1. Letter Opener
Give each group member four blank index cards and a writing implement. Ask
them to, WITHOUT talking to each other or looking at others’ cards, write one
letter on each card large enough for others to see.
Tell the group that their challenge is to now arrange all the letters into words
(words found in a standard dictionary, no slang and no foul language). Every
word must be attached in some way to another word like in a crossword puzzle.
If the group is struggling, they can change ONE letter per four members of the
group. If your group has eight members, they can change two letters. Everyone
in the group must agree with a letter change before it can be made.
Give the group as much time as they need to get as many words created as
possible. After they’ve have enough, process with these questions:
Did anyone have a hard time choosing letters? Why or why not?
Why did you choose the letters you did?
What sort of leadership presented it self during the process?
Who took on leadership roles? Was their leadership appointed or assumed?
Why?
Did you give up your cards to the process? Why?
What did you do after you gave up your cards? Did you help? Sit back? Distract?
How did the group work together or not work together?
What was communication like during this process?