Description Long

The game helps to develop memory and concentration by challenging participants to remember an ever-growing list of items. Each player adds a new item to the list, repeating all the previous ones in the correct order. The first person starts with the sentence: “I’m packing my backpack and I’m taking with me: [an item, e.g. an apple].” The next player repeats the sentence and adds a new item. Each participant must repeat the entire list in the correct order before adding their own item.

The aim is to remember and pack as many items as possible. Anyone who forgets an item or gets the order wrong is out. The game continues until only one person remains.

Preparation

• No preparation is needed.

Execution

1. The rules of the game are explained.
2. The facilitator suggests the first item, and then each participant adds one item to the list.
3. With each round, the list grows longer. A moderate pace should be maintained to adjust the level of difficulty.
4. Participants who make a mistake – by getting the order wrong or forgetting an item – are out.
5. The game ends when only one person remains or when the group decides that the list is long enough.

Hints from experience

• You can adjust the level of difficulty by limiting the range of items – for example, to specific categories such as “food” or “travel essentials”.
• Variation: Instead of physical items, you can use themes or categories – for example:

 “I’m packing my backpack and I’m taking with me: a goal for next week.”

References

This method is a classic memory game, often used in team training sessions or as a warm-up activity.