Same and Different - Organize your class into small groups of approximately 4 or 5. Give each group two pieces of paper and a pencil. On the first sheet of paper, the students write "Same" or "Shared" at the top and then proceed to find qualities that are shared by the group as a whole. Make sure to point out that these should not be silly or trite qualities, such as "We all have toes."
On the second paper, label it "Different" or "Unique" and give the students time to determine some aspects that are unique to only one member of their group. Then, set aside time for each group to share and present their findings.
Not only is this a great activity for getting to know each other, it also emphasizes how the class has shared commonalities as well as unique differences that make up an interesting and completely human whole.
