Conversation Questions

Conversation Questions

Conversation Questions Accidents at Home A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is the most dangerous thing in your home? How can it be made less dangerous? What is the most dangerous thing in your home for a child? How can it be made less dangerous? What is the most dangerous thing in your home for an elderly person? How can it be made less dangerous? What dangers can be found in the kitchen that can cause accidents? What can be done to prevent kitchen accidents? What can a parent do to childproof a kitchen? What dangers can be found in bathrooms that can cause accidents? What can be done to prevent bathroom accidents? What can a parent do to childproof a bathroom? What dangers can be found outside the home in the yard that can cause accidents? What can be done to prevent yard accidents? What can a parent do to childproof the yard? What other dangers can be found in a home in bedrooms, laundry rooms, garages, and living areas? What can be done throughout the house to prevent accidents? What can a parent do to childproof the different rooms of the home? Where at home would you put your first aid kit? What would you have in it? Where are these items found in a house, why could they be dangerous, to whom could they be dangerous, and what could someone do to lessen the danger they present? hot pan/pot hot curling iron knife window iron medicines gasoline pool insecticides natural gas balcony toilets staircase stove/oven stool/ladder yard tools fireplace cellar /attic bathtub bad dog tall pieces of furniture swing set / playground very clean glass sliding door electronic equipment cleaning supplies lake/retention pond loose carpet on slippery tile floor glass table or sharp edged table hairdryer bric-a-brac What do you need to do if... you cut your finger preparing food? you fall down and can not move a limb? your child drinks a poisonous liquid? (discuss syrup of ipecac) the toilet is flooding the bathroom? a pan on the stove is on fire? a neighborneighbor's dog is growling at you? our child falls off a chair and is bleeding? Conversation Questions Adoption A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is adoption? Do you know anyone who was adopted as a child? Do you know anyone who has adopted a child? What are some of the reasons people choose to adopt? What is the difference between domestic and international adoption? What are the views of adoption in your country? How would someone interested in adopting a child go about doing so? Where do children available for adoption come from? What happens to children that are not adopted? How do you go about adopting a child? Would you want to adopt a boy or a girl? Why? Do you think brothers and sisters should be separated in adoptions? Are adoptions common in your country? What are some organizations that help with adoptions? Should you tell the child that he or she was adopted? If so at what age? Or when? Should adopted children have the right to know their biological parents? Should families with birth children also adopt? Is the real parent the birth parent or the adoptive parent? Should adoptions be between children and families of the same race and or culture? How or should the adoptive parents maintain the adopted child's cultural identify? In your country are the legal rights of an adoptive child different from that of a birth child? What are the legal consequences of adopting a child from a different race or country? Why don't more people adopt a child? What makes a family, genetics or environment? Do you support an open adoption policy where the birth parents can choose to be involved in the child's life? Do you believe there is discrimination within the adoption organizations? Do you think a person should be able to adopt a child of a different race? Should a gay or lesbian couple be allowed to adopt a child? Should there be an age restriction for the adoptive parents? Should a single man or woman be able to adopt a child? If you were to find out that you were adopted and not really from the country where you are a citizen, which nationality would you hope would be your true mother country? Why? When is the right time for a child to be told that he/she was adopted? Do you think it is preferable to adopt or to use artificial reproduction technology? Would you agree to an open adoption or closed adoption? Why? What is an open adoption? Would you want to find your birth family? Why or why not? Conversation Questions Advertising A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is the most shocking advertisment you have seen? What is the funniest advertisement you have seen? Describe it. What makes an ad memorable? What are the different types of advertising? (Eg. TV) What types of companies choose each type? Do you buy products because of advertising? Do you find advertising persuasive? Why do you buy one product over another? Should advertisers be allowed to advertise to children? Should alcohol or tobacco companies be allowed to advertise? Why or why not? What do you think of celebrity endorsements? Which celebrities advertise which products? Do favorite or annoying celebrities make you want or not want to buy a product? Should there be advertisement-free zones? Is there truth in advertising? What kind of advertisements attract your attention? Why is it necessary to advertise? Do you think advertising should be allowed to interrupt TV or radio programmes? What are the alternatives? What is the best way to advertise to children? Adults? Seniors? etc.. Do you think advertising is too expensive? What are some effective adverts you have seen lately (on TV, newspaper, etc)? What are some ineffective adverts you have seen lately? Can you remember an advertising campaign that caught your attention? What are the different methods of advertising? What is the most popular way of advertising? Do you think that the Internet and cable/satelite TV have become more important than national TV for advertising products? What do you think is the best way of discovering the tastes and interests of teenage consumers? Can TV advertising be a force for good? How easy do you think it is to influence children with advertising? Do you agree with anti-consumerism organisations that the child will have watched 350,000 commercials by the time she graduates from high school? Conversation Questions Age: Youth & Old Age A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Are young people generally more selfish than their parents and grandparents? Does age make you more aware of and caring for others? Should adults try to teach young people lessons, such as the dangers of drinking too much, taking drugs or catch the AIDS virus, or should they leave them alone to find out about these things themselves? What are the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches? What do you think is the best age to be? Explain your opinion. Most countries give young people rights as they reach a certain age. For example, British people can legally make love or fight for their country at the age of 16; they can drink, vote and drive a car when they are 18. Does China have similar laws? Do you think that any of the age limits need changing? Some people think you should give something to society before you have the right to join it. Should young people have to do some form of military or community service by law? Should people of between 50 and 55 be forced to retire from their jobs in order to make way for younger workers? If people are still able to (and want to) work, should they have to retire when the reach a certain age? Explain your opinion. In most countries the legal retirement age for men is five years older than for women, even though women live longer than men on average. Why do you think this is? Is this fair, or should it be changed? Are there many things that the old can teach the young or are they hopelessly out of touch by the time they reach a certain age? What things were you taught by your older family members? How have they been useful to you in your life? In most countries, compulsory education is targeted at five to sixteen year olds. Would it be better to offer it to pensioners who want to learn rather than young people who prefer not to be in school? Explain your opinion. In Russia, China and many other countries, there is a tradition of choosing leaders who are quite advanced in years. Do you think that older people make better leaders? Explain your opinion. One of Britain's best-ever leaders was William Pitt, who became Prime Minister when he was 24 and remained in power for 18 years. Could this ever happen in China? Why/why not? Many elderly people have disabilities which limit their mobility. Do buses, shops and public buildings in your country provide easy access for the disabled or are your towns and cities designed mainly for the young and able-bodied? Why is this? Should the elderly be expected to pay for residential care out of their own savings or should appropriate accommodation and nursing be provided by the tax payer? Explain your opinion. Some people say that men age better than women, and remain attractive longer. Do you agree? Explain your opinion. Some people say that men never grow up, they just get bigger. Do you agree? Explain your opinion. Some people say that young women are usually two to three years more mature than young men. Do you agree? Explain your opinion. In most countries women live an average of five to six years longer than men. Why do you think this is? In some countries having children is considered a way of "investing in the future", and young people are expected to give money to their parents when they get a job, and then to care for them when they retire. What are the good points and what are the bad points about this system? Many countries are facing the problem of an "aging population", i.e. there will soon be more old people than young people. What problems will this cause? What can be done to prepare for them? What do you think is the ideal age for each of these stages of your life: (Explain your opinion.) What age do you want to live to? How do you feel about your parents growing older? If your parents could no longer care for themselves, would you let them live with you or put them in a nursing home? Are you afraid of getting old? What is your ideal old age to live to? Do you prefer to live in the retirement home or live with young people? Should parents continue to finance their children after the children are 18? Where do you wish to live when you are old? Where do you see yourself when you are 70 years old? Conversation Questions Airplanes A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. How old were you when you went on your first flight? Where did you go? Do you like to travel by airplane? What was the longest flight you have ever taken? What seat do you prefer: window, center or aisle? What are three things you're supposed to do before the flight takes off? What do you like to do during the flight? Does the plane provide anything to do to pass the time? What are some movies you remember seeing on the plane? What do you do when you experience turbulence? Have you ever met anyone or established any relationships during a flight? What should be done with obese people who practically take up two seats? Can you sleep during the flight? Have you ever seen a female pilot? Why do you think that most pilots are men? Would you like to be a flight attendant? What are the benefits and /or downfalls? Are most flight attendants female? Is being a flight attendant considered a good job in your country? What do you think are the qualifications? Are planes really safer than cars? ( A British study shows that flying is 176 times safer than walking, 15 times safer than driving and 300 times safer than a motorbike.) Would you rather have a younger, more beautiful/handsome flight attendant or an older, more experienced one? What are the advantages of traveling by airplane? What are the disadvantages? Do you know someone who is afraid of flying in an airplane? What questions should you ask when buying airplane tickets? What is a group rate? What is a charter flight? What arrangements should you make for pick-up at the airport? What things can you see in an airport? What questions do they ask you when you check-in at the airport? What questions do they ask you when going through immigration and customs at the airport? Conversation Questions Animals & Pets A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Are there animal rights groups where you live? What kind of animals do humans ride? Are you afraid of snakes? Are you frightened of spiders? Are your pet(s) healthy? Can you name some endangered species? Can you ride a horse? Do you consider yourself an animal lover? Do you ever go bird watching? Do you ever talk to your pet? If so, what do you say? Do you have a cat? Do you have a dog? If so, what's your dog's name? Do you have any pets? If not, would you like to have a pet? Have you ever had a pet? Do you know anyone who has a horse? Do you know anyone who keeps their dog in their house? Do you know someone who owns an unusual pet? Do you love your pet? Do you prefer dogs or cats? Do you talk to your pet sometimes? Do you think it is acceptable to test cosmetics on animals? How do you feel about the use of animals for medical research? Do you think it is okay to eat meat? Is there any kind of meat you would not eat? Do you think it is right to keep wild animals in a zoo? Do you think it's okay to free animals that have been in captivity all their lives? Why or why not? Do you think people should buy and wear fur coats? Do you think that animals dream? Do your pets have special behavior problems? How do you deal with those problems? Have you ever been bitten by a dog? Have you ever been bitten by a dog? (... by a snake) Have you ever been to a farm? Have you ever been to a farm? What animals did you see there? Have you ever been to a horse race? Have you ever been to a zoo? What animals did you see there? Have you ever eaten rabbit meat? Have you ever gambled on a horse race? Have you ever given your pet a bath? Have you ever had a pet? / Have you ever had any pets? Have you ever ridden a horse? How about a camel? Have you ever seen a bullfight? Have you ever seen a dog race? Have you ever seen a dog that helps people, such as one to help a blind person? If so, what did you notice about the dog? How do you think that dog was trained? Have you ever seen a "therapy dog?" How long do you think a dog can live without food? How many birds do you know that can't fly? How many legs does a spider have? How about a squid? How many national animal preserves do you have in your country? Are there any animal preserves around here? How many pets have you had? How many pets have you raised and what are they? How many zoos have you been to? How much does it cost to keep your pet? If you could be an animal, what would you (choose to) be? Why? If you don't keep pets, please explain why? Is is right to keep animals in a zoo? Is it harmful for a dog to travel in cabin on a airline under the seat where your carry-on bags go? Pets are considered to be a burden to most of the city dwellers. To what extent do you agree? Some people think that people shouldn't wear animal furs. Do you agree? Why or why not? Think of some people you know. Which animals do they resemble? What animal do you think is the funniest? What animal do you think is the strangest-looking? What animal do you think makes the best pet? Why? What animal would you like to be? (Which animal....?) What animals are symbols of your country? What animals are you afraid of? (...scared of?) What animals do you think are cute? What animal do you think is the cutest? What animals do you think are scary? What animals do you think are ugly? What animals do you think is the most dangerous? What are some popular pets? What are the most popular pets in your country? What are the pros and cons of keeping a pet? (Why are there so many people who are willing to sacrifice their time and money to raise a pet?) What can children learn by having a pet? What are some things a child can learn by having a pet? What do you think of animals being raised in captivity? What is one of your favorite animals? Why do you like it? Do you have one for a pet? What is the difference between a pet and a wild animal? What is the largest animal you have ever seen? What is the most unusual pet you have ever seen? What is your favorite animal? What is your favorite animal? Why is it your favorite animal? Would you like keep it as your pet, why or why not? What joy does your pet bring you? Are you the one who takes care of it every day? How do you take care of it? If you don't take care of it, who does? What kind of animal would you like to be? Do bats make good pets? What animals like to be petted? What kind of dog do you have? What kind of master would you like to have if you were a pet? What kind of meats have you eaten? What kind of pet would you like to have in the future? What particular animals have become famous in your country for some special skill or accomplishment? What wild animals can you see around here? When was the last time you went to a zoo? Where is the nearest zoo to your house? How often do you visit that zoo? When was the last time you went there? How much does it cost to get in? Why do people have pets? / Why do people keep pets? Why do some people not like pets? Would you recommend that others keep pets similar to yours? Do you think animals have souls? Should we feed our pets unhealthy but tasty treats? What's more important, their health or their happiness? In your opinion, why do some people like to have unusual pets? Do you think dogs should be banned or muzzled? Would you want to see aggressive dogs muzzled or banned? In your country, what kind of dog laws are there? If dogs are man's best friend, as the saying goes, is banning dogs a friendly act? What is a safari? Would you go on a safari? Have you ever hurt an animal? Was it intentional or unintentional? Do you know of any websites for people that want to keep animals as pets? How about websites for people who are against animal rights? Do you think keeping an animal as a pet is a violation of that animal's rights? Do you know any animals that you think are being treated badly or unfairly? If so, how do you think you can help? What do you think would animals say about humans if they could make a documentary movie about humans? What is a breed? What breeds can you name? What does AKC stand for? What is a standard for a dog breed? What is dog intellegence? Which dog breed do you think is the most intellegent and which the dumbest? What is the role of an Alpha Dog in a pack?   Conversation Questions Annoying Things A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What annoys you about living where you live now? What annoys you about taking trains to work? What annoys you about driving a car? What annoys you most about living at home with your family? Do you think you have habits that annoy other people? Does it annoy you when people kiss in public? Do you get annoyed when someone cuts in front of you when you are waiting in line? What are some new pet peeves you have as a result of recent technology (i.e. cell phone use)? What annoying habits does your best friend have? Does smoking bother you? Do you get annoyed when other people display bad manners? Give some examples. What is the most annoying thing for you? What is the most annoying thing about your partner? Do you annoy people with some of your habits? What is something that your parents do that annoy you? Can annoying someone be a good thing? If something is annoying you, what do you usually do? What are some things that annoy you that don't annoy your best friend? How do you change annoying habits What are some things that car drivers do that annoy you? Can you think of some things children do that annoy adults around them? What does pet peeve mean? What is your pet peeve? Does it annoy you when people don't use the right punctuation? What kind of people annoy you? Who is the most annoying person you know? Why? How do you inform someone they are being annoying Do you think other people find you annoying? Why? Who is the most annoying celebrity? Why? Which is more annoying, being caught in the rain without an umbrella, or finding out you don't have enough money to pay for something you really need? Is there anything about your teacher that annoys you? What will you do about it? Conversation Questions Arguing A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you get along with argumentative people? Are you passionate about your beliefs? Do you ever try to impose your beliefs on others? Do you at times enjoy "playing the devil's advocate" (debating for the fun of it)? Do you get along argumentative people? Are you passionate about your beliefs? Would you describe yourself as an argumentative person? What other adjectives would you associate with an argumentative person? In your opinion is being argumentative a positive trait or a flaw? Are you easily persuaded in an argument? Do you ever try to impose your beliefs on others? Do you at times enjoy "playing the devil's advocate" (debating for the fun of it)? Have you ever taken part in a debate? Did you have to defend an opinion that wasn't your own? If so, was it easy? Did it make you re-evaluate your own views? How do you feel when someone disagrees with everything you have to say? Do have a "butinski"in your family? Do you tend to but in? At work do you often voice your opinions on controversial issues? If so, what kind of reception do get? Do you steer clear of some touchy topics or do you get a kick out of provoking others? How do you feel when you have a hunch someone's not paying attention to what you have to say? Do you raise your voice? Do you get nasty? How do you grab someone's attention when you're making a point? What can you do to lose it? Are hand gestures useful in an argument? Do you think it's disrespectful to argue with your elders? Do you often feel patronized in an argument? What do you say when someone is being condescending?   Conversation Questions Art A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Are you a good painter? Can you draw pictures well? Do you believe what art critics say? Do you consider yourself a good artist? Do you enjoy your art class at school? Do you like modern art? Do you like paintings? Do you like sketching? Do you like to visit art museums? Do you like wood carving? Do you prefer using water colors or oil paint? Do you think it is proper to call nude paintings art? Do you think music and dancing are forms of art? Do you think of cartoons and comics as art? Do you visit museums when you go to another city? Have you ever been to any famous art museums? Have you ever visited an art museum? What art form do you like best? What art museums have you visited? Which did you like the best? Why? Which did you like the least? Why? What famous painters do you know? What are they famous for? What is art? What is the longest time that you have spend on a painting? What is your favorite art web site? What would life be like without art? When was the last time you went to an art museum? Who are some famous artists in your country? Who is a famous potter in your country? Who is the most famous artist in your country? What kind of art does he do? Who is your favorite painter? Do you enjoy taking photographs? What things do you like to photograph? Do you consider photography an art form? Why do artist like to draw women's figures? Why do you enjoy art? Why is art important? Why do people become professional artists? Have you ever participated in any art competitions? Have you ever been jealous of someone else's artwork? Do you find Picasso's work astonishing or weird? Do you have a favorite painting? If so, what is it? Why do you like it? Do other people ever compliment your artwork? Do you have a sketchbook? If so, how often do you use it? What kind of sketches do you make? Do you feel proud after finishing a work of art? Do you think graffiti is art? Do you agree with this statement? Graffitti is a form of art; a form of expressing one's mind. Do you like to doodle? What kinds of doodles do you make? Where and when do you doodle? Have you ever gone to an exhibition? Do you know any art galleries? Are there any in the place where you live? Were you interested in art when you were young? In your opinion, is design an important part of culture? Can you tell me the name of a fashion designer you know? Is design a great importance in your daily life? Conversation Questions Baseball A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Have you ever played baseball? Do you know the rules of baseball? Do you like baseball? Are you interested in baseball? How many players are on a baseball team? What position do you think is the most difficult? Who is your favorite baseball player? Why do you like him? Does baseball look like a fun game to you? What qualities do you think of baseball player needs to be good? Do they have professional baseball teams in your country? How much does it cost to watch a professional baseball game? Would you rather watch baseball at a stadium or on television? What is your favorite baseball team? Why? Do you follow professional baseball? Are there any baseball players from your country playing in the USA? Do you think baseball will ever be a worldwide sport like soccer? What are the differences between baseball in America and baseball in your country? How much does it cost to attend a pro game in your country? What kinds of food are sold at baseball stadiums in your country? Does your country have a minor league? Do you think young players aspire to be a pro in their home country or make it to the American Major Leagues? Are there recreational baseball teams in your country? Do children have easy access to baseball in your country? Do people play softball in your country? Are there women's baseball teams in your country? Do you consider baseball to be a slow game? Do you think the playoffs are more exciting than the regular season?   Conversation Questions Basketball A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Are you interested in basketball? How many players are on a basketball team? What are the positions on a basketball team? How long is a basketball game? Who is your favorite basketball player? Why are basketball player usually tall? Can short people be good basketball players? Have you ever played basketball? How was it? Do you follow professional basketball? Have you ever been to a professional basketball game? Are there any basketball players from your country in the NBA?   Conversation Questions Beach A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. When was the last time you went to the beach? Where did you go? What do people do at the beach? Can you swim? When did you learn to swim? Who taught you to swim? Have you ever been night-swimming? Are there any problems with jellyfish, sharks or stonefish at your local beach? Have you ever played sports on the beach? Which sports? How are they different from non-beach versions of the sport? Have you ever collected seashells? Can you describe a shell that you have collected? What did you do with the shells that you collected? What sort of animals live at the beach? Have you ever been fishing on the beach? What did you catch? What did you use as bait? What is the "tide"? Why is there a tide? What is a "rip tide"? Have you ever been on a sail boat or a row boat? Have you ever used a surf board or body board? Do you like to sunbake? Do you think sunblock is important? Have you ever been to a famous beach? What do you wear to the beach? How do you keep your wallet safe while you are swimming? Is erosion a problem at your local beach? Is pollution a problem at your local beach? Should people be able to own a beach or part of a beach? Why is beachfront land so expensive? Why do so many people want to live there? Do you prefer a calm sea or do you prefer big waves? Should dogs be allowed on the beach? Should dogs have to wear leashes at the beach? Should cars be allowed on the beach? What do you think of people who swim in the nude? Is there a nude beach near where you live? Have you ever gone to a nude beach? What do you think of topless swimming? Conversation Questions Beauty and Physical Attractiveness A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. There is a related set of questions at http://iteslj.org/questions/clothes.html Who do you think is the most beautiful person in your country? Who do you think is the most beautiful person alive today? Who was the most beautiful person in history? Who is the most attractive in your family? Does beauty affect one's success in life? Is it better to be physically attractive or intelligent? Is it better to be physically attractive or wealthy? Is beauty related to power? Can you think of anyone who is in a position of power that is not physically attractive? Do people spend too much time and money on beauty? How much time should be spent on making yourself look better each day? Who would you say is beautiful that others maybe wouldn't? Do you think people should have cosmetic surgery to enhance their looks? If so what is the minimum age when someone should have plastic surgery? How popular is plastic surgery in your country? What is the most popular feature for cosmetic alteration? Do you think self-esteem affects beauty? Do you think beauty affects self-esteem? How important is beauty in your daily life? Have you ever noticed anyone ever feeling pressured to be more beautiful? What do you think of the proverb, "beauty is in the eye of the beholder?" Do you have any proverbs or idioms from your country that relate to beauty? What do you think "beauty is skin deep" means? What are some beauty tips that you could share? Do you think people with many tattoos can be beautiful? How many tattoos is too many? Would you ever get a tattoo? Do you have a tattoo? Do you think people with many piercings can be beautiful? What kind of body piercing, if any, do you feel are acceptable? What kind of piercing, if any, do you feel are unacceptable? What personality trait is the most important for inner beauty? How do you define beauty, using your own words? Would you ever date someone who was not conventionally attractive? What makes one person more attractive than another? Do you think people from different countries than you see attractive the same way? Is there someone famous that is considered beautiful, that you think is not? Are beauty pageants good or bad? Should children be entered into beauty pageants? Do you think one gender or group worries more about beauty than another? Would you want your children to be beautiful or talented? What are some of the negatives about being beautiful? What are some examples of social pressures to improve on natural beauty? For example, lipstick, haircutting, shaving, ... What do you think about plastic surgery? Would you ever have plastic surgery? If so, what would you change? Conversation Questions Behavior A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is good behavior? What is bad behavior? What should you do with a child who has very bad behavior? Should some parent give medicine to their children to calm them down? What is the right behavior to use in a restaurant? At school? At a party? Would you teach your child to "hit back" at school if somebody hits them? Can bad behavior lead to crime? How should we punish children who commit crimes? Should parents be held responsible for their children's behavior? Can you think of a behavior that is 'good' behavior in one culture and a 'bad' behavior in another culture? Can we teach our children good behavior? How can we teach our children good behavior? How do children acquire good behavior? What would you do if your child behaves badly in public? What would you do if you saw somebody else's child behaving badly in public? Would you spank your child for bad behavior? What would you do if you saw somebody spanking their child for bad behavior? What behavior is not acceptable among friends? How should movie stars behave in public? Should you always be on your best behavior? Is it OK to show negative types of behavior when you are angry? What behaviors make you feel good? What behaviors make you feel angry? What behaviors are expected from children towards their parents? What behaviors are expected from university and college students? Is it acceptable for parents to spank their children? Should corporal punishment be illegal?   