Socratic Seminar

We learned about the Socratic Seminar and using it to teach in the classroom.  In this method, teachers involve the students by asking questions that require detailed answers. In an ideal situation, the answers to questions will generate a response from the other students and will create further analysis and research. The goal of the Socratic Method is to help student’s process information and develop a deeper understanding of the topic. Socratic teaching engages students in dialogue and discussion that is open-minded.
In the Socratic Seminar, teachers create open-ended questions about the subject and encourage students to use evidence to support their opinions. The teacher uses questions to guide discussion. It is acknowledging the idea that all new understanding is linked to prior knowledge.

I thought this was a very engaging way to teach and required all of the students to be involved.  I think that this method would be more successful in older grades, where they understand the importance of giving their attention and respect to those that are speaking.  I also think that older kids will benefit a little more because it requires deeper thinking and analyzing of the topics being discussed.