Mermaid is a sit-down, large group activity that requires paper and something to write with. It would also be helpful to have a chalkboard, whiteboard, easel, or something else to write on that the large group can easily see.
Directions[]
Ask the kids to name a mythical creature (the original format of this activity used a mermaid, hence the name), then have them call out words they would use to describe this creature. As they call them out, write them down so everyone can see all the words that have been said. After everyone has called out a word, the kids must then try to write a description of the creature without using any of the previously said words. When everyone is finished, invite them to share.
If you wish to take the activity a step further, write down the kids' descriptions of the creature as they share them, then have them go through a second round of descriptions, this time being unable to use the descriptions they shared as well as the words they originally couldn't use.