10220 BR Get out your Mr Smith Packets

10/22/0 BR- Get out your Mr. Smith Packets. We will discuss and clarify questions in section 2. Then move on to section 1 Today: Introducing How to Conduct a Socratic Seminar

n n “Wisdom begins in Wonder” -Socrates n The Socratic Seminar method is a type of discussion where truth/understanding/wisdom is sought by the use of “wondering” or questioning. The driving force of Socratic seminar is asking good questions based what is said and what is present in the “text. ” Listening more than speaking is often the best thing to do.

n n n “All I know is that I know nothing” -Socrates Think of it as a way of asking questions until you get a good picture of what you are asking about. Like “ 20 Questions” It is also based on mutual respect of the ideas of others. All statements must be rooted in fact (connected to the text. ) Each statement should be referred to in the text. “I think this because it said in the text. . ”

How to do it. . n n Socratic Seminar is different in that its not about “debating” or “winning” an argument. Its about opening a dialogue. It is a back and forth interactive session that is led by the students. The teacher is just the facilitator of the discussion.

Socratic Seminar Guide 1. Listen actively (make notes or questions. ) 2. Build on what others say (see stems. . ) 3. No need to raise your hand, wait till there’s a gap in conversation. Don’t Interrupt. 4. Direct conversation to peers not to facilitator 5. Refer to text (“Where it says. . ” 6. Ask questions to clarify and probe ideas 7. Watch your "air" time (think 2 B 4 Me) 8. Everyone’s thoughts and opinions count. 9. We know how to disagree without being rude or mean - don’t make it personal. 10. We speak in a conversational tone.

#1 Rule We listen, then we think, then we speak. Everyone should speak AT LEAST once!

Rule #2 Use your head (your opinions, etc) but refer to the text. (or facts that we know)

Socratic Seminar Prompt n The Movie Mr. Smith is (or is not) important to us today because…

Over the Weekend. . n n n Answer questions in part one and two This will give you ideas for your final project. . I will extend the deadline for projects by ONE DAY! Use the weekend to start your projects. We will check in/work on the projects on Monday.