One word pool, three different ways to guess. Print blank slips and a three-round host score sheet.
Suggested group
6–20 players
Plan for
30–45 minutes
Bring
Slips, pens, bowl and timer
Set up and play
Each guest writes three familiar, short prompts. Avoid private jokes or names strangers will not know.
Review unclear prompts together, fold the slips and form two teams.
Play 60-second alternating turns in round one: describe without saying the answer.
When all slips are solved, return them to the bowl for round two: one clue word per slip.
Return the slips again for round three: silent acting. Use the host sheet for passing and scoring.
Finish the game
Add scores from all three rounds. The larger total wins; ties may be shared. Rotate clue givers so everyone has a chance.
Your printable materials
Original starter materials below. Print at 100% scale; turn off browser headers and footers. Select Letter or A4. Review the preview before making a batch.
Fishbowl · write your word slips
Word or short phrase
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Word or short phrase
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Word or short phrase
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Word or short phrase
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Word or short phrase
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Word or short phrase
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Word or short phrase
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Word or short phrase
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Word or short phrase
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Word or short phrase
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Word or short phrase
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Word or short phrase
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Three rounds · host sheet
Describe freely, without saying the answer.
Give just one spoken clue word per slip. No gestures.
Act silently, with no spoken hints.
Use the same slips in all three rounds. Return solved slips only when starting a new round. Correct answer: 1 point. Allow a pass and return that slip to the bowl at the end of the turn. Alternate 60-second turns. Stop a round when every slip is solved.
Round
Team A
Team B
Describe
______
______
One word
______
______
Act
______
______
If a slip repeatedly stalls play, agree to remove it for everyone.
Invite guests to take a turn or pass. Explain the rules before starting, choose materials that suit your group, and offer a seated or read-aloud option when helpful.