Conversation Questions Birthdays A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. How are birthdays celebrated in your country? What are some birthday traditions you know of from other countries? How do you like to celebrate your birthday? What is your best birthday memory? What is your worst birthday memory? Have you ever had a surprise birthday party for yourself or someone else? What is the best birthday gift you have ever received? What is the worst birthday gift you have ever received? What are some things you like to do for your birthday? When is your birthday? Conversation Questions Cars and Driving A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. How old were you when you first learned to drive? Was there anything difficult about learning to drive? Can you drive a car? Can you drive a manual shift car? Do you have a car? If so, what kind of car do you have? Is it a standard (manual shift) or automatic shift? Which do you like best, a standard or automatic shift car? What are the advantages of owning a car? What are the disadvantages of owning a car? Are you a good driver? Have you ever been in a car accident? Have you ever been pulled over by the police? What happened? Have you ever driven a car in a foreign country? If yes, which side of the road did they drive on? Were the road signs different? Are the drivers in your area where you live good drivers? Do you know anything about repairing or maintaining a car? What do you know how to do? Where did you learn how to do this? Do you enjoy repairing cars? What are some things you do to maintain your car? Do you prefer driving or riding public transportation? What kind of car do you prefer? Do you like drive at night? Do you think cars should be banned from city centers? What side of the road do you drive in your country? Is drunk driving a problem in your country? What kind of laws does your country have about drunk driving? What is the penalty for drunk driving in your country? Have you ever been (or) do you know anyone who has been in an accident related to drunk driving? Is jaywalking legal in your country? Do people often jaywalk in your country? Who taught you to drive? How long did it take you to learn to drive? What is the longest trip you have ever taken by car? Have you ever broken down and been stranded on the side of the road? Who helped you? How do American drivers compare to drivers in your country? What are the speed limits in your country? On what occasions do you honk your car horn? Is it acceptable to honk in your country Are men better drivers than women? Are women better drivers than men? At what age can you get a licence in your country? Do you think the age for driving should be raised or lowered? Do you think driving lessons should be provided by high schools? Conversation Questions Celebrities A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Have you ever seen a celebrity in person? What did you do? Which celebrity would you like to meet? What would you do if you could spend a day with this person? Do you think famous people have the right to have a private life? Do you think it's moral to sell your private life to the media? Do you approve of people who become famous as a consequence of appearing again and again in the media and not because of having an artistic career? What do you think of the papparazzi? Why do you think there is such a high demand for gossip magazines and gossip TV programs? What are the pros and cons of being a celebrity? What do you think of fans and fan-clubs ? Did you have any heroes when you were a teenager? Why do you think adolescents need to have heroes? Do you think being a celebrity automatically means the person is intelligent? Do you think that there are times when the common man has an edge over a celebrity? If you could influence people like a celebrity does, how would you use it for the benefit of the planet? Which celebrity do you most admire and why ? Would you like to be famous ? Why or why not ? Do you think there is a relationship between beauty and celebrity ? Can you name some famous people? Do you know someone famous? Would you like to be famous? Why? Are famous people happy?   Conversation Questions Charity A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you give money to registered charities? (e.g. Red Cross, World Wildlife Fund, Green Peace) Can you name some other registered charities? Do you think having large charity organizations is a good idea? Why or why not? What are some of the good points? What are some of the bad points? Do you think that locally run charity organizations are more effective? Are there any charities in (your town/city)? How about in (your country)? What are they? Do you give money to beggars or homeless people? Why or why not? If you give money to beggars or homeless people, about how much do you give? How do you know if a beggar is a real beggar? Do you think beggars should work in gangs or on their own? Would you offer a beggar any job you had to be done at home?Would you offer a beggar a job to help yo around you house? Would you rather give money to beggars or buskers? (Buskers are people who entertain you on the street for money, e.g. musicians) Would you rather give money to beggars who have a disability, older beggars, beggars with babies or child beggars? Why? Do you think it's acceptable for children to work late at night selling flowers and singing? Do you think these children need to be out doing this, or are they just earning extra money? What do you think will happen to these children in the future? Do they have a future? Do you think there should be more help for beggars, homeless and poor people in (your town/city)? How about in (your country)? Do you think (your town/city) should make a place for beggars and homeless people to go, like a homeless shelter? Do you think it would reduce the amount of beggars and homeless people on the street? Do you think it would encourage people to be lazy? What are some reasons that these people would not want to use such a shelter? If (your town/city) was to have a homeless shelter, who should run this place? Who should pay for this place? Should anybody be allowed to go to this place? Do you think the government should give money to homeless people? How about jobless people? If you think the government should give money, about how much money do you think should be given? Conversation Questions Children A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Were there many children in your family? How many children do you have. How many would you like to have. Do you enjoy being around children? When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? What are the positive or negative things about being a child? Do you think that children are different today from the time when you were child? Or from 50 years ago? 100 years ago? What is most annoying or amazing thing about children? What is the most important thing that we need to teach children? Do you think that children are naturally good? Why or why not? What were some important experiences that you had when you were child which shaped you as a person? Why do you think children commit violent crimes? Do you think children are more violent today than they used to be? Why? What was your favorite game when you were a child? Do we have to answer children's questions even if they are unappropriate ones? Conversation Questions Cities A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Why do you like living in the city? What are some of the advantages of living in a city? What are some of the disadvantages of living in a city? Do you know the neighbors who live near you? What's your favorite city? Why? What city do you live in? What part of this city do you like the best? Can you describe the city? What aspects of life in the city would you complain about? What do you think should be done to improve living condition in cities? What are some differences between living in the city and living in the country? What size city is best to live in? Why? What are the names of two big cities in Europe? What are the names of two small cities in Europe? Would you prefer to live in a really old historical city, or a really new modern city? If you had grown up in a different city, how would your life have been different? Did you grow up in the city or in the country? Would you enjoy designing a new city ? Conversation Questions Classrooms A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What do you like about your classroom? Do you think the teacher should assign seats to students? What kind of classroom setting is the best for you? What are five things you like about your classroom? What are five things you don't like about your classroom? What are five things you would like to change in your classroom? Do you enjoy changing classrooms for different classes? What is the ideal seating plan or arrangement in a classroom? Is there any air-conditioning in your classroom? Is your classroom a nice place to study? Do you like the location of your desk in your classroom? Do you think that smart students always sit down in front? Conversation Questions Clothes & Fashion A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. About how much money do you spend on clothes a year? Do you like shopping for new clothes? Do you often buy new clothes? Do you prefer to go shopping or just browse? Why? Do you think men should be allowed to wear skirts? What piece of clothing do you spend your money on the most? Why? Do you read fashion magazines? Do you sometimes wear a hat? Do you think it is important to wear fashionable clothes? (Do you think it is important to be in fashion?) Do you wear jewelry? If so, what kind of jewelry do you wear? How often do you wear jewelry? Do you wear the same color clothes now that you wore ten years ago? Do you wear the same size clothes this year as you wore last year? Do you think people feel different when they wear different clothes? Have you ever made your own clothes? If so, what did you make? Do you often make your own clothes? How many pairs of gloves do you have? What are some of the strangest fashions you have seen? What colors do you think look good on you? What colors do you think look good on your mother? What did you wear yesterday? What do you think of body piercing? Do you have pierced ears? Do you know anyone with a pierced nose? Would you ever pierce your tongue? What do you think of people who dye their hair green? What do you think of women who wear high heel shoes? Do you think high heel shoes are bad for a person's health? What fashions that you see today do you think will be out of fashion within two years? What is your shoe size? What kind of clothes are in fashion now? What kind of clothes do you usually wear? What's the most expensive piece of clothing you have ever bought? What's your favorite color for shoes? When was the last time you got dressed up? Why? How often do you get dressed up? Do you like to get dressed up? Where are some good stores to buy clothes in this area? Where do you usually buy clothes? Would you like to be a fashion model? Questions on Styles, Clothing and Fashion-based Stereotypes What would you think of a women who cut off all her hair and went around bald as a fashion statement? What do you think of a man who is bald for fashion's sake? What do you think of women who wear short mini-skirts? Do you think that the clothes we wear reflect what is inside us ? What do you think of people who always and only wear black? What do you think of people with tattoos? Do you have a tattoo? Do you know someone with a tattoo? What do you think of people with body piercing? Do you have pierced ears? Would you pierce other parts of your body? What would you think of a high school student who always wore very conservative clothes? What type of clothing do you wear when you are angry and you want to express yourself? What colors do you choose to wear when you are happy? Would you dress the same as you do in your country if you went to America for a visit? Do you dress the same when you are depressed as you do when you are very happy? In what ways do you dress differently? If you went out with a group of high school friends, would you dress differently then if you went out with your grandmother and her friends? In what ways does your Grandmother dress differently then you? When you get old do you think you will dress like your grandmother or grandfather? Would you ever wear dreadlocks? What do you think of the people who wear them? Have you ever worn your hair braided in small braids. Did anyone look at you differently because of it? Would you ever wear contacts to change your eye color? What is the difference in the people who choose to wear contacts and the people who choose to were glasses? What do you think about women who don't wear earrings? What do you think about men who wear earrings? What do you think of women who do? Is it possible for women to wear too much make-up? When is a person wearing to much make-up? What do you think of men who wear make-up? Is it possible to be beautiful without wearing any make-up, earrings or other accessories? Do fashionable clothes really change the way a person looks? What differences have you noticed in the fashions here and in your country? What do you think of men who where tights? What do you think about secondhand clothes? Why do you think people buy secondhand clothes? Have you ever been to a store that sells secondhand clothes? Have you ever bought secondhand clothes? Would you buy secondhand clothes? When and where did you buy an article of clothing you're wearing right now? Why did you choose it? What would you think if the mother of the groom wore black at a wedding? What would you think if a bride wore red? Should a bride's dress be long or do you think it could be the length of a regular skirt? What items of clothing do you consider provocative? (It would be interesting to see if foreigners perceive their own clothing to be provocative or not, but to get them to admit that, the question should be phrased - would it be so in American or Canada, etc.) What do you think of men wearing high heels? What do you think of women wearing high heels? Why is it acceptable for women to wear men's clothing, but not for men to dress in women's clothing? Is there a stigma attached to people who buy no-name (no brand) clothing? Are some people more fashion conscious than others? What types/groups of people? Have you ever bought imitation brand clothing? What traditional costumes do people from your country wear? When do you wear them? Are they comfortable? In your country do children have to wear school uniform? Do you think it is a good idea or not? What would you do or feel if you were refused entry to somewhere because of what you are wearing? Do you think dress codes should be adhered to if requested on an invitation? What would you wear to meet royalty or the President of your country? Would you go to a fancy dress party? Why or why not? How much do you spend getting ready to go to school/college/work; out with friends; to a party? Do the times vary much?     Conversation Questions College A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is the name of your college or university? How many students go to your college? Is your college coed? How many subject are you taking this semester? Who is your favorite teacher? How did you decide which college to attend? What are three big differences between your college life so far and your high school days? In the West, one of the most valued parts of college life is independence. Are you more independent from your parents now than you were in high school? Talk about relations between upperclassmen and freshmen. What kinds of things do freshmen have to do for initiation? What other things do upperclassmen do to freshmen? Were you a victim of "hazing" by upperclassmen? What is your major? Why did you choose your major? Do you have any regrets? What is the most difficult class you have taken so far? Have you ever pulled an all-nighter? What was the situation? Have you participated in a University Festival? Talk about your experience. Do you think this style of festival is held in Western countries? Why or why not? Are you a member of any student groups? Which ones? What do you do? Are you satisfied with what's happening with your group(s)? Are there some professors that you can learn from more easily than others? What are the qualities that make you want to study for a certain professor? What are the top three changes you would like to see happen at your university? What do you think of student government? Are you now or have you ever been part of it? Do you think it's worthwhile? Does participation in student government bring any benefits to the participants? What? What are the top three things you hope to get out of (get as a result of) your university days?     Conversation Questions Colors A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Note that "colors" is also correctly spelled "colors." What's your favorite color? Has your favorite color changed as you've grown older? Do you have a color that you hate? If so, what is it? Why do you hate it? Do you think colors affect your mood? How does red make you feel? How does green make you feel? How does blue make you feel? How does purple make you feel? How does black make you feel? How does white make you feel? How does yellow make you feel? How does brown make you feel? How does grey make you feel? What do you think of orange? Do you think different cultures have different meanings for colors? What do the different colors mean in your culture? Do you associate any colors with specific items, numbers, or letters not usually associated with color? Can you think of different idioms or expressions involving color? What's a "black and white" matter. What does it mean to "see red"? What does it mean to "feel blue"? What does it mean to "be yellow"? What's a "black tie affair"? What does it mean to be "blacklisted"? What does it mean to be "the black sheep in the family"? How many colors are in the rainbow? What are they? What colors are on your national flag? What's the best color for a car? What's the best color for a house? What do you think is the best color for lens in sunglasses? What's the color for passion? What's the color for hatred? What's the color for happiness? What's the color for sadness? What's the color for anger? What's the color for death? What's the color for jealousy? What is the color of envy ? What's the color for cowardice? What color is money in your country? Do you know anyone who is color blind? What colors do most color blind people not see? Do you think animals can see color? What does black-sheep of the family mean? Do you dream in color? How would you compare the feeling you get watching a movie in black and white to watching it in color? What color clothes do you like to wear? What colors do you think look good on you? What color shoes do you like to wear? What do you think is the strangest color for a car? How about a house? How about clothing? How about hair color? Do you know anyone who has dyed their hair a strange color? (... an unnatural hair color such as blue or multiple shades?) Have you ever seen a pet dog or cat with dyed fur? Do you think different colors have different meanings? If so, what do different colors mean? Do the color blind dream in color? Do you think people who are color blind can dream in color? What color ink do you like using the most? What is the meaning of writing with black ink? What is the meaning of writing with green ink? What is the meaning of writing with red ink? What is the meaning of writing with blue ink? What color of paper you like most if you want to write a letter to your friends or loved ones? What is the color of the bedspread on your bed? What is your least favorite color? What color toothbrush do you have? Does everyone in your family use a different color toothbrush? What color towels do you use? What color are the curtains in your bedroom? What does it mean when someone says he's feeling blue? What does it means when someone says they are green with envy? w\What does it means when someone says "you look green at the gills"? What does it mean when someone says "I was so mad I was seeing red"? What does it mean when someone says "he was black as an ace of spades"? What is pink eye? We are not sure what this means, but it was submitted. What does it mean when you see the color of a rainbow in your eyes? What would you think of life without colors? What do you think life would be like without colors? How would life change? What things wouldn't change? Are color blind people completely blind to all colors? Do you think a person's favorite color will always be his/her favorite color? Do favorite colors change throughout life? Have you ever tried to invent a new color? Try it right now: try to think of a color that doesn't exist, one you'd like to see. What does it look like? (Note: It is physically impossible to conceive of a color that isn't a shade of a color that already exists, but students will enjoy trying for a few minutes and the impossibility of it makes for good conversation.)     Conversation Questions Comic Books A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you like comics? Do you like American comic books? Do you like comics from other countries? Do you like fantasy comics? Do you like funny comics? Do you like realistic comics? What do you like about comics? What comics do you like? What comics do you love? What comics do you hate? Do you play any video games based on comic books? Have you read any anime? Have you read any Japanese manga? Have you read any comics in English? How are comics different from one country to another? How are comic books different in this country from those in your country? How have comics changed over time? How many comics do you read a week? How much time do you spend reading comics? How often do you read comics? How often do you read comics in English? Should comics have a rating system like the movies (G, PG, R)? What comics have you read in English? What can you learn from comics? What is more important to you, the story or the pictures? What is the best comic book you've ever read? What type of comic appeals to girls? What types appeal to boys? What types appeal to adults? What was the last comic book you read? Can you remember the first comic book you read? Where do you usually read comic books? Who do you think reads comic books? Do you think boys read more comic books than girls? Why do you think more ___ (boys) read comics than ___ (girls)? Do you think people in this country read more comic books than in your country? Who has better comics DC or Marvel? (Or ask about two other comic book publishers.) Why are comics so popular? Why do people like to read comics? Why do you think Hollywood makes so many movies from comic books? Why don't more people read comic books? Are comic books better than (regular) books? At what age is a person too old to read comics? Do violent comics make people think more about violence? Cost About how much do you spend on comics in a month? How much do you spend on comic books? How much should a comic book cost? Is collecting comics a good investment? Who is the worst comic book character? When you read comics, who is more interesting the hero or the villain? Who is your favorite villain? Who would your arch enemy be? Super-heroes Who would win a fight Batman or Superman? Which super-hero is most like you? What qualities do you need to be a super-hero? Who is the the most popular super-hero in your country? What super-hero should have a movie made about him/her? Who is the most popular comic book hero in your country? What real life person could be a super-hero? If you could make your own super-hero what would his or her name be? What would his superpower be? Do we need more super-heroes? If you could have one superpower what would it be? What is the best superpower to have? What are some complaints that some parents have about comic books? Why do people like to read comic books?     Conversation Questions Community A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What do you like about your community? What do you think should be changed in your community? How can you help your community? How many of your neighbors do you know? Are there old people living in your community? Tell me about them. Are there little children in your community? Tell me about them. What do the people in your community do for recreation? What do you think is the most important thing about community? Does your community have special days to get together? Does your community have meetings? Is there a neighborhood watch program in your community? Would you like to raise your children in a community like yours? If yes, tell me why. If no, tell me why? Is your community afraid of strangers? Does your community welcome strangers? Have you ever helped a neighbor?   