As a private tutor, you already know that building trust and rapport with your students is the foundation of a successful student-tutor relationship and learning journey. The trick is to gain this trust early on and get to know your students and what will work best for them in each session.
In this article, we take a look at some interactive icebreakers you can use in the very first five minutes. From using introduction videos and online quizzes to playing a maths bingo game, you can win that all-important trust and ignite a passion for learning from the first session.
1. Get-to-Know-You Quiz
A quick and fun quiz can be an excellent way to break the ice and learn more about your student’s interests, learning preferences, and personality. You can create a simple quiz with questions like:
- What’s your favourite subject?
- Do you prefer studying in the morning or evening?
- What are your hobbies outside of school?
Tools like Kahoot or Google Forms can be used to create interactive quizzes that students can enjoy. This activity not only helps you understand your student better but also adds a playful element to the session.
2. Video Introductions
If you’re tutoring online, a short video introduction can be a great way to break the ice. Ask your student to create a one-minute video introducing themselves before the session, and you can do the same. This exercise can help students feel more comfortable, especially in an online setting, by putting a face to the name and adding a personal touch to the interaction.
After watching the videos, you can discuss what you’ve learned about each other, making it easier to segue into the lesson with a sense of familiarity and trust.
3. Maths Bingo
Maths Bingo is an engaging and educational icebreaker that helps reinforce basic maths skills while also having fun. Create a bingo card with different simple maths problems in each square. As you call out the answers, students must solve the problems on their card and mark off the correct squares. The first student to get a full line shouts “Bingo!”
This game is particularly effective for younger students or those who might be anxious about maths. It turns the subject into a fun challenge rather than a daunting task.
4. Two Truths and a Lie
This classic icebreaker works well in both in-person and online tutoring sessions. Ask the student to come up with two true statements and one false one about themselves. You’ll do the same. Then, try to guess which of the three statements is the lie.
This activity is not only fun but also provides insights into your student’s personality, interests, and creativity. It encourages open communication and helps build a trusting relationship quickly.
5. Story Starters
For students who enjoy creative writing, a story starter can be a fantastic way to break the ice. Provide the student with the beginning of a story and ask them to continue it for a few sentences. For example, you might start with, “Once upon a time, there was a young inventor who created a machine that could…”
This activity sparks creativity and can also reveal a lot about a student’s imagination and writing skills. It’s an excellent way to transition into more focused lessons, particularly in English or creative writing sessions.
Setting the Stage for Success: Building Connections from the Start
The first few minutes of a tutoring session are crucial for building rapport and setting the tone for productive learning. By using interactive icebreakers like quizzes, video introductions, Maths Bingo, Two Truths and a Lie, and Story Starters, you can quickly establish trust and make your student feel at ease.
These activities are not only fun but also provide valuable insights into your student’s interests, learning style, and personality, paving the way for a successful and engaging tutoring experience.
Are you passionate about helping students succeed? At Tutor Doctor, we are always looking for dedicated tutors who want to make a difference in students’ lives. Join our team to enjoy the flexibility, support, and rewarding experience that comes with being a tutor with Tutor Doctor.
