Back-to-School Blast

Bri’Anca Jordan

Tier 2

Lesson Plan

Day 1 Plan

Students will introduce themselves and engage in the Two Truths and a Lie icebreaker to build name recognition, community, and communication skills in a fun, supportive setting.

Starting with low-stakes introductions and a collaborative guessing game helps students feel seen, remembered, and connected. This sets a positive tone for teamwork, trust, and engagement throughout the year.

Audience

7th Grade

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Model, share, and guess facts aloud to foster interaction.

Materials

Name Tag Supplies, Markers, Two Truths and a Lie Prompt Cards, and Timer or Stopwatch

Prep

Prepare Materials and Room

10 minutes

Arrange chairs/desks in a circle or U-shape to facilitate eye contact
Place name tag supplies and markers at each seat
Print and cut out Two Truths and a Lie Prompt Cards
Set timer or test stopwatch for activity durations
Review the flow of introductions and game rules

Step 1

Welcome and Seating

5 minutes

Greet students at the door and invite them to choose a seat in the circle
Ask each student to write their name on a tag and stick it to their chest
Briefly explain that today’s goal is to learn names and have fun together

Step 2

Quick Introductions

10 minutes

Teacher models by introducing self: name, favorite hobby, one fun fact
Go around the circle; each student states their name and one thing they like (hobby, food, sport)
Encourage attentive listening and eye contact to help everyone remember names

Step 3

Two Truths and a Lie Icebreaker

15 minutes

Hand out one Two Truths and a Lie Prompt Cards to each student
Model with two truths and one lie about yourself; have class guess the lie
Students take turns reading their three statements aloud
Class guesses which statement is the lie before student reveals the answer
Continue until each student has shared, keeping energy positive and supportive
Wrap up by highlighting surprising truths and celebrating listening skills

Slide Deck

Welcome Back to School!

Day 1: Getting to Know You

7th Grade Icebreaker Series
30-Minute Tier 2 Group Activity

Welcome to Day 1 of our Back-to-School Blitz! Use this slide to set the tone—enthusiastic greeting, brief overview of our goals this week, and remind students we’ll spend 30 minutes building community each day.

Today’s Objectives

• Learn and remember each other’s names
• Build community through sharing
• Develop listening and communication skills

Review the objectives: why we’re here today. Emphasize building name recognition, community, and communication skills. Connect each objective back to how it will help students feel more comfortable.

Materials & Setup

• Name tag supplies & markers
• Two Truths and a Lie Prompt Cards
• Timer or stopwatch

Room arranged in a circle or U-shape

Quickly show what materials and setup we need. Confirm students see name tags, markers, prompt cards, and timer. Invite them to help arrange chairs if needed.

1. Welcome & Seating (5 min)

Greet students at the door
Choose a seat in the circle
Write and wear your name tag
Reminder: We’re here to learn names and have fun!

Welcome students as they arrive, encourage them to pick a seat and write their name tag. Explain that seating in a circle helps everyone see each other and participate equally.

2. Quick Introductions (10 min)

• Teacher model: Name + Hobby + Fun Fact
• Go around the circle: Your name + one thing you like (hobby, food, or sport)
• Practice eye contact and active listening

Model your own introduction first—name, favorite hobby, one fun fact. Then pass the mic around. Prompt quiet students gently and praise attentive listeners.

3. Two Truths & a Lie (15 min)

• Rules:
– Share 2 truths + 1 lie about yourself
– Class guesses the lie
– Speaker reveals the answer

• Hand out Two Truths and a Lie Prompt Cards
• Keep energy positive; celebrate surprising facts!

Introduce the rules of Two Truths and a Lie. Show sample prompt card. Model your own statements and have students guess. Then hand out cards and start the rounds.

Worksheet

Two Truths & a Lie Prompt Cards

Use these cards to plan two truths and one lie about yourself. Each card includes topic suggestions to spark ideas. After writing your statements, cut along the lines and share with your classmates!

Card 1

Name:

Topic Suggestions: Favorite animal, dream vacation spot, a sport you play

Truth #1:

Truth #2:

Lie:

Card 2

Name:

Topic Suggestions: Favorite food, best friend’s name, birthday tradition

Truth #1:

Truth #2:

Lie:

Card 3

Name:

Topic Suggestions: A place you’ve lived, a musical ability, a pet you have or want

Truth #1:

Truth #2:

Lie:

Card 4

Name:

Topic Suggestions: Favorite book or movie, a talent or skill, a family tradition

Truth #1:

Truth #2:

Lie:

Card 5

Name:

Topic Suggestions: Favorite school subject, a language you speak, a food you dislike

Truth #1:

Truth #2:

Lie:

Card 6

Name:

Topic Suggestions: A memorable birthday, a place you want to visit, a hobby you’d like to try

Truth #1:

Truth #2:

Lie:

Lesson Plan

Day 2 Plan

Students will engage in a Human Bingo icebreaker to meet classmates, discover shared interests, and build community through movement and conversation.

Moving beyond sit-and-listen activities, Human Bingo encourages students to talk with many classmates, fostering connections, breaking down social barriers, and boosting confidence in a fun, active way.

Audience

7th Grade

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Mingle-and-sign bingo encourages peer interaction.

