The Role of the Discussion Leader
If a teacher has invited you to lead a conversation in his or her classroom, here are some tips for effectively leading a lively discussion.

A discussion leader:

• Serves as a facilitator rather than a lecturer.
• Remains impartial, shows respect for all opinions, and does not try to influence the outcome of the discussion.
• Creates opportunities for everyone to speak.
• Helps students look for common ground, but avoids pushing for a consensus.
• Keeps the conversation moving and on track by occasionally summarizing points and bringing the discussion back to the topic if it wanders unproductively.
• Raises views that have not been considered by the group.
• Asks questions that challenge old assumptions.
• Deals quickly with any problems that arise and, if a ground rule is broken, asks the group to help re-establish the rules.

Setting Ground Rules for Student Participation
Here are some suggested ground rules that you can consider for your classroom to help the conversation stay focused and civil.

You might also ask student to help formulate a set of rules. We suggest that you write the ground rules on a large sheet of paper, post them where they can be seen, and keep the rules visible during the conversations.

The ground rules might include the following:

• All students will show respect for the views expressed by others.
• Although a frank exchange of conflicting views can be fruitful, the dialogue will be conducted within the boundaries of a civil conversation.
• Speakers will be brief. No one will monopolize the conversation. The teacher will ensure that all who wish to speak have a chance to express their views.
• Comments will be directed to the group as a whole rather than to the teacher.
• Disagreements will not become personal; name-calling and shouting are not acceptable.
• Students will not interrupt when others are expressing their views. If needed, the group can establish a mechanism (e.g., raising hands) to enable everyone to speak or respond to someone else's comments.

Sample Questions to Keep the Discussion on Track
Here are some questions that will help keep the ball rolling once you've started:

• What are the advantages and disadvantages of looking at the issue that way?
• What seems to be the key issue here?
• Would someone like to give another view?
• What other aspects of the issue should we be aware of?
• What do you find convincing about that viewpoint?
• Has anyone had a personal experience in dealing with this issue?
• What do you think people who hold that opinion care deeply about?
• Are there any points on which most of us would agree?
• Could you tell us the reasons behind your opinion?

Don't let one or two people do all the talking. To involve others in the discussion, you might say:

• That's a good point, and I see that someone else wants to respond to it.
• Let's get back to the first point you made. Does anyone want to respond to that? (Repeat the point.)
• We've heard opinions from one perspective. Who would like to express another view?

If the discussion strays, get it back on track by saying something like "I wonder how this relates to our major concern?" or "That's interesting, but I think we need to get back to our main focus."