What do you actually do when you work the steps of a 12-step program?

I asked what working the steps was last night at a meeting. I was told that you and a sponsor discuss each step together, kind of sharing what it means, or sharing your experience related to the topic or something.

I want to know how those conversations go. Is it something where you just talk or do you have to actually be tested to get on to the next step? Can you give examples of things you have said in one of these “workings?” What do you learn by working the steps? Is it a kind of group therapy where you see your behavior in a new light? Well, whatever you can tell me. I’ll be grateful.