This is Part 1 of a 3-part blog series for Scrum Masters, Product and Product Managers, and facilitators. Use these exercises to break the ice and lead meetings that are fun and energized, resulting in more participant engagement.
Exercise 1: Ball Toss Name Game
This exercise is a great way to breath the ice for newly formed teams. It can also be used to introduce teams across the organization.
Supplies and Room Requirements:
- Light, soft ball
- Space for team to form a circle
Steps:
- Team forms a circle.
- Go around the circle and ask each team member to introduce himself or herself.
- One person takes ball and says another person’s name while tossing the ball to them.
- Keep going until the team knows the names of the people in the circle.
Exercise 2: Progressive Story
Progressive story is a good way to start a meeting, regardless of length or topic. This exercise inspires equal participation, as everyone is encouraged to provide input. It is also good for breaking down boundaries given that the exercise promotes uniformity.
Supplies and Room Requirements:
- None
Steps:
- Explain steps and ask one person to start the story with a 1-2 sentence prompt.
- Go around room and each team member continues the story by adding 1-2 sentences.
- Keep going until everyone has participated.
References:
Exercises to Encourage Brainstorming
Exercises to Prepare for Long Meetings
Learn more leadership tools in Advanced ScrumMaster Skills training.
