The Power of Question-Driven Teaching: Socratic (Kemetic) Seminars 

for Critical Thinking

In this 4-session interactive course, 3-12 educators learn about and experience question-driven teaching in action. This is a powerful instructional approach that can be used with students to build critical thought, reading for meaning, speaking, and listening, and supporting answers with evidence. In these sessions, teachers will also begin the process of question construction to clarify and strengthen their preparation, lesson planning and instruction of students. Participants will produce a seminar for classroom use. Standard Socratic Seminar protocols will be employed. Practices of inquiry and accountable talk are used. In order to receive compensation ($425), you must attend all sessions and produce a seminar that can be used with your students. Participants will receive support from their colleagues and course facilitators. Work products are due by February 11, 2026.

Dates: January 7, 14, 21, 28, 2026

Time: 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm

Location: NYSUT Offices, 30 N. Union St.

Please forward your intent to participate by submitting your responses to the following by October 29th to meet District deadlines. Submit responses to ymontalvo@rochesterteachers.com.

Name: School:  

Job assignment:  Years in Service:

Prior experience with this topic (if any)

Explain how this topic may fit into your personal professional learning plans or needs.

What is your motivation for engaging with this approach to teaching and learning?