Activity 6A: Corpulosity: Let’s Talk! (Hosting a Socratic Conversation about Obesity) Topic: Obesity Part of: Unit: Corpulosity: A Study of Obesity

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Keywords

obesity, Socratic Conversation, idea, opinion, discussion

Search Curricular Keywords

Key Concepts

Socratic seminar, obesity

Process Skills

listening, reviewing critically, synthesizing information, reading for understanding, group skills

Intended Grade Level - 6-12

Objectives

Using current articles about issues related to obesity, students will be able to:

• Discuss topics presented in the articles.
• Participate in a Socratic Conversation.
• Support and/or question ideas and opinions presented by other participants.
• Synthesize ideas presented into deeper understanding of obesity topics.
• Provide evidence for ideas/opinions expressed during discussion.

Activity Description

An excellent way to help students clarify their opinions and to gain insight into the ideas and/or opinions of others is to host a Socratic-style conversation. The issue of diabetes in our modern society offers many interesting topics for such discussion. Use the suggested references for the basis of your discussion or others you might have at your disposal and Let’s Talk!

Activity Materials

• 1 Copy of each article used in the Socratic Conversation

Activity Management Suggestions

In this activity, resources are provided for those who have never hosted a Socratic Conversation; however, the best way to learn is to participate in actual discussions to get the feel for the process.

Modifications

Allow students needing assistance to go over the text readings in advance and allow them to use highlighted articles so they can find important points easily.

Extensions

Ask students to research new articles that could be used in a Socratic Conversation.

References Used

Socratic Seminar Skills http://www.mcps.k12.md.us/schools/wjhs/depts/socialst/ams/
Skills/SocraticSeminar/SocraticSeminarIntro.html

Facilitating Thoughtful Dialogue http://www.greece.k12.ny.us/instruction/ela/SocraticSeminars/
facilitatingthoughtfuldialogue.htm

Avid Socratic Seminar
http://www.maxlow.net/avid/socsem/socraticseminars.html

Socratic Dialogue
http://www.journeytoexcellence.org/practice/instruction/
theories/miscideas/socratic/

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