<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" xmlns:georss="http://www.georss.org/georss" xmlns:geo="http://www.w3.org/2003/01/geo/wgs84_pos#" > <channel> <title>class discussions Archives - Big Ideas for Little Scholars</title> <atom:link href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/tag/class-discussions/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/tag/class-discussions/</link> <description>Resources for Gifted and Advanced Learners</description> <lastBuildDate>Thu, 08 Feb 2024 18:09:40 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1</generator> <image> <url>https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/cropped-Screen-Shot-2019-11-08-at-2.10.24-PM-4.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1</url> <title>class discussions Archives - Big Ideas for Little Scholars</title> <link>https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/tag/class-discussions/</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <site xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">168886423</site> <item> <title>Quiet Conversations: 3 Ways to Hold a Silent Dialogue</title> <link>https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/quiet-conversations-3-ways-to-hold-a-silent-dialogue/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=quiet-conversations-3-ways-to-hold-a-silent-dialogue</link> <comments>https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/quiet-conversations-3-ways-to-hold-a-silent-dialogue/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Donna Lasher]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 02 Nov 2021 16:18:55 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[UNCATEGORIZED]]></category> <category><![CDATA[class discussions]]></category> <category><![CDATA[gifted elementary]]></category> <category><![CDATA[gifted middle school]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Socratic dialogue]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/?p=9897</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The closer we get to the holidays, the higher the noise level in the classroom it seems! Some days everyone in the room is relieved to have some quiet moments. Here are some ways to facilitate dialogues and discussions with added benefits for you, the teacher: (1) everyone is engaged 100% of the time; (2) ... <a title="Quiet Conversations: 3 Ways to Hold a Silent Dialogue" class="read-more" href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/quiet-conversations-3-ways-to-hold-a-silent-dialogue/" aria-label="Read more about Quiet Conversations: 3 Ways to Hold a Silent Dialogue">Read more</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/quiet-conversations-3-ways-to-hold-a-silent-dialogue/">Quiet Conversations: 3 Ways to Hold a Silent Dialogue</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com">Big Ideas for Little Scholars</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignright size-full is-resized"><img data-recalc-dims="1" fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" src="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Conversation-quote.jpg?resize=447%2C190&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6654" width="447" height="190" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Conversation-quote.jpg?w=740&ssl=1 740w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Conversation-quote.jpg?resize=300%2C128&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Conversation-quote.jpg?resize=24%2C10&ssl=1 24w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Conversation-quote.jpg?resize=36%2C15&ssl=1 36w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Conversation-quote.jpg?resize=48%2C20&ssl=1 48w" sizes="(max-width: 447px) 100vw, 447px" /></figure></div> <p>The closer we get to the holidays, the higher the noise level in the classroom it seems! Some days everyone in the room is relieved to have some quiet moments. </p> <p><strong><span style="color:#7225d7" class="has-inline-color">Here are some ways to facilitate dialogues and discussions with added benefits for you, the teacher: </span></strong>(1) everyone is engaged 100% of the time; (2) students are often more thoughtful in their responses to others, (3) you can participate in the dialogue, and (4) at the end of the dialogue, you have something tangible to read and evaluate.</p> <div style="height:2px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><strong><span style="color:#116c93" class="has-inline-color">ROUND ROBIN JOURNALS</span></strong></p> <p>I have heard of round-robin story writing, but it was the professor of one of my graduate classes who introduced me to the idea of sharing ideas and reflections by passing a group journal from person to person in a class. </p> <p>I modified the idea and tried it with my 5th graders<strong>. We used <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0062TNFP0/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0062TNFP0&linkCode=as2&tag=bi4ls101-20&linkId=f8bb1753aac873804a2afd1880e7ad99" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brightly colored notebook paper </a>and students shared by passing a single sheet of paper.</strong> One of my favorite RR journaling activities was one we did while reading <em>The Giver</em>. At the beginning of the novel, I had students respond to the following: <em>Choose one rule to write about. Discuss why you think the community has that rule and what you think about it.</em> (At this point, students were not aware of the dystopian elements). Of course, you can have students respond to any prompt.