Participatory Methods

The Name Game

The Name Game is a participatory activity designed to help participants learn and remember each other’s names in a fun way. Sitting in a circle, participants throw a ball while saying the name of the person they’re throwing it to. It’s an excellent icebreaker and helps foster group interaction from the start.

Preparation

  1. Define the purpose:
    • Help participants learn and remember each other’s names.
    • Encourage interaction and connection among group members.
    • Break the ice in a fun and relaxed way.
  2. Prepare the materials:
    • Two lightweight, soft balls (foam or fabric).
    • A large space where participants can sit comfortably in a circle.
  3. Set up the space:
    • Arrange participants in a wide circle to make it easy to see each other and throw the ball.
    • Make sure the area is clear to avoid accidents.
  4. To run the activity virtually:
    • Use tools to create an interactive board where participants’ names are displayed in connected circles.
    • Organize turns where participants say a name, and the next person “receives” the turn by typing or marking it on the board.
    • Encourage verbal interaction using microphones to mimic the natural flow of the game.

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Form the circle
    • Ask participants to form a large circle and introduce themselves briefly (if they haven’t already).
  2. Explain the activity
    • Explain that the goal is to throw the ball to another participant while saying their name out loud.
    • Start with a single ball so everyone gets used to the pace.
  3. Start the game
    • The facilitator throws the ball to a participant while saying their name aloud.
    • The person who catches the ball throws it to someone else, saying that person’s name.
  4. Add a challenge
    • Once everyone has received the ball at least once, introduce the second ball to increase difficulty and energy.
    • Make sure participants continue saying the names as they throw the balls.
  5. Wrap-up and reflection
    • After 10 minutes or once the group seems comfortable with the names, end the game.
    • Ask participants to recall and say the names they remember to reinforce learning.
Recommendations
  • Choose safe balls: Use lightweight, soft balls to avoid accidents.
  • Facilitate initial interaction: If participants don’t know each other, give them a moment to introduce themselves before starting.
  • Increase difficulty gradually: Start with one ball and then add the second to keep the energy up.
  • Encourage attention: Remind participants to stay alert to catch and throw the ball.
  • Close with a brief reflection: Invite the group to share how the activity helped them remember names and connect with others.
Inspiration

Variations for “The Name Game”

  • Use different objects instead of balls, such as fabric bags or balloons.
  • Add a theme (e.g., when throwing the ball, say something you like in addition to the person’s name).
  • Play with the order: set a rule that you can’t throw the ball to the same person twice.
  • Split the group into subgroups and run the activity simultaneously to increase interaction.
  • Change the pace: alternate between throwing the ball quickly or slowly to keep everyone alert.
Materials
  • Two lightweight balls.
  • A spacious and clear area.
Online platforms
Purpose
The purpose of The Name Game is to facilitate the learning and memorization of participants’ names while promoting group interaction and connection in a fun and dynamic way.
Type of activity
Participatory InteractionParticipatory Learning
Level of participation
Information, Collaboration, Knowledge generation
Target audience
Educators, Facilitators, Students, Community leaders, NGOs and social collectives, Business teams, Government, Creative designers, Researchers
Fields of application
Education and training, Community development, Organizational and business management, Health and social well-being, Citizen and social participation
Estimated duration
10 minutes.
Ideal number of participants
10-20 people.
Topics related to this activity
Active LearningActive ListeningBall GameCollaborative GameCollaborative LearningCollective LearningCreative Problem SolvingGamificationGroup StrengtheningIcebreaker ActivityInclusive ParticipationKnowledge GenerationTeam StrengtheningTeamwork
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