What’s up with all the Socratic Seminars?
January 13, 2010 • written by Marcus Carson
Have you found yourself in class lately, sitting in a circle, struggling to find “serious” things to say about literature or current events? You may have just experienced a Socratic Discussion.
Many teachers are experimenting with this technique as they move towards the more rigorous IB curriculum. It involves preparing ideas to talk about in class, sitting in a circle, sharing ideas one at a time. Some teachers grade and some don’t. Some teachers interfere; other teachers let the conversation ball role. Almost all teachers seem to want their students to stay on task and not starting talking about Saw VI,Call of Duty: MW2 or Lady Gaga. Picky, picky… at any rate, this trend of encouraging focused discussions seems to be catching on in the Park classroom.
The idea seems to have ancient roots, back to the days when men, (no chicks allowed!) sat around in togas and talked about truth and the nature of reality. The idea of bringing this ancient practice into classrooms isn’t new by any means, and yet it seems to be a relatively new practice here at Park. According to teachers it, “builds critical thinking skills” and “real world connections.”
Here are few tips for being successful in a Socratic Discussion:
1. If you are shy or don’t like to talk, don’t worry. Teachers like it if you ask follow up questions, ask for clarification, or encourage other speakers.
2. Refer to text. (Your teacher will be so excited; they will probably throw twenty dollar bills at you and mistake you for Einstein!)
3. Don’t talk while other people are talking. Big no no. (Insert teacher frowny face here.)
4. Build on the discussion. Add stuff, comment, nod a lot, no drooling.
5. Be civil. No swordplay, ninja moves or face slapping allowed. Disable your enemy with text and witty wordplay instead.
Whether you like it or not, it looks like Socratic Discussion is going to be a regular feature in the Park classroom from here on out. With a little practice, a little play acting, and a little preparation, you can impress the opposite sex with your dazzling intellect AND develop your critical reasoning skills at the same time.
Loading ...
Comments
Feel free to leave a comment...
and oh, if you want a pic to show with your comment, go get a gravatar!