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignleft size-large is-resized"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" src="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/IMG_8943.jpg?resize=326%2C299&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-9949" width="326" height="299" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/IMG_8943.jpg?resize=1024%2C939&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/IMG_8943.jpg?resize=300%2C275&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/IMG_8943.jpg?resize=768%2C704&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/IMG_8943.jpg?resize=1536%2C1408&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/IMG_8943.jpg?resize=2048%2C1877&ssl=1 2048w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/IMG_8943.jpg?resize=24%2C22&ssl=1 24w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/IMG_8943.jpg?resize=36%2C33&ssl=1 36w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/IMG_8943.jpg?resize=48%2C44&ssl=1 48w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/IMG_8943.jpg?w=1710&ssl=1 1710w" sizes="(max-width: 326px) 100vw, 326px" /></figure></div> <p>To begin, pass out one sheet of paper to each student.<strong> Students write their names at the top of the page and a response to your prompt. </strong>After 3-5 minutes, the papers are passed in an orderly fashion. </p> <p>For the next 2 minutes or so, <strong>students read the paper they’ve received</strong> (silently). Then, they have another 3-5 minutes to <strong>write a thoughtful response to what they read</strong> using the same norms we use in Socractic dialogue (see <strong><em><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/conversations-with-class-introducing-socratic-dialogue-to-younger-scholars/" target="_blank">Conversations with Class ~ Introducing Socratic Dialogue to Young Scholars</a></em></strong>). Before passing, students<strong> write their names or initials next to what they’ve written.</strong></p> <p>Papers are passed again, but this time students need 3-5 minutes to read both of the previous entries. When they are finished, they again respond to what they’ve read and add their own ideas and thoughts.</p> <p><strong>I found a good limit was four entries. Each time papers are passed, students need a few more minutes to read</strong> <strong>previous entries</strong> before writing their own responses.</p> <p>The students also love it if you sit down at an empty student desk and participate! </p> <div style="height:7px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><span style="color:#116c93" class="has-inline-color"><strong>TABLETOP TALKS</strong></span></p> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignright size-full is-resized"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" src="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Screen-Shot-2021-10-29-at-1.27.56-PM.png?resize=320%2C320&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-9929" width="320" height="320" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Screen-Shot-2021-10-29-at-1.27.56-PM.png?w=288&ssl=1 288w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Screen-Shot-2021-10-29-at-1.27.56-PM.png?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Screen-Shot-2021-10-29-at-1.27.56-PM.png?resize=24%2C24&ssl=1 24w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Screen-Shot-2021-10-29-at-1.27.56-PM.png?resize=36%2C36&ssl=1 36w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Screen-Shot-2021-10-29-at-1.27.56-PM.png?resize=48%2C48&ssl=1 48w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" /><figcaption>Courtesy of T. Motil</figcaption></figure></div> <p><strong>Students get to move when prompts are set out on tabletops and they circulate to write </strong>their responses. Two benefits are (1) you can present more than one prompt, and (2) students can return to each table to see what responses were added. </p> <p>Many teachers have students use <em>Sharpie® </em>paint pens or markers to write directly on the desks or tables. Rubbing alcohol removes most inks. I often just taped colored bulletin board paper to the tables and had students use regular thin-colored markers.</p> <p>Consider how structured or unstructured the dialogue should be. I usually had two rules: (1) no talking, only writing, and (2) respond to all prompts.</p> <p>If you use paper, you can cut apart the responses and post them on the front board for further discussion.</p> <div style="height:7px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><strong><span style="color:#116c93" class="has-inline-color">DIGITAL DIALOGUE</span></strong></p> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignleft size-full is-resized"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Screen-Shot-2021-11-01-at-9.06.23-PM.png?resize=384%2C317&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-9951" width="384" height="317" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Screen-Shot-2021-11-01-at-9.06.23-PM.png?w=360&ssl=1 360w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Screen-Shot-2021-11-01-at-9.06.23-PM.png?resize=300%2C247&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Screen-Shot-2021-11-01-at-9.06.23-PM.png?resize=24%2C20&ssl=1 24w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Screen-Shot-2021-11-01-at-9.06.23-PM.png?resize=36%2C30&ssl=1 36w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Screen-Shot-2021-11-01-at-9.06.23-PM.png?resize=48%2C39&ssl=1 48w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 384px) 100vw, 384px" /><figcaption>Source: <a href="https://en.linoit.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">linoit.com</a></figcaption></figure></div> <p><strong>There’s nothing novel these days about conducting silent dialogues in web-based platforms</strong> such as <em>Google Classroom</em> or <em>Edmodo</em>. When I did this years ago, though, the students considered it a novel treat. They loved that they could “get all their thoughts out” as opposed to our verbal dialogues, when there was only so much time we could devote to “back-and-forths.” </p> <p>To facilitate better discussions, create small groups (or classes) in the platform. During the discussion, you can pop into each group and participate. </p> <p><strong><em><a href="https://padlet.com/premium/backpack" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Padlet </a></em></strong>or <strong><a href="https://en.linoit.