
* _______________ made a good point about ______________________ because....
* ________________statement about ______________ could have been stronger if s/he
- made connections to...
- use evidence from the text...
-gave examples like...
- used an experts words like...
- added details to justify his or her statements about...
- added her/his own thoughts about...
- spoke from the heart about...