Conversation Questions Computers A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Are you computer literate? Are you connected to the Internet? Do you access the Internet with your computer? Can you access the Internet from your home? What is your favorite "news" site? What Internet sites do you visit regularly? Can your mother and father use a computer? Do you have a computer? Do you have a computer at work and at home? Do you have a laptop or a desktop computer? Do you have both? Do you use your computer when you do homework for school? Have you ever studied English using your computer? How many times have you upgraded your computer? How powerful is your computer? What company made your computer? What kind of computer do you have? What size is your computer screen? What do you think is the best size to have? Where do you use your computer? Where in your room is your computer? Why did you buy your computer? Do you have a digital camera? Do you send photos by e-mail? What kind of pictures do you take with your digital camera? Do you have a scanner? What kind of scanner do you have? Do you have a web page? What's the URL? When did you start it? How much time did it take to make? How much time do you spend keeping it updated? Do you know any computer programming languages? How many computer programming languages do you know? Which languages do you know? Which language do you use the most often? Do you read computer magazines? Which computer magazines do you read? Do you use a computer? Are you good at using a computer? Are you still using your first computer? Did you learn to use a computer in high school? Do you know how to type well? How often do you use a computer? What are some of your favorite computer games? What do you use a computer for? What operating system do you use? What software do you use the most often? When did you first start using a computer? Who taught you to use a computer? Do you use chat-rooms? If so, what chat-rooms do you use and who do you talk to? Do you use e-mail? Do you use e-mail every day? Do you write e-mail in English? Have you ever sent an e-mail to your teacher? How many e-mails do you get a day? How many e-mails do you send a day? How many times a day do you access your e-mail? What's your e-mail address? How many e-mail addresses do you have? Do you want a more powerful computer? If so, what computer do you want? Does your family have a computer? How fast can you type? Have you ever taken a course at school where you used a computer? Have you tried Mac-OS, Windows and Linux? How do you study English with your computer? How does e-mail work? How many people in your family can use a computer? How much did your first computer cost? How much did you last computer cost? How much does it cost by buy a computer? What's the least expensive? What's the most expensive? How much does your Internet service provider cost? Which ISP do you use? If you could buy a new computer, what would you like to buy? If you had lots of money, what kind of computer system would you like to buy? What is the difference between software and hardware? Which do you like better, a laptop computer or a desktop computer? What is your favorite website? Do you ever visit English websites while web-surfing? Do you think our lives have been improved by computer technology? Think of a few examples of how computers have an educational or an entertainment value. Could you do without them? What is multimedia? What are the components and the element of multimedia? When did you first get a computer? What kind of computer was it? About how much did it cost? Do you still have it? Do you still use it? Do you remember the first time you used a computer or the Internet? What did you think about it? How long have there been personal computers in your country? When did the average person start using a computer? Can your parents operate a computer? / Can you children use a computer? Do you think a computer can bring us happiness? Do you have a computer? Do you know any computer languages like C or C++? What is configuration of your PC? How often do you perform a backup? What kind of backup method do you use? What kind of backup media do you use? What are some good things about having a computer? What are some bad things about having a computer? Does having a computer make life more complicated or less complicated? What computer games have you played? Which are your favorites? Which do you think are not so interesting? What are chat rooms and instant messaging? Why can these be dangerous for you and your kids?   Conversation Questions Conflict A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is conflict? When you see the word "conflict", what do you think of? What causes conflict? Is conflict inevitable? Is conflict always negative? How can conflicts be resolved? What would you consider to be a constructive approach to conflict? What would you consider to be a destructive approach to conflict? Does there have to be a winner and a loser of a conflict? What happens to people who are involved in conflicts? What conflicts are going on around the world? What conflicts exist in your life? How do you deal with conflicts? Can violent conflicts be solved with violence? How can the world be peaceful when other countries are not trying to bring peace? Can conflicts at work place affect the efficiency of one's work?     Conversation Questions Corruption A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What would you do if your boss tells you that at Christmas it is usual to receive small presents from local companies? Would you accept a free ticket for a football match, a free drink by virtue of your position? What would you do if you receive a complaint from a citizen of an attempted bribery from a police officer ? Do you think corrupt police officers are natural-born criminals? Do you know a corruption case? Do you think discipline is fair within the police? How are you going to prevent corruption and misconduct in the group that you command ? Is corruption within the police a result of low pay? Have you ever heard of a drug-related corruption case? Do you think police unions play a good role in the prevention of corruption? Is corruption ever justifiable? Have you ever received a bribe? Have you ever bribed someone? Do you know someone who has been bribed? Is bribery a big problem in the country where you live? Will you accept a dinner invitation from an important businessman of your city? (He has good connections in the council and you nephew is unemployed.)     Conversation Questions Countries A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What country would you like to visit? What country would you like to live in and why? What country would you like to work in? What country has the most interesting customs? What country would be fun to work in? Would you like to work in a tropical country? Would you like to work in Antartica? Would you like to live where there is always snow? Would you like to live where there is desert and hot weather? What countries in Europe have you visited? What countries would you not like to visit and why? What country in Asia would be a great place to live? Is your country the best place for you to live? What is special about your country? What festivals and feasts does your country have? Would you like to go and live in another country? What countries would you like to travel to for a vacation? How would you travel to see your country? How would you travel the world? What countries would you travel to if you were to do a world trip?     Conversation Questions Creativity A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is creativity? Do you consider yourself a creative person? Why? What is something creative that you have done? Is creativity a good thing? Why or why not? What are some ways that a person can be creative? Is taking a risk part of creativity? Do you often question the way things work? Do you like to improve things? What are some creative ways to entertain children? Can you think of a device that would make people's life easier?   Conversation Questions Crime A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Are some parts of this city considered more dangerous than others? Which parts? Are there any places you are afraid to visit because of the high crime rate? If so, where? Are there problems with drugs where you live? Are you apprehensive about walking outside after dark? Do you always lock your house? How about your car? Do you believe that public executions would deter crime? If so, how? Do you drink and drive? Do you know anyone who has been mugged? Do you know someone who has been a victim of a violent crime? Do you think abortion is a crime? Do you think gun control is a good idea? Explain. Do you think people who use illegal drugs should be put in jail? Do you think police TV dramas are realistic? Do you think policeman should be allowed to carry guns? Do you think that capital punishment is a good idea? Why or why not? Do you think that punishment for violent crimes should be the same for juveniles and adults? Why/why not? Do you think that the death penalty would prevent crime in your country? Why (not)? Do you think that the legalization of narcotics would decrease the crime rate? Do you think there are any legal drugs that should be illegal? Do you think there is a link between drugs and crime? Do you think prostitution is a crime? Do you think there will be more or less crime in the future? Do you think your country is a safe place to live? Why or why not? Do you walk alone at night in your home city? Does prison help rehabilitate criminals? (Should it?) Have you ever been the victim of a crime? How about others in your family? Have you ever done anything illegal? If so, what did you do? Have you ever had anything stolen? Have you ever had something stolen from you? Have you ever seen a crime? Have you ever witnessed a crime? Have you ever stolen anything? How can you prevent things from being stolen? How can you avoid having things stolen from you? If a person steals a loaf of bread because he needs to feed his starving family, should he be punished? Is child abuse a problem in your country? Is drunk driving a crime where you live? If so, what is the punishment? Is it ever O.K. to break the law? If so, when? Is prison an effective punishment? (Why? or Why not?) Is there a problem with organized crime and/or gangs where you live? Is your hometown considered safe? Under what situations would you think of committing a crime? What are some things people can do to protect themselves from crime? What are some things that are legal that you personally think should be illegal? What crimes do you think will decrease in the future? What crimes do you think will increase in the future? What crimes have you heard about recently in the news? What do you think is the worst crime a person could commit? Why? What do you think of the death penalty? What is a gang? What gangs exist in this country and in your home country? What are the characteristics of these gangs? What is the punishment for murder in your country? What is the punishment for stealing in your country? What kinds of crime are most common in your country? What are the penalties for these crimes? What kinds of crimes are increasing? What kinds of crimes do you think can be prevented? How? What makes some people become criminals? Is it poverty, upbringing, lack of education, unemployment or something else? What weapons do police carry in this country? How about your home country? What would you do if you heard a burglar in your house? What's your opinion about the death penalty? Why do you think crime is more prevalent in some societies than in others? (Why is there more crime in some countries?) Why do you think people steal things? Do you think corporal punishment is necessary? Who decides what is and isn't a crime? Do you think that "corporate criminals" are sufficiently punished for their crimes? Do you think that police dramas can teach people how serious certain actions can be? Is a person born as a blank page or does he have some things predetermined like vulnerability to crime? Should adultery be considered a crime?   Conversation Questions Culture A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What are some things that define a culture? For example, music, language, ... What do you think is interesting about your culture? Do you know much about your own culture? When people from other countries think about your culture, what do they usually think of? In your culture is it polite to be straightforward and direct when you talk to someone? To whom is it OK and to whom is it not OK? What has surprised you when you've met people from other countries? Have you looked at Internet pages from a different culture? If so, how were they different from those of your own culture? What do you like about your culture? What don't you like about your culture? How do young people in your culture behave differently from older people? How do young people in your culture behave differently from people in this culture? Are there many people of different cultures in your country? Are you friends with any? Have you ever felt confused by the actions of someone from another culture? If so, tell me about it. How are your language teachers who are not from your country different from your other teachers? How are they the same? Who in your culture do you admire most? What your culture are you most proud about? Why do you think culture is important? If you could change one thing about your culture, what would it be? Would you ever consider marrying or dating someone from another culture? Would you ever consider living permanently in a country other than your home country? Why or why not? What does it mean to be polite in your culture? What is considered rude in your culture? Is there anything in this culture that is considered rude that may not be considered rude in your culture? If a group of people just came to your country from overseas, what advice would you give them? What other cultures have you met people from? What do you think is important when visiting another culture? Do you think "when in Rome, do as the Romans do" is always good advice? Why or why not? Have you ever been in a situation where you felt you had to "do as the Romans do"? What culture besides your own do you admire and why? If aliens visited your country, what might surprise them? Do you pray before each meal? How do you feel when you leave your home culture and enter into a completely new culture? What is the best/most important thing your culture has given to the world? What is the best/most important thing your culture/country has adopted from another culture? If you could choose three aspects of your culture to put in a "time box" for the future, what would you put in it? Customs What customs do you practice? What are your favorite customs? What customs do you think should be revised? What customs do you think should no longer be practice? What customs (from elsewhere) do you think should be included in our culture?   Conversation Questions Dangers A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Have you been in the midst of danger before? What do you do when you feel someone might be following you? Have you put your life in danger before for your loved ones? Have you put your life in danger before for a stranger? Have you tried doing anything dangerous that could risk your life? Why are there still people who love to do dangerous sports? Why are there people who still live in a dangerous society? Do you think your neighborhood is dangerous? Have you caused any danger to other people before? What was the most dangerous thing that you have done? Why are the rich facing a lot more danger than the poor or average people? What time is the most dangerous time to go out? Do you think there are dangers in your house? What do you do when you see someone in danger? What do you do when you see the back label of a product with a danger sign on it? What do you do when you feel that something might happen to you? If you are in danger, what should you do? Is there an emergency number you can call on to when you are in danger? Can we stay away from danger?   Conversation Questions Dating A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Describe a perfect date. Describe the appearance of the person you would like to date? Describe the character of the person you would like to date? Do you "go Dutch" when dating? Do you know what it means to 'go Dutch'? Is it usual for people in your country to 'go Dutch' if you go out together? Do older girls/boys have a problem dating younger girls/boys? Do younger girls/boys have a problem dating older girls/boys? Do you believe in love at first sight? Do you think some people know that they will fall in love with someone the first time they meet? Do you know what a 'blind date' is? Have you ever been on a blind date? Did you ever arrange a blind date? Do you drive or take the train when dating? Do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend? Where did you meet your him/her? What does he/she look like? Do you think fairy tales influence our choice of a partner? Have you ever had a crush on someone? Have you ever hated loving someone? Have your parents ever disapproved of any of your relationships? How often would you like to go out on dates? How old were you when you had your first boyfriend or girlfriend? How old were you when you went on your first date? Where did you go? What did you do? Who did you go with? Is going out on dates important for you? Is there a such thing as a perfect relationship for you? If you could go out with anyone, who would it be? If you are a man, and a woman asks you for a date, do you feel you should pay, or that the woman should pay? What are some popular places to go on a date? What characteristics do you look for in a girlfriend or boyfriend? What do you consider cheating in a dating relationship? What do you like to talk about when on a date? What do you look for in a girlfriend or a boyfriend? What do you think most people talk about when dating? What kind of clothes do you wear on a date? What qualities are important to you in a boyfriend or girlfriend? What was the most boring date you've ever been on? What was the most interesting date you've ever been on? What would you consider "the perfect date" for you? Where is a good pace to go on a date in this town? Where would you like to go on a date? Would you mind if your boyfriend/girlfriend went out to party without you? Would you prefer to go out with a quiet or a talkative person? At what age do you think that dating should begin? Do you think there is any age when a person is too old to date? Does your first love still hold a special place in your heart? Do you believe that he or she will always have a special place in your heart? What is your definition of love? Would you wait on a person you were dating for a long time if they joined the army? How about if they went to prison? What do you think about dating a friend's ex-girlfriend or ex-boyfriend? Are there any superstitions on making someone fall in love with you? Have you heard of any successful "love potions?" Can you control your partner by playing games? When should you introduce your boyfriend/girlfriend to your parents? (when you begin dating, after you have been together for a while, only when the relationship is serious) Why? Do you like to have boy friend or girl friend in your school or in your classes? Do you think it is right to continue seeing a person if he has not introduced you to his family yet? How long does it take for dating to become a relationship? Is it important to be punctual in your first date? Why? Would you dress up for a first date? What clothes would you wear? What kind of place do you think is the ideal for a first date? Why do you think so? Do you think that age difference is important when dating? Would you date someone much older or younger than you? Why or why not? Would your parents have a problem if you married someone much older or younger than you? Would it make a difference if that person were rich? Do you like to flirt? If so, what do you usually do? Where? With whom? Why? Do you ever set your friends up on blind dates? If so, have you had much success? Do you think blind dates are a good way to meet someone special? Why or why not? What is an intimate relationship for you? How do you know you are in a relationship? Do you have any expectations for your partner?   Conversation Questions Death & Dying A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Maybe too sensitive for some groups, but many are extremely interested in how different cultures deal with death. Are "Living Wills" available where you live? Are there special rites or ceremonies performed when a person dies? Are you afraid of death? Do you believe in life after death? Do you often think of death? Do you think that there is anything worth dying for? Do you want to know the date of your death? Why or why not? How do you cope with the death of someone special? Is organ donation/transplants an option where you live? Is physician-assisted suicide an option in your country? Is the death of a loved one considered a joyful or a sorrowful occasion? Is there any person you would die for in order to save? Who is it? What are some ways which you can help a family which has just experienced the death of a family member. What are your beliefs pertaining to a person's soul once they have died? What do you think of suicide? What do you think would happen if there were no death for human beings? What do you think would happen if people never died? What happens to a person's remains after death? (cremation, burial, etc.) What is the mourning process? Where do we go when we die? Would you consider physician-assisted suicide if you were suffering a painful dying experience? Would you want your cremated remains to be part of a fireworks show? It's possible - a San Francisco area company will do it for you. Who do you think would mourn for you after your death? If you were on death row, what would you request for your last meal? If you could choose how you were going to die, what would you choose your death to be? What do you think of cryogenics? Would you like to have your body frozen, so that you could be thawed out and brought back to life sometime in the future? Do you think it will ever be possible? Why are so many people afraid of death, when it is unavoidable? What would happen if you died? On account of your beliefs or some other reason, do you look forward to dying? Have you ever had to put a pet to sleep? Do you believe that you will be born again? What should you say to someone who has lost a loved one? Why is facing death a difficult experience? How does a person cope with death of a friend or loved one? What are some reactions to death of a friend? How do your national customs surrounding death reflect the values of your country? What should you say (or not say) to a friend who is facing death? What should you say (or not say) to a friend who has lost a friend? What are some funeral customs in your country What is the suicide hotline?in your community? Is there a suicide hotline in your area where you live? Do you know someone who has died from a traffic accident? Do you know someone who has died from a from disease? What was your reaction? How did you feel? When have you visited a hospital? Who did you visit? What sights, smells, sounds did you notice when you visited the hospital? How did you feel about your visit? How can you help someone who is dying? How do you tell someone that someone they know has died? What are some useful euphemisms for telling someone that someone else they know has died? What are funerals like in your country? Do you believe in God? Do you think people should be cremated or buried? Has anyone close to you ever passed away? What is grief? Do you think the grieving process is different for different ages? Do you know someone who has died from a traffic accident? What causes death? Have you known someone who had an extended sickness before death? What are some other words for death? An example is "passed away". Have you ever lost someone close to you? Have known anyone who has committed suicide? What would be your reaction? What would you say to that person's friends? What is Hospice? Do you have Hospice services in your country? How quickly is someone buried or cremated after death? What expenses are involved in burying or cremating someone? What measures are taken in your country to ensure that no stigma is associated with the burial of poor people? Are coffins displayed on the street entrance to funeral parlors in your country? Is it appropriate for funeral directors to advertise their services? How can this be done ? If you were given the chance to have someone die with you, who would that person be? Have you ever thought you'd like to die? How does it feel when your loved one dies and you were unable to see them for the last time? Have you ever been to a funeral where a family member of the deceased sung a song, or read a letter or poem? Would you want to know if you were dying and if so, would you want to know how long you had to live? Possibly up to and including the day of your death? If there were five of your friends drowning, which one would you save first? If you are married or have a life partner would you expect them to move on after you die. If so how long should they wait? Perhaps not a useful question, but it was submitted. Would you like to die?   Conversation Questions Diets A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Have you ever been on a diet? How do you know if you are fat? What is the best way to diet? Do you think dieting can be dangerous? Do you think fiber is important in your diet? What kind of fiber is the best when you are trying to loose weight? Do you think protein is important in a balanced diet? What is a good source of protein? Do you think people who are fat can be happy? Do you think people are in general are gaining weight or loosing weight? Have you ever been on a diet? What kind of diet would you recommend to your friend? What kind of diet would recommended for an older person(40's) and a younger person(teens)? What is the difference between diet and a healthy diet?   Conversation Questions Disaster A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Related: Earthquakes, Tsunami, Disaster Preparation Assistance Do you know someone who has done any volunteer work? What was it? Did he or she enjoy it? How can you help after a natural disaster? If you could volunteer to help after a natural disaster, what could you do? Have you ever volunteered to help in a disaster? What did you do? Did you enjoy it? Do you think the Internet can be helpful in a disaster? Could the Internet be used for bad purposes in a disaster? Financial Have you ever given money to a charity? How do you decide what charity to give to? Are you willing to donate money to help victims of a natural disaster in your country? How much? Are you willing to donate money to help victims of a natural disaster in other countries? How much? How much money should your government give to help victims of natural disasters in your country and how much to help people living in other countries? Disaster What is a disaster? Have you ever been in a disaster? What are some different kinds of disasters? What kind of disasters are common in your country? What is the difference between a typhoon and a hurricane? What is the difference between a tornado and a hurricane? What is disaster insurance? Do most people have it? Are there ways we can prepare ourselves in advance to cope with disasters? What is PTSD? How are businesses affected by disasters? How are families affected by disasters? How are the problems solved after a disaster? If you had the power to stop a natural disaster that has happened in the past, which would you choose? Why? What is the difference between natural disasters and man-made disasters? Can you name a few of each type? Where do these usually often occur? Do some natural disasters occur repeatedly in the same area? Do many people live in these areas? What are examples of man-made disasters? What examples are there of natural disasters? What kind of damage can occur in each case? Have you ever been in a natural disaster? Do you know anyone who has been in a natural disaster? Can you find someone in the class who has been in a natural disaster? What natural disasters occur in your country? Personal Are you prepared for a disaster? What can you do to prepare for a disaster? Do you know someone who has been in a disaster? How do you think you would react in a disaster? How can we help children who are victims of disasters? Does your family have a plan for what to do in the event of an earthquake? Have you ever been injured? Have you ever had a broken leg? Can you find the story of anyone who lived through a disaster? What would you do if you knew there would soon be a serious natural disaster and this could be your last day on earth?   