SOCRATIC SEMINAR #2: The Death Penalty
SOCRATIC SEMINAR #1: Guns, Violence, and Empathy
Below, you will find links to a variety of resources that will help you prepare for our first Socratic Seminar. The article handed out in class is also available, along with a link to more information about the Narrative Four project.
National Rifle Association
Visit the NRA's site to learn more about their mission and purpose.
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CNN: Gun Violence (2015)
CNN published a series of charts and graphs on gun violence in the U.S.; does not include incidents since 2015.
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Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence
The LCPGV examines gun laws and policies that work and advocates reducing gun violence while supporting the 2nd-ammendment.
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Semi---what?
On assigned Wednesdays, you will take the lead and guide our discussions through Socratic Seminar. These classes will be worth double points for participation AND you will earn points for written responses via Google Classroom and writings completed in preparation for each session. We will discuss grading and the structure of the seminar on October 4th – so your attendance is crucial.
What’s the purpose of a Socratic Seminar?
The purpose of a Socratic Seminar is to achieve a deeper understanding about the ideas and values that surface our readings. In the Seminar, YOU will systematically question and examine issues and principles related to a particular content, and articulate different points-of-view. The group conversation assists participants in constructing meaning through disciplined analysis, interpretation, listening, and participation. During each Seminar, you will spend half the session listening, and half engaging in discussion. Socratic Seminars are NOT about showcasing what you know and they are NOT about proving others wrong; The idea is that you enter each discussion prepared with your own ideas but open to what others may have found in their explorations.
And the background?
In a Socratic Seminar, the STUDENTS carry the burden of responsibility for the quality of the discussion. Good discussions occur when students READ the text closely in advance, LISTEN actively, SHARE their ideas and questions in response to the ideas and questions of others, and SEARCH for evidence in the text to support their ideas. The discussion is not about right answers; it is not a debate. Students are encouraged to think out loud and to exchange ideas openly while examining ideas in a rigorous, thoughtful, manner.
Google Classroom/Class web site
Using our Google Classroom and this web site, we will share ideas about our texts and weekly Seminars. I will post articles and links that will enhance your understanding for each Seminar and enable you to earn extra credit and make up for absences or work.