Participatory Interaction

Paper Frisbee

Paper Frisbee is a participatory activity that serves as an energizer for large groups. Participants use paper plates as frisbees, aiming to land as close as possible to a target plate placed about 5 meters away. This activity promotes fun, accuracy, and active participation from all group members.

Duration
10 minutes.
Participants
Large groups (10-50 participants or more).
Paper Frisbee

Preparation

01 · Define the purpose
  • Energize the group and promote a playful atmosphere.
  • Encourage active participation from all members.
  • Develop basic skills in precision and coordination.
02 · Prepare the materials
  • One paper plate per participant (dessert-sized plates work best).
  • One additional plate to serve as the target.
03 · Set up the space
  • Choose a wide, open area where participants can safely throw the plates.
  • Place the target plate approximately 5 meters from the throwing line.
  • Mark a throwing line so everyone starts from the same point.
04 · To conduct the activity virtually
  • Invite participants to replicate the activity at home using similar objects (e.g., plastic container lids or cardboard discs).
  • Ask them to share videos or photos of their throws and results.
  • Encourage discussion on the virtual platform about their experience participating from home.

Step-by-step instructions

1

Introduction to the purpose

  • Explain that the objective is to throw the paper plate as close as possible to the target plate.
  • Clarify that this is a playful activity, where participation and fun are most important.
2

Distribution of materials

  • Give each participant a paper plate.
  • Show the plate that will serve as the target and ensure everyone clearly identifies it.
3

Throwing rounds

  • Each participant, standing at the throwing line, tosses their plate, trying to land it as close as possible to the target plate.
  • Allow everyone at least one throw before determining the closest plate.
4

Evaluation and results

  • After each round, measure which plate is closest to the target and congratulate the winning participant.
  • If time allows, organize several rounds to give everyone the opportunity to improve their throws.
5

Closure and feedback

  • Conclude the activity by thanking participants and highlighting the playful atmosphere created.
  • Invite participants to briefly reflect on what they enjoyed about the activity.

Materials

One paper plate per participant.
One additional plate to serve as the target.
Digital tools

Platforms

For virtual sessions or collaborative documentation.

Practical recommendations

Choose a safe space

Ensure the throwing area is clear of obstacles and spacious enough for safe throws.

Rotate the target position

Change the location of the target plate between rounds to add an extra level of challenge.

Emphasize fun over competition

Highlight that the activity aims to energize and enjoy rather than focusing solely on winning.

Allow practice rounds

Give participants an opportunity to practice before starting the official rounds.

Include variations

Introduce additional rules, such as throwing from specific positions (seated, standing, or using only one hand).

Use symbolic prizes

Offer small symbolic rewards to winners or categories like "most creative throw."

Adjust the distance

Modify the distance to the target plate based on participants' skills and ages.

Encourage collaboration

Organize group rounds where multiple participants work together to earn points as a team.

Document the activity

Take photos or videos to capture fun moments and share afterward.

Add a visual element

Decorate the plates with drawings or messages before throwing, making the activity more creative.

Inspiration

Ideas to Energize the Paper Frisbee Activity:
  1. Icebreaker questions:
    • What was your strategy when throwing the plate?
    • What would you do differently in the next round?
  2. Thematic variations:
    • Use plates decorated with drawings representing event or workshop themes.
    • Add additional targets, like secondary plates, for extra points.
  3. Extra challenges:
    • Throwing from more complicated positions, such as kneeling or facing backwards.
    • Include obstacles between the throwing line and the target plate.
  4. Award categories:
    • Closest throw to the target.
    • Most creative throwing style.
    • Team with the best coordination.
  5. Complementary activities:
    • Drawing something symbolic on the plate before throwing it.
    • Reflecting as a group on how to improve for future rounds.