Discussing Mindset

Aim: How do we prepare for a Socratic Seminar?

Quick Write: Gather all your notes and materials on mindset. Analyze the graphic to the right. For your Quick Write, compose at least two essential (open-ended) questions for discussion about mindset. Remember: open-ended questions cannot be answered with one word. The best open-ended questions begin with "why" or "how." Why do you think this is so? ;-)

Socratic seminars are inspired by the philosopher Socrates' belief in the power of questions to fuel learning. In his view, questions are more important than facts and discussion is more productive than debate.

The guidelines for Socratic seminars are posted on this blog as a page. We also have hard copies available in the classroom.

Final Reflection: Write at least two paragraph reflecting on today's Socratic Seminar. In your first paragraph, you should reflect upon what was the most interesting comment and why? What could have improved the discussion? For your second paragraph, think about how participation should be graded? How can we measure critical thinking and effort and convert it into a quantitative score? Think about what exemplary critical thinking and effort looks like. Remember: you are responsible for completing whatever you do not finish in class as homework.

Standards
   CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.11-12.6 Use technology, including the Internet, to produce, publish, and update individual or shared writing products in response to ongoing feedback, including new arguments or information.
   CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.11-12.1 Initiate and participate effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one,  in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grades 11–12 topics, texts, and issues, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly and persuasively.

CCSS.ELALiteracy.W.11-12.4 Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.