The ice-breaking exercise in a new group helps build trust with senior participants. It is very important when the trainer starts working with a new group. The main reasons for using this type of exercise are:

Purpose of the ice-breaker:

• Learn participants’ names
• Help people get to know each other quickly and better
• Boost energy before the meeting or activity
• Improve teamwork
• Encourage openness
• Have fun and create a good mood

A good exercise helps participants learn more about others in the group. People often have difficulty describing themselves, and this method makes it easier. The trainer should decide which type of ice-breaker to use based on the age and number of participants.

The “Things” exercise is best for small groups of 4–15 people. In larger groups it can become boring and take longer to complete. The objects chosen for the exercise should be ordinary, everyday items. It is recommended to use 4–8 pictures (in smaller groups, 4 is enough).

The pictures should show only the objects themselves so participants can identify with them and describe themselves more easily. They should not show, for example, a street with people. The trainer can use different types of pictures, but they should be appropriate for the participants’ age and gender. Several participants may choose the same picture – this is fine, as each presentation will be slightly different and show that everyone is unique.

A screen is needed to display the pictures, or paper images can be used. At the beginning, it is helpful to explain the rules and show an example. The exercise encourages participants to be more active and creative.

Example:
Choose an object – for example, a pot.

Think for about 5 minutes how to describe the object as if it were your personality. You can take notes.
Tell others about yourself:
“I am a pot. I am an electric pot because I like new technology. I like to stay alone on the table because I don’t enjoy company. I often feel half empty rather than half full because I am a pessimist…”

The trainer explains the exercise, shows the example, then invites participants to choose their pictures.

To evaluate the exercise, the trainer can ask participants about their impressions and what they learned about others. However, if participants seem shy or uncomfortable talking about themselves, it is better to skip the evaluation and continue with the activities.

Sources:
http://www.ilsc.com/blog/2014/08/5-reasons-use-ice-breakers-warm-exercises-esl-classroom/
https://pixabay.com/pl/