Materials

Human Bingo Cards, Pencils or Pens, Clipboards or Hard Writing Surfaces, and Timer or Stopwatch

Prep

Prepare Bingo Materials and Space

10 minutes

Print or photocopy enough Human Bingo Cards for each student
Distribute clipboards or ensure students have a hard writing surface
Place pencils or pens at each seat or ask students to bring one
Clear a safe mingling area by moving desks to the sides
Review bingo prompts and rules

Step 1

Introduction & Distribution

5 minutes

Explain the rules and goals of Human Bingo: find classmates matching each prompt and have them sign the square
Demonstrate with one example prompt
Hand out one Human Bingo Cards and a writing tool to each student
Set a timer for the mingling period

Step 2

Mingling & Finding Matches

15 minutes

Students move around the room, asking peers about each prompt on their cards
When someone matches a prompt, they sign that square; each peer may sign only one square per card
Encourage talking to as many different classmates as possible
Teacher circulates to prompt shy students and keep energy high

Step 3

Debrief & Reflection

10 minutes

Reconvene in a circle and invite volunteers to share interesting finds or surprising matches
Highlight any prompts that had few matches to spark curiosity
Optionally recognize first students who got bingo or filled the most squares
Discuss how discovering common interests can help build friendships moving forward

Slide Deck

Day 2: Human Bingo

7th Grade Icebreaker Series
30-Minute Tier 2 Group Activity

Let’s get moving and learn about each other!

Welcome to Day 2 of our Back-to-School Blitz! Today we’ll dive into Human Bingo to meet new classmates and discover shared interests. Encourage energy and movement as students mingle.

Today’s Objectives

• Engage with classmates through a fun bingo game
• Discover shared interests and similarities
• Build community through movement and conversation

Review why we’re playing Human Bingo. Emphasize connecting with many classmates, finding common ground, and building community through conversation.

Materials & Setup

• Human Bingo Cards
• Pencils or pens
• Clipboards or hard writing surfaces
• Timer or stopwatch

Clear a safe space for students to move around

Show students the materials and room setup. Confirm they have a bingo card, writing tool, and space to mingle safely.

1. Introduction & Distribution (5 min)

Explain rules: find classmates matching each prompt and have them sign the square
Demonstrate with one example prompt
Hand out Human Bingo Cards and writing tools
Set a timer for the mingling period

Explain the rules step by step. Model with one example prompt to ensure everyone understands before they start.

2. Mingling & Finding Matches (15 min)

• Move around the room, asking peers about each prompt on your card
• When someone matches a prompt, they sign that square (one signature per peer)
• Talk to as many classmates as possible
• Teacher circulates to support and maintain energy

Encourage students to talk to many different peers. Circulate to prompt shy students and keep energy high.

3. Debrief & Reflection (10 min)

• Reconvene in a circle and share interesting or surprising matches
• Highlight prompts with few matches to spark curiosity
• Optionally recognize first bingo winners or those with most signatures
• Discuss how finding common interests builds friendships

Lead a reflection to reinforce connections made. Celebrate interesting discoveries and discuss how shared interests help friendships grow.

Worksheet

Understood—no changes needed to the Human Bingo Cards; they work perfectly for grades 5–8.
Let me know if you’d like to tweak any other materials or add anything else!

Lesson Plan

Day 3 Plan

Students will collaborate in teams to build the tallest free-standing tower using spaghetti sticks and marshmallows, developing teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Hands-on engineering challenges foster collaboration and creative thinking, helping students practice communication and planning in a fun, low-stakes environment.

Audience

7th Grade

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Hands-on team-based design and build activity.

Materials

Dry Spaghetti Sticks, Mini Marshmallows, Masking Tape, Rulers or Measuring Tapes, and Timer or Stopwatch

Prep

Prepare Materials and Teams

10 minutes

Measure and bundle equal portions of spaghetti sticks for each team (about 20 sticks)
Count and portion mini marshmallows for each team (about 30 marshmallows)
Provide each team with a roll of masking tape
Gather rulers or measuring tapes and a timer
Arrange desks or tables into workstations for teams of 3–4 students
Review challenge rules and time limits

Step 1

Introduction & Rules

5 minutes

Explain the Team Tower Challenge: build the tallest free-standing tower using only spaghetti sticks, marshmallows, and tape
Show a quick example or photo of a similar structure
Clarify the height measurement criteria and time limit
Emphasize safety when handling materials and encourage teamwork

Step 2

Planning Phase

5 minutes

Teams brainstorm design ideas and sketch a simple plan on paper
Discuss how to use marshmallows as connectors and tape for stability
Assign roles (designer, builder, measurer) within each team

Step 3

Build Phase

15 minutes

Start the timer and allow teams to build their towers
Circulate to observe, prompt problem-solving, and ensure collaboration
Remind teams of time checkpoints (5 minutes remaining, 2 minutes remaining)

Step 4

Reflection & Measurement

5 minutes

Have teams place their towers on a flat surface for measurement
Use rulers or measuring tapes to record each tower’s height
Invite teams to share what strategies worked, challenges faced, and what they would change
Celebrate all teams and reinforce the value of planning and teamwork

Slide Deck

Day 3: Team Tower Challenge

7th Grade Icebreaker Series
30-Minute Tier 2 Group Activity

Build the tallest free-standing tower!

