The Encyclopedia of Interactive Performance

Say a random word. Then say a second word that is associated with the first word. Then say a word associated with the second word. Continue generating associated words for one minute. Track how many words (or phrases) are generated in one minute.

dog, bark, tree, pine tree, Christmas tree, presents, wrapping paper, scissors, sharpen, pencil sharpener, pencils, first day of school, nervousness, sweat, sweatshirt, workout, gym, Jim Beam, high beams, fog lights, yellow, raincoat, plastic, melting, Wicked Witch of the East

Variations

Pairs – One player creates link associations while the other keeps track of how many associated words or phrases are generated.

Ping pong – Working in pairs, players take turns generating a word associated with the word their partner just said.

Notes

• This exercise helps develop the skill of association, which is useful when generating story elements related to the situation at hand.
• Only associate with the prior word, not one several words back.
• The number of words generated can be tracked by a partner or by using the Gimme Getter.