In this blog post, we will introduce an engaging activity called Background Brief, designed to help students develop effective storytelling and communication skills. By identifying missing background information in stories, students will learn the importance of providing context for better understanding. This activity aligns with the principles of Social-Emotional Learning, promoting positive communication and relationship-building among peers.
No-Prep Activity: Background Brief
The Background Brief is a simple, no-prep activity that requires no materials or preparation from the educator. The goal of the game is for students to listen to a story, identify any missing background information, and discuss how the absence of context may lead to confusion. This activity encourages students to pay attention to the critical elements of a story, such as who, what, where, and when, and to consider the impact of leaving out essential details.
How to Play:
- The educator provides a short story or anecdote, either read aloud or played as a video. The story should have one or more pieces of background information missing.
- Students listen carefully to the story and identify any missing background information, focusing on the who, what, where, and when elements.
- After the story is finished, students share their observations and discuss the impact of the missing information on their understanding of the story.
- The educator then reveals the missing background information and discusses the importance of providing context for effective communication.
Discussion Questions
- What pieces of background information were missing from the story? How did this affect your understanding of the story?
- Why is it essential to provide context when sharing a story or information with others?
- Can you think of a time when you experienced confusion due to missing background information? How did it impact your ability to understand the situation?
- What strategies can we use to ensure we provide enough context when communicating with others?
- How can providing proper background information help build strong relationships and promote effective communication?
Related Skills
Background Brief is a valuable activity that can help students develop other essential skills, such as:
- Active listening
- Critical thinking
- Empathy and understanding
- Verbal communication
Next Steps
If you’re interested in incorporating Background Brief and other engaging activities into your classroom, sign up for free samples of skill-based materials at Everyday Speech. Explore a variety of resources designed to promote Social-Emotional Learning and help your students develop essential life skills.