Welcome to Day 3 of our Back-to-School Blitz! Today we’ll collaborate in teams to build the tallest free-standing tower using spaghetti and marshmallows. Emphasize creativity and teamwork.

Today’s Objectives

• Collaborate to design and build a tall tower
• Practice problem-solving and communication
• Encourage creativity and planning

Review the objectives for today: teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving through a hands-on engineering challenge.

Materials & Setup

• Dry spaghetti sticks
• Mini marshmallows
• Masking tape
• Rulers or measuring tapes
• Timer or stopwatch

Desks arranged for teams of 3–4

Show students the materials and workspace. Confirm each team has the supplies and knows their workstation.

1. Introduction & Rules (5 min)

• Use only spaghetti, marshmallows, and tape
• Build the tallest free-standing tower
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Be careful when handling materials

Explain the challenge rules clearly. Show an example image or describe a sample tower. Emphasize the time limit and safety.

2. Planning Phase (5 min)

• Brainstorm design ideas as a team
• Sketch a simple plan on paper
• Discuss how to use marshmallows and tape for stability
• Assign roles: designer, builder, measurer

Guide teams through brainstorming. Encourage sketches and role assignment to structure the build phase.

3. Build Phase (15 min)

• Begin building your tower
• Collaborate and problem-solve as issues arise
• Teacher gives time warnings at 5 and 2 minutes left
• Focus on stability and height

Start the build! Circulate to observe, prompt collaboration, and give time check-ins at 5 and 2 minutes remaining.

4. Reflection & Measurement (5 min)

• Measure each tower’s height
• Share strategies and challenges faced
• Discuss what you’d do differently next time
• Celebrate creativity and teamwork

Measure each tower and debrief on strategies used. Celebrate all teams’ efforts and discuss improvements.

Lesson Plan

Day 4 Plan

Students will collaboratively create a story by contributing sentences in a round-robin format using prompt cards, practicing active listening, creativity, and teamwork.

This collaborative storytelling activity encourages students to build on peer ideas, practice active listening, and foster a shared sense of creativity and community.

Audience

7th Grade

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Round-robin group storytelling.

Materials

Story Prompt Cards, Pens or Pencils, Blank Paper, and Timer or Stopwatch

Prep

Prepare Story Prompt Cards and Seating

10 minutes

Design or print enough Story Prompt Cards for each student
Provide pens or pencils and blank paper at each seat
Arrange chairs in a circle to facilitate eye contact and story flow
Review storytelling rules and sample sentence to model the process

Step 1

Introduction & Story Rules

5 minutes

Explain the purpose: collaboratively build a single story, one sentence at a time
Lay out ground rules: listen carefully, build on the previous sentence, keep content school-appropriate
Show a sample Story Prompt Cards entry and model a first sentence

Step 2

Brainstorm & Prompt Selection

5 minutes

Hand each student one Story Prompt Cards
Students read and think of a sentence that fits their prompt
Encourage jotting ideas on blank paper to prepare their contribution

Step 3

Round-Robin Story Creation

15 minutes

Choose a starting student or begin with teacher reading a prompt aloud
Go around the circle; each student adds one sentence inspired by their prompt
Use a timer or stopwatch to give each student ~30 seconds to share
Continue until every student has contributed or time expires

Step 4

Debrief & Reflection

5 minutes

Read the completed story aloud to the group
Invite students to share what surprised them or made them laugh
Discuss how listening and building on others’ ideas made the story stronger
Highlight teamwork and creative thinking demonstrated today

Slide Deck

Day 4: Collaborative Story Circle

7th Grade Icebreaker Series
30-Minute Tier 2 Group Activity

Let’s craft a story together!

Welcome to Day 4 of our Back-to-School Blitz! Today we’ll collaboratively build a story one sentence at a time. Emphasize creativity, listening, and teamwork.

Today’s Objectives

• Collaborate to create a group story
• Practice active listening and idea-building
• Encourage creativity and teamwork

Review the goals for today’s session. Highlight how we’ll practice active listening, build on each other’s ideas, and foster creativity together.

Materials & Setup

• Story Prompt Cards
• Pens or pencils
• Blank paper
• Timer or stopwatch

Chairs arranged in a circle

Show students all materials and confirm the room is arranged for everyone to see each other in a circle.

1. Introduction & Story Rules (5 min)

• Build one story, one sentence at a time
• Listen carefully and build on what came before
• Keep content school-appropriate
• Teacher models a sample sentence

Explain how the round-robin story works, share ground rules, and model a sample sentence using one prompt card.

2. Brainstorm & Prompt Selection (5 min)

• Each student gets one Story Prompt Cards
• Read your prompt and think of a fitting sentence
• Jot ideas on paper to prepare your contribution

Hand out prompt cards, give students a few minutes to read and jot down ideas for their sentence.

3. Round-Robin Story Creation (15 min)

• Teacher or student starts with first sentence
• Each student adds one sentence in turn
• ~30 seconds per contribution (use timer)
• Continue until all have shared or time expires

Guide the story circle: start with a volunteer or teacher, then go around. Use a timer to keep each turn to about 30 seconds.

4. Debrief & Reflection (5 min)

• Read the completed story aloud
• Share what surprised or amused you
• Discuss how listening and building on ideas strengthened the story
• Celebrate teamwork and creativity

Read the final story aloud, invite reflections on surprises and highlights, and celebrate the group’s creativity and listening skills.

