Students will introduce themselves through a name-tag activity and ball-toss icebreaker, then co-create a simple classroom agreement in a 15-minute session.
Building connections on day one fosters a positive classroom culture, helps students feel seen and secure, and lays the groundwork for respectful routines and cooperation.
Summarize: Read back 3–4 key agreement statements together
Step 5
Closing
1 minute
Thank students for their ideas and participation
Remind them that these agreements guide our daily behavior
Transition smoothly to the next activity
Slide Deck
Welcome to 3rd Grade!
Kickoff Day: Let’s get to know each other and create our classroom agreements.
Stand at the door and greet each student by name as they arrive. Invite them to sit on the carpet and explain that today we’ll get to know each other and decide how we’ll work together this year.
Today's Objectives
• Make a name tag and share something you love
• Toss the ball to learn about classmates
• Co-create our Community Agreement
Briefly explain each bullet so students understand why we’re doing these activities. Keep it upbeat and enthusiastic.
Point to each item as you review. Confirm that all materials are on the table or ready to hand out.
Name-Tag Creation
Write your name on the tag.
Draw one thing you love (e.g., pizza, soccer, cats).
Stick the tag on your shirt using tape or sticky tack.
Distribute one name-tag template and a marker to each student. Give them 2–3 minutes to write their name and draw a favorite thing. Help any student who needs support.
All About Me Ball Toss
Stand in a circle holding the ball.
Teacher models: “My name is Ms. Lee, I love pizza.”
Toss to a classmate.
Catch, share your name + favorite thing, then toss.
Continue until most students have shared.
Model first by holding the ball, saying your name and favorite thing, then tossing gently to a student. Encourage students to speak loudly enough for everyone to hear. Keep the pace moving.
Community Agreement Discussion
Question: How should we treat each other so everyone feels safe and happy?
• Listen when someone is speaking
• Use kind words
• Raise our hand to talk
• Help each other
Bring students’ attention to the anchor chart. Write each student idea exactly as said. After listing 4–5, read them back and ask for thumbs up if they agree.
Great Job!
• Thank you for sharing!
• Our agreements will guide us daily.
• Now, let’s move on to our next activity!
Thank students for their great ideas and participation. Remind them that we will refer to these agreements every day. Transition smoothly to your next lesson.
Worksheet
Name Tag Template
Name: _______________________________
Draw your favorite thing in the box below:
Activity
Community Agreement Anchor Chart
Question:
How should we treat each other so everyone feels safe and happy?
