💛 SELGrade 2Lesson 39
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Group Discussion Circle

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Learning Objectives

  • 1Share my ideas respectfully in a discussion circle
  • 2Listen carefully when others speak
  • 3Build on what others say
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Mini Lesson

A discussion circle is a special way to share ideas where everyone gets a turn to speak and everyone really listens.

What is a discussion circle?

  • Everyone sits together in a circle so each person can see the others.
  • The group picks one topic and stays on it the whole time.
  • Each person takes a turn — no one talks over someone else.

The 5 rules of a good discussion

  • Only one person speaks at a time.
  • Look at the speaker while they talk.
  • Respond to what was actually said — not something different.
  • Use I-statements: I think, I agree because, I respectfully disagree because.
  • Stay on topic — keep your ideas connected to the question.

Discussion vs. debate

  • A debate is about trying to win an argument.
  • A discussion is about trying to understand each other better.
  • In a discussion, it is okay to change your mind after you hear someone else's idea.

Active listening and building on ideas

  • Active listening means nodding, making eye contact, and waiting your turn.
  • Ask a follow-up question: can you tell me more about that?
  • Build on what someone said: what you said about ___ made me think...

Discussion prompts to try

  • What is one thing you learned this year that changed the way you think?
  • What does being a good friend really mean?
  • How can our group help others in our community?
Discussion circle diagramSix seats arranged in a circle around a central One Topic card, surrounded by rule labels: one speaker, look at speaker, respond to what was said, stay on topic, and use I statements.One topicOne speakerLook at speakerRespond towhat was saidStay on topicUse "I"statements
Discussion circle — six speakers, one topic, five rules.
Discussion phrase bubblesFour speech bubbles showing the phrases I think, I agree because, I respectfully disagree because, and Building on what someone said.Discussion PhrasesI think...share your ideaI agreebecause...I respectfullydisagree because...Building onwhat ___ said...Respond to what wasactually said.
Four discussion phrases — plus remember to respond to what was said.
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Ask yourself: "Am I waiting for my turn? Am I responding to what was actually said? Am I using I think or I agree?"

Vocabulary
Discussion
A talk where people share ideas to understand each othere.g. Our discussion was about kindness.
Debate
An argument where people try to win a pointe.g. A discussion is different from a debate.
Active listening
Paying close attention so you understand the speakere.g. Active listening means making eye contact.
I-statement
A sentence that begins with I think or I feele.g. I-statements help me share my view kindly.
Build on
Add your idea to what someone else saide.g. I built on her idea to grow the discussion.
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