What do you do in a Socratic Seminar?

What do you do in a Socratic Seminar?

Here are five steps that will help you have a successful Socratic Seminar.

  • Step 1: Choose a Text. The purpose of Socratic seminars is to use evidence to support interpretations of a text.
  • Step 2: Let Students Prepare.
  • Step 3: Give Students Questions.
  • Step 4: Set Up Inner and Outer Circles.
  • Step 5: Don’t Jump In.

What are the 3 rules of a Socratic Seminar?

Socratic Seminar Rules Discuss, do not debate. Be courteous, NO PUTDOWNS. Goal is the pursuit of deeper understanding. Respect different thoughts and ideas.

What are the four elements of a Socratic Seminar?

A good seminar consists of four interdependent elements: (1) the text, (2) the questions, (3) the seminar leader, and (4) the participants. A closer look at each of these elements helps explain the unique character of a Socratic Seminar.

How do you survive a Socratic Seminar?

The only thing you have to do during the Socratic seminar is listen to your more intelligent, harder-working classmates make eloquent arguments, and then when the time is right, raise your hand to say, “just going off of what he/she said…” After reciting this key phrase, make the exact same point as your classmate …

How do you do a Socratic Seminar in Covid?

Socratic Seminars Students should reference the text when asking and answering questions. Often there is an inner and outer circle. Those in the inner circle can speak, while those in the outer circle take notes and write their reflections or questions. Students can move back and forth between the circles.

Why are Socratic seminars bad?

Grading Socratic Seminars is ridiculous. It puts students under an ungodly amount of pressure. Of course, Socratic Seminars can help students by forcing them to listen to and develop ideas. However, graded seminars don’t only challenge students.

What is the role of the teacher in a Socratic Seminar?

Preparing the questions: Though students may eventually be given responsibility for running the entire session, the teacher usually fills the role of discussion leader as students learn about seminars and questioning.

What makes a good Socratic Seminar?

At its best, the Socratic seminar discussion model challenges students to read closely, think and write critically, and articulate their thoughts clearly and respectfully. One of the biggest risks of the Socratic seminar lies in the same quality that also makes it such a meaningful assessment—it is student centered.

Do you have to talk in a Socratic Seminar?

As participants in the Socratic Seminar, you are required to speak in the discussion. The best way to stimulate discussion is by asking quality questions. That, in fact, is called “The Socratic Method.” Questioning is the main premise of Socrates method of teaching.

How many times should you speak in a Socratic Seminar?

-‐-‐During the Socratic seminar each student should speak at least three times.

What is the difference between a Socratic seminar and a debate?

This happens when the seminar is approached as a joint search or exploration through dialogue rather than a defense of ideas. In dialogue, one listens to understand, to make meaning, and to find common ground. In debate, one listens to find flaws, to spot differences, and to counter arguments.