Back To School Vocabulary Building Race - Think Fast

Kick off the school year with a fun, fast-paced vocabulary game your students will love! This Back to School Vocabulary Race is a low-prep, high-engagement activity where students race to name three things in each category related to school life.

Perfect for the first days of school, this activity gets students thinking, talking, and using everyday school vocabulary right away—without pressure.

How the game works

Students read each category prompt and quickly write three answers. The first student (or team) to complete all categories wins! You can play individually, in pairs, small groups, or as a whole-class challenge.

Why teachers love it

• Fun back to school icebreaker with zero prep
• Builds vocabulary, spelling, and quick thinking
• Encourages discussion and peer support
• Works for ESL, ELL, and elementary classrooms
• Easy to reuse year after year

Great for

• Back to school week
• Morning work or early finisher activity
• Vocabulary review
• Small groups, centers, or whole-class games
• Sub plans and low-energy days

What’s included

• Printable Back to School Vocabulary Race worksheet (PDF)
• Clear, student-friendly directions

Teacher tip

Project the worksheet and play as a whole class, or turn it into a speaking activity by having students say their answers out loud before writing them down.

This vocabulary race is a simple way to build classroom energy, confidence, and connection—right from day one.

Keywords

back to school vocabulary, vocabulary game printable, name three things game, ESL back to school activity, first week of school game, vocabulary race, classroom icebreaker, elementary vocabulary worksheet, ESL vocabulary activity