Conversation Questions Disaster Preparation A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Preparations for a Disaster What can you do to prepare in advance for a disaster? How much warning time do people normally have to prepare for typhoons, hurricanes, and earthquakes? How much warning time do people normally have for tsunamis? What sorts of preparations would you make if a typhoon was going to hit your area? Why do people leave when a typhoon is coming? What has your family done in the past to prepare for a disaster? Do you have extra food and water in your house? Do you have an electric generator in your house? What are some essential things you would need in your house in order to be prepared for a disaster? Do you have food and water in your car? How can you help your pet prepare for a disaster? Do you know where the evacuation area is in your area? During a Disaster What happens during an earthquake? How long does an earthquake usually last? What happens during a tsunami? What happens during a typhoon? How can you prevent injury? Where are some dangerous places to be in your house? Where are some safe places to be in your house? What could you say to someone who is frightened? Following a Disaster What are some problems people have right after a natural disaster? What are some things you should do as soon as possible? For example, watch TV, check gas and water. How can you get food, water, and ice if the power in your area is off? How can you travel without electricity or gasoline? What are some short-term problems people might have after a disaster? What are some long-term problems people might have after a disaster? What are some health problems that might arise after a disaster? Who should you contact to let them know you are safe? Conversation Questions Discrimination A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What are some forms of discrimination? Have you ever been discriminated against? How do people fight discrimination? Why do you think discrimination exists? Have you ever discriminated against some race? What could you do to reduce discrimination? Do some countries discriminate against race more than other countries? Have you ever discriminated against the english-speaking population of your school? What would you do to cope with discrimination? Has the discrimination level changed for you, after you moved to another country? Have your close friends or family ever been discriminated against? If so, did you do anything to stop it? Have you ever been discriminated against because of your sex? Have you ever been discriminated against because of your education level? Why do people discriminate? Is discriminating against a certain group of people ever justified? Have you ever experienced discrimination? What should be done to stop discrimination? Do you think males and females are equal? Do you know anybody who has fought for equal rights? Are you a member of any humanitarian organization? What will happen in the future? Would you let your child marry a person with a different skin color? Would you let your child marry a person with a different religion? Why do men earn more than women? Do you have any prejudices? Would you adopt a child from a different culture? Why do we treat people differently? Why do some white people think of themselves as superior? Should it be illegal to publish racial information? Conversation Questions Dreams A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you usually remember your dreams? Why/ Why not? Describe some of them. What was your nicest dream that you can remember? Talk about the most recent dream you can remember that you have had in the past. Talk about a recurring dream that you have had in the past. How do you interpret a dream? Do you use your intuition/imagination to understand it? Do you usually read books on dream interpretation? What is your opinion on it? Do you generally have pleasant dreams or nightmares? Have you ever had nightmares? What were they like? What's the worst nightmare you've ever had? What is "prophecy"? Have you ever had or heard of a dream that foretold the future? Did you know that Abraham Lincoln supposedly foresaw his own assassination in a dream? What do you think about it? Have you ever dreamed about dead people? Is it a good signal? Why/Why not? Have you ever dreamt about dead friends or relatives? How was it? How did you feel? There is a movie called "The Cell" with Jeniffer Lopez - It is about dreams - Have you ever watched this film? Would you like to see it? Why/Why not? Are dream messages sent from our unconscious, predictions of the future, or the brain's way of cleaning out information? Some people say that dreaming about losing money means that you will receive it. Have you ever heard this? What other sayings about dreams do you know? Do your dreams ever affect your moods? Explain. Do you usually dream in black and white or in color? What language do you dream in? Have you ever dreamt in a language that you don't speak? Have you ever woken up from a dream "in a cold sweat"? Do you believe that dreams can sometimes predict the future? Has anyone told you if you have walked or talked in your sleep? Here is a list of dream images. What might they represent? a road the sky snow a garden an open door a light sand fire falling darkness being chased speaking with a dead relative flying When you were a child, what was your dream for the future? Has it changed? Do you remember what you dream about in your sleep? What is your dream for the future? Have your dreams for your future changed? Do you tell people about your dreams? Do you think you can achieve your dreams? If you had lots of money what would you do with it? Do you think that having a lot of money can make you happy? Do you think that having dreams and aspirations is a waste of time? Conversation Questions Drugs A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you think alcohol is a drug? What is alcoholism? Do you know of any alcoholics? How do you stop being an alcoholic? Do you know how much alcohol is in beer? Do you know how much alcohol is in whiskey? What are some of the characteristics of drunk people? Is alcohol addictive? What about tea, coffee, and chocolate? Should marijuana be illegal? Do you think marijuana should be legal or illegal? Support your opinion with facts. Why do you think marijuana is illegal? Is marijuana grown in your country? What are some ways drug users use marijuana? Do you think tobacco companies would like to sell marijuana? Why do you think that tobacco is a legal drug? Are any of your friends addicted to tobacco? What are the different ways to use tobacco? Do you know anyone who smokes a pipe? What is the difference between pipe tobacco and cigarette tobacco? What do you think about chewing tobacco? Is there any difference between "soft" drugs such as marijuana and "hard" drugs like crack, heroin, cocaine etc? Is ecstasy a soft or a hard drug? Should there be punishments for dealing drugs? Should there be punishments for using drugs? Should drug dealers get the death penalty? If heroin were legal, would there be less crime? For example, burglary and robbery. Are some people more easily addicted to drugs than others? Do some people have addictive personalities? If you are addicted to drugs, what should you do? What else can people become addicted to? Why are some drugs more addicting than others? Why do some people get addicted when others do not? What happens in the brain of a person that causes addiction? Do you know how much illegal drugs cost? Do you think it is easy to buy illegal drugs where you live? Which is worse, a peaceful drug addict or a violent non-addict? Should pregnant women be arrested for child abuse if they use drugs when they are pregnant which may affect the baby? Should women be prevented legally from drinking any alcohol or smoking when pregnant? Do you think it is a good idea to have safe, legal injecting rooms for intravenous drug users, where they can use clean equipment and sterile water? Cancer patients find that marijuana stops their pain. Should it be legal for them? Do you think experimenting with alcohol and cigarettes leads to experimenting with harder drugs? Do you think ecstasy is dangerous? At what age should it be legal to drink and smoke? Do we use too many prescription drugs? What are natural remedies? Are natural remedies like homeopathy and herbal medicine drugs too? Do we give too many prescribed drugs to children? Why is the cost of prescription drugs so high? Have you ever used a prescription drug without a prescription? What do you think society ought to do about people who spend most of their time and money getting high on illegal drugs? Why? Should employers be allowed to "drug test" their employees? Why do you think people start using drugs? What should happen to babies who are born addicted to drugs? What would you do if someone in your family were addicted to drugs? What do you know about drugs? What are some dangerous drugs? What drugs do you think are useful? What drugs are addicting? Do you think that marijuana should be legal for medical uses with a prescription from a doctor? What does crack cocaine do to your body? What does it do to your mind? What will happen if you keep on using? How do you stop yourself from using it? / How does an addict quit using it? What kind of drugs are the most popular in your country? What kind of "legal" drugs are the most popular? Are we as a society addicted to legal drugs? In your culture, what are some home remedies for: stomachaches Conversation Questions Earthquakes A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Have you ever experienced an earthquake? When was the last earthquake that you remember? Has your house been damaged by an earthquake? What preparations should you make before the earthquake hits? What happens during an earthquake? Were you frightened the first time you experience an earthquake? What areas of the world have many earthquakes? What preparations should you make before the earthquake hits? What kind of injuries are caused by earthquakes? How do you treat these injuries? What frightens people most after an earthquake? How can you prepare for a possible earthquake? How can you deal with post traumatic stress resulting from an earthquake? Where is the best place to go during an earthquake? Is it possible to know in advance that an earthquake is coming? What kind of strange phenomenon occurred just prior to the Great Hanshin earthquake in Kobe, Japan? Is an earthquake always followed by a tsunami? What causes a tsunami after an earthquake? How do you measure earthquakes? Is your home built to withstand earthquakes? Where in your house would you hide if there were an earthquake? What causes aftershocks? Do you live in an area that has earthquakes? Are you afraid to be living in an earthquake prone place? Have you thought about moving? Conversation Questions Education A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Are college tuitions reasonable? Are foreign languages part of the curriculum? If so, which languages? Are most schools coeducational in your country? Are there any subjects/classes you wanted to study but they weren't available at your school/college? Are there good colleges in your country? Are women encouraged to pursue education? Do you have difficulty with school work? Do you know anyone who does not know how to read or write? Do you think teachers are paid enough? Do you think your school is a good one? Why/why not? Do you think your teachers give too much homework? Do you think it is easier to learn as a child or as an adult? Do you think public speaking can improve your english? How can we improve our classroom? Why English is hard to learn at university level? How do you travel to school? How long must you go to college to get a degree? How much is too much homework? How should the homework load be managed? If you have not attended college, do you plan on doing so? Is it difficult for people without a college education to get good jobs where you live? What are some good ways to learn English? What are some important factors in determining which college to attend? What are the qualities of a good student? What are the qualities of a good teacher? What classes would you take? What do you study? What's your major? What is the average age of a high school graduate? What is your favorite class? What was (or is) your favorite subject? Why do you like it? Who selects the college you will attend -- you or your parents? Why are you studying a foreign language? Why do you think people become teachers? Why is it helpful to learn a Second language ? Why is it sometimes very difficult to speak another language? Would you consider studying abroad? How much free time does a high school student in your country have? Do parents home-school their children in your country? What do you think of home-schooling? Do you know anyone who was home-schooled? Do you think that most parents influence what university their child will attend? Once you graduate from a university should you stop learning? What are some ways a person can continue to learn? Does education guarantee a good job? Which is more important, the essential skills in life you've learned to develop on your own or the artificial structure in college about the "real" life? Which high schools and colleges are the best in your country? Which high schools and colleges are not so good in your country? We should not just prepare for life, but live it. Do you agree? What kind of world do you think this would be if people never went to school? Should education be free? Do the elite in your country attend only one or two universities? Do elite universities help or harm your country? Does your country provide a good public school system? Do your children attend US schools? If so, how do their schools differ from those your children attended back home? Does your country have good public universities? If not, why do you think there is a lack of funding for education in your country? What realistic changes would you make to your country's attitude toward education? What role do you think human capital plays in the development of countries? Why do students cheat during tests and exams? How do they cheat? What is your attitude towards cheating? What are the dangers of cheating? How should parents react? How should teachers react? What is the role of school and decision makers? Where do we learn the skills necessary to become a good student - in elementary, middle or high school? What skills separate good students from bad students? What do you think about a gap year, is this something you would consider? Should people go straight from school to university, or do something different? What do you wish your teachers understood about you? What is a "genius"? Do you think a person can become a genius, or are they just born that way? What do you consider to be a "smart" or "slow" person? Are things that your school teaches you that you think are not important? Are there things your school does not teach that you think it should? Are school uniforms good to have? Why/why not? Do prefer school uniforms or casuals clothes better? Would you ever want to learn a third language? [To be "trilingual"] What do you consider "hardworking" or 'lazy"? Conversation Questions English Literature & Books A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. How many English authors can you name? How many of Shakespeare's plays can you name? Have you read a translation of any English books in your language? Have you ever read an English translation of a book originally written in your language? What sort of books do you enjoy reading? Do you prefer fiction or non-fiction? What is your favorite book? Who is your favorite writer? Have you ever read a book and then seen a film of that book? Did you read books when you were a child? Do you like science-fiction books? Do you like love stories? Do you like historical stories? Has seeing a film ever made you read the book it was based on? Do you know any American writers? How many books by Charles Dickens can you name? Who are the most famous writers in your country? How many books do you read per year? What makes a 'classic' book? How do you believe literature can help you to get familiar with a culture? Do you think that books are a thing of the past? What are some of the main differences between a novel and a short story? How many books do you read per week? About how many books do you have in your house? Do you have a library card? Are you a member of any public library? Do you prefer reading books or short stories? Who is your favorite character from literature? Do you like to write your own short stories? Do you keep a journal? What sort of books do you enjoy reading? Which book have you read recently? Do you give books to your friends as a present? If so, what was the last book you gave? Why did you choose that book? Some people say that "books are best friends". Is that true for you? Do you have your own library? If so, does that mean you like books? Some people don't read books or read very rarely, Why? Are book prices too high to buy in your hometown? What about authors? Are you selective about authors? Who is your favorite author? What is your favorite "quote"? What literature course did you like best in college? Why is literature important in our lives? What kinds of literature do you enjoy? Do you like literature from other countries as well? If so, what kind? Do you like authors from other countries as well? If so, who? Do you like titles from other countries as well? If so, which ones? What kinds of books or which authors don't you like? Tell us a little about a book you have read recently? Did you enjoy it? How long did it take to read? Briefly, what was the story about?   Conversation Questions English Study A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you think English is a difficult language to learn? Have you ever spoken English on the phone? How often do you practice your English? What is your favorite way to practice your English? (UK spelling = favourite) What is the most difficult thing about English? Why are you learning English? What do you think you will be able to do in English in the future?   Conversation Questions Entertainment A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is the most popular drama/comedy/game show in your country, and what is the story-line (drama) or format (game show)? Do you like to watch cartoons? What did you watch on TV yesterday? What is one of your favorite TV shows? Why do you like it? When is it on? Does you father like it, too? Do you listen to classical music? Why or why not? Have you ever been to a play? If so, when was the last time? Have you ever been to Disneyland? Have you ever been to the theater? Have you ever hosted a party? Have you ever tried water skiing? Have you ever used a slot machine? How far in advance do you begin planning a vacation? How often do you go to parties? How often do you read comic books? How often do you visit museums? When was the last time? Is gambling legal where you live? Should books be censored? Do you often go drinking? Where? Who with? How often? Should movies be rated? Explain. What are some forms of gambling people do in your country? What are some games that you don't like to play? Why? What are some good books that you have read? What is the best book you have ever read? What are some of the good movies you have seen? What are some of the most popular amusement parks in your country? What are some things you can do without spending a cent? What computer games have you played? Which are your favorites? Which do you think are not so interesting? What do you do in your spare time? What do you like to do on a night out? What do you think of soccer? (baseball, hang gliding, ...) What games are popular in your country? Why are they popular? What is your favorite game? Why? What is your favorite holiday? Why? What kind of music do you like? What kind of things do you like to read? What singer would you most like to meet? What was the last book you read? What's the most popular holiday in your country? When is it? How is it celebrated? What's your favorite magazine? (What are some of your favorite magazines?) When do you usually listen to the radio? Where do you usually read? Who are some of the famous actors and musicians in your country? Who are some of your favorite actors and actresses? Who do you think is the funniest comedian? Who is the most popular entertainer in your country? Who is your favorite author? Who is your favorite comedian? Who is your favorite musician? Who is your favorite female singer? Who is your favorite male singer? Who is your favorite guitarist? Who is your favorite writer? (author) Why do some people gamble? Would you rather go to a bar or a nightclub? What do you do for fun?   Conversation Questions Environment & Pollution A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Are there litter laws where you live? If so, what is the penalty for littering? Do you think cars should be banned from city centers? Do you think people should recycle newspapers? Why or why not? Do you think there are lessons to learn from nature? How has the world changed since you were a child? (technology, values, environment, health) How often is garbage collected in your neighborhood? If humans are really intelligent and not simply manipulated by their genes like any other animal, why can't they do anything about overpopulation? What are some things that can be recycled? What are some things that your community is doing to help the? What are some things which you recycle? What are some types of pollution? What are some ways that you can reduce pollution in this country? What can you do to help prevent pollution? What can you do to make this world a better place? What do you think of people who smoke cigarettes indoors? Which is more important, increasing people's standard of living, or protecting the environment? Think of a situation in your area involving this issue. Which side would you choose? Who do you think is more responsible for pollution, individual people or the government? Explain. What is the most important issue facing the environment today? Do you know about any anti-pollution programs in your community? What about programs in your native country? Do you usually drink bottled water? Why or Why not? If you could choose one alternative energy source to develop which one would you choose? Why? Are companies more or less environmentally responsible now than they were in the past? Why do you think that is? Do you think recycling is an important community service? Do you recycle? Who should pay for the costs associated with renewable energy? Should we make the development of renewable energy sources an economic priority? What are some ways energy is wasted? What types of energy are popular in your native country? What is the main problem with renewable energy sources? What can large cities do to improve their air quality? How can we protect the environment and at the same time improve people's standard of living? Do you think overpopulation is an important environmental issue? Why or why not? Should an environmental levy be imposed on SUVs not used in the farming community? How would this help the environment? Should gas for motorists be more expensive? What would be the advantages and disadvantages of this? Do think global warming is real? Do you think this is an effect of pollution? Are worried about global warming? If you live on an island or on the coast does this increase the danger from global warming? Why? What's happening to forests in the world? What happens when we remove forests? What can we do to protect forests? Why should we recycle? Does your local government make it easy or hard for citizens to recycle? Are there people in your country who make their living from picking-up other people's garbage? How is pollution effecting the environment of the United States today? How about your own country?   Conversation Questions Eye Contact A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. The eyes have been called "the window to the soul". What do you think that means? In USA culture we have many 'rules' about eye contact. These are unspoken and most North Americans are not aware that we have rules. What is appropriate in your culture? What is appropriate in this culture? When you are telling some one something that you feel is important, what should your eye contact be. Is it OK if they look at something else whileyou are talking? Are there different rules for eye contact when you are addressing a person of higher status? Like the President or an elder? If you do not make eye contact what does that mean? If you make too mucheye contact what does that mean? If you were in love what kind of eye contact would you make? If you were ashamed, what kind of eye contact would you make? If you were lying, or not telling the whole truth, what would your eye contact be like? If you were giving a speech or talking with a crowd what would your eye contact be like? If you are talking with a child and you think they are lying, do you think you could tell by looking at their eyes? How about an adult that you think is not telling the truth, could you tell by their eyes? What are the rules for males and females talking to each other? If a woman looks directly at a man is she being too forward or sexually aggressive?   Conversation Questions Fads and Trends A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is a fad? Do you pay attention to fads? What were some fads when you were in high school? What were some fads when you were in college? What are some fads now? Are fads the same as popular culture? What are some of the fads in your home country? Are they the same as where you are living now? Why do you think people pay attention to fads? What fad influence your life the most? What portion of the general population do you think creates or follows fads? How do fads start and who starts them? Today? In the past? What media influences how fads evolve? If you wanted to start a trend, how would you go about it?   Conversation Questions Family A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Are friends more important than family? What do you think? Are chores assigned to children in your family? Are you married? Are you pressured by your family to act in a certain way? Are you the oldest among your brothers and sisters? Are your parents strict? Did you ever meet any of your great grandparents? Do you get along well with your family? Do you get along well with your brothers and sisters? Do you get along well with your in-laws? Do you have any brothers or sisters? If so, how old are they? Do you have any children? If yes, what are their names and ages? Do you have to clean your own room? Does your mother make you clean your room? Do you like your family? Why or why not? Do you live with any of your grandparents? Do you live with your parents? Do you look more like your mother or your father? Do you often argue with your mother or father? What about? Do you often visit your grandparents? Do you think people should adopt children from other countries? Do you usually have any influence on family matters? Do your parents let you stay out late? What time do you have to be home? Do you have a curfew? How did you get your name? For whom are you named? Who are you named after? How big is your family? How many (first) cousins do you have? How many aunts and uncles do you have? How many brothers and sisters do you have? How many children do you have? How many members do you have in your family altogether? How many people are in your (immediate) family? How many people are in your family? How often do you see your cousins? How often do you see your grandparents? How often is your entire family together? How old are your brothers and sisters? How old are your children? How old are your grandparents? How old are your parents? Is spanking a good way to discipline children? Should people follow the religion of their parents, or should they have the liberty to choose another? What are some of your fondest memories of childhood? What are your parents like? What do you and your family like to do together? What do you think of married couples who decide not to have any child? What do your mother and father look like? How about your grandparents? What do your parents do in their free time? What are the occupations of your family members? What does your father do? What's his job? What does your mother do? What is the best memory you have of your family doing something together? What kind of things do you do with your family? What will you teach your children? (what values, beliefs, hobbies, skills, etc.) What would you change about your childhood? Where do your grandparents live? Where does your father's father live? Where does your mother's mother live? Who do you get along better with, your mother or your father? Who is the black sheep (odd ball) in your family? Would you get involved in your in-laws' family problems? Would you live with your parents after you get married? Should children help with the housework? How much or how often should they help? What kinds of housework is not appropriate for children to do? Do you live in a nuclear family or an extended family? What are the advantages and disadvantages of these types of family? What impact has divorce and/or modern day living had on the family? Is the nanny and/or the day-care centre the third parent? Where is the best place to raise a family? Where do you think the best place to raise a family is? Why? What can make you happy in the long term/ short term? Consider the following: job satisfaction, a loving family, good health, plenty of money, strong religious believes, ... Do you think your parents understand you? Why or why not? Who does the household work, your father or your mother or both of them? Have you ever seen your mother (or father) cry? When was that and why? What do you think of your mother and your father? Which do you think is more important: following the dreams your parents want for you or following your own dreams? What's the hardest thing you ever had to do? What was the most important thing your parents taught you? What's the best thing about your mom? If you could have a different number of siblings, what would it be? Who should take care of old people? What is the perfect number of children to have? What's the best thing about your grandparents? Should parents give their children an allowance? How often does your family eat dinner together? How should parents discipline their children? After you're married, should your parents make decisions for you? What's the best thing about your dad? Who is the breadwinner in your family? How is nudity regarded in your family? Describe the perfect family. Do your parents get along with each other? Do your parents trust you? If you were offered an excellent job opportunity abroad, would you consider leaving your family for an indefinite period of time? Describe a typical family unit and the importance of family in your country.   Conversation Questions Favorites A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is your favorite animal? What is your favorite city in the United States? What is your favorite color? What is your favorite country? And why? What is your favorite day of the week? Why? What is your favorite drink in the summer? What is your favorite food? What is your favorite kind of food? What is your favorite holiday? Why? What is your favorite kind of book? What is your favorite kind of ethnic food? What is your favorite kind of movie? What is your favorite kind of music? What is your favorite magazine? What is your favorite memory of childhood? What is your favorite movie? What is your favorite radio station? What is your favorite season? Why? What is your favorite sport? What is your favorite time of day? What is your favorite TV program? What is your favorite Web site? What is your favorite vegetable? Why fruit, meat, salad dressing, etc.) What's your favorite smell? What's your favorite word in English? Why do you like it? Who is your favorite actor? Who is your favorite actress? Who is your favorite athlete? Who is your favorite baseball player? Who is your favorite soccer player? Who is your favorite character from literature? Who is your favorite musician? Who is your favorite singer? Who is your favorite super-hero? Explain why. What is your best friend's name? Who was your favorite teacher? Why? ....in high school? ...in junior high school? ...in elementary school? What was your favorite subject in school? ....in high school? ...in junior high school? ...in elementary school? Who was your favorite singer when you were younger? How about now? In place of singer: actor, actress, baseball player, athlete, ... Note: Many of the above questions can be changed from "What is" to "What was."   