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Linoit</em></a></strong> can also be used to facilitate silent discussions.</p> <p>If you have other ideas for conducting silent or very quiet dialogues, please share! Your comments below are welcome.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/quiet-conversations-3-ways-to-hold-a-silent-dialogue/">Quiet Conversations: 3 Ways to Hold a Silent Dialogue</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com">Big Ideas for Little Scholars</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/quiet-conversations-3-ways-to-hold-a-silent-dialogue/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">9897</post-id> </item> <item> <title>CONVERSATIONS with CLASS ~ Introducing Socratic Dialogue to Younger Scholars</title> <link>https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/conversations-with-class-introducing-socratic-dialogue-to-younger-scholars/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=conversations-with-class-introducing-socratic-dialogue-to-younger-scholars</link> <comments>https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/conversations-with-class-introducing-socratic-dialogue-to-younger-scholars/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Donna Lasher]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 16 Jan 2021 13:29:59 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[UNCATEGORIZED]]></category> <category><![CDATA[class discussions]]></category> <category><![CDATA[elementary gifted]]></category> <category><![CDATA[gifted education]]></category> <category><![CDATA[gifted literature]]></category> <category><![CDATA[philosophy for kids]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Socratic circle]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Socratic dialogue]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Socratic Seminar]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/?p=5781</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Giggles, giggles, and more giggles. Students are often nervous the first time they circle up to participate in a formal Socratic dialogue. In a previous post, I discussed many different approaches to facilitating meaningful student dialogue including Shared Inquiry and Philosophical Chairs. Here are some ideas that can help you introduce student-led dialgoue, as well ... <a title="CONVERSATIONS with CLASS ~ Introducing Socratic Dialogue to Younger Scholars" class="read-more" href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/conversations-with-class-introducing-socratic-dialogue-to-younger-scholars/" aria-label="Read more about CONVERSATIONS with CLASS ~ Introducing Socratic Dialogue to Younger Scholars">Read more</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/conversations-with-class-introducing-socratic-dialogue-to-younger-scholars/">CONVERSATIONS with CLASS ~ Introducing Socratic Dialogue to Younger Scholars</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com">Big Ideas for Little Scholars</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="alignleft size-large is-resized"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="150" height="150" src="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Socratic-Circle-003-19hmank-150x150-1.jpg?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6662" style="width:332px;height:332px" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Socratic-Circle-003-19hmank-150x150-1.jpg?w=150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Socratic-Circle-003-19hmank-150x150-1.jpg?resize=24%2C24&ssl=1 24w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Socratic-Circle-003-19hmank-150x150-1.jpg?resize=36%2C36&ssl=1 36w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Socratic-Circle-003-19hmank-150x150-1.jpg?resize=48%2C48&ssl=1 48w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px" /></figure></div> <p><mark style="background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#116c93" class="has-inline-color"><strong>Giggles, giggles, and more giggles</strong>.</mark> Students are often nervous the first time they circle up to participate in a formal Socratic dialogue. </p> <p>In <strong><a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/classroom-conversations-video-prompted-dialogue/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>a previous post</em></a></strong>, I discussed many different approaches to facilitating meaningful student dialogue<strong> including <em><a href="https://www.greatbooks.org/nonprofit-organization/what-is-shared-inquiry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shared Inquiry</a></em> </strong>and<strong> <em><a href="https://www.edutopia.org/article/framework-whole-class-discussions" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philosophical Chairs</a></em>.</strong> </p> <p><strong><span style="color:#116c93" class="has-inline-color">Here are some ideas that can help you <em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">introdu</span></em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>c</em>e</span> </span></strong> <strong><span style="color:#0071a1" class="has-inline-color">student-led dialgoue</span></strong>, as well as some activities you can do with younger students to encourage active listening and the use of precise language.