Have You Ever?

Grade level: Elementary and Secondary
Players: 20 to 30
Duration: At least 30 minutes

This is an active, fun way to explore and celebrate the rich diversity of experiences that different individuals bring to a group. Works best with larger groups.

Instructions

  • Students stand in a circle.
  • A student asks a question starting with Have you ever… If the item applies to you, then run into the middle of the circle, jump in the air, and do a high 5 with anyone else who runs in.
  • A list of about 20 items should be tailored to the particular group, setting, and program goals, but some suggestions are below. Usually the items are of a "Have You Ever....?" form, but also free to ad lib, e.g., "Does Anyone Have....?"
  • Items should be carefully considered in order to prevent embarrassment, ridicule, etc.
  • Participants’ motivation often needs some tamping up.
List of Possible "Have You Ever?" Questions:
  1. Have you ever climbed a tree?
  2. Have you ever lived overseas?
  3. Have you ever sung karaoke?
  4. Do you have both a brother and a sister?
  5. Have you ever ridden a horse?
  6. Have you ever eaten “escargots”?
  7. Can you speak 3 or more languages?
  8. Have you swum in 2 or more different oceans?
  9. Have you ever been on a snowboard?
  10. Have you broken 2 or more bones in your body?
  11. Have you done volunteer work?
  12. Have you ever climbed a cliff?
  13. Have you ever had a relative who lived to over 100?
  14. Have you ever cooked a meal by yourself?
  15. Have you ever kept a bird as a pet?
  16. Have you ever been parachuting or done a bungee jump?
  17. Can you click your fingers on your non-dominant hand?
  18. Have you ever seen a polar bear?