A.3. Concentric Circles

This is an excellent introductory activity. It enables group members to introduce themselves to each other in a non-threatening manner.

Split the group into two equal circles. Have them form two concentric circles, with partners facing each other.

The facilitator or moderator explains these rules to the group:
When the moderator says “speak,” partners speak to each other either about a predetermined topic or any other.
When the moderator says “stop,” partners immediately stop talking - even if they are in the middle of a sentence.
The moderator says “switch”: the entire outer circle moves one space to the right. At the signal, partners begin talking.

The moderator allows about one minute (or less) for each pair, until every pair has spoken to each other.