Write in the Air

Purpose. A quick, giggly way to build partner rapport before a working session.

When to use. Early in a session, especially with a group that doesn't know each other well yet.

Best for. Any group size, in person.

• No materials to gather; just read through the steps once before you run it.

Room setup. Open enough floor space for pairs to spread out and hear only their own partner.

Virtual setup. This works best in person. If you must run it virtually, have one partner spell using a shared whiteboard cursor instead of a finger in the air.

Hybrid setup. Pair remote participants with each other using the shared whiteboard version.

Materials.

1. Have participants mingle briefly, then pair up with whoever is nearest when you call stop.
2. Explain round one: one partner “writes” a letter or short word in the air with their finger while the other guesses what it is.
3. Give pairs a minute or two for round one, then switch who's writing.
4. Explain round two: repeat the same idea, but with full words instead of single letters.

Learning outcome. Participants leave having shared a laugh with a partner over a simple, low-stakes guessing game.

• No materials needed
• Debrief questions ready
• Timer set for 10 min
• Open floor space for pairs