Socratic Discussion Circles

J.Fowler, Ph.D.,

Discussion Circle Protocols:

From Chris Bigger…Littlestown School district

1. Everyone must contribute

2. Everyone MUST contribute

General Courtesies:

· Wait until a person is finished talking before you start in

· All responses and questions are encouraged

· Two responses before you speak a second time (group of 10 or less)

· Group engagement:

· Prompts for use when entering into the discussions:

· Invite others to participate…I’d be curious to hear Bill’s position on this topic. I have a question for…

· Extend ideas or thoughts…I want to expand on what Corinne’s ideas or position.

· Ask clarifying //questions...I’m not sure I understand Phil’s comments, did you mean that…?

· Utilize text-based evidence to support opinions…according to our text….this makes me think that…

From McTighe and Wiggins… Essential Questions: Opening the doors to student understanding. ASCD, 2013

· What do you mean by…?

· But earlier didn’t we say that…which seems to be at odds with what is being said now? Can you clarify?

· Could you give me an example to explain that?

· Can you elaborate more?

Other prompts I’ve heard participants use:

· After hearing what David had to say…?

· I want to ask the group…How do you…? Or how does your district…?

· According to the text…?

· I want to piggyback onto what Chris was saying…?