</p> <p></p> <p><strong><span class="has-inline-color has-vivid-purple-color">GUIDELINES FOR DIALOGUE</span></strong></p> <p><strong>Before each discussion, it helps to </strong><a href="https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1TcjgbsNtqXPuzFhHI6kP4tsF6WEndeyTD_CQM-qBfK8/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>review some</strong> <strong>basic guidelines</strong></a>. I developed these over time after facilitating many types of dialogues with students. You can <strong><a href="https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1TcjgbsNtqXPuzFhHI6kP4tsF6WEndeyTD_CQM-qBfK8/copy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">make your own copy HERE</a></strong>. With a quick search, you can find additional ideas for guidelines. Find what works best for you and your students.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><a href="https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1TcjgbsNtqXPuzFhHI6kP4tsF6WEndeyTD_CQM-qBfK8/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="855" height="481" src="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Socratic-Dialogue.jpg?resize=855%2C481&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6780" style="width:785px;height:442px" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Socratic-Dialogue.jpg?w=960&ssl=1 960w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Socratic-Dialogue.jpg?resize=300%2C169&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Socratic-Dialogue.jpg?resize=768%2C432&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Socratic-Dialogue.jpg?resize=24%2C14&ssl=1 24w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Socratic-Dialogue.jpg?resize=36%2C20&ssl=1 36w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Socratic-Dialogue.jpg?resize=48%2C27&ssl=1 48w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 855px) 100vw, 855px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><strong><mark style="background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#116c93" class="has-inline-color"><a href="https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1TcjgbsNtqXPuzFhHI6kP4tsF6WEndeyTD_CQM-qBfK8/copy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CREATE YOUR OWN GUIDELINES USING THIS EDITABLE PRESENTATION</a></mark></strong></figcaption></figure> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-css-opacity"/> <p><strong><span class="has-inline-color has-vivid-purple-color">OUR FIRST CONVERSATIONS</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#116c93" class="has-inline-color">These introductory conversations centered around just one question</span></strong>. In subsequent conversations, we discussed poetry, texts, speeches, and additional philosophical questions. To keep it simple, we referred to all of our student-led “circle discussions” as Socratic dialogue. </p> <p><strong><span style="color:#116c93" class="has-inline-color"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">THIRD GRADE</span></span></strong></p> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="855" height="570" src="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/car-5816833_1920.png?resize=855%2C570&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6652" style="width:357px;height:237px" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/car-5816833_1920.png?resize=1024%2C683&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/car-5816833_1920.png?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/car-5816833_1920.png?resize=768%2C512&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/car-5816833_1920.png?resize=1536%2C1024&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/car-5816833_1920.png?resize=24%2C16&ssl=1 24w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/car-5816833_1920.png?resize=36%2C24&ssl=1 36w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/car-5816833_1920.png?resize=48%2C32&ssl=1 48w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/car-5816833_1920.png?w=1920&ssl=1 1920w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/car-5816833_1920.png?w=1710&ssl=1 1710w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 855px) 100vw, 855px" /></figure></div> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">THE QUESTION</span></strong>: <strong><span style="color:#565b5d" class="has-inline-color">“WHAT IF ALL CARS WERE YELLOW?” </span></strong></p> <p>Yes, that question always brought on the giggles. It originates from a <strong><a href="https://www.cortthinking.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CoRT Thinking</a></strong> lesson in the <strong><a href="https://www.cortthinking.com/teach-thinking-your-classroom" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CoRT kits</a></strong> our district had purchased for all GT classrooms. </p> <p><strong>The fact that the question seems silly is partly the reason it promotes critical thinking!</strong> When students get over their initial surprise and begin to consider it as a serious proposal, <strong>they consider all kinds of scenarios and possibilities</strong>. It helps them realize it’s easy to make snap judgments of new or unusual ideas.</p> <p>Rather than describe how it went, <strong><a href="http://blogs.neisd.net/dlashe/2012/11/02/our-socratic-dialogue-by-hareem-m/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">I’ll let my former student, Hareem, explain it.</a></strong> I’m grateful that Hareem chose to write a post for our class blog about our first Socratic dialogue! You can <strong>find additional PMI questions from CoRT</strong> <strong><a href="https://www.debono.com/de-bono-thinking-lessons-1/1.-pmi-lesson-workcard" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">at this link</a></strong>. Also, find <strong><a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/thinkers-toolbox-a-big-idea-for-students-and-teachers-alike/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other CoRT resources HERE</a></strong>.