Open a Session · Meet & Connect · Encourage Collaboration
Job Title Translation
Say your official title, then translate what you actually do into one clear sentence.
Time4–5 minutes
Group size4+ people
FormatTable groups
MaterialsNone
What this accomplishes
Participants replace district jargon with a fifth-grader-friendly explanation of their work. Mixed-role tables quickly understand who is in the room and what they contribute.
- Clarify roles across departments
- Reveal useful expertise
Before you begin
Materials
- None
Preparation
- Display a visible timer
- Plan to hear no more than two table reports
What to say
“Here is the ask. You will work only with your table, the timer will stay visible, and passing is always fine.”
How to run it
- 1
Ask each person to give their name and official job title.
- 2
Then give one sentence explaining what they actually do as if speaking to a fifth grader.
- 3
Invite tablemates to ask one clarifying question after everyone has shared.
- 4
Take one especially useful translation from two tables.
Prompts to use
My official title is…
What I actually help people do is…
The part of my work others may not see is…
Adapt it to the room
Small group
Use one table and let everyone contribute; skip the room report.
Large group
Run the activity simultaneously at tables of four to six, then hear only two brief reports.
Virtual
Use breakout rooms of four to six, broadcast the prompt and timer, and collect one response in chat when rooms close.
Accessibility & inclusion
- Keep participation seated by default.
- Display and read the prompt aloud.
- Allow anyone to pass, write, or contribute through a tablemate.
Debrief, if useful
Whose work do you understand differently now?
Why it works—and what can go wrong
Why it works
Plain-language translation replaces polite nodding with real understanding and often surfaces the contribution people value most.
Watch out for
- Do not invite jokes that diminish a role.
- Keep explanations to one sentence so every person gets time.