The Harkness Discussion was developed at Phillips Exeter Academy and is a student-led, focused discussion about an essential question. Everyone in the discussion participates and is responsible for making the conversation meaningful and insightful. The teacher is not involved in this discussion, just the members of the class that participate. Here are some ways that you as a discussion member can add to the conversation:
This is a team effort and everyone in the group discussion will contribute to the group grade. It’s okay for it to be silent for a little while, for people to reflect and start another train of thought. Also, be respectful of each other’s voices and presence in the discussion. You want everyone in the group to have the space to speak and to listen.
Preparing for the Discussion: Use your annotations, notes, and knowledge of the book to help you.
Discussion Questions (Week 1):
Discussion Questions (Week 2):
You may bring up other questions in the discussion, but start off with these two and see where the conversation goes! The better prepared you are the smoother the discussion can go. But have fun with this. It’s a great time to really talk about what you find interesting and important about the themes of the book.
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