Expected behaviour - I am a … and I …

How to Play

1. Everyone puts their hand up, ready to be called on.

2. Someone suggests an occupation or activity (e.g. plumber, barista, student driver).

3. The first player says:

   “I am a Plumber and I {something expected}”

   For example: “I fix toilets.”

4. They point to someone else, who must quickly give their own version.

   “I am a Plumber and I unclog drains.”

5. Play continues until everyone has gone.

Debrief

After a round, the teacher asks:

• Did any line stand out?

• Why did it stand out? Was it unexpected, strange, or oddly specific?

This is the “shiny thing”. It’s what the audience’s attention hooks onto, often because it breaks the expected behaviour. From here, the group discusses:

• What game could be made from that shiny thing?

• What beats could follow?

Variants

• Different openings: Instead of jobs, use life stages or activities:

  “I am learning to drive and I…”

  “I am a new parent and I…”

• Circle version: Go in order around the circle rather than pointing. This keeps pace and lowers pressure.

Teaching Points

• Most answers will be “expected behaviour” – that’s good. The contrast makes the unusual sparkle.

• The shiny thing is often accidental; the group learns to notice and treasure it.

• By practicing this, players get quicker at recognising when something unusual happens in scenes, and how to play with it.