Classroom Icebreakers:
What I really consider very important at the beginning of a school year or a semester is the ice break activities.They are useful for both a pioneer teacher as well as an experienced one.These introduction games help students to know each other well.Breaking-the-ice games can dramatically transform the dynamics of your classroom.There are many activities that help the teacher break the ice such as: Line up Games,Identity circles,Great wind Blows and Late Arrival Game.here I would like to explain two activities I consider simple and efficient.- Catch the Ball
A very simple and effective activity that works well for small and medium sized groups.The only material that is required to play is a small ball or other object that can safely be passed around the room.The teacher gives the ball to the first student who reveals something interesting about himself.Then he throws the ball to a second student and so on.In this way students start talking and sharing about themselves.Other variations are possible and they include sharing questions,stories,memories,embarrassing moments or something related to a unit or a theme.
- Lost on a Deserted Island:
It is a team building activity that helps students share a little about themselves.Recommended group size is medium and an indoor setting is ideal.No materials are required and the activity works well for any age.The teacher presents the situation."You are shipwrecked on a deserted island and you are allowed to bring only one object.Each student describes his object and tells why he's taking it. Objects can be real things or interesting . Teacher can encourage students to be creative.After everyone has introduced his object,divide students into smaller groups and ask every one to work together to improve their chances of survival by combining the objects.Teacher can add other objects and can reward the most creative group with a prize.
