Quick Tip: Fun Activity Ideas 

As we get started with the semester, I wanted to encourage us all to begin thinking of ways to engage our students from the get-go with some fun activities!

Group Scavenger Hunt

If you put your students in groups at the beginning of the semester, have them get to know each other with a group scavenger hunt! Give clues for places across campus to each group (ex. the library, classroom, your office) and have them search for these places together over the first week, taking a group photo at each place. This is a great way for students to get to know each other while they get to know the important locations for your class!

Syllabus Quiz Competition

Instead of a traditional syllabus day, try out this gamified method!

Step 1: Break students into four groups and ensure they all have access to the syllabus (online or on paper, up to you).

Step 2: Ask the class questions about your syllabus (ex: When are my office hours?). The first group to raise their hand can answer. If they get it right, they get a point. If they get it wrong, another group can answer.

Step 3: Award the group with the most points at the end of class a small prize (exemption from the syllabus quiz on Canvas, bonus points, etc.).

Students will love playing this game and will still get the essential information from your syllabus!

Create a Classroom Playlist

For a great (low-stakes) get-to-know-you exercise, have all your students pick out their favorite song to put on a classroom playlist. You can play these songs during quiet downtime in class (writing, discussion time, etc.), and students will love hearing their tunes contribute to the class environment!

Have a wonderful start to the semester, all!