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If you’re searching for an easy, zero-prep back-to-school icebreaker for middle school, skip the awkward “fun fact” prompt.
Instead, try this twist that always gets laughs and builds connection fast.
The Boring Fact Icebreaker
Here’s how it works:
Ask each student to share the most boring fact about themselves. The more mundane, the better.
You’ll get gems like:
“Sometimes I sleep in socks.”
“I blink a lot.”
“I chew my food.”
It’s hilarious. It gets even your quietest kids participating. And somehow, it ends up being unexpectedly meaningful.
Extend the Moment: Reflect as a Class
After students share, guide a short classroom discussion to shift from silly to thoughtful. This step builds community and encourages students to appreciate the little things in life.
Here are a few discussion questions to guide your reflection:
- Why do you think “boring” facts felt easier to share than “fun” ones?
- What do all these boring facts have in common?
- Can something ordinary still be important or meaningful?
- What are some everyday things we often take for granted?
- How might noticing these things help us feel more grateful?
Try saying:
“A lot of these boring things, breathing, eating, sleeping, are actually amazing gifts. What if we saw them as something to be thankful for?”
With you every step of the way,
Sonam
The Reading and Writing Nook 
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