Classroom Conversation Starters

Getting to know your students is a great way to build classroom community and help all students feel included. We’ve come up with some conversation starters that you can use with your class. You’ll learn more about them and they’ll learn about each other too.

1. For younger students, you may want to add questions that have two or three options and have them raise their hands to indicate which option is their favorite.
2. For older students, you can ask more complex questions that really get them thinking about their feelings and how they like to learn.
3. Try to make sure and involve all students so that no one feels left out.
4. Some students may not feel comfortable sharing answers in front of the class. Don’t force anyone to participate; think about finding individual time to check in with those kids if possible.

Below is a sample of some of the conversation starters available in our free download. 

Elementary School Conversation Starters

• What’s a word that describes you?
• What are you good at?
• What is something you find challenging?
• What do you enjoy doing at home?
• What makes you feel nervous?
• What’s your favorite thing about school?

Middle School Conversation Starters

• What motivates you?
• What’s your favorite subject at school?
• What are your hobbies/interests outside of school?
• What are a few words that describe you?
• Do you prefer working in large groups, small groups, with just one other person or on your own?