Worksheet

Story Prompt Cards

Use these cards to write a sentence that continues our group story. Cut along the lines and share with your classmates during the Round-Robin Story Creation.

Card 1

Prompt (Setting): A dark forest where the trees seem to whisper...

Card 2

Prompt (Character): A curious cat with bright green eyes discovers...

Card 3

Prompt (Conflict): Suddenly, the town’s lights begin to flicker and go out...

Card 4

Prompt (Object): A mysterious glowing key lies on the ground...

Card 5

Prompt (Twist): In the mirror, the reflection waves back when...

Card 6

Prompt (Mood): The character felt an overwhelming sense of déjà vu when...

Card 7

Prompt (Dialogue): “I can’t believe we’re here,” they whispered...

Card 8

Prompt (Action): Without warning, the ground beneath them...

Card 9

Prompt (Discovery): Behind the locked door, they find...

Card 10

Prompt (Time Travel): The watch suddenly ticks backwards and...

Card 11

Prompt (Mystery): A note falls from the sky with the words...

Card 12

Prompt (Surprise): A sudden rain of tiny flowers begins to...

Lesson Plan

Day 5 Plan

Students will share personal insights using color-coded M&Ms prompts and finish with a compliment chain to foster empathy, listening, and positivity in our classroom community.

Candy-based prompts make self-disclosure fun and low-stakes, while sharing and receiving compliments builds trust, respect, and a positive classroom culture.

Audience

7th Grade

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Color-coded prompts plus a compliment chain

Materials

Bowls of M&Ms, M&M Color Prompt Cards, Paper and Pens, and Timer or Stopwatch

Prep

Prepare Candy Prompt Materials and Seating

10 minutes

Print or create M&M Color Prompt Cards
Fill bowls with assorted M&Ms and provide spoons for serving
Place paper and pens at each seat
Arrange chairs in a circle for easy passing and sharing
Review the association between M&M colors and prompts

Step 1

Introduction & Explanation

5 minutes

Show the bowl of M&Ms and introduce the activity purpose
Explain that each M&M color corresponds to a prompt on M&M Color Prompt Cards
Model taking an M&M and answering one prompt
Remind students to listen actively and respect peers

Step 2

M&M Sharing Activity

15 minutes

Pass the bowl around; each student takes 3–4 M&Ms by color
For each M&M color, refer to M&M Color Prompt Cards and share your response
Encourage concise answers and attentive listening
Teacher circulates to support sharing and prompt quieter students

Step 3

Compliment Chain

8 minutes

Hand each student a sheet of paper
On your sheet, write a compliment about the classmate to your right
Fold your sheet so only the next student’s name shows, then pass it on
Repeat writing and passing until each sheet returns to its owner
Optionally have volunteers read aloud one compliment they received

Step 4

Reflection & Closing

2 minutes

Invite one or two students to share a highlight or insight
Reinforce how sharing and compliments strengthen our classroom community
Thank everyone for their openness and positivity

Lesson Plan

Session 1 Lesson Plan

Students in grades 5–8 will learn each other’s names through an interactive name game and collaboratively establish class agreements to set positive norms for our classroom.

Building name recognition fosters community and trust across multiple grade levels, while co-creating class agreements empowers students, promotes respect, and sets clear expectations from day one.

Audience

5th–8th Grade

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Circle-based name game and collaborative brainstorming

Materials

Soft Foam Ball, Chart Paper, Sticky Notes, Markers, Name Game Instruction Cards, Class Agreement Worksheet, and Timer or Stopwatch

Prep

Prepare Materials and Space

10 minutes

Arrange chairs in a circle for easy eye contact across mixed ages
Create a header on chart paper: “Our Class Agreement”
Cut sticky notes and place them with markers by the chart
Gather a soft foam ball for the name game
Review the steps on Name Game Instruction Cards and skim the Class Agreement Worksheet

Step 1

Welcome & Warm-Up

5 minutes

Greet students at the door and invite them to the circle
Explain that today’s goal is for 5th–8th graders to learn names and set class norms together
Model enthusiasm and a positive tone to build trust

Step 2

Name Game Activity

15 minutes

Distribute the Name Game Instruction Cards
Demonstrate: toss the ball, say your name and share one fun fact
Students toss the ball around the circle, each stating their name + fun fact when they catch it
Encourage attentive listening by asking students to recall a peer’s name at the end

Step 3

Class Agreement Brainstorm

10 minutes

Display chart paper titled “Our Class Agreement”
Hand out sticky notes and direct each student to write one rule or value (e.g., respect, kindness)
Invite students to place notes on the chart and read aloud their suggestion
Group similar ideas, discuss any duplicates, and agree on final wording
Transfer top 5–6 agreements neatly onto the chart and post prominently

Slide Deck

Session 1: Welcome & Class Agreements

Grades 5–8 Icebreaker Series
30-Minute Tier 2 Group Activity

Welcome students to Session 1 of our Back-to-School Blast. Use this slide to set the tone—enthusiastic greeting, brief overview of today’s goals, and remind students we’ll build community together.

