Foreword / Jay McTight -- Acknowledgements -- Introduction -- 1. Why we need spider webbers -- 2. The first spider web discussion -- 3. The first few weeks of discussion -- 4. Roadblocks early on: Shy kids and superstars -- 5. Roadblocks later on: That one tough class -- Assessment is a tool, not a weapon -- Benefits of spider web discussion -- Looking ahead: A year of spider web discussion.

"The Spider Web Discussion is a simple technique that puts this kind of class within every teacher's reach. The name comes from the web-like diagram the observer makes to record interactions as students actively participate in the discussion, lead and support one another's learning, and build community. It's proven to work across all subject areas and with all ages, and you only need a little know-how, a rubric, and paper and pencil to get started. As students practice Spider Web Discussion, they become stronger communicators, more empathetic teammates, better problem solvers, and more independent learners--college and career ready skills that serve them well in the classroom and beyond." -- Publisher's description