8 Things (aka 5 Things, Categories of 8, etc), How to play

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• Category: Warm-Up, Quick Thinking, Public Speaking, Support
• CLICK HERE to down load PDF
• Improv Game List

How To Play 8 Things

Here’s how to lead “8 Things” in a classroom or group setting:

• Setup: Have students stand in a line or a circle.
• Game Play:
  1. The leader (teacher) gives the first person a category (e.g., “types of breakfast cereals,” “things you find in a forest,” “famous cities”).
  2. That person’s task is to quickly name 8 things within that category.
  3. As they name each item, their partner or the group’s task is to shout encouragement (e.g., “Yes!”, “Awesome!”, “That’s one!”). This creates an atmosphere of support.
  4. Once the person has named all 8 things, the entire group gives them applause.
  5. The game continues with the next person getting a new category.

Tricks & Variations

Here are some tips for teachers to help students succeed and maximize the benefits of this game:

• Embrace Speed over Accuracy: The goal is to encourage rapid-fire idea generation. Remind students that it’s better to be wrong than to worry about being right. The speed and commitment are more important than getting a perfect list.
• Practice Public Speaking: Encourage students to avoid filler words like “um,” “ah,” or “like.” They can use the short silence to their advantage to practice clear, confident public speaking.
• Stay Present and Focused: Remind players to keep eye contact with their team. Encourage them to trust their first instincts rather than searching in the “back of their head.” Overthinking can lead to “brain farts” and perfectionism, which hinders the spontaneous flow of the game.

Benefits

“8 Things” offers several key benefits for students:

• Enhances Focus and Presence: The game demands immediate attention and quick recall, helping students to stay present and think on their feet.
• Boosts Communication and Connection: The encouragement from the group builds trust and a supportive atmosphere, while the fast-paced verbal exchange strengthens group connection.
• Fosters a Lighthearted Atmosphere: The rapid pace and low-stakes nature of the game make it a fun and stress-free way to warm up.
• Develops Quick Thinking: The game trains the brain to quickly generate ideas and overcome self-censorship, which is a key skill in improv and beyond.
• Improves Public Speaking: It provides a safe space for students to practice speaking clearly and concisely under a small amount of pressure.

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