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="740" height="316" src="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Conversation-quote.jpg?resize=740%2C316&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6654" style="width:468px;height:200px" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Conversation-quote.jpg?w=740&ssl=1 740w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Conversation-quote.jpg?resize=300%2C128&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Conversation-quote.jpg?resize=24%2C10&ssl=1 24w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Conversation-quote.jpg?resize=36%2C15&ssl=1 36w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Conversation-quote.jpg?resize=48%2C20&ssl=1 48w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 740px) 100vw, 740px" /></figure></div> <div style="height:10px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><strong><span style="color:#116c93" class="has-inline-color"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">FOURTH ~ FIFTH GRADE</span></span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">THE QUESTION</span></strong>: “SHOULD YOU ALWAYS LISTEN TO THE OPINIONS OF OTHERS?”</p> <p><strong>This question laid a foundation for good communication and mutual respect.</strong> Sometimes I used it in fourth and sometimes in fifth; it varied from year to year. You can find a more comprehensive lesson in the book <strong><em><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1882664701/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1882664701&linkCode=as2&tag=bi4ls101-20&linkId=6f37241415b42e1ba29dc125b06f66cd" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philosophy for Kids</a></em></strong> (read more <strong><a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/philosophy-for-kids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HERE</a></strong>). </p> <p>Before the dialogue, I defined <strong>“an opinion”</strong> as “a viewpoint, thought, or idea about something or someone.” Then, students were given the opportunity to discuss their ideas in smaller groups. <strong>Strategies such as “four corners” can put students more at ease and build confidence </strong>for the larger group discussion. <strong><a href="http://blogs.neisd.net/dlashe/2011/11/02/socratic-dialogue-by-emma/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HERE</a></strong> <strong>is a brief description of how the dialogue went </strong>written by another former student, Emma. </p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">ALTERNATE QUESTION</span></strong>: “SHOULD U.S. SCHOOLS ADOPT A YEAR-ROUND CALENDAR?”</p> <p><strong>This question is not as philosophical, but it’s perfect for introducing another fun strategy</strong>. If most of your students have had experience with student-led dialogue, <strong><span style="color:#116c93" class="has-inline-color">try adding another element: <em>multiple perspectives</em>.</span></strong> Assign roles (e.g. principal, theme park owner, parent, etc.) and have students think and dialogue from the perspective of their assigned role. After the dialogue, <strong>have students guess the roles</strong> that everyone had assumed! <strong>Kim Von Kaenel</strong> commented on <strong><a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/six-hat-thinking/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">this post</a></strong> that she uses this same strategy with her 5th-grade students and <strong>Six-Hat Thinking</strong>.</p> <p><strong><span class="has-inline-color has-vivid-purple-color">LOWER PRIMARY GRADES</span></strong></p> <p><mark style="background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#565b5d" class="has-inline-color"><strong>“Circle time” discussions that revolve around stories</strong></mark> are common in<strong> K-2 classrooms</strong>, but conversations<strong> <mark style="background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#116c93" class="has-inline-color">can be designed to prepare younger students for more formal dialogues later</mark></strong>.</p> <p><mark style="background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#116c93" class="has-inline-color"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>KINDERGARTEN ~ FIRST GRADE</strong></span></mark></p> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0140546685/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0140546685&linkCode=as2&tag=bi4ls101-20&linkId=5e562d5f5f128da4e4e75bce6d5e5867" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="482" height="408" src="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Screen-Shot-2021-01-15-at-10.07.10-PM.png?resize=482%2C408&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6673" style="width:410px;height:347px" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Screen-Shot-2021-01-15-at-10.07.10-PM.png?w=482&ssl=1 482w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Screen-Shot-2021-01-15-at-10.07.10-PM.png?resize=300%2C254&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Screen-Shot-2021-01-15-at-10.07.10-PM.png?resize=24%2C20&ssl=1 24w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Screen-Shot-2021-01-15-at-10.07.10-PM.png?resize=36%2C30&ssl=1 36w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Screen-Shot-2021-01-15-at-10.07.10-PM.png?resize=48%2C41&ssl=1 48w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 482px) 100vw, 482px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><strong><a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/thank-you-for-using-amazon-affiliate-links/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AFFILIATE LINK ~ READ MORE</a></strong></figcaption></figure></div> <p>At the start of each GT class, the<strong> kinder and first-grade students always gathered on the rug in front of my small bookshelf</strong>. We usually read a book that corresponded with our activities for that day. <strong>This was the ideal time to reinforce <em>active listening</em> and <em>critical thinking</em>.