A. Come to discussions prepared having read or researched material under study; explicitly draw on that preparation by referring to evidence from texts and other research on the topic or issue to stimulate a thoughtful, well-reasoned exchange of ideas.
B. Work with peers to set rules for collegial discussions and decision-making (e.g. informal consensus, taking votes on key issues, and presentation of alternate views), clear goals and deadlines, and define individual roles as needed.
C. Propel conversations by posing and responding to questions that relate the current discussion to broader themes or larger ideas; actively incorporate others in discussion, and clarify, verify, or challenge ideas and conclusions.
D. Respond thoughtfully to diverse perspectives, summarize points of agreement and disagreement, and, when warranted, qualify or justify their own views and understandings and make new connections in light of the evidence and reasoning presented.