Mock Violence In Class
A classic team building exercise for language class that involves mock violence
I just used this activity with several classes and thought I’d share it.
Snowball fighting is a “getting to know each other” icebreaker activity that I’ve found always works.
It involves students writing information on a sheet of paper about themselves. Choose what categories you think works best with your students. See the prepared versions in the Lesson Library.
Students DON’T write their names on their papers. After adding the information, students crumple up the paper and for 1 minute throw them at each other, having a “snowball fight”.
It’s a spirited activity and with some groups, you’ll have to end it early or keep it even-keeled.
After 1 minute, students pick up a “snowball” and uncrumple it. They read it out to the class. Or the teacher can read it out. Guess who in the class it is. Vote. Who is right about who it is?
Works like a charm! But why does it work so well?
Well, as an Anthropology major, I remember learning about cultures that have ritualized and “mock” violence activities formalized and the research showing it was a strong reason why they were so cohesive and communal. Something to how stylized violence can bring people together. I’m sure you’ve experienced it - having a food fight or something similar. It bonds a group.
So maybe try it out!
Enjoy the snowball fight! See our Back To School lesson bundle, also available on TpTs. Or see all our Back To School lesson resources.