Today’s Objectives

• Learn and remember each other’s names
• Collaboratively establish class agreements to set positive norms

Review the two main objectives: learning names through a fun game and co-creating our class agreements. Emphasize why each matters for a positive classroom community.

Materials & Setup

• Soft foam ball
• Chart paper & markers
• Sticky notes
• Name Game Instruction Cards
• Class Agreement Worksheet
• Timer or stopwatch

Chairs arranged in a circle for easy eye contact

Show students the materials and room setup. Confirm they see the soft foam ball, chart paper, sticky notes, markers, and the instructional cards.

1. Welcome & Warm-Up (5 min)

• Greet students at the door and invite them to the circle
• Explain today’s goals: learn names and set class norms
• Model enthusiasm and positive tone to build trust

Greet students at the door and invite them into the circle. Explain that today’s goal is to learn names and set our class norms together.

2. Name Game Activity (15 min)

• Distribute Name Game Instruction Cards
• Demonstrate: toss ball, say name + one fun fact
• Students toss the ball around the circle, each sharing name + fun fact when they catch it
• At the end, ask a few students to recall a peer’s name and fact

Distribute the Name Game instruction cards. Demonstrate tossing the ball and sharing your name + fun fact. Then have students play, tossing the ball around the circle.

3. Class Agreement Brainstorm (10 min)

• Display chart paper: “Our Class Agreement”
• Hand out sticky notes; each student writes one rule or value
• Students place notes on the chart and read aloud their suggestion
• Group similar ideas, discuss duplicates, agree on final wording
• Transfer top 5–6 agreements neatly onto chart

Display the chart paper titled “Our Class Agreement.” Guide students through brainstorming and grouping their suggestions to create final agreements.

Closing & What’s Next

• Thank you for sharing your names and ideas!
• Tomorrow: Day 2 Human Bingo—move, mingle, and discover shared interests

Thank students for their contributions. Preview tomorrow’s activity: a fun mingling icebreaker to learn more about our classmates.

Script

Session 1 Script

Teacher (as students enter):
“Good morning, everyone! Welcome to our Back-to-School Blast. I’m so excited to see all of you. Today we have a short 30-minute session to learn each other’s names and set up how we’ll work together this year. When you hear my chime, please find a seat in our circle.”

(Use a gentle chime or clap; wait for students to sit.)

Teacher:
“Thank you for getting settled so quickly! Our goals for today are:

Learn and remember each other’s names.
Collaboratively create our Class Agreement—our expectations for how we’ll treat each other.

Let’s get started!”

1. Name Game Activity (15 minutes)

Teacher (holds up Name Game Instruction Cards and the soft foam ball):
“First, we’re going to play a Name Game to learn everyone’s names and a fun fact. Here’s how it works:

• I’ll toss this ball to someone. When you catch it, say your name and share one fun fact about yourself—like a favorite hobby or food.
• Then you’ll toss the ball to another person.
• Keep going until everyone has had a turn.

Watch me model.”

(Teacher tosses ball to Student A.)

Teacher catches if tossed back:
“Thank you! My name is Mr./Ms. [Name], and one fun fact about me is I once tried surfing in Hawaii!”

Teacher:
“Great! Now, Student A, would you toss the ball to someone else and share your name and fun fact?”

(Teacher circulates gently to encourage participation. Provide praise.)

After each student has shared or 15 minutes is up:

Teacher:
“That was fantastic! Let’s do a quick check: Can someone tell me Student B’s name and fun fact?”
(Choose a student to answer.)

Teacher:
“Excellent! Remembering names is a big part of building our community.”

2. Class Agreement Brainstorm (10 minutes)

Teacher (motions to chart paper titled “Our Class Agreement” and hands out sticky notes and markers):
“Next, we’re going to decide together how we want to treat each other in this classroom. On your sticky note, please write one rule or value that you think will help us work and learn well together. It could be something like ‘Respect Others,’ ‘Listen Carefully,’ or ‘Be Kind.’”

(Students write and place notes on the chart.)

Teacher (spots a note, reads aloud):
“Here’s one: ‘Take turns when someone is speaking.’ Thank you! Who wrote this one?”

(Student responds.)

Teacher:
“Wonderful—so we agree that waiting our turn is important. Let’s keep reading a few more and group similar ideas together.”

(Teacher clusters notes into categories: Respect, Kindness, Responsibility, etc.)

Teacher:
“We have several about listening, being kind, and using respectful words. Let’s pick our top five to six to post right here. Ready?”

(Teacher rewrites final agreements neatly on chart paper.)

Teacher (steps back and gestures to the agreements):
“Here are our Class Agreements for this year:

Listen when others speak.
Speak kindly.
Help each other.
Respect personal space.
Be responsible for your actions.
Ask questions when you’re unsure.

Do these feel like promises we can keep? Thumbs up!”

(Students show thumbs up.)

Teacher:
“Perfect. We’ll leave this chart up all year as a reminder of how we want to treat each other.”

Closing & Preview (Remaining time)

Teacher:
“Thank you all for sharing your names, fun facts, and great ideas. I loved hearing everyone’s suggestions. Tomorrow, we’ll play Day 2’s icebreaker—Human Bingo—where you’ll get to move around and learn even more about your classmates. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and I’ll see you back here tomorrow!”

(End with a cheerful wave.)

