Socratic Seminar“Know Thyself”

Who was Socrates? Classical Greek Athenian philosopher. 469-399 B.C. Generally regarded as one of the wisest philosophers

of all time. He held discourses on virtue, justice, piety. Also regarded as a great teacher whose primary

method of instruction included more questions than answers.

He wanted to improve the moral and intellectual character of Athenians.

His life, character, and thought have had a major impact on ancient and modern philosophy.

Imprisoned for teaching heresy, he willingly took the hemlock poison that served as his punishment, thus ending his life.

What a Socratic Seminar is NOT:

It is not a teacher-led discussion. It is not an opportunity for one or two students to

dominate the discussion. It is not a debate. It is not necessarily a place to have your

questions answered. It is not an opportunity to “zone out” and let

others do the talking. It is not a free day. It is not a place to intentionally bring up

controversial issues in an attempt to get a reaction.

Then what IS a Socratic Seminar?

A comfortable place where everyone can participate in meaningful dialogue or conversation.

It’s where we suspend judgment. It’s a place to examine our own thought/work

without defensiveness. Seminar is an opportunity to listen to what our

peers have to say. It is an opportunity to consider differing opinions. It’s a place to think deeply. It’s an opportunity to build community and know

each other better.

Pre-Seminar Question Writing

Questions should be open-ended and allow for a thoughtful answer. They should not require a one word answer.

Types of questions to ask:o World Connection Questions: Write a question that

connects the text to the real world.o Open-Ended Questions: Insightful questions about the text

that will require group discussion and “construction of logic.”o Universal Theme/Core Questions: These questions deal

with the theme of the text and encourage group discussion about the universality of the text.

o Literary Analysis Questions: These deal with how an author chose to compose a literary piece. How did the author manipulate point of view, character, setting, plot, archetypal hero patterns?

General Seminar Boundaries

Refer to your notes and/or the text when needed. Seminar is not a test of your memory.

It’s OK to “pass” if you have nothing to contribute. Be fully prepared to participate. Do not be confused; ask for clarification. Stick to the point; make notes about ideas you

want to raise. Don’t raise hands; take turns speaking. Don’t interrupt the speaker. Talk to each other – not just the leader/teacher. Discuss ideas rather than opinions. Show respect.

Seminar Expectations: Speak loudly and clearly. Cite reasons and evidence for your statements. Use the text for support. Listen respectfully. Stick to the subject. Talk to each other. Call each other by name. Paraphrase accurately. Support each other. Ask for clarification. Speak politely. Avoid hostility. Come prepared to participate.

Seminar Response: At the end of the seminar, you will be given time to

complete and turn in the following:

Pre-Seminar Questions (simply the questions you had prepared before the seminar – no answers necessary)

One goal for the seminar (written before the seminar)

Self-evaluation (How many times did you speak? How would you rate yourself as a speaker/listener?)

Paragraph response to the Seminar (What did you learn about the subject? About yourself? Your participation?)

Write a goal for the next seminar.