Conversation Questions Fears A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Are there any parts of the city where you live which you are afraid to visit after dark? Where? Why? Are there certain weather conditions that scare people? What are they? Why do people become scared? Are you afraid of flying? (Are you afraid to fly in an airplane?) Are you afraid of ghosts? Are you afraid of giving a speech in public? (Does it scare you to speak in public?) Are you afraid of going to the dentist? Are you afraid of heights? Are you afraid of scary movies? Are you afraid of the dark? Are you afraid to die? Why? Are you afraid of getting old? Why? Are there any numbers that people are afraid of in your culture? Do you fear certain insects/animals? Why? Do you know anyone with a phobia? Do you like horror movies? Do you think young children should be allowed to watch horror movies? How do you react when you see something frightening? Is there any person you are afraid of? Were you afraid of the dark as a child? Were you afraid on your first day of school here in the United States? How do you feel now? What animal do you think is the most scary? (What animal scares you the most?) What are some things which many people are afraid of? Why are they afraid of them? What is the scariest movie you have ever seen? What is your biggest fear in life? Are you afraid that it might come true? What kinds of things make you nervous? What was the most frightening experience you've had? When you were a child, what things were you afraid of? Do you ever have nightmares (bad dreams)? What are they about? How often do you have nightmares? Have you ever seen any TV shows where people face their fears for money? e.g. Fear Factor etc.? Would you ever face one of your fears for money? Do you find this kind of show interesting to watch? What is your biggest fear? Have you overcome any of your fears? Are you afraid of being ill? What disease are you most afraid of? Why? Do you believe people can be cured of phobias by hypnosis?   Conversation Questions Feelings A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Are you annoyed when your partner/husband/wife flirts with someone else ? Do bad mannered people upset you? Do you get angry when politicians make promises they can't keep? Do you get angry when you watch the news on TV and see all the terrible things happening in the world? Does it annoy you when shop assistants try to sell you things you don't need? Does it annoy you when someone interrupts you when you are speaking? Does it annoy you when someone knows everything better than you and says so? Does it annoy you when you are waiting in a long queue and someone pushes in front of you? Does it annoy you when your teacher speaks too quickly? Does it drive you crazy to always see the same faces and read about the same celebrities in the gossip columns? Does it drive you crazy when waiters ignore you? Does it drive you crazy when you have invited people to dinner and they come late and the meal is spoiled? Does it make you angry when motorists drive too closely behind you? Does it make you angry when people make nasty comments about you ? Does it make you angry when you have made an appointment to see the doctor at a certain time and he/she keeps you waiting for ages ? Does it upset or annoy you when a beggar asks you for money? Does it upset you when have to say "No" when someone asks you for help? Does it upset you when you see homeless people? Does it upset you when you see people hitting children or dogs? Does it upset you when you see pictures of famines in India, Africa etc.?   Conversation Questions Food & Eating A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. There is a related set of questions at http://iteslj.org/questions/restaurants.html Related: Restaurants, Fruits and Vegetables About how many different color foods did you eat for dinner last night? Do you think about color when you are preparing a meal? Are there any foods that you wouldn't eat as a child that you eat now? Are you a good cook? Are you a vegetarian? Are you concerned about your daily calorie intake when choosing something to eat? At what times do you usually eat your meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)? Can you cook well? Did you drink coffee this morning? Did you eat lunch today? Do you always eat dinner with your family? Do you always eat vegetables? Do you cook? If yes, what food do you cook the most often? Do you drink milk every day? Do you drink tea every day? Do you eat beef? Do you eat bread every day? Do you eat breakfast every day? Do you eat fruit every day? Do you eat lunch at school every day? How much does lunch usually cost at school? Do you eat rice every day? Do you ever skip breakfast? If so, how often and why? Do you have a favorite bar or cafe? If so, where is it? Why do you like it? Do you have coffee for breakfast? Do you know someone who struggles with an eating disorder? Do you like British food? Do you like Chinese food? Why or why not? Do you like deep-fried food? Do you like food from other countries? If yes, which do you like the most? Do you like Japanese food? What kind of Japanese food do you like? Do you like peas and carrots? How about spinach? Do you like to cook? Why or why not? Do you like to eat a lot of food every day? Do you like to eat American foods? Do you like to eat at fast food restaurants? Do you like to eat cakes? Do you like to eat junk food? Do you like to eat some desserts after dinner? Do you like to eat? Why or why not? Do you like to have breakfast each morning? Why or why not? Do you like to try new food and drinks? Do you often eat out? Do you prefer fish or meat? Do you prefer to eat at a restaurant or at home? Do you prefer your own country's food or other kinds of food? Do you read the nutritional information on the foods you buy? Do you take vitamin pills? Do you think a vegetarian diet is better than a diet that includes meat? Do you think fast food, soda and sweets should be sold in school cafeterias? Do you usually want to eat dessert after dinner? Have you ever been a diet? If so, how long did you stayed on it? Have you ever eaten dog meat? Have you ever eaten Mozambican food? ...French food? ...Chinese food? ...Italian food? How long do you take to eat lunch? How many calories do most people need every day? How many meals do you usually eat every day? How much do you eat when you are sad or happy? How much does it cost to eat dinner at a hotel in your country? How much rice do you eat? How often do you eat at a fast-food restaurant? How often do you eat bread? How often do you eat fresh fruit? How often do you eat in a restaurant? (How often do you eat out?) Where do you usually go? Who do you usually go with? About how much do you spend? Do you ever go to an Indian restaurant? How often do you eat steak? How often do you go drinking? What's your favorite drink? How often do you go shopping for food? If you are living abroad, what is the food that you miss most from home? Is there any food that you really dislike to eat? What are some foods that are considered unhealthy? What are some foods that you know are healthy for your body? What country's food do you like the most? What did you eat for lunch yesterday? What did you eat the last time you ate at a restaurant? What did you have for breakfast this morning? What did you have for supper last night? What do you eat for breakfast every day? What do you eat when you feel sad? What do you like to drink? What do you like to eat for your dinner? What do you think of Thai food? Chinese food? English food? What do you usually eat for lunch? What do you usually like to drink when you go out? What food can you cook the best? What food do you hate? Why do you hate it? What foods do you hate? What foods do you love? What foods have you tasted which you will never forget for the rest of your life? What fruit do you eat the most often? What have you eaten so far today? What is a typical meal from your country? What is one of your favorite foods? What is the cheapest place to eat that you know? About how much is a meal? Where is it? How often do you go there? What is the food you like about your country. What is the last meal you cooked for someone else? What is the most expensive meal you have ever eaten? What is the most expensive restaurant that you have ever been to? What did you eat there? When did you go? Who did you go with? What is the most unusual thing you've ever eaten. Did it taste good or bad? What is the strangest thing you have ever eaten? What is your favorite food? Please describe your favorite food. What is your favorite Chinese food? ... French food? etc. What is your favorite dessert? What is your favorite fast food restaurant? What is your opinion of Chinese food? American food? British food? What kind of beverages do you usually drink? What kind of desserts do you like to eat? What kind of food do like to eat when you are angry? What kind of food do you eat between meals? What kind of food do you like the most? What kind of food do you like to eat? What kind of food do you like? What kind of food does your mother make? What kind of food that you think is the least healthy? What kind of food that you think is the most healthy? What kind of food you usually eat? What kind of fruit do you like the best? What kind of restaurants you like? What kind of vegetables do you like? What kinds of food do you usually eat for lunch? What Korean food do you like? Chinese, French, Italian, etc. What restaurant in this city do you recommend? Why is it a good place? About how much does a meal cost? What special foods do you eat on holidays? (Christmas, New Year's Day, etc.) What time do you usually eat breakfast? How about lunch and supper? What vegetable do you like best? What's the best restaurant you've ever been to? What's the best restaurant you've ever been to? Why did you like it? What's the strangest food you've ever eaten? What's your favorite dessert? What's your favorite drink in the summer? What's your favorite fish? What's your favorite food? What's your favorite fruit? What's your favorite junk food? What's your favorite kind of ethnic food? What's your favorite kind of food? What's your favorite kind of meat? What's your favorite restaurant? Why do you like it? What's your favorite snack? When was the last time you ate at a restaurant? When was the last time you ate dinner with your mother? Where do you usually eat dinner? (...lunch, ...breakfast) Which country's food do you like the most? Which do you eat more often, rice or bread? Which fast food restaurants do like? Which fast food restaurants do you eat at the most often? Who do you usually eat dinner with? Why are diets usually short? Why can't people stop eating? Why do you think obesity is becoming such a problem in the United States and throughout the world? What do Chinese people eat for lunch? (Substitute the nationality of your students.) Do you know the nutritional value of the things you eat every day? Do you believe that "we are what we eat?" How many meals a day do you think should be eaten? Do you usually eat at home or eat at a restaurant? Can you name a spice or flavoring that is good for your health? If you were on death row, what would you request for your last meal? Do you pray before each meal? Have you ever eaten something that made you ill? How many calories are in one hamburger? If you don't know, can you make a guess? Is it more or less than an ice-cream cone? Have you ever had pot-luck? Have you ever tasted African food? Does your family have any special recipes that are passed down from generation to generation? What would you bring to a pot-luck lunch? Do you like brunch? How much should you tip the server in a restaurant? What type of restaurants would you not tip in? Have you ever found something disgusting in your food? Have you ever sent food back in a restaurant? Have you ever left a restaurant without paying ("dined and dashed")? Do you like trying new foods? What new foods have you tried this month? What is the strangest food you have ever tried? Do you have any food allergies? Which food from this country do you like the least? What do you think about super-sizing? Should fast food restaurants serve healthier food? Are food portions too big for our health? What food would you like to see in a restaurant in this country? Do you think it is good to count calories when you are eating? Which food is overpriced? What differences do you notice in the preparation of American/British/Australian and Chinese/Japanese/Korean foods? Do the utensils we use to eat affect the kind or way we prepare the foods we eat? Do you think that food defines a culture? If so, how? Do you notice any differences in the way food is served at the table when you travel? Do you enjoy eating intestines? (Substitute in other foods that students are not likely to enjoy.) How does the etiquette of eating together in your country differ from other countries? Are there any foods that bring back special memories for you? What are they? Pizza Do you like pizza? What is your favorite pizza topping? How often do you eat pizza at a restaurant? How often do you order pizza to your home? Are there pizzerias near your home that deliver pizzas? What do you like to drink with your pizza? Do you know how to make a pizza? Do you know who invented the pizza? Why is pizza popular? Have you ever called for pizza delivery?   Conversation Questions Free Time & Hobbies A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you have enough free time? Do you have free time on Sundays? Do you have much free time during the day? Do you have much free time in the evenings? Do you have much free time in the mornings? Do you like to watch movies? (...like to play tennis, ...) What are you doing this weekend? What did you do last summer vacation? What did you do last weekend? What do you do in your free time? What hobbies do you have? When do you have free time? (How do you spend your free time?) Where do you spend your free time? Who do you spend your free time with? How do you like to spend your free time? going shopping? going to the cinema? chatting? playing computer games going to the disco? playing sports?reading? relaxing? Do you have a hobby? How long have you had your hobby? Which hobbies are the most expensive? Which hobbies are the cheapest? Which hobbies cost nothing at all? Which hobbies are the most popular in your country? Is hunting a hobby or a sport in your country? Which hobbies are the most popular with women in your country? With men? Did you have any hobbies when you were a child? Can you think of any hobbies which are popular with children and adults? Do you think a hobby is different from a sport? Are there any hobbies you would like to try? Are there any dangerous hobbies? Are there any hobbies you can do in other countries, but not your own? Which hobbies do you think are the most difficult?   Conversation Questions Friends A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Are there any famous stories of friendship in your culture? (Eg. David and Jonathan) Describe one of your closest friends. Do you have any childhood friendships that are still strong today? Tell us about them. Do you have any long distance friends? How do you keep in touch with your long-distance friends? How often do you see your long-distance friends? Do you think it is a good idea to borrow money from a friend? Why or why not? Do you make friends easily? Has a friend ever let you down? Have you made any friends over the Internet? How often do you write to them? Have you ever met them in person? How are your friendships different now than they were when you were a child? How do you maintain a good friendship? How do you make new friends? How many people do you consider your "best friends?" Is it common to have friendships across generations? What are the advantages and disadvantages of these types of friendships. Do you have any friends from a different generation than you? There is a saying "To have a good friend, you need to be a good friend." How can you be a good friend? What do you usually do with your friends? What factors may result in the breakdown of a good friendship? What is a best friend? What is the longest friendship that you have had? What makes friends different from family? What qualities do you think are important in a friend? What is a friend? What things should friends never do? Why do you like your best friend? What are some things you like about your best friend? Where is a good place to meet new friends? Where is a good place to meet a new boyfriend/girlfriend? Do you think it is possible to have a best friend of the opposite sex without becoming a girlfriend or boyfriend? Do you think it would be possible for you still be friends with an ex-boyfriend or ex-girlfriend? There is a proverb that says, "A friend in need is a friend indeed." Do you agree? Do you believe that there is an end to any true friendships? Do you believe your parents should be your friends? What do you do if you receive a friend's call but you forgot his/her name? Friendship is the most important relationship. Do you agree? Why? Why not? What do you like best about your best friend(s)? What are some ways your best friend has influenced your life in a positive way? What are some ways your best friend has influenced your life in a positive way? How close do you get to your friends? Why do you need a friend? What do you do when you have a misunderstanding with your friend? Do you trust all of your friends? Why? What is the best time for making new friends? What was your best friendship? Are you still friends with him or her? What life lessons did you learn from this relationship? What qualities do you appreciate in your friends? What makes someone special or best friend? Why are friendships important for you? Do you still maintain friendships from the past? How long have you known your best friend? Where did you meet and what did you have in common? What are some good opportunities to meet new people? How can you get to better know a person? What is the relationship between love and friendship? Who is the most interesting person you have ever met? Do you think famous people are happier than ordinary people? Why? What type of people do you get along with best? What quality do you admire most in people and which one do you find the most objectionable? What behavior of others hurts you most? When you have upset someone by your actions, what do you try to do? What do you consider to be your good and bad qualities? What qualities help you to have good relationships with others? What traits or actions make an interpersonal conflict worse? Are relationships among people better or worse than a few years ago? Why? Give some examples. Do you think that dysfunctional family life contributes to worsening relationships in society? Is getting along with others a natural ability from birth or does it have to be learnt? How important is forgiveness in human relationships? What are friends for? Can you be friends with your student if you are a teacher? To what extent can you be friends with your child?   Conversation Questions Fruits and Vegetables A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you like to eat fruits? What's your favorite one? How often do you eat fresh fruit? In your opinion, what's the most delicious fruit? Do you like vegetables? What's your favorite one? Do you think that fruits and vegetables are good for your health? Why or why not? Are you or would you like to be vegetarian? How often do you drink fruit juice? What kind of fruit juice do you drink? Do you like to eat fruit salad? What kind of vegetables and fruits do you buy at the supermarket? What the means the saying: "An apple a day keeps the doctor away?" What are the most common fruits and vegetables in your country? Can fruits and vegetables help you cure diseases? Can fruits and vegetables help you lose weight if you are on a diet? Do you cultivate fruits or vegetables in your garden? Do you like to use things that have a fruit smell? ( E.g: Perfumes, erasers, etc)   Conversation Questions Future A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What does the future hold? What will the future be like? Who invented the very first computer? What is AI? What is the definition of a 'robot'? What is robotics? Where did the word 'robot' come from? Can robots tie shoes? Will robots replace humans? Will robots take our jobs? How will the development of robots that think change your future? Imagine the job you wish to hold when you get older - could a robot be programmed to do that job as well as you? A film like The Matrix has explored the idea that we might be living in virtual reality. But what evidence is there for or against this hypothesis? And what are its implications? Do you know ISAAC ASIMOV? What did he do? Can you think of movies that have robots in them? Did you enjoy this movie? Do you think we create a new problem with each invention? Think of examples. Is there anything that does not yet exist that you would like to see invented? What is it? Where do you plan on going to college? What type of job would you like to do in the future? How do you get that type of job? Will you make much money in that job? Do you want to get married? Do you know who you are marrying? What high school are you going to go to? How can we preserve the future for the next generation? How will computers change in the future? How will cellphones change in the future? How will transportation develop in future times? How old will people live to be in the future? What kind of developments might happen in health care in the future? Could there be another world war in the future? How can we prevent a world war from happening? Where do you plan on going in the future? Can fortune-tellers predict the future? Is it possible to know the future? Where do you hope to travel before you die? What do you hope to do in your life? How will technology change? Do you think life will be more difficult or easier for our grandchildren? In what ways? How do you think (your country) will change in the future? How will the United States and the world order change in the future? How do you think YOU will change in the future? Do you think the future will be better or worse for your grandchildren? Do robots go to college? Would you marry a robot? Do you think that one day robots will serve as childcare providers? How would you feel if you child liked the robot better than he/she liked you?   Conversation Questions Gambling A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. How many forms of gambling can you think of? What percentage of people do you think gamble? What is the most amount of money that you can afford to loose? Do you bet? How often? What's the biggest bet you ever placed? Apart from the obvious financial problem what other consequences can occur as a result of excessive gambling? Who suffers the most from a gambling problem? Apart from the obvious reason of winning money, why do people gamble? Why is gambling addictive? Do you think gambling could be caused by genetics? What kinds of people do you think are more prone to developing a gambling problem? At what age do people generally start gambling? What's the usual age limit for gambling games? Do you regard putting money in machines for prizes, at an amusement arcade, as gambling? Is there such a thing as good and bad luck? If so, what is it? Does luck have anything to do with winning? Do you think it's possible for a gambling addict to kick the habit? What help is available for addicts? What techniques can you think of that may help an addicted gambler quit? Should some forms of gambling be banned? Do you think that those who own and run casinos are criminals or conmen? Does the national lottery encourage gambling?   Conversation Questions Garage sale A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is a garage sale? Do you have garage sales in your country? Have ever stopped at a garage sale in this country? Do you know how to haggle or negotiate a lower price? What are some things that you need, that you might find at a garage sale? When you stop at a garage sale do you always buy something. What are some reasons that people have garage sales? What season are there the most garage sales? Do you enjoy shopping at garage sales? What have you bought at a garage sale?   Conversation Questions Gardening A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What kind of gardening do you like? How much time do you spend in the garden? Do you think gardening is good for your health? What are the names of some famous gardens in your city? What are some vegetables which you grow in your garden? Do you think trees need pruning every year? What are the names of some famous gardens in your country? What are names of common flowers in your country? Does your house have a garden? Is there a flower store near your house? What are some things that need to be done in the garden in the spring? What are the some names of gardening tools? Would you prefer to have a flower garden or a vegetable garden? Why?   Conversation Questions Gender Roles A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you see yourself as a typical man/woman? Why or why not? In your country Are the responsibilities of a mother the same as the responsibilities of a father to their families? What are the responsibilities of a father to his family? What are the responsibilities of a mother to her family? Are fathers capable of carrying out the duties of a mother and vice versa? Are there different expectations for sons and daughters? What habits are deemed as appropriate for men but inappropriate for women? What behaviors are deemed as appropriate for men but inappropriate for women? What jobs are deemed as appropriate for men but inappropriate for women? Are more doctors female or male in your country? Are more nurses female or male in your country? Are more professional musicians female or male in your country? Are more teachers female or male in your country? Are more truck drivers female or male in your country? Are men and women equal in ability and intelligence? What things can either men or women do that the other cannot do and why? What type of clothing do men wear? What type of clothing do women wear? Can men wear women's clothing or can women wear men's clothing? Why or why not? Can men wear pink clothes? Is it OK for men to cry? Is it OK for women to cry? What do people think of men or women crying? What would people think of a man who backs down from a fight? What would people think of two women involved in a fist fight? Is it OK for men to appear sad? Is it OK for women to appear angry? Is it OK for men to appear weak? Is it common for women and men to take part in sporting activities? Do they take part in the same type of sporting activities? In you home, who does the cooking, cleaning and household chores? Is it possible for women to join the army in your country? Is it compulsory for men and women to join the army in your country? Do women swear a lot? Are there more male or female managers and executives? Why do you think this is? What jobs do men do and women not do in your country? Who is regarded as the head of the family? Should boys and girls be brought up differently? Should boys and girls be treated differently on the part of the parents? What would happen if your parents changed their place for one day? How would the world look like without men? How would the world look like without women? When a woman and a man are together, who does most of the talking? What makes you think so? Can a man and a woman be only friends? Do men/men friendships differ from women/men or women/women friendships? How? Who do you think has life easier, girls or guys? Why?   Conversation Questions Generation Gap A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is a generation gap? Have you ever felt a generation gap with your friends? How do you over come the generation gap? When do you feel the generation gap the most? Is it possible to overcome a generation gap? At what point in life does the generation gap seem to be the largest? Do you think you can be a better parent than your own parents in future? Do you think it is OK to date or marry someone of a different gereration to yourself, either older or younger? Some people think it is OK to marry a much older man but not a much older woman? Do you agree? How would you feel if your father was a generation older than your mother? Do you know a family where this is the case? What could be some problems with a partnership or marriage of different generations? Do you think your generation's fight is similar to your parents generation's fight. What do you think are some of the advantages or disadvangtages of another generation? When did you first become an adult in your mind? What roll does music play in generation gaps?   Conversation Questions Gestures A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What are some gestures you know? What are some good gestures in your country? What are some insulting gestures in your country? Can you think of some gestures that have different meanings in different countries? Has your teacher ever used a hand and/or facial gesture that was o.k. in the teacher's country but an insult in your country? If so, did you tell the teacher so it would not happen again? What are some bad gestures that you have seen in Western films but you don't know the meaning of? What are some gestures that you used when you were a child that you don't use anymore? What are some gestures that you didn't learn until you were a teenager or a young adult? What are some gestures you know that relate to the sporting world?   