I teach first grade, but I think this activity would be great for second graders too. The class sits in a circle. I begin with a large ball of yarn and I hold onto the end of the yarn and throw the ball to a student. I ask them a “getting to know you question” (favorite food, movie, subject — or anything else you want to ask) They answer the question and then hold onto a piece of the yarn and then throw the ball to another student and ask them a question. Be sure that each student remember to hold the yarn and does not let go. (same for you!) By the end — you should have a giant web of yarn that connects the whole class. I then explain how even though we all had different questions and answers — we are all still connected and that teamwork is important to our learning.

Hope this helps! Good Luck!

I agree with the first poster – although fun games are good in moderation there are some basic things that need to be addressed right away.

I would talk about your behavior policy. You can involve the kids in this as they should help make up 4-5 simple rules you can post.

I would also take them on a walk through the school — directions for being in the hall, bathroom, lunch room, playground.

I like the idea of going through the day with them – laying it out with your expectations.

As far as a getting to know you activity – let’s assess how they write. Have each child write a short paragraph on who they are, their favorite thing, and how many people in their family. They could color a picture to go along with this and then have each child present it to the class. Not only will this give a chance to look at writing and spelling skills, it will tell you who is shy and the children who are going to need more help.

Most of the kids will already know each other; you are the one who doesn’t know them. So while the children are writing, have each one come up individually and sit with you while you help them with their paper, and get a little more comfortable with them.

Good Luck

I usually jump right in. I start teaching procedures such as walking in the hallway, but I also teach “what do we do during Reading time. Along the way I also teach team building skills. But, generally, I jump in day one doing the things that we will normally do.