1. Philosophical Chairs

2. The Theory Behind It
For effective learning to occur, students must become explicitly aware of their own (mis) conceptions about a particular topic.
Student "errors" should be illuminated rather than avoided and "contradictions" explored rather than ignored.
Students should use critical thinking skills to express their perspective argue and persuade the class.

3. How It Works Student will either:
Read an article & discuss a controversial topic.
Spend a few minutes reflecting on a contemporary topic of interest.
Offer up topics that are of concern/interest

4. How It Works (cont.) The topic should elicit a mixed response.
Some people agree whole-heartedly while others vehemently disagree with the premise for many reasons.
Still others will reserve judgment until or unless they hear something to persuade them one way or the other.

5. How It Works (cont.)
Inform students that they will have a chance to argue the merits of the topic and will be seated according to their views.
The rows of seats will be split into AGREE and DISAGREE sections
Students may sit in the area which best represents their point of view on the topic
Students must move from side to side throughout the activity.

6. How It Works The Moderator
Job is to insure everyone gets a chance to speak.
May be the teacher or a student.
They should allow participants to address a statement made by a particular person
Be careful that the "pros," "cons," and "questions" are equally represented
Make sure the discussion is not dominated by a few eager students.

7. How It Works
Students are able to move about the room during the discussion, similar to a game of musical chairs.
Participants can symbolize their willingness to adopt a different point of view — even if temporarily — by moving in the direction of that view and assuming a new location.
To insure that movement takes place, students must move sides a minimum of 3 times during the activity to assume multiple viewpoints.

8. Ideas To Consider:
- Listen to classmates as they will provide you with ideas and questions to consider
Write down ideas as they occur to you, so that you can reference them in the future.
Be comfortable being unpopular, take a stand and back it up.

9. Additional Ideas
1. Be open-minded. Listen to all statements made and consider both sides.
2. Move to the other side if a particular statement or argument seems to sway your thinking. Experience the "other side."
3. No one acknowledges any move This is not a team game.
4. Do not raise hands or speak while another person is speaking
Rules

10. Tips Statement should be written on the board
The mediator must be neutral
When necessary, mediator paraphrases or restates statements for clarification (in an unbiased manner)
Modify the statement or switch topics when discussion becomes stagnant
For closure, allow each student thirty seconds to express an opinion
Assign a writing activity for follow-up

11. Sample Topics Movies should not be rated.
All schools should require uniforms.
Couples should not be allowed to have more than two children.
Drug & alcohol treament should be free.
Abortion should/should not be legal.
There is more bad than good in the world.
Women who damage their babies (before birth) should go to prison.
No marriage until you’re both 21.

12. Sample Topics (cont.) Smoking should be illegal.
Most people on welfare are lazy.
Parents should have to pay a fine when their kids skip school.
Everyone would be better off without TV.
Minors should always be tried as adults.
Parents who do not put seatbelts on their children should go to jail.