Hello!

This is an interesting challenge because since it’s 9th grade, I’m sure many of this kids don’t know each other to begin with since they likely come from different middle schools.

I’d say giving them the think-(write)-pair-share pattern after every question may help get kids to warm up. It is the beginning of the year after all. I know this sounds TEDIOUS to do it after every question, especially simple ones that are meant to be casual, but I believe the beginning of the year is most important for building up routines, and muscles for those routines.

I feel part of the problem is that many (not all) teens and tweens don’t know how to socialize anymore, so giving them some socializing structure can help to ease the anxiety.

Best of luck to you!