How to Survive the Socratic Method in Law School

Do you want to apply for law school but feeling anxious about the Socratic Method? Then, you are not alone. There are many law students who find this teaching style intimidating, but with the right preparation, you can not only survive but also succeed. The Socratic Method of teaching applies minimal lecturing and a lot of in-class discussion. Your professor will ask you challenging questions about case facts and hypothetical scenarios. This approach will help you enhance your critical thinking and sharpen your legal reasoning skills. 

However, sometimes it can also cause significant anxiety especially if you’re not prepared for it. The good thing is that you can reduce this anxiety by learning effective strategies to handle being on call. This blog will provide practical tips and information on how to survive the Socratic Method in law school and help you stay calm and answer questions confidently. 

Defining the Socratic Method

The Socratic Method is a way for professors and students to discuss and learn together. Once, a person said to the philosopher Socrates that he was the smartest person in Greece. Socrates didn’t agree and started asking people questions about their morals and what they believed was right or wrong. He didn’t say what was right or wrong. Socrates simply asked the questions to find the best and most well-defended answer. 

Socrates didn’t make his discussion style into a method for law school classes, but the legal education system of the U.S. embraced the Socratic Method as a way to engage the students with the case material. Christopher Columbus Langdell was the person behind bringing the Socratic Method into the law school. At the time of introducing the Socratic Method, he was the dean of Harvard Law School. Before he introduced this method, the case method was used, in which students were told about the law without being enabled to have discussions or interactions.

Many people have different theories about why the Socratic Method has existed for so long. Some say that it puts the student in the shoes of a judge doing legal analysis. Others argue that law school tutors enjoy using this method. Some even say that it is meant to be tough on students. This method helps students improve their public speaking skills, thinking quickly, and overall composure. 

When it comes to real-life legal practices, lawyers have enough time to think, prepare, and make arguments, even during oral arguments, where the judge asks attorney questions on the spot. It doesn’t matter how long the Socratic Method has been around; it may not be the best option, but it will persist in law schools for the foreseeable future.

Tips to Survive the Socratic Method in Law School

Having tips for surviving the Socratic Method will not only improve your ability to answer the questions but also reduce anxiety in class, which will enhance your learning experience. 

Create a Schedule 

If you get the chance, choose the dates upon which you will be on call, and then pick the dates that will give you enough time to prepare. Another important thing is to create a schedule on which you can mention your on-call dates so that you will be able to remember them. 

Show Composure in Class Participation

We all know that talking in class can feel tough. But guess what? Every student in your class feels the same way. They are nervous and worried about being called on too. So, what does this mean? Your classmates don’t care if you provide an accurate or articulate answer. Their main focus is on understanding the material and hoping they won’t get called on. If you are feeling nervous or struggling to relax, then try to get excited about being called on! Many students find this tip really helpful, so you can give it a shot!

Effective Preparation

The best way to handle and fight a stressful experience such as being called on is to prepare yourself for it. This doesn’t mean that you have to read the assigned cases continuously because there are better ways to prepare for them. You must read your cases thoroughly and then determine what they mean. Another thing you can do is search for a case brief to get better information on the rules and facts of the case. There are many students who think it’s helpful to book briefs before the class to prepare to answer the professor’s questions. 

Bring Materials

If you’re getting ready for class, then make sure to bring all the material like notes or any other work you have created into your law class. Your law school tutors don’t expect you to have completely memorized everything, so you can use your book, notes or anything else you bring. If you don’t like the idea of case briefing cases which many people don’t like because it takes too much time, then just do a quick book ahead of your class. That means you have to highlight the facts and arguments from both of the parties. It’s a good way to be prepared for class. 

Pay Attention to Questions

Always pay attention to the questions your professors ask. Create notes of what type of questions they are asking. Are the questions posed by the professor fact-based? Does your professor discuss the legal rules and then give hypothetical situations to the students on call? Does your professor ask you or other students to explain the legal terminology of the case? Understanding how your professor runs the class will help you to prepare for when you’re called on. 

Volunteer Benefits

That’s right, if you feel that you are fully prepared and confident, try volunteering to be on call or raise your hand when a question is asked. This can help you feel more confident for the times when you get picked randomly to speak. Some professors also notice the students who volunteer and are less likely to randomly pick those students. This is a great way to boost your confidence. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, surviving law school and the Socratic method is all about preparation and confidence. It’s essential to note that if you are well prepared, you will feel more confident during a cold call. Volunteers can also reduce the chances of getting randomly picked during cold calls. Always use your notes and pay attention to your professor’s questions and stay relaxed during cold calls. When you follow these tips, you will be able to manage the anxiety and enhance your learning experience and make the most out of your time in law school.

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Key Takeaways:

1. How to Survive the Socratic Method in Law School?: Understand that preparation and composure are key to handling the Socratic Method effectively.
2. Create a Schedule: Choose your on-call dates and prepare in advance to manage anxiety and enhance class participation.
3. Show Composure: Remember, your classmates are as nervous as you are, so focus on understanding the material.
4. Effective Preparation: Thoroughly read your cases and use case briefs to better understand the rules and facts.
5. Bring Materials: Always have your notes, case briefs, and textbooks ready to support your answers in class.