DISCUSSIONS

“We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much
as we speak” ~ Epictetus

How to Lead a Discussion

 Choose a topic. Prepare questions. Do not use closed questions (questions that can be answered
with a yes or no). Choose open ended questions (questions that require people to provide a
thoughtful response).
 The Discussion Guide leads the conversation. Be prepared to share the next question when the
current discussion winds down.
 Provide guidelines for people participating in the discussion, so everyone understands their role and
what is acceptable behavior.
 Show and share your enthusiasm for the topic. Not all topics are exciting, in that case help
participants to see the value of the topic and why is it worthy of discussion. For example, if talking
about history show how history may be repeating itself in modern times.
 Some words may be new to the participants. Help them out by sharing the meaning and definitions
of unfamiliar words or key terms.
 Ensure the discussion remains respectful. If the discussion becomes heated help people to calm
down and remind them we are here to be open to other points of view. Create a safe environment
where people can share their opinion and feel heard and respected. Call out people who are rude
and disrespectful and remind them we are having a polite discussion where we will “agree to
disagree”.
 If people are talking over each other implement a rule that they can only speak when they are
holding the “speaking tool”, such as a ball, or a pen, or a rock.
 Encourage everyone in the group to speak. We want to hear from all the participants, not just a few.
 Write down what is being said, it can be useful, especially when summarizing. At the end of the
discussion, summarize what has been shared.
 Your role is to guide the discussion (not dominate it).
 Keep the discussion on track. If it gets sidetracked, return the discussion to the main topic and
current question. Or offer a new question.

How to be a Good Discussion Participant

 Listen respectfully when another person speaks, even if you do not agree with them. Be open to
what they are saying, even if you have a different point of view.
 Back up your point of view with examples, statistics and facts.
 Be an active participant. Debate and discuss (do not argue or belittle).
 Contribute to the discussion and share your point of view.
 Be brief so other people will have a chance to speak.
 Be clear so other people understand what you are saying.
 Listen to what other people have to say, and be willing to learn from them.

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Useful Phrases in Discussions

Agree Disagree
I agree with Person A because … I see it differently …
Person B’s point about … was important because I respect your point and from my perspective …
… I’m sorry, I don’t see it that way.
I agree with you.
Offering an Alternative Point of View Building on What Another Person Said
Instead, I think we should/could … Person A mentioned that …
What do you think about … instead? Yes, and furthermore …
What if …. Adding to what Person B said …
They also say … Let me add to what Person A said …
On the other hand …
Clarifying Paraphrasing/Restating
To be clear, you’re saying that … So you’re saying that …
I’m confused when you say …. Can you I hear you saying …
elaborate?
Inviting Input from Other People (helpful for Phrases to Keep the Discussion Going
Discussion Guide) Where were we?
What do you think? As we just heard …
Would you like to say something? Let’s get back to …
What is your idea/opinion? We’ve gotten sidetrack, let’s return to the topic.
Asking for an Explanation Giving Your Opinion
What do you mean by that? I believe/think that …
Could you explain to me …? Let me put it this way ….
I’m afraid I don’t understand. The way I see it …
Giving an Explanation Qualified Agreement
The main problem is … I agree up to a certain point, but …
The reason is … I don’t think it’s as simple as that …
Let me explain … Yes, and there’s also another aspect to consider …
Asking for an Opinion Adding Information
How do you feel about …? I’d like to add, ….
What do you think of ….? What’s more ….
How do you see it? Also ….
Expressing Doubt Settling an Argument
I’m not sure about that. Let’s just move on, shall we?
I have mixed feelings about it. I think we’re going to have to agree to disagree.
I’m not sure I agree with ….

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