Get to Know You History Activities for Back to School
As teachers, we all know that community building at the start of a new school year is important. Even in senior courses, taking time to connect with your students creates trust and comfort. Additionally, while setting the tone for a positive and productive year. As a high school teacher, I know it can be tempting to dive straight into content, especially knowing how much material needs to be covered. However, dedicating a little time to building relationships pays off. When students feel seen, respected, and comfortable, they’re far more likely to participate in discussions, take academic risks, and engage deeply with historical content. Luckily, I have two get to know you history activities for back to school that will help you connect with your students while keeping lessons relevant to your subject.
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Partner Conversation Cards
Spark meaningful conversations and build classroom community with my Partner Conversation Cards. These are the perfect get to know you history activity for back to school. These cards are designed to be used with students grades 6–12. This printable set includes 30 cards featuring 15 unique, history-themed prompts that promote discussion and critical thinking.
These conversation starters work beautifully as warm-ups, icebreakers, or quick transitions between lessons. Topics include historical figures, family history, current events, time travel, and museums. Each card encourages students to connect personally with the past. As students share stories and opinions, they are getting to know each other as well as practicing their speaking and listening skills. These are all things that will serve them all year long.
The cards come in both color and black-and-white versions for easy printing, and their open-ended questions make them flexible for a variety of class settings. Use them to supplement your course material, or as a quick activity during the first week of school to help students feel comfortable and connected. Feel free to also stagger the cards; completing one or two a day for the first couple weeks can be just as effective!
Back to School History Name Cards & Table Tents
If you’re looking for another easy and interactive way to learn names and build community, I would love for you to try my Back to School History Name Cards and Table Tents. This printable set adds a historical twist to traditional name tags, turning them into fun get to know you history activities for back to school.
The pack includes seven color and black-and-white pages of history-themed designs. Students personalize their name tents by answering the prompt on the card, as well as writing their name. Once complete, they fold their cards into table tents, making them perfect for desks, small groups, or bulletin boards.
These name tents make it easy for teachers and students to learn each other’s names, spark conversation, and add a touch of creativity to the classroom. They’re also great for substitute days, seating charts, or quick community-building activities throughout those first couple weeks. I love using these at the start of a new semester, giving students a different one to complete every few days. Just print, distribute, and you’re ready to go.
Community Building in the History Classroom
Finding time for community-building activities can really feel challenging at the start of the school year. Between class changes, school events, and the usual beginning-of-year chaos, it’s easy to push these activities aside. But I’ve found that even small, consistent efforts make a big difference.
During the first couple of weeks, I try to include a quick get to know you moment in each class. Whether it’s a simple attendance question or a short activity like the ones shared above. These small interactions help students feel valued and supported while maintaining a sense of structure. High school students, in particular, can be hesitant to open up. Activities that allow for safe, low-pressure sharing can help them feel more comfortable and confident. The key is consistency. It is important to create regular moments for students to connect with one another and with you.
Final Thoughts
Investing time in getting to know you history activities for back to school builds a stronger, more collaborative learning environment. When students feel connected, they’re more likely to engage with challenging material, participate in discussions, and take pride in their learning.
If you’re looking for history themed, ready-to-use, low-prep resources to make the first weeks easier I’ve got you covered! The Partner Conversation Cards and History Name Tents are perfect starting points. They’re quick to implement, fun for students, and set the tone for a successful year of social studies.If you’re loving this content, be sure to enter your email here to receive exclusive offers and tons of freebies!
What are your favorite ways to build community during the first weeks of school? I’d love to hear how you make your classroom feel like a welcoming space. Please share your ideas in the comments below.
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With 15 years of experience teaching government, U.S. history, sociology, and AP government in New York and Pennsylvania, Melissa brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to students and teachers all over the world. She is also a certified AP U.S. Government grader for the College Board. Melissa proudly calls Wooster, Ohio, home and is a dedicated mother of two active boys and a supportive wife to a lacrosse coach.
