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Virtual Ball Toss

Participants 'throw' an invisible ball to one another across their screens. The ball changes in size, weight, and speed based on how it is thrown and caught, requiring high levels of focus and non-verbal communication.

5-10 min6-20 peopleEasy
When to Use

To sharpen focus, build group presence, and practice 'active following' in a digital environment.

How It Works

Solves: Distraction, multi-tasking, and a lack of 'presence' in virtual meetings.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to facilitate this method
  1. 1

    Step 1: The facilitator starts by 'holding' an invisible ball and describing its properties (e.g., 'It's heavy like a bowling ball') (1 minute).

  2. 2

    Step 2: The facilitator 'throws' it to a specific person by calling their name and making the physical motion (1 minute).

  3. 3

    Step 3: The catcher 'receives' it, perhaps changing its properties (e.g., 'Now it's a balloon'), and throws it to the next person (5-8 minutes).

Facilitator Tips
  • Exaggerate your physical movements to make the 'catch' and 'throw' clear on camera.
  • If someone is distracted, throw the ball to them to gently bring them back into the group.
Variations
  • Sound Toss: Instead of a ball, pass a specific sound and motion around the group.
Source: Applied ImprovisationLearn more