Lesson Plan

Session 2 Lesson Plan

Students will engage in a Human Bingo icebreaker to meet classmates in grades 5–8, discover shared interests, and build community through movement and conversation.

Human Bingo gets students moving and talking with many peers, breaking social barriers, boosting confidence, and fostering new connections in a fun, active way across grade levels.

Audience

5th–8th Grade

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Mingle-and-sign bingo encourages peer interaction.

Materials

Human Bingo Cards, Pencils or Pens, Clipboards or Hard Writing Surfaces, and Timer or Stopwatch

Prep

Prepare Bingo Materials and Space

10 minutes

Print or photocopy enough Human Bingo Cards for each student
Distribute clipboards or ensure students have a hard writing surface
Place pencils or pens at each seat or ask students to bring one
Clear a safe mingling area by moving desks to the sides
Review bingo prompts and rules

Step 1

Introduction & Distribution

5 minutes

Explain the rules and goals of Human Bingo: find classmates matching each prompt and have them sign the square
Demonstrate with one example prompt
Hand out Human Bingo Cards and a writing tool to each student
Set a timer for the mingling period

Step 2

Mingling & Finding Matches

15 minutes

Students move around the room, asking peers about each prompt on their cards
When someone matches a prompt, they sign that square; each peer may sign only one square per card
Encourage talking to as many different classmates as possible
Teacher circulates to prompt shy students and keep energy high

Step 3

Debrief & Reflection

10 minutes

Reconvene in a circle and invite volunteers to share interesting finds or surprising matches
Highlight any prompts that had few matches to spark curiosity
Optionally recognize first students who got bingo or filled the most squares
Discuss how discovering common interests can help build friendships moving forward

Slide Deck

Session 2: Human Bingo

Grades 5–8 Icebreaker Series
30-Minute Tier 2 Group Activity

Let’s get moving and learn about each other!

Welcome to Session 2 of our Back-to-School Blast with grades 5–8! Today we’ll dive into Human Bingo to meet classmates and discover shared interests. Encourage energy and movement as students mingle.

Today’s Objectives

• Engage with classmates through a fun bingo game
• Discover shared interests and similarities
• Build community through movement and conversation

Review the objectives: why we’re playing Human Bingo. Emphasize connecting with many classmates, finding common ground, and building community through conversation.

Materials & Setup

• Human Bingo Cards
• Pencils or pens
• Clipboards or hard writing surfaces
• Timer or stopwatch

Clear a safe space for students to move around

Show students the materials and room setup. Confirm they have a bingo card, writing tool, clipboard, and a clear space for mingling.

1. Introduction & Distribution (5 min)

• Explain rules: find classmates matching each prompt and have them sign the square
• Demonstrate with one example prompt
• Hand out Human Bingo Cards and writing tools
• Set a timer for the mingling period

Explain the rules step by step. Model with one example prompt to ensure everyone understands before they start.

2. Mingling & Finding Matches (15 min)

Encourage students to talk to as many different peers as possible. Circulate to prompt shy students and keep energy high.

3. Debrief & Reflection (10 min)

Lead a reflection to reinforce connections made. Celebrate interesting discoveries and discuss how shared interests help friendships grow.

Closing & What’s Next

• Thank you for playing Human Bingo!
• Tomorrow: Day 3 Team Tower Challenge—collaborate to build the tallest free-standing tower

Thank students for their participation. Preview tomorrow’s activity: Team Tower Challenge with spaghetti and marshmallows to practice teamwork and creativity.

Lesson Plan

Session 3 Lesson Plan

Students in grades 5–8 will collaborate in small teams to design and build the tallest free-standing tower using spaghetti, marshmallows, and tape, practicing teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving.

Hands-on engineering challenges foster collaboration, communication, and creative thinking across grades 5–8 in a fun, low-stakes environment, strengthening classroom community.

Audience

5th–8th Grade

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Hands-on team-based design and build

Materials

Dry Spaghetti Sticks, Mini Marshmallows, Masking Tape, Rulers or Measuring Tapes, and Timer or Stopwatch

Prep

Prepare Materials and Teams

10 minutes

Measure and bundle equal portions of spaghetti sticks for each team (about 20 sticks)
Count and portion mini marshmallows for each team (about 30 marshmallows)
Provide each team with a roll of masking tape
Gather rulers or measuring tapes and a timer or stopwatch
Arrange desks or tables into workstations for teams of 3–4 students
Review challenge rules, success criteria, and time limits

Step 1

Introduction & Rules

5 minutes

Explain the Team Tower Challenge: build the tallest free-standing tower using only spaghetti sticks, marshmallows, and tape
Show a quick example or photo of a completed tower
Clarify measurement criteria (height from base to top) and total time available
Emphasize safe handling of materials and encourage teamwork

Step 2

Planning Phase

5 minutes

Teams brainstorm design ideas and sketch a simple plan on paper
Discuss how marshmallows can serve as connectors and tape for stability
Assign roles within each team (e.g., designer, builder, measurer, time-keeper)

Step 3

Build Phase

15 minutes

Start the timer and allow teams to construct their towers
Circulate to observe progress, prompt problem-solving, and ensure collaboration
Provide time reminders at 5 and 2 minutes remaining to help teams pace themselves

Step 4

Reflection & Measurement

5 minutes

Have teams place their towers on a flat surface for measurement
Use rulers or measuring tapes to record each tower’s height
Invite teams to share strategies that worked, challenges faced, and lessons learned
Celebrate all teams’ creativity, planning, and teamwork

Slide Deck

Session 3: Team Tower Challenge

Grades 5–8 Icebreaker Series
30-Minute Tier 2 Group Activity

Build the tallest free-standing tower!

