The Find-Your Adversary Game

The “Find-Your Adversary” Game Bill Colson, Morgan Park H.S., Chicago

Purpose: Ice-breaker and “get-to-know-you” activity Materials: Adhesive labels Sharpies Situation: First team meeting of the year

1. Before the meeting, prepare a set of labels containing pairs of opposing personalities or concepts (see suggestions below). There should be one label for each expected student, plus a few extra pairs for drop-ins. Note: While it may be tempting to use debate concepts (such as “Affirmative” and “Negative”), this is not advisable, since many of the students are not yet familiar with the terms. However, when the game is completed, it may be used to initiate a discussion about the nature of argument. 2. As students arrive, randomly choose a label and affix it to their back, without letting them see what is written on it. At the same time, give them a blank label. Instruct them to write their own name on it and affix it to their chest. 3. When all or most students are present, inform them that each of them has the name of a person or concept on their back, and that someone else has the name of an opposing person, place, thing, or concept (you may want to give an example, such as “Pistons and Lakers”.). They are first to determine their own “identity” by asking yes-or-no questions of other students. Once they have done this, they are to find their “opponent” and learn everything they can about them. Once all students have found their match and had sufficient time to share personal information, call on each pair and have the partners introduce each other to the group. 4. Examples of possible pairings: 50-Cent and Nas Matter and antimatter

McDonalds and Burger King Itchy and Scratchy K-Mart and Walmart Capulet and Montague Obama and McCain Tribune and Sun-Times Axis and Allies Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals GBS Titans and GBN Spartans (insert your school’s rival here) Oil and Water Coke and Pepsi