This is a community-building activity called “puzzle art” that can be implemented on the first day of school. It involves each student drawing something about themselves on a puzzle piece, then standing up to introduce themselves to the class by explaining the symbols on their piece, which helps to build a positive and inclusive classroom environment.
Here are the steps for implementing “puzzle art” on the first day of school:
- Google a 12-piece puzzle template and print it out, based on the numb
er of students in your class. - Cut the puzzle pieces and distribute one to each student, including yourself if you want to be a part of the classroom community.
- Bring colored pencils/pen to the class.
- Ask each student to draw something (or a few things) about themselves on their puzzle piece. You can draw one for yourself to demonstrate.
- When they complete their drawing, have each student stand up and introduce themselves by explaining
the symbols on their piece. - Put the pieces together to form the completed puzzle.
- Hang the puzzle on the classroom wall as a symbol of the community you are building together.
