Socratic Seminars A Socratic Seminar is a scholarly discussion of an essential question in which student opinions are shared, proven, and politely argued through dialogue . The teacher leads the discussion.

Socratic Seminars: Purpose The purpose of a Socratic Seminar is to answer the essential question: Should students bring pets to school?

Socratic Seminars: Day #1, The Steps Independently brainstorm your thoughts in your notebook. You need evidence, so give examples from your life or from your reading (5 minutes) Share your ideas with your team. Encourage each team member to strengthen their evidence.(3 minutes) Modify your thoughts in your notebook (3 minutes)

Socratic Seminars: Day # 2, The Steps Read an article in support of your thoughts. Add evidence to your notes. Example: I think that _______________. The author ________ agrees with me when he/she writes, “__________.”

Socratic Seminars: Day # 3, The Rules You should support your opinions with evidence from life or from the text. Each person is given 3 pennies. In order to offer your opinion or thoughts, you must spend 1 penny. You can only speak 3 times, so make it count! You may ask relevant questions of other participants FOR FREE. Each person must ask 1 question during the seminar. Example: Could you please elaborate? Could you please give an example?

Socratic Seminars: Last Rule You must listen to the speaker. No side conversations.