Description Long

Participants write a word related to the topic on a sheet of paper and pass it on. The next person writes down the first association that comes to mind, then folds the paper so that only the most recent word is visible, and passes it on again. Because only the last word is visible, participants are not influenced by earlier entries. This creates a creative and varied word chain that can be developed further in the next phase.

In an online setting without a dedicated tool, the method can be adapted by having the facilitator hold the sheet of paper up to the camera, note down the next word, fold the paper accordingly, and show it again. Each participant takes a turn suggesting a word in sequence.

Preparation

• Hand out one strip of paper and a pen to each person.
• Decide on a topic.

Execution

1. All participants sit around a table.
2. Everyone receives a strip of paper and writes down a word related to the previously agreed topic.
3. The paper is passed to the person on their right.
4. The next person writes down an association with the word above.
5. Then the paper is folded backwards so that only the most recently written word remains visible.
6. The paper is then passed on as many times as desired. This creates a creative word chain.

Hints from experience

• Decide in advance how many times the strip of paper will be passed on. In the end, a total of 8 to 15 words per strip is ideal (depending on the method that follows).

Tools list

• Paper and pencil

References