• Pausing and thinking before I respond to the facilitator's question or to a comment made by a peer.
• Locating facts and examples in the text that can be cited as evidence for a particular argument.
• Searching for connections with previous readings or prior studies.
• Being willing to change my opinion if more information is given or if my reasoning has been flawed.
• Having marked key issues in the text.

Speaking: I am responsible for…

• Asking questions about what I have read, heard, and seen.
• Asking for clarification of any passage I have read by which I do not understand.
• Giving my opinions clearly and yet succinctly.
• Making judgments that I can defend with textual evidence.
• Focusing on the question at hand.
• Explaining to others how I have inferred an idea by exploring the passage that has led me to this conclusion.
• Disagreeing with the ideas of others, not with the people.
• Clarifying information and lending support to a peer's argument.
• Taking issue with inaccuracies or illogical reasoning.
• Moving the seminar forward to new concepts.
• Returning the seminar to a previous topic if new insights arise.
• Speaking loudly and articulating clearly.
• Directing comments to peers, not to the teacher.

Listening:  I am responsible for …

• Listening attentively and patiently as peers share their ideas.
• Listening critically to others' opinions so that I may take issue with inaccuracies or illogical reasoning.
• Maintaining an open mind to a diversity of opinions.
• Listening acutely to a peer's entire position before taking issue with it.
• Avoiding repetitiveness by developing stronger listening skills.

Self-Awareness: I am responsible for …

• Raising my hand and getting acknowledgement before speaking.
• Exercising patience and self control.
• Being courteous and respectful of my peers.
• Avoiding all side conversations.
• Avoiding body language with negative connotations.