Teacher Discussion Forums

Hello,
I teach English to adults in Italy. Some of my classes last only one hour, once a week and there are regular unexpected new students. I'm looking for some ideas of activities to introduce the new student to the group (and vice versa) without asking everyone to introduce themselves or a partner (they’ve already done it in the past), without wasting too much time in an already short lesson and without embarrassing the person by making them the centre of attention?
Thanks!

It is not essential that people "introduce" themselves or someone else, but that they are comfortable working together. For that to happen they must get to know each other through working together. Doing a low-stress, simple activity, like an ice breaker, allows people to get to know each other in a informal way that paves the way for a professional working relationship to develop.

There are an unlimited number of activities you could use. Search Google for "icebreakers", "class building activities", or "cooperative games."
Have fun!

Josh