The queries utilized during a pre-class gathering on October 31st, intended to foster engagement and a festive atmosphere, constitute a specific form of classroom interaction. These prompts are designed to be age-appropriate and relevant to the holiday, ranging from simple “what’s your favorite candy?” type inquiries to more thought-provoking questions about costumes or fall traditions. As an example, consider questions such as, “If you could have any Halloween superpower, what would it be?” or “What are you most looking forward to this Halloween?”.
The value of these interactions lies in their ability to build classroom community and provide students an opportunity to express themselves creatively. They offer a brief, structured activity that can alleviate pre-lesson jitters or excitement associated with the holiday. Historically, such icebreaker activities have been shown to improve student participation and create a more welcoming learning environment. By incorporating a holiday theme, educators can tap into existing student enthusiasm and make learning more enjoyable.