Your icebreaker is that activity or question you ask at the start of your teaching or training sessions to try to relax your new group, get to know them and give them an idea of what they can expect from you. 

1. They build rapport: Done right, they create a friendly atmosphere, helping your learners feel more comfortable and open to taking part in your session. The only thing worse than a rowdy class is a silent one!  

 

2. They encourage participation: Your icebreaker should involve everyone – even if it’s only passively - setting the stage for inclusive discussions and collaborative efforts. 

 

3. They set the tone: Your activity at the beginning can make participants more receptive to the material being presented. But again, only if it’s the right icebreaker! 

While icebreakers can be powerful, they can also lead to awkward moments or disengagement if not executed thoughtfully… 

 

1. Misalignment with group dynamics: An icebreaker that doesn’t resonate with the group can create discomfort or disinterest. Know your audience. Professionals are unlikely to want to build a tower out of marshmallows and kebab sticks. 

 

2. Over-complication: If an icebreaker is too complex, it can confuse participants instead of engaging them, leading to frustration rather than fun. Trick questions and activities are annoying to many and fun is subjective! 

 

3. Failure to debrief: Icebreakers should be followed by a discussion or reflection to connect the activity to the session goals, unless it is already very obvious. Skipping this step can leave participants feeling disconnected and wondering if they’ve just wasted their time. 

 

4. Ignoring sensitivities and abilities: Activities that are humorous or engaging in one culture may be inappropriate or uncomfortable in another. Make sure your icebreaker is suitable for everyone to take part in. Something physical might not work if some of your group has a disability and something too read/write focussed can alienate students with dyslexia. 

When you get your icebreaker right, it leads your students through a comfortable funnel of engagement. 

 

1. Engagement from the off: The icebreaker captures attention and encourages students to take part. 

 

2. Making friends: As participants interact, they begin to form connections, enhancing collaboration and communication. This is particularly helpful if your course lasts for more than a day. 

 

3. Increased retention: Engaging activities increase information retention, making the learning experience more memorable. We all remember something (for the right reasons!) that we’ve enjoyed more than something we haven’t! 

 

4. Showing the learning: Well-facilitated, relevant icebreakers pave the way for practical application of the concepts of the session. 

The EMG has compiled a resource that’s perfect for any teacher, trainer or assessor: our icebreakers book, featuring 20 tried and tested icebreakers with ratings. 

 

This guide is designed to help you choose the right activity for your group, ensuring a successful and engaging experience every time. It even has a much nicer alternative to Two Truths and a Lie! 

 

Become an endorsed EMG centre or complete our classroom Level 3 Award in Education and Training and receive this book for free! 

 

 

 

Grab our icebreakers book today and give your students the start they need.