Group work using a socratic approach
Fatma Miotti from School C has made extensive use of a Socratic approach to teaching speaking and listening. The layout of the classroom is crucial to the success of this approach and requires a central group of tables for the discussion group with the remainder of the class seated around the room. Each pupil observing is assigned a particular pupil or aspect of discussion for the focus of their observations. In this way each pupil in the discussion group will have several 'observers' during the discussion. The observers are provided with guidance for their observations. An important feature is that the pupils are aware that they will all have a turn as part of the discussion group in later lessons.
At the end of the discussion activity, the teacher leads an evaluation where the observers are invited to comment on the contributions 'their' pupil has made to the discussion. As well as providing a valuable opportunity for pupils to reflect on their own contribution to the discussion there is a very clear strengthening of the quality of discussion in the class.
Activity
Watch the video clip of the Socratic discussion. Note how the teacher, Fatma Miotti, ensures that the observing pupils have a clear focus for their observations.
School C, Year 11 - Group Work Using a Socratic Approach (01:50)
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Transcript (24 KB)
With a colleague consider the advantages this approach offers.
Now watch the interview with Fatma Miotti and Headteacher Andy Buck at School C where they describe the advantages of the approach.
School C, Teacher - Group Work Using a Socratic Approach (01:38)
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Transcript (22 KB)
Compare your thoughts with the advantages featured in the interview.
How could you support the teacher in a seminar approach?
How could you support or reinforce the learning of individual or groups of pupils during or after a seminar approach?
Further resources
The Speaking and Listening improvement matrix has further suggestions of ways to approach the teaching of effective group work.
Speaking and Listening improvement matrix