Orientation games
What other games that can be done during orientation that would not be considered corny and have the students build a starting relationship?
Some type like Deal or No Deal can work into a larger group and get some activity going. Another of course would be the one where they try to figure the name or get the double bid opportunity.
I think having them reach underneath the chair seat for the tag with a number on it to allow a bid on something is allways fun.
the best game event I've to was all the gambleing tables were set up with questions and answers as you played.
Can you name a few more?
Most times simple games, like trivia, role playing and team building games that the students will interact with each other and are able to complete tasks, nothing too complicated will create a less stressful atmosphere and give the opportunity for the students to know each other.
I know this is really corny but in orientation I talk about the importance of making friends and not being shy.
So I have everyone draw 2 eyes and a smile on the pointer finger. Making a face.
Then I tell them to turn to their neighbor and say "HELLO"
I act this out as well, you would be surprised how the whole room gets loud and people start talking!
Character names on their backs. Students must guess their character name by asking yes or no questions only to other classmates.
I have a corny one too, but it got me more comfortable at a conference, so why not?! We were told to organize ourselves by birthday.....just day and month since most of us didn't want to give up the year! It required everyone to talk to each other and once you found your place in line, the conversation continued. Afterwards, we even found ourselves sitting next to the people we chatted with in line.
I'll be the first to admit that I haven't done these things in the classroom yet because I worry that the students are going to immediately find them dorky and irritating....not the first impression that I'm looking for. Maybe I can find a way to spin it towards my subjects.
I've played this game at orientation where you put everyone in groups of 4 or more (depending on the size of the group no more than 6), and have them to write 4 things about themselves. things like; how many brothers and sisters do you have, are you from this state, do you have kids (how many), what course are you enrolled in, etc. That way they can get to know the people around them and maybe find out they have something in common with a few of them. now when they see these people in the hall/class the are more likely to speak.
Thanks for the information. These could also be used on new Educators joining the crew.We also have to make sure they are welcomed in!!
Nicole ,
Excellent point! We often forget how important it is to 'orient' our new employees!
Susan Backofen
