Encouraging Class Discussion
You normally should not give lectures. Instead, help class members participate meaningfully in discussing the scriptures. Class members’ participation helps them:
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Learn more about the scriptures.
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Learn how to apply gospel principles.
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Become more committed to living the gospel.
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Invite the Spirit into the class.
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Teach and edify each other (D&C 88:122) so they benefit from each other’s gifts, knowledge, experience, and testimonies.
Class discussions should help members come to Christ and live as his disciples. Redirect discussions that do not accomplish these purposes.
Seek the Spirit’s guidance as you study the questions in this manual and decide which ones to ask. The manual provides scripture references to help you and class members find answers to most of these questions. Answers to other questions will come from class members’ experiences.
It is more important to help class members understand and apply the scriptures than to cover all the lesson material you have prepared. If class members are learning from a good discussion, it is often helpful to let it continue rather than try to cover all the lesson material.
Use the following guidelines to encourage class discussion:
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Ask questions that require thought and discussion rather than “yes” or “no” answers. Questions that begin with why, how, who, what, when, and where are usually most effective for encouraging discussion.
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Encourage class members to share experiences that show how scriptural principles and doctrines can be applied to life. Also encourage them to share their feelings about what they are learning from the scriptures. Make positive comments about their contributions.
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Be sensitive to the needs of each class member. Although all class members should be encouraged to participate in class discussions, some may hesitate to respond. You may wish to speak privately with them to find out how they feel about reading aloud or participating in class. Be careful not to call on class members if it might embarrass them.
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Give scripture references to help class members find the answers to some questions.
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Encourage class members to ponder the questions in the New Testament Class Member Study Guide as they study each week’s reading assignment. As you prepare each lesson, consider how to discuss these questions in class. Class members will be better able to participate in discussions if they have studied the reading assignment and if you ask questions that they are prepared to answer.