</strong></p> <p><strong>During the first few weeks, we played games that encouraged careful listening. One example is based on the book <em><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0140546685/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0140546685&linkCode=as2&tag=bi4ls101-20&linkId=5e562d5f5f128da4e4e75bce6d5e5867" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">A, My Name is Alice</a></em></strong> and is explained <strong><a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1MSH1OrgazvXforIQKlaPoJiTraL8vaXOoJu05pOTASg/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HERE</a></strong>. Another is a student-friendly version of the game <strong>Taboo</strong> to help students practice using precise language and careful listening. <strong><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Off-Limits-Game-its-just-like-Taboo-FREE-PACK-262253?st=7b685383a6a7e53258859afcbf7b26e7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HERE</a></strong> is a free version similar to mine. I had one student stand at the front of the room facing the class, while the card was projected on to the screen. The other students had to <strong>think for at least thirty seconds and come up with <span style="text-decoration: underline;">one clue</span> statement </strong>containing no “taboo” words that would result in the standing student guessing the target word <span style="text-decoration: underline;">in one guess</span>. Students became more and more skilled at this as we played it throughout the year.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="alignleft size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="227" height="300" src="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/taboo-1.jpg?resize=227%2C300&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6720" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/taboo-1.jpg?w=227&ssl=1 227w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/taboo-1.jpg?resize=18%2C24&ssl=1 18w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/taboo-1.jpg?resize=27%2C36&ssl=1 27w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/taboo-1.jpg?resize=36%2C48&ssl=1 36w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 227px) 100vw, 227px" /></figure></div> <p>As students became more controlled in their sharing and listening, we moved into informal dialogues. I found it helpful to teach students a phrase<strong> <span style="color:#116c93" class="has-inline-color">that reminded them think before speaking</span> such as <em>“</em></strong><span class="has-inline-color has-vivid-purple-color"><strong><em>CON-TEM-PLATE </em></strong></span><strong><em><span style="color:#565b5d" class="has-inline-color">then</span></em></strong><span class="has-inline-color has-vivid-purple-color"><strong><em> ARTIC-U-LATE</em></strong>!</span>” They love learning the meanings of these “big words!” </p> <p><strong>You can find many, many resources for literature-based conversations <a href="https://www.philosophyforchildren.org/resources/questions-library/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HERE</a></strong>, including one for <em><strong><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0394800788/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0394800788&linkCode=as2&tag=bi4ls101-20&linkId=5d651edd7fe38d1699b7bb67caabb758" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Horton Hears a Who</a></strong></em>. I especially love the very philosophical question <strong>“Do you have to see, hear, or touch something yourself in order to believe it’s there?”</strong> Kindergarteners and first graders can surprise you with their responses! </p> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> <iframe loading="lazy" title="Horton Hears a Who - Audio Drama" width="855" height="481" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lgPcAxkxoio?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> </div></figure> <p><strong>SECOND GRADE</strong></p> <p><strong><a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/six-hat-thinking/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Six-Hat Thinking</a></strong> is a great way to focus thinking and discussion. In second grade, it was often incorporated into our dialogues so that students could practice seeing and discussing ideas from multiple perspectives. </p> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="alignleft size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="213" height="261" src="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Screen-Shot-2021-01-21-at-2.56.08-AM.png?resize=213%2C261&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6770" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Screen-Shot-2021-01-21-at-2.56.08-AM.png?w=213&ssl=1 213w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Screen-Shot-2021-01-21-at-2.56.08-AM.png?resize=20%2C24&ssl=1 20w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Screen-Shot-2021-01-21-at-2.56.08-AM.png?resize=29%2C36&ssl=1 29w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Screen-Shot-2021-01-21-at-2.56.08-AM.png?resize=39%2C48&ssl=1 39w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 213px) 100vw, 213px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><strong><a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/thank-you-for-using-amazon-affiliate-links/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AFFILIATE LINK ~ READ MORE</a></strong></figcaption></figure></div> <p>I’ve shared a free sample lesson in my TPT store- <em><strong><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Six-Hats-Thinking-and-Cinderella-255712" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Six-Hat Thinking and Cinderella</a></strong></em>, which centers around the non-traditional Cinderella story, <strong><em><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0688131077/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0688131077&linkCode=as2&tag=bi4ls101-20&linkId=9da97ef4e88fbf23164eb0b977d9c35e" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Princess Furball</a></em></strong>. Have students discuss the princess’s options using the six thinking hats, then share what they feel is the “best” decision, giving reasons for their responses.