A Low Tech Post - Grab Bag Activity

I am often trying to find a way to re-engage my class or get them to apply the skills/concepts to different problems. Several years ago, I needed a way for my students to practice solving equations without them knowing they were practicing...In other words, I wanted to find a fun way for them to complete a worksheet so "Grab Bag" was born.  The best part of this game/activity is that it is so easy to make from an already created worksheet, and quick "Brain Breaks" are given throughout the activity.
It's an active "game" where students pick mystery "tasks" one at a time out of their group's paper bag and then everyone in the group must complete the task (with or without talking...you pick!).  The completed task is left out of the bag and then another group member takes a turn picking a new "task" for the group to complete.

Students love the anticipation, and I love how the groups are doing different problems at different times so that I can work with them on certain math tasks!  The best part is how easy it is to make and how it can be used with just about ANY worksheet!


Preparation:  
1. Make copies of your worksheet (one sided only) so that there are enough for each group/bag.
2. Cut the worksheet so that each problem is on its own slip of paper.
     (It is a good idea to have these numbered to check answers.)
3. On small blank slips of paper, add active tasks.
     (I usually try to make it a ratio of 2 math problems for every one active task.)
     Some examples:
     - Do 5 sit ups.
     - Complete 5 jumping jacks.
     - Draw a stick figure in 30 seconds or less.
     - High five the people in your group.
     - Compliment another student in a different group.
These tasks should be quick or have time limits on them to keep students moving forward with the math "tasks". These could be the same for each group or you could make them different.  It's up to you!
4. Add the tasks to your paper bags: one copy in each bag.
    (It's also helpful to number the bags to reference missing slips of paper!)

Introducing "Grab Bag":
Well, at least, this is how I do it...
After our warm-up, I get the students in groups. I hold up one bag, and I tell them today I will challenge them with completing their "Grab Bag".  I explain that in each bag there are several slips of paper.  On each slip of paper, there is a task that they must complete together and accurately.  They must follow the directions and ensure all tasks are accurately completed ONE AT A TIME.  Once they pull out a task, they do NOT put it back into the bag until the game is over.  I make sure they number each task to discuss and compare later!  Then I have them get out their notebooks & pencils. I pass out the "Grab Bags" and tell them not to open it until I say "go".  I double check we are ready and then I say "On your mark, get set, GO!".  To keep the excitement going, I play the "Mission Impossible" Theme song in the background while they complete their tasks!

Towards the end of class or the next day, you can go over or post the answers. I also use this time to discuss some of the non-math tasks: How did you feel when you gave your group a high five?  How did you feel when you gave/received a compliment?  Who had a really good compliment?  Who had the best 30-second stick figure? Etc.

If you love this idea, please share and let me know what you think!
Have you tried it?  Any suggestions/comments?  Please comment below.