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Getting Started with Great Books in the Classroom
A Tutorial for K-12 Educators

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1. JGB in Action

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Discussion Tips

Click on a tip from the list below. Details will appear to the right.

Listen carefully

Leading discussion is all about listening, being actively engaged and attentive to your students.

Try not to be so concerned about what to ask next that you miss what is being said. Remember you want to follow their ideas and insights. Pay close attention to the wording of comments; the exact phrasing students use might suggest subtle differences of opinion.

Being open and curious about the question under discussion helps you listen to the ideas and answers students do raise, rather than being frustrated when they don't tell you what you want to hear.

Listening intently also shows your students that their thoughts and comments are valuable.

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Copyright 2005 - The Great Books Foundation
Getting Started with Great Books in the Classroom

Key traits for a discussion leader:

  • Listen
  • Be curious
  • Ask

    The best introduction to Shared Inquiry and using Junior Great Books is the Basic Leader Training Course.
    More on JGB training...