The 10-Minute Socratic Lead
From “What Happened” to “Why It Matters”
Strategic Overview
Leading a Socratic discussion is not about having the answers; it’s about asking the right questions at the right time. This dashboard breaks down a strict **10-minute protocol** designed to guide a group from superficial observation to deep thematic synthesis. The charts below visualize the critical balance of time and the intended trajectory of intellectual depth.
Time Allocation Strategy
How to spend your limited 10 minutes. Note the emphasis on **Evidence** and **Challenge**.
Key Insight:
60% of the discussion (Minutes 1-7) is dedicated to grounding arguments in text and challenging assumptions. Don’t rush the middle!
The Arc of Intensity
Target intellectual depth over the 10-minute session.
Key Insight:
Start broad, dive deep into specifics (Min 4), and rise back up for a synthesis (Min 8). The synthesis is the intellectual peak.
The Discussion Roadmap
A minute-by-minute play to ensure the conversation moves forward.
The Hook & Core Question
Min 0:00 – 1:00State the central, provocative question. Get quick-fire responses.
Textual Evidence & Clarification
Min 1:00 – 4:00Push for quotes. Demand definitions. Ground the argument in the page.
Challenge & Expansion
Min 4:00 – 7:00Introduce opposing viewpoints. Play Devil’s Advocate. Create friction.
The Pivot & Synthesis
Min 7:00 – 9:00Bridge conflicting ideas. Re-engage quiet students. Summarize.
Wrap-up & Takeaway
Min 9:00 – 10:00Ask the final big-picture question. Leave them thinking.
Leader’s Critical Tool Kit
The 4 Rules of Engagement to handle common pitfalls.
The Silence Stopper
Problem: Silence
Fear of awkward pauses leads to rushing.
The Focus Keeper
Problem: Tangents
Students wandering off-topic.
The Evidence Hound
Problem: Generalizing
Making claims without proof.
The Expert Blocker
Problem: Dominance
One student talking too much.