Meet & Connect · Just for Fun · Welcome New People
Three Things on My Desk
Choose three nearby objects that tell a tiny, optional story about how you work or what matters to you.
Time8–12 minutes
Group size3–50 people
FormatSmall groups, Table groups
MaterialsThree nearby objects per person, or a shared basket of classroom supplies
What this accomplishes
Participants select three ordinary objects from a desk, bag, classroom, or prepared supply table. In small groups they share what each object represents—or invent a playful explanation if they prefer.
- Make introductions more memorable
- Give participants control over the depth of sharing
Before you begin
Materials
- Three nearby objects per person, or a shared basket of classroom supplies
Preparation
- Tell participants they may use nearby objects, photos, words, or three items from a supply basket
What to say
“Choose three ordinary objects that say something tiny about how you work, what you enjoy, or what you hope for this year. You may also invent a ridiculous meaning for any object you would rather keep private.”
How to run it
- 1
Give participants one minute to choose three objects or alternatives.
- 2
Form groups of three or four.
- 3
Each person gets up to two minutes to explain their objects.
- 4
Listeners may ask one curious, non-probing question.
- 5
End by asking groups to identify one object that could be their temporary table mascot.
Prompts to use
An object that makes the day easier
An object connected to something you value
An object that represents a hope for the year
An object with a completely invented backstory
Adapt it to the room
Small group
Share together and let each person choose only one or two objects.
Large group
Use table groups and keep all sharing within those groups.
Virtual
Choose objects within reach, use photos, or name three browser tabs, apps, or words instead.
Accessibility & inclusion
- Offer words, drawings, photos, or supplied objects as alternatives.
- Keep personal explanations optional.
- Do not make assumptions about ownership, cost, family, or why an object matters.
Debrief, if useful
What detail helped you remember someone new?
What did the objects reveal about the many ways people work?
Why it works—and what can go wrong
Why it works
Objects provide retrieval cues and reduce the pressure of answering an abstract personal question, while the fictional option preserves privacy and play.
Watch out for
- Do not ask participants to reveal why they avoided an object or prompt.
- Keep the activity in small groups so objects do not become stage props.