Lesson 2: Presentation and Socratic Discussion
Duration of Days: 1
Lesson Objective
Students will be able to present findings and engage in a peer-led discussion to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of different viewpoints.
How do different viewpoints reflect the values of their proponents?
What evidence is most persuasive in this debate?
CT SS Inq. 9–12.4: Communicate conclusions and take informed action.
CT SS Civ. 9–12.14: Analyze how individuals and groups can effect change.
1. Presentation: The assigned student group delivers their presentation (History, Perspectives, Visuals, Citations).
2. Discussion: Students engage in a structured Socratic Seminar or Debate based on the inquiry questions.
3. Q&A: Presenters field questions from their peers and the teacher.
Purpose: To practice public speaking, active listening, and civil discourse in a "safe and structured environment."
DOK Level: 3 (Strategic Reasoning) & 4 (Extended Thinking).
Use "Discussion Sentence Starters" for students who need support in verbalizing arguments; allow for written participation (e.g., via a digital "Backchannel" like Padlet).
Presentation Rubric (for presenters) and a Discussion Participation Log (for the audience).