Science Icebreaker Activities: An Example from Gravitational Wave Astronomy

At the beginning of a class, workshop, or meeting, an icebreaker activity is often used to help loosen up the group and get everyone talking. When used as a precursor to group learning, the icebreaker fosters communication so later activities function more smoothly. Science-based icebreaker activities serve the purpose of a traditional icebreaker, while also introducing science content to the audience. The content of the icebreaker may or may not be related to the topic of the upcoming class or meeting. Either way, the activity provides a way to get people talking while the participants simultaneously learn something new and interesting.