Democratic Values Socratic Seminar
DUE: Tuesday 9/8 and BLOCK 9/9-10
In a Socratic Seminar, participants seek deeper understanding of complex ideas through thoughtful dialogue and questioning of other participants – not debate. The teacher is a facilitator and observer, not the “expert”. This is the review activity for the Short Essay Written test (on block 9/9-9/10)
General Format of Socratic Seminar:
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About a third of the class will sit in the center of the room in a circle for about 20/25 minutes.
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Each group will discuss the Seminar Questions listed below. You will not know what question you will get, but your group will have the ability to switch the question if you choose.
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When you are not in the center discussion circle, be attentive and take notes.
Guidelines for Participants in a Socratic Seminar
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Refer to prepared notes during the seminar.
Using your notes, cite evidence and reasons for your statements.
 Build your conversation off of what others’ say. Ask other participants questions to clarify their ideas.
Be aware and polite. This is part of a cooperative conversation.
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Follow proper listening & speaking techniques (ex: eye contact, posture, clear voice, wait your turn etc)
Take turns speaking (you should not have to raise your hands).
Assessment of Socratic Seminar (Part of “Projects” Category for Gradebook)
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Preparatory Notes (10 points) o Include relevant details (facts) as well as opinions (analysis) relating to all seminar questions o Incorporate ideas from text reading, in class work, articles and own opinions/experiences
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Participation in Seminar (10 points) o Participate in your own voice – do not just read from notes. o Provide evidence-based arguments and be cooperative in your conversation. o Be curious and attentive to rest of group. Be both a speaker and listener.
Seminar Discussion Questions
Was the Greek city-state or the Roman Republic more democratic?
Why?
Why do the ancient Greek city-state and Roman Republic matter today?
Does belief in monotheistic religion help or hinder the growth of democracy? Why?
Is it ever better to allow a smaller group of people in a society to make important policies for everyone without having a vote? Why/Why Not?
Is democracy the best way to govern a society? Why/Why Not?

Articles to read for background and help in doing Preparatory Notes http://classroom.synonym.com/differences-between-democracy-republic-ancient-times-
9149.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Athenian_democracy http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Democratic_elements_of_Roman_Republic https://www.humanities.uci.edu/history/ucihp/resources/10th%20grade%20curriculum/pri mary%20source%20activity%2010.1.pdf
http://www.buzzle.com/articles/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-democracy.html
http://www.debate.org/opinions/is-democracy-the-best-form-of-government