Energisers are generally quick activities designed to stimulate thinking, raise flagging energy levels or to spark motivation in an activity. They can be used at the beginning of a group session or class, as well as in the middle or at the end. They are also a wonderful way to build group cohesion and stimulate interaction because they depend on the group's cooperation, participation, and interest to complete the activity.
Please don’t make the mistake of discounting energisers as a waste of time. You will waste far more time by having to deal with students who are bored, listless, lacking in energy and in need of an activity change. Energisers, when used appropriately, can maintain the attention of an otherwise troublesome class.
They also have the added bonus of helping boost memory. Physical activity – even in very short bursts - increases production of the memory fixatives norepinephrine and epinephrine, and triggers the release of glucose (which also supports memory functions) from glycogen stores in the liver.
Where possible, we try to include activities which will suit both a ‘normal’ class size (25-40
pupils) as well as smaller nurture/special groups (2-8 pupils). For a guideline as to the suitability for different group sizes refer to the ‘Number of people’ heading in the activity intro.
Please note:
It can be useful to outline the purpose of each activity to your pupils (as stated in the activity introduction) and to ask them processing questions at the end.
Questions such as ‘How did you feel about that?’, ‘Did the activity help you feel more comfortable with the group/relax/warm up/have fun?’, ‘What did you get out of that exercise?’ or did you feel uncomfortable in any way?’ help participants see the activities as a learning experience as opposed to just ‘game playing’ although too much emphasis on these questions can frustrate pupils and make them feel very negative about what they previously felt to be an enjoyable experience. Use with caution and be sensitive to their reactions.
Finally, it may be helpful to bear in mind the following points when selecting an activity:
Time of day and weather (younger children in particular are affected by extreme weather and may become over-excited with some of the activities).
Room restrictions. ‘Health and Safety’
The way participants are dressed.
‘Mood’ of the group or individuals within the group.
Special Educational Needs of pupils
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