Welcome to Session 3 of our Back-to-School Blast! Today we’ll collaborate in teams to build the tallest free-standing tower using spaghetti and marshmallows. Emphasize creativity and teamwork.

Today’s Objectives

• Collaborate to design and build a tall tower
• Practice problem-solving and communication
• Encourage creativity and planning

Review the objectives for today: teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving through a hands-on engineering challenge.

Materials & Setup

• Dry spaghetti sticks
• Mini marshmallows
• Masking tape
• Rulers or measuring tapes
• Timer or stopwatch

Desks arranged for teams of 3–4

Show students the materials and workspace. Confirm each team has the supplies and knows their workstation.

1. Introduction & Rules (5 min)

• Use only spaghetti, marshmallows, and tape
• Build the tallest free-standing tower
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Be careful when handling materials

Explain the challenge rules clearly. Show an example image or describe a sample tower. Emphasize the time limit and safety.

2. Planning Phase (5 min)

• Brainstorm design ideas as a team
• Sketch a simple plan on paper
• Discuss how to use marshmallows and tape for stability
• Assign roles: designer, builder, measurer, time-keeper

Guide teams through brainstorming. Encourage sketches and role assignment to structure the build phase.

3. Build Phase (15 min)

• Begin building your tower
• Collaborate and problem-solve as issues arise
• Teacher gives time warnings at 5 and 2 minutes left
• Focus on stability and height

Start the build! Circulate to observe, prompt collaboration, and give time check-ins at 5 and 2 minutes remaining.

4. Reflection & Measurement (5 min)

• Measure each tower’s height
• Share strategies and challenges faced
• Discuss what you’d do differently next time
• Celebrate creativity and teamwork

Measure each tower and debrief on strategies used. Celebrate all teams’ efforts and discuss improvements.

Lesson Plan

Session 4 Lesson Plan

Students in grades 5–8 will quickly connect with multiple peers through a Speed-Friending version of Two Truths and a Lie, practicing sharing, guessing, and active listening to deepen classroom rapport across grade levels.

This fast-paced activity encourages 5th–8th graders to learn surprising facts about many classmates, practice conversation skills, and build a sense of community in a low-stakes, fun format.

Audience

5th–8th Grade

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Paired rotations with timed Two Truths & a Lie exchanges

Materials

Two Truths Prompt Cards, Paper and Pens, Timer or Stopwatch, and Chairs arranged for paired conversation

Prep

Prepare Cards and Seating

10 minutes

Print and cut out enough Two Truths Prompt Cards for each student
Arrange chairs in two facing circles or two rows for paired rotations
Place paper and pens at each seat for jotting ideas
Test a timer or stopwatch for 2–3 minute intervals
Review the rotation process and timing cues

Step 1

Introduction & Modeling

5 minutes

Explain the Speed-Friending format: students pair up to share two truths and one lie, then guess each other’s lie
Model with a volunteer: teacher shares three statements, class guesses the lie, and teacher reveals the answer
Show how the timer will signal when to rotate partners

Step 2

Speed-Friending Conversations

15 minutes

Have students sit in paired seats (inner circle vs. outer circle or facing rows)
Set the timer for 2–3 minutes per round
In each pair, each student uses a Two Truths Prompt Cards to share two truths and one lie, while partner guesses
Circulate to encourage concise sharing and supportive guessing
When the timer rings, one side (e.g., outer circle) shifts one seat to the right for the next partner and reset the timer

Step 3

Debrief & Reflection

10 minutes

Reconvene in a circle after rotations end
Invite volunteers to share their most surprising truth or funniest wrong guess
Discuss how listening carefully and asking follow-up questions helped them learn about classmates
Emphasize how quick, meaningful shares can build stronger peer connections

Slide Deck

Session 4: Speed-Friending Two Truths & a Lie

Grades 5–8 Icebreaker Series
30-Minute Tier 2 Group Activity

Quickly share facts, guess lies, and meet new friends!

Welcome to Session 4 of our Back-to-School Blast! Today we’ll use a Speed-Friending version of Two Truths & a Lie to connect with many classmates quickly. Emphasize fun, movement, and active listening.

Today’s Objectives

• Practice sharing two truths and one lie concisely
• Develop listening and guessing skills
• Build connections through rapid peer rotations

Review what we aim to achieve today. Highlight practicing concise sharing, guessing skills, and building rapport with multiple peers.

Materials & Setup

• Two Truths Prompt Cards
• Paper and pens
• Timer or stopwatch
• Chairs arranged in two facing circles (or two rows)

Ensure clear walking path for rotations

Show students the materials and seating arrangement. Confirm they have prompt cards, writing tools, and know how chairs are arranged for paired rotations.

1. Introduction & Modeling (5 min)

• Explain Speed-Friending format: 2 truths + 1 lie per partner
• Model with a volunteer: share statements, take guesses, reveal the lie
• Show how the timer will signal partner rotations

Explain the activity and model a round. Demonstrate sharing three statements, having classmates guess your lie, and using the timer to signal rotations.