</p> <p>Other discussions in second grade emerged from our topics of study and/or literature (e.g. <strong><a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/biomimicry-for-kids-activities-and-resources-k-3/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biomimicry</a></strong>, <strong><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1950435369/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1950435369&linkCode=as2&tag=bi4ls101-20&linkId=e052941a1d2ab6d9724e5764e2f8a246" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Journey to the Center of the Earth</em></a></strong>). We used excerpts of texts, research results, ethical questions, or student’s creative ideas as prompts for dialogue.</p> <p></p> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-css-opacity"/> <p><strong><span class="has-inline-color has-vivid-purple-color">A FEW NOTES:</span></strong></p> <p>It’s fun to <strong><span style="color:#116c93" class="has-inline-color">vary topics and approaches</span>, </strong>too. Have students respond to a video, a cartoon, a meme, or a piece of art. Have them sometimes do something prior to circling up for dialogue.<strong> </strong>If you have large classes, strategies such as <strong>think-pair-share</strong>, <strong>four-corners</strong> or <strong><a href="http://www.readwritethink.org/professional-development/strategy-guides/conducting-inner-outer-circle-31227.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">inner/outer circle</a></strong> can help students come to the larger discussion better prepared to articulate ideas.</p> <figure class="wp-block-table"><table class="has-background" style="background-color:#e7f5fe"><tbody><tr><td><strong><span class="has-inline-color has-vivid-purple-color">SPECIAL NOTE:</span></strong> As I was writing this post, I was reading the book <em><strong><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1646320077/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1646320077&linkCode=as2&tag=bi4ls101-20&linkId=f7de80d7ccad16bf8b7d7220d4b3b98e" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Thinking Like a Lawyer</a></strong></em> and I’m <a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/thinking-like-a-lawyer-teaching-students-to-think-critically/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>excited to recommend it</strong></a> highly as <strong>another fantastic resource to use in promoting critical thinking and civil discourse.</strong> The <strong><a href="https://www.thinklaw.us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">thinkLaw curriculum</a></strong> was adopted in my former school district just after I left to move to another school, and I’ve heard great things about it. You will see that it’s been added to several of our lists. Read more about thinkLaw <strong><a href="https://www.thinklaw.us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HERE</a></strong>.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1646320077/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1646320077&linkCode=as2&tag=bi4ls101-20&linkId=f7de80d7ccad16bf8b7d7220d4b3b98e" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="333" height="499" src="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/THINKLAW-1.jpg?resize=333%2C499&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6721" style="width:347px;height:519px" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/THINKLAW-1.jpg?w=333&ssl=1 333w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/THINKLAW-1.jpg?resize=200%2C300&ssl=1 200w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/THINKLAW-1.jpg?resize=16%2C24&ssl=1 16w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/THINKLAW-1.jpg?resize=24%2C36&ssl=1 24w, https://i0.wp.com/bigideas4littlescholars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/THINKLAW-1.jpg?resize=32%2C48&ssl=1 32w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 333px) 100vw, 333px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><strong><a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/thank-you-for-using-amazon-affiliate-links/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AFFILIATE LINK ~ READ MORE</a></strong></figcaption></figure></div> <p><strong>What resources do you use to promote student-led philosophical conversations? </strong> I invite you to share by adding a comment below! You may also be interested in these resources:</p> <p><strong><span class="has-inline-color has-vivid-purple-color">ADDITIONAL RESOURCES</span></strong></p> <p><strong><a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/philosophy-for-kids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philosophy for Kids ~ Wonder and Wisdom in the Classroom</a></strong></p> <p><strong><a href="https://minds-in-bloom.com/5-steps-to-successful-socratic-seminar_29/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">5 Steps to a Successful Socratic Seminar </a></strong></p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/blog-posts/angela-bunyi/higher-order-comprehension-the-power-of-socratic-seminar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Higher-Order Comprehension: The Power of Socratic Seminar</a></strong></p> <p>The post <a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/conversations-with-class-introducing-socratic-dialogue-to-younger-scholars/">CONVERSATIONS with CLASS ~ Introducing Socratic Dialogue to Younger Scholars</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bigideas4littlescholars.com">Big Ideas for Little Scholars</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://bigideas4littlescholars.com/conversations-with-class-introducing-socratic-dialogue-to-younger-scholars/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">5781</post-id> </item> </channel> </rss>