Speed "Dating"

Have you ever had the challenge of introducing a large group of unfamiliar teenagers to each other? I can assure you that it's not a easiest experience I have ever encountered. So, I bring to you.... experiment speed "dating".

1. Divide your group into two rows like pictured above. 

2. Begin by telling them that they will need to be able to describe everyone they speak to in the form of two positive traits by the end of the evening. The list that I provided them included names and the traits listed on this pdf document that you can download. 

3. One group will remain stationary the entire time. The other will move in the same direction after each turn. (group means line in this case). 

4. Each time they "meet" a new person they will be asked a new question. (For a list of ideas for questions I just printed this list off) Once they answer it, the other person answers it. Please note, make sure the questions you ask will work appropriately for your audience and group you are working with.  

5. In order to keep the groups moving quickly, time each question for 45 secs, and have them move so each question is about 1 minutes of time. 

Pros: 

This activity worked well for my groups from each county to get to know each other. 

The youth were able to learn new and interesting things about their fellow members. 

Cons:

It was very loud at times. 

Youth sometimes would just say "I don't know" and end the conversation. 

What are your experiences with speed dating and youth? Did it help your group?