First-Day Icebreakers Mr. Jarot English 4

Two Truths and a Dream Wish You will be writing down two things about yourself that are true and one that is not but is something that you want to do or accomplish at some point in your life. Your “dream wish” should be something that is believable and possible. In other words, saying that you have played in the NBA is easily detectable as a “dream wish.” However, stating that you have met Michael Jordan is much more conceivable. Write down your three items in an order that does not make your “dream wish” too obvious. The following is an example:

1. I have walked on the Great Wall of China. 2 1. I have walked on the Great Wall of China. 2. I have written a New York Times-bestselling novel. 3. I have appeared in a blockbuster movie.

Blobs and Lines For this activity, you will either be lining up in some particular order (by birthday, for example) or gathering in “blobs” based on something that you have in common with others in the class (similar shoes, for example).

Line up in alphabetical order by your first names. Line up in alphabetical order by your last names. Gather with people who have the same eye color as you. Line up in order of your birthdays, from January 1 to December 31. Gather with people who have the same favorite season as you.

Concentric Circles You will be arranging yourselves in an inside circle and an outside circle, the inside facing out, forming pairs. Pairs will be discussing their answers to several “getting to know you” questions and then will rotate for the next question, forming a new partnership.

Do you participate in any sports, clubs, or activities Do you participate in any sports, clubs, or activities? If so, which ones? Do you consider yourself shy or outgoing? Why? What was the last movie you saw? Did you like it? Describe your perfect dinner. What would you do with a million dollars? What is one thing you’re good at?

This or That You will be informally debating on light topics such as “Which makes a better pet, a dog or a cat?” You will have to choose a position, then physically move to the side of the room that most closely represents your opinion and then talk about why you chose that spot.

Would you rather live in the city or the country? Should all students be required to learn a second language? Which is worse, bad breath or body odor? Would you rather be indoors or outdoors? Which is better, playing sports or watching sports? Would you rather travel every single day or never leave home?