2. Speed-Friending Conversations (15 min)

• Sit in paired seats (inner vs. outer circle or facing rows)
• Set timer for 2–3 minutes per round
• Share your 2 truths + 1 lie; partner guesses the lie
• When timer rings, outer circle shifts one seat to the right
• Repeat until time expires

Guide the timed rotations. Encourage concise sharing and supportive guessing. Remind one side to shift seats when the timer rings.

3. Debrief & Reflection (10 min)

• Reconvene and invite volunteers to share a surprising truth or funniest guess
• Discuss how asking good questions and listening helped you learn about classmates
• Emphasize that brief, meaningful exchanges build rapport

Bring everyone back into a circle. Invite reflections on surprising truths or fun guess moments. Reinforce how quick shares deepen connections.

Closing & What’s Next

• Great work today—thanks for sharing and guessing!
• Tomorrow: Day 5 M&M Color Prompts & Compliment Chain
• Get ready to enjoy candy-based prompts and positivity

Thank students for their energy and openness. Preview Day 5’s M&M Color Prompt activity: sharing insights and giving compliments.

Lesson Plan

Session 5 Lesson Plan

Students in grades 5–8 will share personal insights using color-coded M&Ms prompts and complete a compliment chain to foster empathy, active listening, and positivity.

Candy-based prompts make self-disclosure fun and low-stakes for mixed 5th–8th graders, while sharing and receiving compliments builds trust, respect, and a positive multi-grade classroom culture.

Audience

5th–8th Grade

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Color-coded prompts plus compliment chain

Materials

Bowls of M&Ms, M&M Color Prompt Cards, Paper and Pens, and Timer or Stopwatch

Prep

Prepare Candy Prompt Materials and Seating

10 minutes

Print or create M&M Color Prompt Cards
Fill bowls with assorted M&Ms and provide spoons for serving
Place paper and pens at each seat
Arrange chairs in a circle for easy passing and sharing
Review the association between M&M colors and prompts

Step 1

Introduction & Explanation

5 minutes

Show the bowl of M&Ms and introduce the activity purpose
Explain that each M&M color corresponds to a prompt on M&M Color Prompt Cards
Model taking an M&M and answering the corresponding prompt
Remind students to listen actively and respect peers

Step 2

M&M Sharing Activity

15 minutes

Pass the bowl around; each student takes 3–4 M&Ms by color
For each M&M color, refer to M&M Color Prompt Cards and share your response
Encourage concise answers and attentive listening
Teacher circulates to support sharing and prompt quieter students

Step 3

Compliment Chain

8 minutes

Hand each student a sheet of paper
On your sheet, write a compliment about the classmate to your right
Fold your sheet so only the next student’s name shows, then pass it on
Repeat writing and passing until each sheet returns to its owner
Optionally have volunteers read aloud one compliment they received

Step 4

Reflection & Closing

2 minutes

Invite one or two students to share a highlight or insight
Reinforce how sharing and compliments strengthen our classroom community
Thank everyone for their openness and positivity

Slide Deck

Session 5: M&M Color Prompts & Compliment Chain

Grades 5–8 Icebreaker Series
30-Minute Tier 2 Group Activity

Candy-based sharing and positivity

Welcome to Session 5 of our Back-to-School Blast! Today we’ll share personal insights using M&M color prompts and wrap up with a compliment chain. Emphasize active listening and positivity.

Today’s Objectives

• Share personal insights with color-coded M&Ms prompts
• Practice active listening and concise sharing
• Foster empathy, trust, and positivity

Review the objectives: why we’re using M&Ms, what skills we’ll practice, and how this builds our classroom community.

Materials & Setup

• Bowls of assorted M&Ms
• M&M Color Prompt Cards
• Paper and pens
• Timer or stopwatch

Chairs arranged in a circle

Show students all materials and confirm the space is arranged in a circle for easy passing and sharing.

1. Introduction & Explanation (5 min)

• Show bowl of M&Ms and explain purpose
• Each M&M color corresponds to a prompt on M&M Color Prompt Cards
• Model taking an M&M and answering the prompt
• Emphasize active listening and respect

Explain the color-coded prompts and model selecting an M&M and answering. Remind students to listen respectfully.

2. M&M Sharing Activity (15 min)

• Pass the bowl; each student takes 3–4 M&Ms by color
• For each color, read the matching prompt from M&M Color Prompt Cards and share your response
• Keep answers concise; listen attentively
• Teacher circulates to encourage and support

Guide the class through passing the bowl, taking M&Ms, and sharing responses. Circulate to support quieter students.

3. Compliment Chain (8 min)

• Hand each student a sheet of paper
• On your sheet, write a sincere compliment about the classmate to your right
• Fold so only the next student’s name shows and pass it on
• Continue until each sheet returns to its owner
• Optionally, invite volunteers to read compliments they received

Explain and model the compliment chain process, then let students begin writing and passing sheets.

4. Reflection & Closing (2 min)

• Invite one or two students to share a highlight or insight
• Reinforce how sharing and compliments build positivity and trust
• Thank everyone for their participation and kindness

Lead a brief reflection on highlights and thank students for their openness. Reinforce how sharing and compliments strengthen our community.