Crowd Words
Training Wheels Gear
Crowd Words
By Matthew Broda and Trevor Dunlap
Overview
Crowd Words is a refreshingly simple yet powerful resource for facilitators, educators, and group leaders seeking to foster collaboration, engagement, and fun with minimal materials. At its core, the book centers on using a single "alphabet deck"—a versatile tool that unlocks a scaffolded progression of activities designed to suit a wide variety of group settings and objectives. The approach is experiential, focusing on meaningful participation and deep connection without the need for equipment-heavy facilitation.
Features
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Alphabet Deck Activities: Every activity uses a basic set of letter cards, making setup quick and accessible for any group.
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Scaffolded Progression: Activities are organized to move groups from simple introductions to deeper collaboration and reflection.
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Four Core Interaction Types:
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Introduce (I): Warm-ups and mingling activities to welcome new groups and prime participants for the day.
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Cooperate (CP): Challenges that encourage groups to move beyond surface-level interaction and leverage individual strengths.
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Collaborate (CL): Robust, advanced exercises requiring higher levels of communication, trust, and teamwork.
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Reflect (R): Activities that help participants connect the day’s experiences to future situations and personal growth.
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Diverse Game Types:
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Icebreakers
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Energizers
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Creative Problem Solving Activities
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Literacy Activities
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Debriefing Activities
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Flexible Use: Suitable for a range of settings, from classrooms and training sessions to corporate retreats and community programs.
Why We Love It
Crowd Words stands out for its elegant simplicity and adaptability. By focusing on a single, easy-to-use prop, the book removes barriers to participation and empowers facilitators to deliver memorable, impactful experiences on the fly. The thoughtful organization of activities ensures that every session can be tailored to the group’s needs—whether you’re building energy, deepening collaboration, or guiding reflection. It’s a must-have for anyone who values connection, creativity, and effective group engagement.