Conversation Questions Getting to Know Each Other A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you have any pets? What was the last book you read? Do you like to cook? What's your favorite food? Are you good at cooking/swimming/etc? Are you married or single? Do you have brothers and sisters? Are they older or younger than you? Do you like baseball? Do you live alone? Do you live in a house or an apartment? Have you ever lived in another country? Have you ever met a famous person? How do you spend your free time? How long have you been studying English? How old are you? How tall are you? Tell me about a favorite event of your adulthood. Tell me about a favorite event of your childhood. What are your hobbies? What two things could you not do when you were.....? What countries have you visited? What country are you from? What do you do on Sundays? What do you do? What's your job? What do you like to do in your free time? What hobbies do you have? What is the nearest bus stop or train station to your house? What is your motto? What is your religion? (Perhaps not a good question in some situations.) What kind of food do you like? What kind of people do you like? What kind of people do you not like? What languages do you speak? What two things could you not do when you were a child, but you can do now? What's something you do well? What's your address? What's your father like? What's your mother like? What's your name? What's your phone number? What's your telephone number? When did you start to study English? Where are you from? Where do you live? Where do you live? How long have you lived there? Where were you born? Which sports do you like? Who do you live with? Who do you respect the most? Who has had the most influence in your life? Why did you decide to take this course? Why do you want to learn English? Would you like to be famous? What do you think you will be doing five years from now? Where do you think you'll be living five years from now? What is your goal in life? Are you a 'morning' or 'night' person? When do you feel best? In the morning, afternoon, or evening? How many cities have you lived in? What jobs have you done? Which do you prefer, sunrises or sunsets? What could you do as a child that you can't do now? Who is your next door neighbor in your home country? What is he or she like? Did you get along with each other? What is the best memory of our country that you will take back home with you? What is the worst memory of our country? How many times did you move as a child? Are you a task oriented person or a people oriented person? What is the profile of the wife/husband you would meet? What kind of woman/man would you like to marry?   Conversation Questions Goals A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is your biggest goal in life? How do you plan to achieve that goal? What are your "short term" goals? What are your "long term" goals? Should parents help their children set goals? What are your educational goals? What are your career goals? What are your financial goals? Why are goals important? Is having a goal in life effective in becoming successful? Is having a goal helpful in motivating a person? Do you think people have fewer goals as they get older? Do you have any goals that you feel are unrealistic? How do people's goals change from country to country? What are your goals in your current job? What are the main differences between male and female goals? Which of your goals have you already achieved? How would you feel if you failed to achieve any of your goals? Do you think it's a good idea to write your goals down and tick them off as you achieve them? How important are goals to you?   Conversation Questions Gossip and Rumors A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you like to gossip? Do your friends often gossip about you? Why do you think people like to listen to gossip ? Why do people like to gossip about the rich and famous? What are the most common themes for gossip? What are some of the things you like to gossip about? What are some ways which gossip can be harmful? Do you think gossip can be used for something good? Why is it considered that women gossip more then men? Where are some places where people like to gossip? Which newspapers can be called gossip newspapers? Do you like to read gossip newspapers? What is your attitude to gossip newspapers? Have you ever told a rumor that got someone in trouble? Has someone ever spread a rumor about you? Has spreading rumors ever got you in trouble? Do you think that a friend who gossips or starts rumours will ever gossip or start a rumour about you? How would you try to resolve the problem, if you had got into trouble through gossiping? Has answering these questions changed your attitude towards gossip? If you discovered that someone had been gossiping about you, would you confront them? If no-one at your high school had ever gossiped, how would it have been different? If you heard some harmful gossip about someone you knew, what would you do?   Conversation Questions Habits A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you have any bad habits? Do you bite your nails? Do you over sleep? Do you sleep on the sofa? Do you sleep in your clothes? Do you eat late at night? What are some good habits to have? What are healthy eating habits? What are bad eating habits? What are good study habits? What are bad study habits? Where do we learn our habits? What are some of your bad habits? Do children learn bad habits at school or at home? Do you smoke? Do you drink alcohol? Do you spit on the street? Do you throw rubbish on the street? Do you smoke at public places? Do you sleep in class? Are you extremely lazy? Do you cut people off in the middle of their stories and conversations? Does your mother or father have any bad habits? Is it easy or difficult to get rid of a bad habit? Do other people's bad habits get on your nerves? Have you been successful in getting rid of a bad habit? Is always coming late a bad habit? What bad habits bother you the most? What good habits do you most admire? What unusual habits do you observe in your family members? Do they bother you? How can you develop a good habit?   Conversation Questions Happiness A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Are you a happy person? What is happiness for you? What do you think is the color for happiness? Do you think that happiness lies within you? Or does it depend upon other people and external things? Can money buy happiness? Is happiness a state of mind? What makes you feel happy? What are the three most important things for you to be happy? Is happiness relative, that is, does it have a different meaning for each person?   Conversation Questions Have You Ever ... A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Have you ever appreciated a sunset? Were you alone or with someone special? Have you ever been a guest at a surprise party? Has anyone ever thrown a surprise party for you? Have you ever been in a fist fight? Have you ever been on TV? Have you ever been to a theatre? (Also spelling "theater.") Have you ever broken a bone? Have you ever broken up with someone? Have you ever called your boyfriend or girlfriend by the wrong name? Have you ever called your girlfriend/boyfriend "Honey?" Have you ever changed your appearance a lot in a short time? (For example, hair style, hair color or weight) Have you ever cheated on an exam? Have you ever cried in public and embarrassed yourself? Have you ever cried for no reason and felt good because of it? Have you ever dated someone from another race, culture or religion? Have you ever dated someone who didn't like you? Have you ever dated a relative by accident? Have you ever done something silly that you wish you had not done? Have you ever driven a sports car? Have you ever driven a truck? Have you ever eaten in a restaurant and realized you have no money with you? Have you ever finished eating in a restaurant, and you realized you forgot your wallet? Have you ever eaten something that you thought you wouldn't like, but found out that you actually liked it? Have you ever eaten frog legs? Have you ever eaten horse meat? Have you ever eaten French food? (Substitute other countries' food, too.) Have you ever fallen asleep and forgotten where you were? Have you ever fallen asleep while taking a bath? Have you ever fallen down the stairs? Have you ever fallen in love at first sight? Have you ever fallen or stumbled in front of others. Have you ever forgotten your mother's birthday? ... father's ... girlfriend's ... boyfriend's ... husband's ... wife's Have you ever given a false excuse to get out of something you didn't want to do? If so, tell us about it. Have you ever given a ring (or other jewelry) to your girlfriend/boyfriend? Have you ever gone mountain climbing? Have you ever gone skiing? Have you ever gone surfing? Have you ever dreamt of a ghost being in your bedroom and then waking up and finding yourself looling around for the ghost? Have you ever gone to greet a friend or family member then noticed it was someone else? Have you ever gotten sunburnt at the tanning saloon and gone back the next day? Have you ever had a Deja Vu experience? Have you ever made cheesecake? Have you ever made Chinese food? Have you ever baked bread? Have you ever met a celebrity? Have you ever played a joke on one of your teachers? How about one of your classmates? Have you ever raised your hand to answer a question, then forgot what you were going to say? Have you ever received a present that you really hated? What was it? Why did you hate it? Who gave it to you? Have you ever regretted saying I love you? Have you ever ridden a horse? Have you ever ridden a motorcycle? Have you ever said yes when you meant no? If so, tell us about it. Have you ever slept in a cave? Have you ever slept in a tent? Have you ever swam in the ocean? Have you ever talked to a famous person? Who was the person? How long did you talk? What did you talk about? Have you ever thought of something funny and started laughing out loud in the presence of others? Have you ever told a big lie to someone you love? Have you ever tried in-line skating? Have you ever tried riding a skateboard? Have you ever guessed someone's age wrong (younger or older)? How did the person respond? Have you ever been in the shower when there was an earthquake? Have you ever ripped off your pants while dancing? Have you ever kissed somebody by mistake? Have you ever laughed until tears came from your eyes? Have you ever fallen asleep while talking on the phone? Have you ever sprained your ankle/wrist? How did it happen? Have you ever written an article for a newspaper? If so, when was it and what was the article about? Have you ever seen a car accident? Have you ever called your school's principal? Have you ever received more than 10 cards on Valentines day? Have you ever been on the radio or television? Have you ever ridden on an ostrich? A camel? A cow? Have you ever shaken hands with a monkey? Have you ever received a love letter? Have you ever seen a tornado? Have you ever had an electricity blackout while taking a shower? Have you ever picked you're nose in public? Have you ever seen a car accident? Have you ever called your school's principal? Have you ever been on the radio? T.V? Have you ever ridden on an ostrich? Have you ever shaken hands with a monkey? Have you ever received a love letter? Have you ever seen a tornado? Have you ever milked a cow? Have you ever built an igloo? Have you ever tried any extreme sports? Have you ever shot a gun at a tree or a target? Have you ever played an instrument in public? Have you ever sung in public? Have you ever talked "baby-talk" to your pet? Have you ever given special nicknames to your pet that were completely different than their first given name? Have you ever kept special treats for your pet? Have you ever kept a special blanket or bed for your pet to sleep on? Have you ever let your pet sleep in or on your bed with you? Have you ever hitchhiked? Have you ever fainted? Have you ever walked into a lamppost? Have you ever wondered why some people want to be alone but never seem to be lonely? Why do you think this is so? Have you ever tried to eat food without first spitting out your chewing gum? Have you ever saved a piece of chewed chewing gum and started chewing it again later? Have you ever called a 'he' she or a 'she' a 'he?' What was the response? Have you ever called a women sir or a Man "ma'am?" Have you ever asked a woman when she was "due" and she wasn't even pregnant?   Conversation Questions Health A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Are you a member of a health spa/gym? Are you afraid of needles? Are you healthy? Are your parents healthy? Do think that you need to lose weight? Do you always eat healthy food? (Is your diet healthy?) Do you bruise easily? Do you catch a cold more than once a year? Do you consider alcohol a drug? Do you drink a lot? Do you eat a lot of vegetables? Do you eat lots of fruit? Do you eat vegetables every day? Do you ever get headaches? Do you know anyone who suffers from migraine headaches? Do you ever read magazines or news articles about health? If yes, what subject(s) do you find the most interesting? Do you exercise? What kind of exercise do you do? How often do you exercise? Do you go for regular medical check-ups? Do you go to the dentist's twice a year? Do you have a lot of stress? Do you normally go one doctor in particular or any available doctor? Do you have any allergies? Do you have any scars? Do you know anyone who suffers from backaches? Do you know anyone with false teeth? Do you often eat fast food? Do you smoke? If so, do you smoke more than two cigarettes a day? Do you think smoking is not bad for your health? Do you take medicine when you are sick? Do you take vitamins or mineral supplements? Do you take vitamins? Do you think it is unhealthy to keep a cat in your home? Do you think nuclear power is safe? Do you think pets are good for a person's health Do you think that the tobacco companies should be held reasonably responsible for a person's addiction to nicotine? Do you think you are overweight? Do you think you will live until a ripe old age? Why or why not? Do you think you would be a good surgeon? Why or why not? Do you use an alarm clock to wake up? Do you usually get enough sleep? Do you watch your weight? What foods do you think are healthy? Have you ever been hospitalized? (Have you ever been in the hospital?) Have you ever been to an acupuncturist? What do you think of acupuncture? Have you ever broken a bone? Have you ever burned yourself with hot water? Have you ever donated blood? Have you ever gotten a black eye? Have you ever had braces on your teeth? Have you ever had stitches? Have you ever sprained your ankle? Have you ever taken a sleeping pill to get to sleep? How can you reduce stress in your life? How have you been feeling lately? How many hours of sleep do you get a night? How many hours of sleep do you usually get? How often do you eat junk food? What kinds of junk food do you eat? How often do you exercise? How often do you get a cold? (How often do you catch a cold?) How often do you get sick in one year? How often do you go to the doctor's? How often is garbage collected in your neighborhood? How would you recommend treating a cold? If a company sells the public a product they know to be harmful or addictive, should they be held responsible for the use of that product even if the government approves it? If you smoke, how old were you when you started smoking? If you were President of Korea, what would you do to improve Koreans' health? Should smoking in restaurants be banned? What are some things people can do to keep healthy? What are some things that cause stress? What are some ways to deal with stress? What are some ways you know that you can personally keep yourself healthy? What disease frightens you the most? Why? What do you do to stay healthy? (What are some things you do to keep healthy?) What do you do, if you can't get to sleep? What do you think about abortion? Why do some people support it and others are against it? What do you think about getting old? What do you think is the most serious health problem in Korea? What do you think of cosmetic surgery? Do you know anyone who has had cosmetic surgery? Would you ever consider having cosmetic surgery? What drinks to you think are healthy? What drinks do you think are unhealthy? What foods to you think are healthy? What foods do you think are unhealthy? What is the best way to find a doctor, if you're new in the area? What is the best way to stop smoking? What is the most horrible accident you have ever had? What is the average age of people in your country What kind of pollution is the most risky? What time did you go to bed when you were a child? What's the best way to stop smoking? What's the highest temperature you've ever had? What's your blood type? When did you last take a bath? When was the last time you went to a dentist? When was the last time you went to a doctor? When was the last time you went to a hospital? When was the last time you were sick? When you were in high school, how many days of school did you miss each year because of sickness? Who do you think is responsible for the care of your health--you yourself, your parents, or your doctor and medical people? Who is the healthiest person in your family? Who is the least healthy? Why do people smoke? Would you consider donating your organs after your death? What is the health service like in your country? What do you think of the health service in this country? How can the health service be improved? Have you been to hospital since you arrived here? What do you know about the SARS virus? What do you know about AIDS? What do you know about the common cold? What is alternative medicine? Have you ever practiced alternative medicine? What treatments or remedies do you follow when you have a cold? which kind of medicine do you prefer to take when you are sick?   Conversation Questions Holidays A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. When is the holiday celebrated? Is it celebrated as a family or a group? Does your family celebrate this holiday? Has your family always celebrated this holiday? If not, when did you start celebrating it? When does the celebration for this holiday generally start? Is it a religious holiday? Which religion celebrates it? Is attending a temple or a church on that day part of the celebration? Are there specific prayers or blessings that go with the holiday? Are there special foods connected with the holiday? Have you eaten any of these foods? Do you or did you like the foods? Can you make these foods? Are you good at making them? Is gift giving a part of this holiday? Are there specific types of gifts to be given? Who are they given to? What are some of the things that are done to show that this holiday is being observed? Is it strictly an American holiday? When did Congress approve this holiday? Or did they? Is it only a state or city approved holiday? Has is ever been disapproved by officials? What does the holiday stand for? Why is this holiday celebrated? Are the banks, post offices or schools closed for this holiday? Is there is a person or god connected with the holiday? Who are they and do you believe in them? If you do not believe in these people or gods, does the celebration of these bother you in any way (e.g., ignored, dismissed, angry, etc.)? Do you enjoy the holiday? Why or why not? Do you decorate the outside of your house for the holiday? Do your neighbors decorate their house? How is the house decorated? Is the inside decorated? How? Are there special songs associated with the holiday? Do you know the songs? Can you sing some of them? Do schools, temples or churches have special programs for this holiday? Are there parties? Are these for adults, children or both? Do you see your relatives during this holiday? Who did you visit? Do you visit them every year on this holiday? How many different nationalities or ethnic groups do you see celebrating this holiday? What do you usually do for this holiday? What did you do last year? What would you like to do next year? Are cards sent or given for this holiday? Did you send any cards last year? How many cards did you send? Who did you send cards to? What traditional colors are associated with this holiday? Do you do something different during this holiday? Would you like to go on a cruise? Why or why not? Will you go back to the same place again? Have you ever entered a competition to win a holiday? Compare the experience of being a tourist with being an international student. Would you take a job where you had to travel at least once a month? In your opinion, what are the five most essential items to pack on any holiday? Is a 'working holiday' really a holiday? Who do you know that really needs a holiday, and why? Where should they go and what should they do? Compare caravan holidays with youth hostels. Compare camping in a tent with staying in a five star hotel. Compare traveling alone to traveling with a companion. Compare package tours with do-it-yourself tours. Do you think package holidays for pets is a good idea? If so, what kind of tours and activities should they offer? How much should they be? Should dogs and cats be allowed to travel on the same tour? What holidays have disappeared in your country? What is your parent's favorite holiday? What new holiday are needed in your country? What holiday should be abolished? What are some of your fondest memories of Thanksgiving? What kind of traditional food do you eat for Thanksgiving? Where is the best place to be for the holidays? Do you think holidays are important? Why? What kinds of thing do you like to do on the holidays? Do you ever feel blue during the holidays? What do you do about it? Do you think pets need holidays? What kinds of holidays would we have for pets? What games do you play during your holidays? How many holidays do you have in your country? What special foods are associated with your favorite holiday? What special clothing/customs are associated with your favorite holiday? What is your favorite holiday memory? Tell us about it. Who is your favorite holiday character (e.g. Santa Claus)? Why? What are three holidays that you like to spend with your family? What is your worst holiday memory? Tell us about it. If you had a long holiday, what will you do with it? Do you like to stay up late on holidays? Who do you usually spend the holidays with? If a holiday falls on a Sunday, should you get another day off? What is best present you ever received? What is your favorite holiday food? What is your favorite holiday song? Does it bother you that some holidays are religious and some are not? Do you celebrate holidays differently now than you did when you were a child? What is your favorite holiday festival in your country? Do you light off fireworks on New Years Eve in your country? If you could visit any other country during Christmas, where would you go? What holiday is the most dangerous in your country? What holiday is the most exciting in your country? Why do we celebrate Easter? Do you celebrate Easter in your country? How do you celebrate Easter in your country? Do you have any special family traditions? Did the original meaning of Easter get lost? Conversation Questions April Fool's Day A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What are some tricks people play on April Fool's Day? What is the background of this day? Do you have the same tradition in your country? Do you play tricks on April 1st? What sort of tricks do you play? Have you ever tried fooling your family on April Fool's Day? Do you always look forward to April Fool's Day? Conversation Questions Christmas A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Did it snow last year at Christmas? Did you believe in Santa Claus when you were a child? Did you enjoy last Christmas? Do people behave differently during Christmas? Do they try to be better? Do you donate something (money, clothes...) to charities? Do you give something to homeless people? Do you attend any special religious ceremonies during the Christmas season? Do you celebrate Christmas in your country? Do you celebrate Christmas in a special way? Do you celebrate Christmas in a traditional way? Do you have a traditional Christmas? Do you decorate the outside of your house for Christmas? Do you eat a turkey dinner for your Christmas dinner? Do you enjoy Christmas time? Do you enjoy singing Christmas songs? Do you exchange presents with your friends at school? Do you go to church on Christmas day? Do you hang up a stocking? Do you have a Christmas party at school? Do you have a Christmas tree? If so, how do you decorate it? When do you put it up? When do you take it down? Is it real or artificial? Do you have a part-time job during Christmas vacation? Do you have any plans to go to a Christmas party? Do you know why Christmas is celebrated around the world? Do you know the history of Christmas? Do you remember when you found out that Santa Claus wasn't real/ or when your children found out? What was your/their reaction like? Do you see your relatives at Christmas time? Do you think Christmas is depressing? (There is a high suicide rate at this time of year.) Do you think we will have a white Christmas this year? Do you usually put up Christmas decorations in your house? (Do you usually decorate your home?) How about at your school of the place where you work? Does you school have a Christmas play? Does your family have any special Christmas traditions? Does your town get decorated at Christmas? What kind of decorations? Have you already finished your Christmas shopping? Have you ever celebrated Christmas in a foreign country? Have you ever made your own Christmas cards? If so, how did you make them? How do you usually spend New Year's Eve? How about New Year's Day? How long do you keep your Christmas tree up after Christmas? How long is your Christmas vacation? How many Christmas cards did you receive last year? How many Christmas cards do you send? How many presents do you usually give? If you are not a Christian, does the intense focus on Christmas in the U.S. make you feel bad in any way (e.g., ignored, dismissed, angry, etc.)