Day One - Introductions.
On day one of class - I like to ask each student to introduce themselves, explain their background on the subject matter and explain what they plan to get out the course. This is a good icebreaker and builds teamwork within the class.
What types of icebreaker(s) do you use to build teamwork?
I also do the "introduce yourself" and "tell me about yourself" on day one. But another fun thing to do is ask "how many years of work experience do you have". Sidenote: If I have a room of fresh out of high school students... I omit this part. BUT if they are older adults, I add up the years of experience and announce afterwards how many years of work experience is sitting in the room and how great it's gonna be to have the opportunity to share our experiences in the course.
I find that the students interact better and aren't as shy after an introduction or short bio, also it seems we can proceed with our class work quicker.
Hi Glenn,
Great exercise! I especially like how you have the students grouped with each other from the opposite side of the room.
Patricia
Over the years I've used a variety of ice breakers. Some better than others. Different ones just to break the difference for me. For example, this most recent term, I broke the class into groups -- taking students from different parts of the class. The students who sit away from one another and team them together.
I then had them interview each other and then introduce each other to the class. I then go in to what I call "The Press Conference" (Q&A as individuals). But first I allow them to ask me ANYTHING they want. However, once they're finished with me, it's their turn.
It's fun, and they seem to like asking me questions. Besides, I get to learn about them.
Thank you,
-Glenn Brandon Burke
I have my class sit in a circle, I usually hollar out "right or left", what ever the answer is the exercise will end on that side. The rules are you have to give your name and something unique, different, or interesting about yourself, however you have to also restate everyone's information that has gone before you so the last person will have to do the whole class. This is a way to learn everyone's name and also learn something interesting about them. You never know what you are going to hear!
I also like to ask the students what they expect to learn. I put each response up on the board, just let them brainstorm. They usually get about 70-80% of the topics. Then I help them brainstorm a little, to get the other 20-30% of the topics. Then we go thru the course content and show the students which order we will be covering 'their' ideas...they see that they have created the class for themselves...they are getting exactly what they expect.
