Sometimes, finding someone you have something in common with is the key to breaking the ice in a new classroom situation. Start by passing out stick-on name tags to your students. Have them write their name, and two personality traits on their tag. For instance; someone might write they are shy and quiet, or outgoing and extroverted. Give students time to mill around and find another student who has either the same or an opposite personality trait, and talk to that person for a few minutes.
Give students the chance to get to know one another with an interview activity. Students pair off and ask each other a prepared list of questions, as well as engage in conversation that stems from asking the questions. After a set amount of time, students take turns introducing each other to the rest of the class.
Bingo cards, prepared with descriptions that might apply to a student or his life, are the basis for an ice breaking game. Ideas for the squares include living situations, such as "owns a cat" or "has children," physical descriptions such as "has red hair" or "has blue eyes," or personality traits. Have the students circulate through the classroom, having other students sign their cards on squares that apply to them. The first to get a bingo wins a door prize.
Get students talking to each other with provocative questions. Place cards with discussion topics on each of several tables. The questions can be about current events, or some controversial question or topic having to do with the subject of your class. Cover the tables with butcher paper and provide markers for students to write their ideas. Blow a whistle and have everyone go to a different table every 10 minutes.