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#23 Easy

Ball Talk

Pass a ball around the circle - only the person holding it can talk. Gives shy students clear permission to speak and prevents interruptions.

classroom teens listening turn-taking structure quiet-friendly quick

Group Size:

8-25 people

Duration:

10-15 minutes

Difficulty:

Easy

How to Play:

Ball Talk - How to Play
  1. 1

    Stand or sit in a circle. Give yourself 60 seconds to get organized

  2. 2

    Set two clear rules: (1) Only one person speaks at a time. Interrupting means you're out. (2) No ball = no talking

  3. 3

    Pass the ball. When you have it, give a short answer - anywhere from one word to one sentence

  4. 4

    Use simple prompts: What's different this year? What changed for you last year? What time did you leave home today?

  5. 5

    Keep it moving. The ball should never stop for more than 5 seconds

Ball Talk

One ball. One rule: only talk when you’re holding it. This simple structure gives everyone a chance to speak and creates natural turn-taking. Especially great for classrooms with shy students who need clear permission to talk.

Works in circles or lines. Just needs a soft ball and 10 minutes.

Best For:

Structured turn-taking, helping shy students participate, practicing listening skills, quick check-ins

Pro Tips

  • The ball = speaking permission. This visual cue helps everyone

  • Short answers only - no speeches. If someone talks too long, remind them to pass the ball

  • Tight on space? Form a line and pass the ball down the row instead

  • Change directions randomly to keep people alert

  • If someone passes without speaking, that's okay - just move to the next person

Variations

  • Speed round: Ball must be passed within 3 seconds of receiving it

  • Story ball: Each person adds one sentence to build a collaborative story

  • Question ball: Person with ball asks the next person a question before passing

  • Compliment ball: Say something nice about the person you're passing to

FAQ

What type of ball should I use?
Use a soft, easy-to-catch ball like a foam ball or beach ball. Avoid hard balls that might cause injuries.
What if someone won't pass the ball?
Set a time limit like 5 seconds per person. Gently remind them to keep it moving or skip to the next person.
Can this work in limited space?
Yes, form a line instead of a circle and pass the ball down the row. Works in tight classrooms.

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