Socratic Seminar
Socrates, a well-known Greek philosopher, was convinced that the
best way to learn was through discussion. A Socratic Seminar will
help you learn more about a text by examining it, creating
questions about its main points, and talking with your
classmates. By doing so, you will have a deeper understanding of
what you have read.
Seminar Steps
BEFORE THE SEMINAR:
1. Read and “mark” the text. (10 points)
2. Fill out the Socratic Seminar Prep Sheet. (20 points)
3. Fill out the Socratic Seminar Questions Sheet. (20 points)
DURING THE SEMINAR:
1. Have text, prep sheet, and questions sheet out on your desk.
2. Participate in the discussion – ask questions, share opinions, cite evidence to prove your
point! (30 points)
AFTER THE SEMINAR:
1. Complete the Socratic Seminar Debriefing Sheet. (20 points)
The underlined papers must be stapled and turned in using the order above.
Socratic Seminar Prep Sheet
Article Title:
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Step 1: Read the text. Mark it using a pen, pencil, or highlighter. Use the
handout to help you.
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Step 2: Summarize the text below (5-7 sentences; correct paragraph format).
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Step 3: Write down three quotes, facts, or phrases that you found
interesting, important, or just caught your attention.
Page #:
Quote, Fact, or Phrase:
Socratic Seminar Questions Sheet
Level 1: Comprehension
Questions
Level 2: Interpretative Questions
(Critical Thinking – Require
Textual Evidence to Answer)
Level 3: Application Questions
(Critical Thinking – Connect Text
to Outside World)
Use one of the following
question stems:
Use one of the following
question stems:
Use one of the following
question stems:
- In your own words, can you
state…
- Explain how…
- Imagine…
- Explain why…
- What would happen if…?
- Can you describe…
- Explain the reasons why…
- Is there a better solution to…?
- Can you defend your
opinion/position…
- Compare and contrast…
- How would you feel if…?
- Can you summarize…?
- Connect and explain…
- If you could create a solution…?
- Can you provide an example
of…?
- What was the problem with…?
- How many ways can you…?
- Can you explain what must
have happened when…?
- Level 1: ______________________________________________________________________
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- Level 2: ______________________________________________________________________
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- Level 3: ______________________________________________________________________
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