Middle School ELA Icebreakers – Fun Activities for the First Day of School

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Middle School ELA Icebreakers are the perfect way to start your school year with laughter, connection, and a strong classroom community. In this episode of Two Middle School ELA Teachers by ELA Core Plans, we’re sharing our favorite activities to make your first day of school both fun and meaningful.

Why Use Middle School ELA Icebreakers?

The first day of school sets the tone for the months ahead. Middle School ELA Icebreakers help students feel welcome, encourage collaboration, and give you a chance to learn more about their personalities and strengths. These activities go beyond introductions—they help create a learning environment where students feel safe to share and take risks.

Top Middle School ELA Icebreaker Activities

  1. Team-Building Challenges – Have students work together to solve a puzzle, complete a scavenger hunt, or build the tallest paper tower. These challenges promote teamwork and communication.

  2. Creative Communication Games – Try “Two Truths and a Tale” or “Story Chain,” where each student adds a sentence to a collaborative story. These games spark creativity and laughter.

  3. Literary Connection Pairings – Partner students and have them find three books, authors, or genres they both enjoy. This encourages conversation and reveals shared interests.

Make Your First Day Memorable

When you use Middle School ELA Icebreakers, you’re doing more than filling time—you’re laying the foundation for a positive classroom culture. These activities foster trust, build relationships, and help students feel connected from day one.

Don’t miss our special back-to-school giveaway! And be sure to check out our newest resource, ELA Core Club, where you’ll find tools, activities, and inspiration for your ELA classroom. Use our discount code to save today!

 

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