? If you could go anywhere during Christmas vacation, where would you go? In how many languages did you write Christmas cards? Is there a holiday similar to Christmas in your home country? Is your Christmas tree a real tree or an artificial tree? What are some popular foods for the Christmas season? What are you going to buy your boyfriend/girlfriend for their Christmas present? What did you do last year on Christmas Day? How did you celebrate Christmas last year? What do you eat on Christmas Day? What do you usually do for Christmas? What do you want Santa to bring you for Christmas? What does your family eat for Christmas dinner? What is Christmas like in your hometown? What is Christmas like in your country? What is the best Christmas present you have ever gotten? What is the most expensive Christmas present you plan to buy? What is the typical menu for a Christmas meal in your family? (... in your country?) What is the weather like in your country around Christmas time? What is your attitude toward the commercialization of the Christmas season? Is Christmas becoming too commercialized? What is your favorite Christmas carol? What is your favorite Christmas song? Are there any special songs in your country that you don't hear here? What kind of interesting things do you do for Christmas in your home country? What kind of presents do you expect to get this Christmas? What time do you wake up on Christmas day? What time does your family open the presents? What traditions do you have during the Christmas season? What was the best present your received last Christmas? What will you buy your parents? What will you do on Christmas day? What will you eat on Christmas Day? What would you like to get for your Christmas present? What's your favorite Christmas song? When do you do your Christmas shopping? What kind of presents do you buy? Who do you buy them for? About how much do you spend per person? When do you give Christmas presents? (On what day? At what time?) When do you open Christmas presents? (On what day? At what time?) When do you put up a Christmas tree? If you don't put up a Christmas tree, do you put up other decorations? When does your family decorate the Christmas tree? Where are you going for Christmas vacation? Where do you think Santa Claus is from? Where will you go on Christmas Day? Who do you expect to receive presents from? Who is Santa Claus? Do you know the history of Santa Claus? At what age did you begin not believing in Santa Claus? Who was at your house last Christmas? Who will you give presents to this year? Who would you like to be with on Christmas? Will you go skiing during the Christmas vacation? Will you have a Christmas party at your home? Will you spend Christmas vacation with your family or your friends? Will you travel abroad during the Christmas vacation? Would you like to go skating during Christmas vacation? Why do people give out Christmas cards with gifts and presents at Christmas time? Why some people do not like Christmas? Do people behave differently during Christmas? Do they try to be better? Do you donate something (money, clothes...) to charities? Do you give something to homeless people? How long do Christmas trees last? Do you use an artificial tree? What do you usually do on Christmas day? What people usually do on Christmas day? Why do people sometimes write "Christmas" with an "X"? (Xmas) Do you have a big and delicious dinner on Christmas day? Does it break your heart knowing that your children have grown up and this year will be their last Christmas at home? If you had a million dollars, what would you do during Christmas time? If you could change something about Christmas time, what would it be? When do you put up your Christmas tree? Trivia: In what 1942 movie was the song 'White Christmas" first sung? Do you ever think about the real meaning of Christmas? Do you go skiing at Christmas time? Whose birthday is celebrated on Christmas? Which comes first, Christmas or New Year's Day? What is the significance of a Christmas tree? What does it represent for you? End of the Year How was this year? Was this year better or worse than last year? How come? What was the happiest thing for you this year? What was the saddest thing for you this year? What was the toughest thing for you this year? What was the best movie for you this year? What was the best music for you this year? What was the best TV show for you this year? What was the best place you visited this year? What was the best food you had this year? What was the best restaurant you went to this year? What was the most useful thing you bought this year? What was the most expensive thing you bought this year? What was the best item of clothing you bought this year? What was the biggest waste of money this year? What was something you lost this year? Do you have any regrets about this year? Did you make a New Year's Resolution this year? Do people in your country usually make New Year's Resolutions? Conversation Questions Halloween A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What day of the month is halloween? Why is halloween celebrated? Can you explain the history of halloween? How is halloween celebrated in your country? Do you believe in ghosts? What makes you afraid of ghosts? What are some of the symbols of halloween? What kind of costume are you going to wear to the halloween party? Is your pumpkin still out ? Are you still eating halloween candy? Why do you like to celebrate Halloween? Conversation Questions Saint Patrick's Day A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. When is St. Patrick's Day? What color do you wear on St. Patrick's Day? Do you wear a special color or special clothes at festivals in your country? How do you celebrate St. Patrick's Day? What drink is popular on St. Patrick's Day? What do you know about St. Patrick's Day? What stories are associated with this Day? What countries celebrate St. Patrick's Day? If you had to go to a St. Patrick's Day celebration what would you wear? Have you ever been to an Saint Patrick's Day parade? Is there a Saint Patrick's Day parade in your city or country? What is the name of the delicious black Irish beer with a white creamy head? What is an Irish coffee? What do you know about Ireland? What Irish songs do you know? What Irish singers do you know? Are there any living in your country? What are the colors of the Irish flag? What musical instrument is on the Irish flag? What is a shamrock? What is a leprechaun? What did Saint Patrick do in Ireland? What symbol did Saint Patrick use to explain Christianity? Why? When was Saint Patrick alive? When did St. Patrick die? Conversation Questions Thanksgiving A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you celebrate Thanksgiving in your country? If so, how? What do you know about Thanksgiving? What foods are associated with Thanksgiving? What is your favorite Thanksgiving food? What are some Thanksgiving traditions? What are some Thanksgiving traditions in your family? Do you think Thanksgiving is a family holiday? Why? What does "Thanksgiving" mean to you? What day is Thankgiving celebrated in the United States? Canada? Your Country? What is your favorite Thanksgiving memory? What is your worst Thanksgiving memory? Why is football often associated with American Thanksgiving? If you had to list your favorite holidays, what number would Thanksgiving be? Why? What did you do on Thanksgiving this year? What did you do last year? Who cooks Thanksgiving dinner in your home? How do you cook the turkey? What time do you start eating? Why do you think people celebrate Thanksgiving Day? What time of day does your family typically sit down to eat Thanksgiving dinner? What are some of the things you are thankful for? Conversation Questions After a Vacation A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Did you encounter any problems during your vacation? How did you resolve them? Did you have a part-time job during the holidays? Did you have any bad experiences? Did you meet any interesting people? Tell me about them. Did you notice any cross-cultural differences during your vacation? Did you study during the vacation? If so, what did you study? Did you enjoy your last vacation? How do you feel after a long vacation? How many days was your vacation? How much money did you spend on your last vacation? How was your trip? Why did you visit the place(s) you went to? How did you get there? Why did you choose the means of transportation that you chose? How much luggage did you take? Would you take the same or different equipment next time? How was your vacation? In what ways did you obtain real satisfaction when you were on vacation? Was the place you went to very different from where you live? What were the women like? What were the men like? Were people friendly? Did you stay in a hotel? What was the daily rate? What historical sites did you visit and what did you learn? What interesting people did you meet? Tell me about them. What souvenir did you buy? What was the best food you ate during your vacation? What was the most enjoyable thing that you did during your vacation? What was the most interesting thing that you did during the vacation? What was the most interesting thing you did during the holiday? Where did you go for your last vacation? Did people speak English there? Did you have any problems? Did you use a lot of English? How did you get there? How long did it take to get there? How long were you there? How much money did you spend? What did you do there? What did you see in each place? What kind of food did you eat? What souvenirs did you buy? What was the activity you enjoyed the most, and why? What was the weather/food/scenery like? What were the people/restaurants/scenic spots like? Where did you stay? Where did you visit? Where would you like to go next? Who did you travel with? Would you recommend your friends visit there, why or why not? Where did you go? How long did you stay? How did you get there? Where is your favorite place to go on vacation? Where in the world would you most like to go for your next vacation? How do you get to sleep when you are traveling on a plane? How far was it to the beaches, to the nearest town, village etc.? How long did it take you to get there? What sort of condition was the hotel in? Did the room overlook the sea? Did you have a nice view from your room? Have you ever run out of money when you are on holidays? Who is the most remarkable person you have ever met on holiday? How would you feel if there weren't any holidays? Have you ever been mugged while on vacation? What is the most exotic or strangest thing you ate on holiday? Have you ever thought of giving up your holiday due to unavoidable reasons? Conversation Questions Valentine's Day A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is Valentine's Day? What is the origin of Valentine's Day? (Why do we celebrate Valentine's Day?) Is Valentine's Day celebrated in your country? How is Valentine's Day celebrated in the United States? How do children celebrate Valentine's Day in school? What do you usually do for Valentine's Day? What do you plan on doing this Valentine's Day? Do you make any special food for Valentine's Day? On Valentine's Day, is it more common for men to give gifts to women or for women to give gifts to men? What are common gifts that people give on Valentne's Day? What is your favorite Valentine's Day memory? What is your Valentine's dream? If you could do anything or receive anything on Valentine's Day, what would it be? Do you know anyone that has become engaged or married on Valentine's Day? Would you want to get engaged or married on a holiday? Why or why not? What is a "valentine"? Have you ever gotten a valentine or love letter on Valentine's Day? What is Valentine's Day like for singles? (What do single people do on Valentine's Day?) Do you think Valentine's Day makes single people feel lonely? Do you think Valentine's Day is too commercial or consumerist? What is your favorite kind of Valentine's Day chocolate? Do you prefer milk, dark, or white chocolate? Do you like nuts or caramels in your chocolates?   Conversation Questions Home A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Are there any parks near your home? Describe each room of your home. Do you like the place where you are living? Why or why not? Do you like to keep pets in your home? How are homes different in your home country and in this country? How have you changed your home since you've started living there? How long have you lived where you are living now? How many different homes have you lived in? Which one did you like the best? Why? Which one did you like the least? Why? How many rooms are there in your house? How much is your rent? (Some people may not consider this to be a polite question.) If you could change anything about your present home, what would it be? Is your home in a convenient location? What changes would you like to make to your home? What do you like about your home? What don't you like? What do you think is the worst color for a living room? What is in your bedroom? What things in your home couldn't you live without? What things in your house could you easily live without? What's your favorite room? Why? Where would your dream home be? What would it be like inside and out? Which room do you spend the least time in? Which room do you spend the most time in? Who are your neighbors? Do you get along well with your neighbors? How well do you know them? What have you done with your neighbors? Who lives with you? / Who do you live with? Would you prefer to live in a house or an apartment? Why? Is every house a home? What makes 'a house' into 'a home'? Have you ever been homesick?have you changed anything in your house recently? If so, what was that? What would you like to change in your house? What would you like to change in your house? What is the color of your front door? What kind of housing would you prefer? What is your dream house? What is your favorite room in your house? Why? What strange materials do you know of that have been used to make houses? Could you build a house for yourself? How would you do it? (you cannot have a builder help you) How could you live without electricity? Could you make your own electricity? How? How can houses be made more environmentally friendly? Describe how you go about buying a house in your country. Can you borrow money from a bank? Is it easy to buy and sell houses? What would be important to consider when designing a city? Was your city planned? Describe a perfect city Draw/describe your dream house (money is no problem) where, materials, design, interior, landscaping etc Imagine you have arrived in a country where they don't speak your language. You have no money or friends there. What would you do for accommodation? Give some reasons why people become homeless. What problems do home owners have? What can they do about them? Is it better to rent or buy? Give reasons for your answer. What do you think houses in the future will be like? How important is security? How do you make a house secure? Make a list of the 10 most important things you would look for when choosing a house to live in. Some people say houses are too much like boxes or cages. Do you agree or disagree? Why? What are the advantages and disadvantages of homestay/boarding? List alternatives to a house or apartment. (e.g. igloo) What are the advantages and disadvantages of these alternatives? Which alternative would you prefer to live in?   Conversation Questions Hometowns A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. After you graduate do you want to live in your hometown? Why or why not? Can I visit your hometown on the Internet? Do you like your hometown? Why or why not? How many TV channels do you get at home? Do you miss your home country? What do you miss the most? Do your childhood friends still live in your hometown? If not, where are they now? Does anyone famous come from your hometown? Does your hometown have any festivals? What happens at that festival? How long does it take to get from your hometown to here? Has your hometown changed a lot since you were a kid? If so, how? Have the changes been for the better or worse? Is your hometown famous for anything? Where is your hometown? What is the population of your hometown? What is the population of your country? What are some things in your hometown that are part of history? What does your hometown produce? What does it grow? What is the best season in your hometown? What is the best thing about your hometown? What is the population of your hometown? What is the worst thing about your hometown? What's there to do in your hometown? What's your hometown like? When is the best time to come to your hometown? Where are you from? What is the geography of your hometown? (i.e. beach, mountains, etc.) What are the main attractions in your hometown? What are the main economical resources in your hometown? Can you describe the main geographical features of your hometown? What is the average temperature in winter time? (summer time?) Would you like to be in your hometown now? Why or why not? If you could live anywhere, where would you like to live? How do you see your hometown growing in the next 20 years? Is your hometown growing? Is this a good or a bad thing? Tell me why I would enjoy visiting your hometown. Tell me why I should visit your hometown. What interesting city lies to the north, south, east, west of your hometown? How many stoplights does your hometown have? Does your hometown have a college or university? Does your hometown have a shopping mall shopping? Does your hometown have antique shopping places? Where is the best place to get a reasonably priced, but delicious meal in your hometown? How long have you lived in your hometown? Do any of your family members (still) live in your hometown? Where did your maternal and paternal great-great-great grandparents live or come from? Do you hope that someday your hometown would be world famous for something? What could it be famous for? What is the average yearly rain fall for your hometown? Does it snow in your hometown?   Conversation Questions Honesty and Truthfulness A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Honesty What is the definition of honesty? What do we mean when we say a person is honest? Why is honesty important? Why is honesty so difficult at times? When is honesty difficult? What is the opposite of honesty? Why is it good to be honest? Why is dishonesty not good? Is there a difference between honesty and truthfulness? Is there a different between dishonesty and lying? When have you been honest? When have you been dishonest? At what times do you appreciate people being honest with you? When have you had times when people have been dishonest with you? How do feel when you have been dishonest with someone? How do you feel when someone has been dishonest with you? Who have you been honest with? How can you be honest and not hurt someone? Is it ever all right to give only a partial truth? When might it be all right to give only a partial truth? When might it be kind more to be completely honest with someone? Are there people that you do not trust? How can you tell when people are being dishonest with you? How can people tell if you have been dishonest with them? What kind of problems does dishonesty cause? What are some common situations when people are sometimes dishonest? Is dishonesty every justifiable? Truthfulness What is truthfulness? What do we mean when we say that a person if truthful? Why is it important to be truthful? Are you always truthful? What problems do you encourter when you are not truthful? How can you tell when people are being truthful with you? How do people act when they are untruthful? How do you feel when people have been untruthful with you? How do you feel when you have been untruthful to others? What is a half truth? When have you told a half truth? Is a half truth really being truthful? What is a misleading truth? When have you heard a misleading truth? What professions are sometimes accused of giving misleading or half-truths? How can you tell when someone is not telling you the whole truth? What are some situations when telling a partial truth might be OK? When are times when it might be kinder to tell a partial truth to someone? What is the different between telling a partial truth and lying? How do you know when to trust someone?   Conversation Questions Immigration A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Why do people immigrate to other countries? What is the reason you moved out of your country to move here? Is immigration from one country to another a problem? In what ways do you see it as a problem? Do you know any immigrants? Do you think that immigrants are treated well in in most countries? Do you think there is a relation between immigration and crime? Should any government limit the number of immigrants entering the country? What would be a good number? Is local culture threatened by immigration? How far should immigrants retain their culture? Should immigrants have the same rights as native citizens? Is there a difference between political and economic immigration? Should immigrants have the right to vote? In which elections? What should be done with the illegal immigrants entering a country? Should the country of origin of illegal immigrants be held responsible? Do immigrants have a good or bad reputation in your part of the country? Should students be allowed to wear clothes with cultural or religious symbolism at school? Do you think immigrants are treated with more suspicion now than they were a year ago? Do you know anyone that is married to an immigrant? Do you know any people who have emigrated from your country? Would you ever think of emigrating? Why would you think of emigrating? What would be some of the issues that would concern you about emigrating? Are there a lot of immigrants in your community? Do immigrants in your community isolate themselves into a certain area? Should immigrants be required to learn the local language? How would you help an immigrant learn the local language? How would you encourage children of immigrants to become bilinqual by maintaining the original language and becoming fluent in the local language? Should immigrants be educated in their original language or the local language? To what extent should official documents be written in several languages to accommodate immigrants? Are immigration regulations too strict? In what way should they be changed? How long should immigrants be required to live in the new country before they can become naturalized? What should be the requirements for naturalization? How does an immigrant become a citizen in your country? How does immigration affect the economic situation in your community? To what extent has the culture of your community become richer by immigrants? How is your community incorporating immigrants into the life of the community?   Conversation Questions Internet A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you often use the Internet? When did you first use the Internet? About how many hours a day do you use the Internet? About how many hours a week do you use the Internet? Who uses the Internet the most in your family? What computer do you use to access the Internet? What are some security issues you must think about when you access the Internet? Have you ever bought something using the Internet? How can the internet help you learn English? Do you take advantage of this? How can the Internet be improved? How often do you use the internet? Do you think our lives have been improved by the Internet? Do you have any ideas or ambitions to start an Internet company? Do you think the Internet favors men or women? Do men and women use the internet for different purposes? Do you use the Internet for fun or education? What are some of the ways the Internet can be used for education? What are some of the ways the Internet can be used for entertainment? What are the sites you most commonly access? What is the best thing about the Internet? What problems does the Internet create? What problems does it solve? Which company is your Internet provider? Why did you choose this company? Are you satisfied with their service? How much does it cost you? Is it expensive to access the Internet by mobile phone in your country? Is there too much sex on the Internet? Does your family have wireless Internet access in your home? Do you access the Internet from your mobile phone? What type of pages do you access with your phone? Do you have more many e-mail addresses? Why do you need more than one e-mail address? Have you ever chatted on the Internet? Is it dangerous to meet people on the Internet? Would you like to go on a date with someone you meet on the Internet? Do you think governments have the right to censor the Internet? Do you think that the Internet safe for children? Why Do you think that it is important for schools to have Internet access? Why? Can you believe all the information that is published (available) on the Internet? Do you think that people should put photos of their friends onto the Internet? Why is it a good idea to have books and magazines published on the Internet? Do you think that it is a good or bad habit for young people to play computer games? Why should you be careful about giving out personal information to people that you meet in chat-rooms? Give me a reason why you think that email is a good way for people to communicate. The Internet can help people work from home. Do you think that this is a good or bad? Many disreputable companies get personal information from your computer when you visit their web site. Why is this bad? Many people download MP3 music without paying any money for it. Do you think that this is a problem? Would you consider going out with someone that you met on the Internet? In your opinion, what is the most important feature of the Internet? Do you think that meeting people is easier than meeting people face to face? Are old people disadvantaged by today's usage of the Internet? How? When you buy something on the Internet, trust is very important. Why? Do you think that the Internet will replace Libraries? Do you think that online banking (being able to do most of your banking by the Internet and ATM machines) will become popular in all countries? What is a disadvantage of this. In many big cities it is possible to buy your groceries online and have them delivered to your home. Why has this become popular? Why is it illegal to download movies and music from the Internet? What is a computer virus and how do we protect our computers from being infected? How does the Internet help people from different countries to communicate with each other? Information on the Internet is linked together; it is not just single documents. Why is this important? How do we stop young children from looking at Internet sites that have inappropriate content? Do you think that some people spend too much time on the Internet and does this stop them from seeing their friends? Why? Do you think that having Internet access is mainly for rich people? Will poor people be disadvantaged? In some countries you can sell personal items on the Internet (E-Bay). Do you think this is a good idea? Many Universities are now offering online courses. Give me some reasons why this is a good thing. Many Universities are now offering online courses. Give me some reasons why this is a bad thing. If you want reliable and good information from the Internet, then you should look for sites operated by which types of organizations? Do you think that the Internet usage is an anti-social activity? E-commerce (buying and selling things on the Internet) has become very popular. Give a reason for this? Is it better to buy online or to go to a shop? Why? Why is it very important not to give out personal information on the Internet? Many sites require you to have ID's and passwords. Why do we need to keep these safe? Some web sites hold very dangerous information, for example how to make a bomb. How can we control these Web sites? If you give personal information to a Website do you think that they will always keep this private? Sometimes they sell this information. Is this a good or bad thing? Search engine are used to find information. Do you think that they always give you the best sites or do they give you sites that pay money in order to be on the top of the list? What is copyright? How do we break copyright law on the Internet? Many students use the Internet to help them do their assignments and they just ¡°cut and paste¡± information from the Internet. How do we stop this? We can use the Internet to find jobs overseas. Is this good or bad for both the employer and employee? If you employ someone via the Internet, how do you check if the person is giving you truthful information? To be current, that is to be up-to-date, is an important feature of the Internet. Why is this important and what impact is this having on society? In Japan, many young men lock themselves in their bedrooms, sometimes for years, to escape the pressures of study. They refuse to see people, but they still use the Internet and mobile phones. Do you think that this will happen in other countries? Is the Internet making people more impatient? Are we becoming a society were we all want instant satisfaction? Many people use the Internet for fun and entertainment at work. Do you think that this is right? How has the Internet changed society?   