Ice Breakers & Starters
The Colossus of Rhodes
A card-based, team activity about sharing information. Highlights the skills of questioning and listening - gathering relevant information to solve problems - which will answer five questions. Which team will finish first, with all the correct answers?
How it works
Each team taking part has a set of cards divided equally amongst them. On each card are snippets of information about the giant statue – what it is made of, when it was constructed, who was involved and so on. Team members can share their information verbally with the team but are not allowed to show each other their cards. And all they have to do is answer five simple questions.
What it does
Colossus demonstrates in a dynamic way the value of the individual – everyone’s contribution is worthwhile and taking any one person out of the loop means the job cannot be completed. All contributions help with the bigger picture. Teams need to organise themselves and find a way to share information in a meaningful way – because the information on the cards is all interrelated. Good listening and questioning skills are required and those who try to dominate may need taking in hand!
Customer feedback
I use Colossus with every business sector, at every level and in a range of situations. It is always well-received and remembered by all participants.
– P. Campbell, West End Training
An excellent activity. A number of the delegates commented that this was the best team exercise they had taken part in.
– F. Flemington, Weightmans Solicitors
I wanted all the delegates to be involved and I wanted them to recognise the benefits of sharing information. Colossus did just that!
– Training Manager, NHS Healtcare Trust (name withheld)