Discussion & Writing Prompts

Grades 5 - 8

Support discussion skills and short reflective writing with middle school ELA icebreakers. Low-prep SEL activities help students build classroom community while exploring relationships, identity, and personal values.

What’s Included:

2 Keeps & 2 Gone Forever – A values-based discussion and writing activity centered on choice and reflection

Encyclopedia of Me – A short reflective writing activity using identity-based “entries” focused on interests and everyday moments

Circles of Connection – A discussion and reflection activity where students explore relationships using inner, middle, and outer circles

Skills Students Practice:

• Self-reflection and personal expression

• Respectful speaking and listening

• Explaining choices with reasoning

• Short, focused writing

Why Teachers Love This Resource

• No prep and easy to implement

• Clear structure with built-in discussion and reflection

• Student choice and privacy built in

• Perfect for back-to-school, after breaks, or SEL moments

Perfect for back-to-school, after breaks, or anytime students need to reconnect, these icebreakers go beyond surface-level introductions to help build a thoughtful, inclusive classroom community.