On the first day, “tell the class about yourself” can be a surprisingly big request. Start with two students, one name and an easy choice. Build up to a whole-class introduction only after partners have had a chance to talk.
Start with a name echo
Write your name the way you want students to say it. Introduce yourself to a partner and let them repeat it once. Trade places. Each pair then chooses one small motion to go with their names, such as a wave or a thumbs-up. Join another pair and teach each other the names and motions. Ask before shortening a name or introducing someone to the whole room.
Play find-a-classmate bingo
Give each student one of the sixteen free boards below. The center is free. Each other square is an invitation to ask a question. A square reading “Likes puzzles” might become “Do you like puzzles?” If the answer is yes, the classmate can initial the square or draw a symbol. If the answer is no, thank them and choose a different question or partner.
Set a six-minute timer and aim for three squares in a straight line. One conversation earns one square. In a small class, students can revisit a partner after meeting somebody else. Pair readers with helpers and let students point to their choices. A seated circle with partners rotating around it works in rooms with narrow aisles.
Draw a tiny team badge
Give two partners a sheet of paper. Each names a shape or color they enjoy. Together they design a badge using both suggestions. A green triangle inside a blue circle is a perfectly good badge. Let partners name it and rehearse saying, “This is Lee, and our team is Blue Mountain.” Offer the option to display the badge with just the team name.
A first-day plan
Use four minutes for name echoes, two to demonstrate bingo, six to play, six for the badge and two to put materials away. Invite one willing pair to share. If students will meet again tomorrow, keep the badges at their seats and begin by greeting yesterday’s partner.
For a quiet activity while families arrive, see the back-to-school activity sheets. Keep a spare bingo card for a student who joins the class later and let a buddy introduce the game.
Get the printable
Get-to-Know-You Classroom Bingo includes 16 different conversation boards, a prompt bank and teacher directions. The PDF is free.
Optional supplies
As an Amazon Associate, Happy Holiday Hotspot earns from qualifying purchases. The following Amazon link is a paid link.
Crayola 24-color crayons give each pair color choices for the team badge and a way to mark bingo squares.