There have been some good thoughts here. Many discussed what I think Burton Richarson describes as using "progressive resistance" in training--easy resistance to start, increasing based on student desire and abilty. It really does make sense. Some won't push as hard, and that's ok, but they need to realize that their technique application is somewhat more untested (read: don't be too confident yet).
Yet I still think there are certain interactive drills that allow for increased aggression and intensity, and I've been trying to make a list of them for myself and students to utilize. I suppose you can do this with most techniques, with strong intent, but some allow us to cut loose a bit more and test the waters.
Example: "Get up fast." Student lays on ground, eyes closed. Other student mounts or lays on to hold down. As soon as student A feels touched, the student scrambles hard to get up ASAP. With some pads, strikes can be added at varying percentages. An eye gouge, groin strike, etc. means aggressive has to pause 2 -3 seconds as if stunned while student A keeps working. Resisting attacker, practical skill, aids in focused aggression toward defensive end. It's now a good drill for practical skill.
Example: Wall drill: Student defends punches while back to the wall (Hock shows this in Level 5 UC). First with distance, later with gear and actual blows coming in. Instructor yells "hit it" (whatever) and the defender becomes aggressor with rapid entry, strikes, and takedown. Rinse, lather, repeat, switch.
Yes, one can do this with lots of drills. But do we think it out and have some good ones to throw at our students, with progressive resistance for those willing and able? Are there fun and more interesting ways we can do it? That's what I was getting at, that's what I'm trying to brainstorm. Thanks for the thoughts!
Hock, should see you at the Battlebarn in August if I'm back from a trip, looking forward to it!!!