Instructions

Setup

• Gather the whole group into a circle and then have players form pairs.

How to Play

• Each pair will have 1–2 minutes to find out things they have in common that…
  • they didn’t already know, and
  • are not visible.
• Before starting, use a volunteer to demonstrate examples of commonalities that meet the criteria:
  • I wouldn’t tell my partner that I have brown hair because they can see that. I wouldn’t say that I am in elementary school because my partner already knows that. I might say, “My favorite food is pizza. What’s yours?” or I might ask, “What do you like to do in your free time?”
• When the time is up, have players get back into the large circle.
• One by one, each pair will share one thing they have in common.
• After sharing their commonality, if others in the group also share that commonality, all students should put their hands up, lunge forward, and yell, “SUPERSTAR!”
• The next pair then shares their commonality with the same process, which continues until all pairs have shared.
• Note: Encourage positive relationships by noticing aloud the discoveries that were made and the group support demonstrated by students.

Variations

• Have players switch partners and do a round where they have to find something they have in common about a specific topic — for example, sports, school, or hobbies.
• Have players do a round where they can’t speak and can only act out ideas.

Source

Playworks’ new SEL Game Guide contains more than 150 games that you can use to reinforce social and emotional skills. Inside, you will find brain breaks, recess favorites, variations on classic games, and facilitation tips that make playtime fun, safe, and inclusive for all kids. Visit www.playworks.org to learn more about Playworks and how play can help kids stay active and learn valuable life skills.

Evidence That It Works

Human beings “categorize” each other into identity groups based on many different features, such as race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and economic status; however, this process can easily lead to stereotyping and other forms of discrimination.

Numerous studies have found that when we re-categorize people who are not part of our identity group based on things that we have in common, we increase our acceptance of others and see them as part of “us.”

Why Does It Matter?

In our diverse schools, society, and world, getting along with people who appear different from us is imperative to creating safe and equitable communities in which all people thrive.

According to research, one of the most effective ways to break down barriers of prejudice, racism, and “othering” is the cultivation of cross-group friendships. By teaching students to look beyond their peers’ outward-facing identities and to get to know each other on a more personal, human level, teachers can make great strides in creating a world where everyone is valued.