Students write essays in preparation to meet with the teacher in groups of 4-6. As each student reads his or her essay, the teacher interrupts at will to make points or ask questions.

This traditional British-style format provides a more focused framework for teachers to nurture students' individual intellectual growth and higher-order academic skills. In addition to learning from the teacher's comments on their own work, students benefit from hearing the interchange between the teacher and the other members of the group. This SET also provides students with more personalised and meaningful contact with their teachers.