Using student icebreaker activities on the first day of school is a great way to get kids excited about school and learn all about their new classmates. It’s also the perfect time for teachers to begin teaching classroom expectations and set the tone for the school year.
I’ve got six student icebreaker activities that are easy to implement and that your new students will love.
Icebreaker Activity #1: Two Truths and a Lie
In Two Truths and a Lie, students write three statements about themselves: two truths and one lie. The rest of the class tries to guess which statement is the lie.
Have students take turns sharing their two truths and a lie with the class. Encourage classmates to ask questions to uncover more information and make educated guesses. After everyone has shared, reveal the lies and discuss the surprising truths.
Icebreaker Activity #2: Human Knot
Human Knot is a physical team-building activity where students stand in a circle, reach across to grab hands with different classmates, and then work together to untangle themselves without letting go of each other’s hands.
Have students stand in a circle and reach across to grab hands with two different classmates. Once everyone is connected, challenge the group to untangle themselves without breaking the chain or letting go of each other’s hands.
Icebreaker Activity #3: Who’s in Your Circle?
Who’s in Your Circle is an excellent activity for getting kids up and moving and finding commonalities. Students draw three concentric circles and choose their favorite thing to write in the center. The rest of the class will write their name if they love, like, or dislike the same thing.
Have students move around the room to write their names on each student’s paper or desk. This activity is an excellent way for students to find classmates with similar interests.
I found this idea on The Thinker Builder website.
Icebreaker Activity #4: Find Someone Who
“Find Someone Who” is an interactive icebreaker activity where students mingle around the classroom to find classmates who match specific criteria or have certain experiences.
Provide students with a list of prompts or statements, such as “Find someone who has a pet,” “Find someone who has traveled outside the country,” or “Find someone who shares your favorite color.” Students then walk around the room, introducing themselves to their classmates and asking questions to find someone who fits each prompt. When they find a classmate who matches a prompt, they write that classmate’s name next to it.
Icebreaker Activity #5: Classmate Interview
The Classmate Interview is a structured icebreaker activity where students pair up to ask each other questions and learn more about their classmates.
Pair students up and provide them with a list of interview questions or prompts, such as “What is your favorite subject in school?” “What is something you’re passionate about?” or “What do you like to do in your free time?” Students take turns interviewing each other, listening attentively to their partner’s responses, and asking follow-up questions to delve deeper into the conversation.
Icebreaker Activity #6: Memory Map
Memory Map is a reflective activity where students visually represent significant events, experiences, or memories.
Provide students with a blank piece of paper. I’ve also seen this done with a T-shirt or water bottle template. Encourage them to draw or write about memorable moments, places they’ve visited, important people in their lives, or goals they hope to achieve. After completing their maps, students can share them with their classmates and discuss the significance of their chosen memories. I’ve seen this activity do
The first day of school sets the tone for the entire year, making it essential for teachers to create a welcoming and inclusive classroom environment. Icebreaker activities offer a fun and effective way to help students feel comfortable, connected, and engaged as they begin their journey together. These activities allow students to share their interests, learn about their classmates, and build meaningful relationships.
Check out this post if you’re looking for more icebreaker activities.