Conversation Questions Jobs & Occupations A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Related: Self-employment At what age do people usually begin to work in your country? At what age do people usually retire in your country? At what age would you like to retire? What do you think you will do after you retire? Describe a typical day at your current job? Describe some of the people that you work with? Describe your current job. Describe your first job. Do women usually work after they get married in your country? Do you ever work overtime? If so, do you get paid more for overtime work? Do you have a part-time job? If so, what do you do? Do you have to attend a lot of meetings for your job? Do you have to do a lot of paperwork? Do you have to work overtime? If so, how often? Do you have to work on Sundays? Do you know someone who has worked as an undertaker? What is the job of a an undertaker? Can women do this job or is it better for a man to be an undertaker? Do you like your boss? Why or why not? Do you like your job? Do you like your job? Why or why not? Do you think it is more important to make a lot of money or to enjoy your job? Do you think it's acceptable for women to be in the military? Why/why not? Do you think people over 65 should be made to retire? Do you think women and men should be paid the same for the same job? Do you think women are good bosses? Are there women bosses in your country? Do you think your company is well run? Do you think that the place where you work is well run? Do you work on weekends? Do you work on Sundays? Does your mother work? Does your mother work outside of the house? Have you ever been promoted? Have you ever taken any courses that specifically help you with the job you are doing now? Have you ever worked on a farm? Did you like it? Would you like to go back on this farm job? If not , why? How do you like your work? How have working conditions changed in recent years? Do you think that working conditions have improved? If so, in what ways? How long do you plan to continue working where you are? How long have you been working at your present job? How many days a week do you work? How many days a week do you work? How many hours a week do you work? How many times have you been promoted? When was the last time you were promoted? Did you get a large pay raise at that time? How much do you think a doctor should be paid a month? How about a secretary? How about a truck driver? How much money do you make? (Maybe this is not a good question to ask.) How much money does a secretary get paid per week? How old were you when you got your first job? How well do you get along with your boss? If you could own your own business, what would it be? If you had to choose between a satisfying job and a well-paid one, which would you choose? Is it common for men and women to have the same jobs in your country? Is it easy to find a job in Canada? How about in your country? Name three occupations that you could do. (For example, be a mortician) Name three occupations that you could never do? What are some common occupations in your country? What are some common jobs for men in your country? What are some common jobs for women in your country? What are some jobs that children do? What are some jobs that you think would be boring? What are some jobs that you think would be fun? What are some questions that are frequently asked in a job interview? What are you responsible for? What are you trying to do in order to find a job that you really like? What do you do? What's your job? What do you like most about that job? What do you think is the best job? What do you think is the worst? What do you think would be the most interesting job? The most boring? What does your father do? (What does your father do for a living?) What does your mother do? What influenced your choice of job? (Why did you choose your job?) What job do you want to have in five years' time? What job would you most like to have, if social/cultural boundaries did not apply? (How different are they?) What job(s) do you wish to have in the future? What jobs in your country are considered to be good jobs? Why? What kind of volunteer work have you done? What kind of work do you do? What kind of work do you want to do in the future? What plans have you made for your retirement? What three adjectives would describe yourself as a worker? What time do you get home from work? Is it the same time every day? What time do your start and finish work? What was your first job? What would be your dream job? Do you think it would be possible for you to get this job? What's one job you wouldn't like to do? Why not? What's your brother's occupation? When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? When you were a child, what job did you want to have when you grew up? Where do you work and what is your current job? Where do you work? Which job are you best at? Which job would you never do? Which jobs do you think are the most prestigious? Who among the people you know has the most interesting job? What is it? Why did you leave your last job - did you resign or were you sacked? Would you be upset if your boss was a woman? Would you consider the military as a career choice? Why or why not? Would you consider yourself to be an ambitious person at work? Would you describe yourself as a workaholic? Would you like a job in which you traveled a lot? Would you like a job that required you to sit at a computer all day? Would you like to do the same job for the rest of your life? Would you like to work in an office? Why or why not? Would you rather be a doctor or a banker? Would you rather work inside or outside? What job would you most like to do? What are the names of some of the people with that job? Do you personally know any one with that job? How long do you plan to keep it for? When do plan to retire? What other fields or work will that job make you qualified for? What are the work details of that job; what will be your duties at that job? What steps are required from you to become a/an.......? So, how long before fore you become a/an......; at what ages will you both start and finish this/each job/career? What do you hope to spiritually gain from that job? What do you wish to physically gain; what kind of things would you like to buy with your money? How much money do you need to make to fulfill you dreams and desires? If money weren't a problem for you, which job would you prefer to have? How does money affect your decisions? How do your wants and desires affect your career options and goals? How many years of schooling would you prefer to have? Can you improve on the way things are now being done in the field you choose? Which college courses are needed for you to be the very best in your field? Which college courses are required for you dream job? What other courses do you need to take so you can pursue your hobbies and personal interests? Which of the classes mentioned above are you giving the highest priority? Why? Who is the breadwinner (provider) in your family? Who makes the most money in your family? (This may not be a "polite" question to ask.) Is it common for people from your country to have one job for life? Do you see any unfair labour practices in your country's workforce? Do you have an after-school job? Would you like to have a management position? What are the pros and cons of being a manager? What are the qualities a good boss should have? What is a fair wage for the skills you have? Are there any jobs which can only be done by one gender? If so, what are they? What are some jobs that some people think only one gender can do, but can be done by either gender? What should you not do during a job interview? Who would you hire a employee with a lot of experience or an employee with a lot of education? Have you ever worked? Getting a Job What is the difference between work and a job? Do you have a job? How did you get it? Did you have to go to university to get it? What is the name of your job? Is it a popular job? Is it a job mainly for men, or for women? Did you need any special training to get your job? What type of special training did you need? How long and where was the training? Is it an indoor, or outdoor job? Which do you think most people prefer, indoor or outdoor jobs? Does your job pay a good salary? What are the advantages and disadvantages to your job? Which do you think are some of the more demanding jobs? Which are the least demanding jobs? Which jobs are badly paid? Which jobs are over-paid? Which job are more popular than others, and why? Is your job competitive? What about promotions? Is it too competitive? How is your relationship with your co-workers? Why would I choose you instead of the 50 others wanting this position? These were submitted as possible job interview questions. What degrees do you have? How much experience do you have? Where have you worked? Why did you choose this employment? How much would you like to earn? Have you ever worked in this field? Where would you like to work? Why? Why do you find your job interesting?   Conversation Questions Languages A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What language is spoken the most in your country? Do you have a second language in your country? How many languages do you speak fluently? Does your language have words adopted from English? Is English important for an individual in your country? Why are you studying English? What language you like speaking in? What language do you least like speaking in? What's your favourite language? What's your least favourite language? What's the language the people mostly speak in these countries (native language): Brazil? Mexico? Switzerland? Australia? Canada? What's the strangest language have you ever head? Do you wish your country has another language instead of the present one? Do you have pen-friend? If yes, what languages do they speak? Think a bit...mention a language which isn't used anymore? (it begins with an ' L' ) What language do the neighbouring countries of where you live speak? What would you do if you had to travel to a country where it's people don't know how to speak neither your language nor English?   Conversation Questions Likes and Dislikes A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What kind of music do you like? Who are your favorite performers or bands? Do you like music or musicians from other countries as well? If so, who or what kind? What kinds of music don¡¯t you like? Name some singers or groups that you dislike. Do you like to watch TV? Do you like movies? Do you like to watch TV? What are your favorite kinds of programs or shows? What are your all-time favorite TV programs? Who are your favorite actors? Do you like programs or shows from other countries as well? If so, what kind? Do you like actors from other countries as well? If so, who? What kinds of programs or which actors don¡¯t you like? Do you like movies? What are your favorite kinds of movies? What are your all-time favorite movies? Who are your favorite actors? Do you like movies from other countries as well? If so, what kind? Do you like actors from other countries as well? If so, who? What kinds of movies or which actors don¡¯t you like? Do you like sports? What are your favorite kinds of sports? Who are your favorite athletes? Do you like sports from other countries as well? If so, what kind? Do you like athletes from other countries as well? If so, who? Which athletes don't you like? Do you like books? What are your favorite kinds of books? What are your favorite titles? Who are your favorite authors?   Conversation Questions Love, Dating & Marriage A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. These questions are also divided into pages: Dating and Marriage Related: Single Life About how many guests attended your wedding? How many guests would you invite to your wedding? At what age do most people in your country get married? At what age do you want to get married? At what age did you get married? Describe a perfect date. Describe the appearance of the person you would like to date? Describe the character of the person you would like to date? Do women usually work after getting married in your country? Do you "go Dutch" when dating? Do you know what it means to 'go Dutch'? Is it usual for people in your country to 'go Dutch' if you go out together? Do older girls/boys have a problem dating younger girls/boys? Do younger girls/boys have a problem dating older girls/boys? Do you believe in love at first sight? Do you think some people know that they will fall in love with someone the first time they meet? Do you know what a 'blind date' is? Have you ever been on a blind date? Did you ever arrange a blind date? Do you drive or take the train when dating? Do you get along with your in-laws? Do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend? Where did you meet your him/her? What does he/she look like? Do you know anyone who has had an arranged marriage? Do you know someone who has gotten a divorce? Do you know the difference between love and like? Can you still love your partner and not like him/her? Do you think a boy should pay for everything on a date? Do you think arranged marriages are a good idea? Why or why not? What is your opinion of arranged marriages? Do you think fairy tales influence our choice of a partner? Do you think getting married means giving up freedom? Do you think if you get married that you will change? Do you think it is better to be single or to be married? Do you think it is good to get married? Do you think it is okay for a couple to live together before getting married? Why or Why not? Do you think it is okay to marry someone of a different race? Do you think it is okay to marry someone with a different religion? Do you think it's OK for a man to have two wives? Do you think it's OK for a wife to have two husbands? Do you think it's okay for a man to have a mistress? Do you think it's okay for a man to hit his wife? Do you think love is necessary to have a good marriage? Do you think marriage is necessary? Do you think marriages based on love are more successful than arranged marriages? Do you think marriage is very stressful for women? How about for men? Do you think people change after getting married? Do you think religion influences marriage? If so, in what ways? Do you think that all adults should be married? Do you think that you can you find eternal love through the Internet? Do you want a husband (or wife) who is older, younger or the same age as you? Do you want to have children? If so, how many? Have you ever been to a school dance? Have you ever had a crush on someone? Have you ever hated loving someone? Have your parents ever disapproved of any of your relationships? How long do you think couples should know each other before they get married? How many children would you like to have? How often would you like to go out on dates? How old were you when you had your first boyfriend or girlfriend? How old were you when you went on your first date? Where did you go? What did you do? Who did you go with? How old were your parents when they got married? If your husband or wife has an affair what would you do? If your parents did not approve of a person you loved and wanted to marry, would that be a difficult situation for you? Why/Why not? Is going out on dates important for you? Is there a such thing as a perfect relationship for you? If you could go out with anyone, who would it be? If you are a man, and a woman asks you for a date, do you feel you should pay, or that the woman should pay? If you had to marry either a poor man whom you really loved, or a rich man whom you did not love, which would you choose? If you had to choose to live with someone who truly loves you but you don't love him back or to live alone for a rest of your life loving someone that doesn't love you who would you choose? What advice would you give to someone whose partner hates their best friend? What age do you think is best for getting married? What are some dating and marriage customs in your country? What are some of the main reasons people get divorced? What are some popular places to go on a date? What are some qualities that you think are important in a spouse or partner? What characteristics do you look for in a girlfriend or boyfriend? What do you consider cheating in a dating relationship? What do you like to talk about when on a date? What do you look for in a girlfriend or a boyfriend? What do you think most people talk about when dating? What do you think of people who get divorced? Would you ever consider getting divorced? What do you think of same-sex marriages? What do you think of single mothers? What is a wedding ceremony like in your country? What is the best way to keep your spouse happy in the marriage? What kind of boy/girl do you like? What kind of clothes do you wear on a date? What kind of man do you want as a husband? What kind of person do you want to get married to? What kind of woman do you want as a wife? What makes a good husband/wife? What makes a happy marriage? What do you think are some things that contribute to a successful marriage? What qualities are important to you in a boyfriend or girlfriend? What qualities in a partner are important to you? What was the most boring date you've ever been on? What was the most interesting date you've ever been on? What would you consider "the perfect date" for you? What would you do if your soon to be mother-in-law seems to hate you? What would your parents think if you don't get married? When did your parents get married? Where do you want to go for your honeymoon? Where did you go for your honeymoon? Where do you want to go on your honeymoon? Where is a good pace to go on a date in this town? Where would you like to go on a date? Which is more important for you, your job or your marriage? Why do people break up with their partners? Will you continue working after you get married? Would you date someone you really liked if your parents did not like him or her? Would you ever marry someone who has been divorced twice? Would you introduce your date to your family? Would you live with your parents after you get married? Would you marry someone from another country? Would you marry someone ten years older than you? How about ten years younger than you? Would you marry someone that your parents didn't like? Would you marry someone who couldn't speak the same language as you speak? Would you mind if your boyfriend/girlfriend went out to party without you? Would you prefer to go out with a quiet or a talkative person? At what age do you think that dating should begin? Do you think there is any age when a person is too old to date? Do you know a happily married couple? Can you name a famous happily married couple? What do you think is the most important ingredient in a good marriage? How long is the marriage ceremony in your country? Who designed the marriage covenant? What do you think about dating a friend's ex-girlfriend or ex-boyfriend? Does your first love still hold a special place in your heart? Do you believe that he or she will always have a special place in your heart? What qualities do you look in your partner? Do you think its possible to wait for the man or woman you love while he or she is in jail? What is your definition of love? Would you wait on a person you were dating for a long time if they joined the army? How about if they went to prison? What is the best season to get married? Do you know anybody who has two families at the same time and supports them both? How many families can you have in your country? Are there any superstitions on making someone fall in love with you? Have you heard of any successful "love potions?" Have you ever returned a gift to your boyfriend or girlfriend and later find out that he has given it to his/her new mate? Do you know of any superstitions connected with weddings? Would it be important for you to have a "white wedding'? Can you control your partner by playing games? Why do you think the bride's maids wear white. When should you introduce your boyfriend/girlfriend to your parents?--when you begin dating, after you have been together for a while, only when the relationship is serious? Why? Do you like to have boy friend or girl friend in your school or in your classes? Do you think it is right to continue seeing a person if he has not introduced you to his family yet? In your opinion is marriage for life? Do you think when people get married it is really until death? How long does it take for dating to become a relationship? Is it important to be punctual in your first date? Why? Would you dress up for a first date? What clothes would you wear? What kind of place do you think is the ideal for a first date? Why do you think so? What are your country's norms or laws on displays of public affection? Do you think it is okay for couples to kiss in public? International Marriage Would you marry someone of another nationality? Are your parents of the same nationality? What are some advantages of an international marriage? What are some disadvantages? Do you want to have an international marriage? Do you know anyone who married someone from a different country? If yes, what is their experience like? Do you think it is more difficult to marry someone from a different country? How would your parents feel if you married someone from a different country? Do you think that it is good for children to have parents from two different countries? Why? Why not? How would you feel if your boyfriend liked to keep company with a female friend when you're not there? How would you feel if your girlfriend liked to keep company with a male friend when you're not there? The following question may be considered offensive or inappropriate in some situations. Do you think that gay people should be allowed to marry? Why do you think the bride's maids wear white. When should you introduce your boyfriend/girlfriend to your parents?--when you begin dating, after you have been together for a while, only when the relationship is serious? Why?   Conversation Questions Manners A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What do you think are some good manners? What do you think are some bad manners? Can you think of some good manners that are bad manners in another country? What are the titles of some books on manners? Have you ever read them? What are some good manners for using a cell phone? What are some good table manners? What are some good party manners? Is kissing in public good manners? Do you say "hi" to people even if they are strangers? Why? Why not? Do you listen to other's people conversations on the street? Do you think it is good manners to hug or kiss another person in greeting? Do you let people pass you when you are driving in your car? Is it considered a good manner? Do you honk your horn to people when you drive? Why are manners important? Do people have more manners now or in earlier times? Can manners affect your success in life? How? What's the best way to teach manners to children? What culture do you think is the most polite? Explain. What advice would you give a foreigner visiting your country who would like to show good manners? What things about manners in the USA do you find difficult to adjust to? Is there anything about manners in the USA that you prefer to manners in your country?   Conversation Questions Marriage A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. About how many guests attended your wedding? How many guests would you invite to your wedding? At what age do most people in your country get married? At what age do you want to get married? At what age did you get married? Do women usually work after getting married in your country? Do you get along with your in-laws? Do you know anyone who has had an arranged marriage? Do you know someone who has gotten a divorce? Do you know the difference between love and like? Can you still love your partner and not like him/her? Do you think a boy should pay for everything on a date? Do you think arranged marriages are a good idea? Why or why not? What is your opinion of arranged marriages? Do you think getting married means giving up freedom? Do you think if you get married that you will change? Do you think it is better to be single or to be married? Do you think it is good to get married? Do you think it is okay for a couple to live together before getting married? Why or Why not? Do you think it is okay to marry someone of a different race? Do you think it is okay to marry someone with a different religion? Do you think it's OK for a man to have two wives? Do you think it's OK for a wife to have two husbands? Do you think it's okay for a man to have a mistress? Do you think it's okay for a man to hit his wife? Do you think love is necessary to have a good marriage? Do you think marriage is necessary? Do you think marriages based on love are more successful than arranged marriages? Do you think marriage is very stressful for women? How about for men? Do you think people change after getting married? Do you think religion influences marriage? If so, in what ways? Do you think that all adults should be married? Do you think that you can you find eternal love through the Internet? Do you want a husband (or wife) who is older, younger or the same age as you? Do you want to have children? If so, how many? How long do you think couples should know each other before they get married? How many children would you like to have? How old were your parents when they got married? If your husband or wife has an affair what would you do? If your parents did not approve of a person you loved and wanted to marry, would that be a difficult situation for you? Why/Why not? If you had to marry either a poor man whom you really loved, or a rich man whom you did not love, which would you choose? What advice would you give to someone whose partner hates their best friend? What age do you think is best for getting married? What are some dating and marriage customs in your country? What are some of the main reasons people get divorced? What are some qualities that you think are important in a spouse or partner? What do you think of people who get divorced? Would you ever consider getting divorced? What do you think of same-sex marriages? What do you think of single mothers? What is a wedding ceremony like in your country? What is the best way to keep your spouse happy in the marriage? What kind of man do you want as a husband? What kind of person do you want to get married to? What kind of woman do you want as a wife? What makes a good husband/wife? What makes a happy marriage? What do you think are some things that contribute to a successful marriage? What qualities in a partner are important to you? What would you do if your soon to be mother-in-law seems to hate you? What would your parents think if you don't get married? When did your parents get married? Where do you want to go for your honeymoon? Where did you go for your honeymoon? Where do you want to go on your honeymoon? Which is more important for you, your job or your marriage? Why do people break up with their partners? Will you continue working after you get married? Would you date someone you really liked if your parents did not like him or her? Would you ever marry someone who has been divorced twice? Would you introduce your date to your family? Would you live with your parents after you get married? Would you marry someone from another country? Would you marry someone ten years older than you? How about ten years younger than you? Would you marry someone that your parents didn't like? Would you marry someone who couldn't speak the same language as you speak? Do you know a happily married couple? Can you name a famous happily married couple? What do you think is the most important ingredient in a good marriage? How long is the marriage ceremony in your country? Do you think its possible to wait for the man or woman you love while he or she is in jail? What is the best season to get married? Do you know anybody who has two families at the same time and supports them both? How many families can you have in your country? Do you know of any superstitions connected with weddings? Would it be important for you to have a "white wedding'? Why do you think the bride's maids wear white. In your opinion is marriage for life? Do you think when people get married it is really until death? International Marriage Would you marry someone of another nationality? Are your parents of the same nationality? What are some advantages of an international marriage? What are some disadvantages? Do you want to have an international marriage? Do you know anyone who married someone from a different country? If yes, what is their experience like? Do you think it is more difficult to marry someone from a different country? How would your parents feel if you married someone from a different country? Do you think that it is good for children to have parents from two different countries? Why? Why not? The following question may be considered offensive or inappropriate in some situations. Do you think that gay people should be allowed to marry? Why do you think the bride's maids wear white. Conversation Questions Martial Arts A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Have you ever studied a martial art? Can you name any Japanese/Chinese/Korean martial arts? Which martial art is best in your opinion? Why? Do you like fighting? Do you often fight? Have you ever been in a fight? Did you win? Do you think its useful to study martial arts? Who is your favorite kung fu movie actor/actress? Do you like Hong Kong kung fu movies? What is your favorite kung fu movie? Do you know anything about martial arts history? What? Do you think its important to preserve tradition in martial arts? How many different kinds of kung fu have you heard of? Do you know how to use any traditional weapons? Which traditional weapon do you think is the coolest? How does kung fu/tae kwon do/aikido compare to western boxing? Do you ever watch martial arts on TV? Do you know any good martial arts websites? Are there any martial arts schools in your area? What's the difference between traditional kung fu and modern wushu? What age is best to start training in martial arts? At what age do you think it is best to begin training in martial arts? How much should you train? Do you know of any interesting training methods? Do you know the names of the different kicks/punches/stances? Which martial art uniform do you like best? What are belts and sashes for? What are forms or katas for? What's your favorite fighting technique? What's the most important thing in a fight? What's the coolest kung fu animal style? What do you think "the art of fighting without fighting" (Bruce Lee) means? Conversation Questions Meeting People A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you enjoy meeting new people? What are some good things to ask someone you just met? What are some things you shouldn't ask people you just met? Is it OK to ask a person's age in your country? Are you nervous when you are introduced to someone new? What are some ways to overcome being nervous about meeting new people? About how many new people do you meet a week? Where are some good places to meet people? How important are first impressions to you? What do you do if you forget the name of someone you've just been introduced to? What kind of people do you like to meet? Who was the last new person you met and where did you meet them? Have you ever experienced being completely wrong in your first impression? Do you usually shake hands with when you meet a new person? If you want to get to know people at a party would you go first to people of your own age or people of your own sex? What is the favourite topic for new acquantances in your country? If you are looking for a shallow relationship, where do you usually go to meet people? If you are looking for a good friend, where do you usually go to meet people? In your country, how do you know if you can trust a person that you meet? How about in the US? How do you know if you can trust a person that you meet here? Conversation Questions Memory A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you have a good memory or a bad memory Do you usually remember things or forget things? Would you like to have a perfect memory? Why or why not? How would it change your life? Who do you know who has the best memory? Tell your group about them. Who do you know who has the worst memory? Tell your group about them. What's your earliest memory? When was it? Describe it in detail. What's your most vivid (clear or sharp) memory? When was it? Describe it in detail. Have you ever forgotten something important, like your keys or your phone? Tell your group what happened. Has someone you know ever forgotten something important, like their keys or their phone? Tell your group what happened. Have you ever walked into a room and forgotten why you went there? Have you ever forgotten an important date, like a birthday or an anniversary? Tell your group what happened. Has someone you known ever forgotten an important date, like a birthday or an anniversary? Tell your group what happened. As people grow older, sometimes the distant past is easier to remember than the near past. Why do you think this is? Have you ever seen examples of this? Tell your group about them. Are there some things or times that you will never forget? Tell your group about them. Are there some things or times that you wish you could forget? Tell your group about them. Memories make the man. What do you think this means? Give examples. Those who forget the past will repeat it. What do you think this means? Give examples. Many people find that a certain sound or smell brings back a childhood memory very strongly (such as the smell of a food that your mother often cooked when you were young). Why do you think this is? What has this effect on you? Give examples. Many people find that visiting certain place brings back a childhood memory very strongly (such as the scene of an old family holiday). Why do you think this is? Where has this effect on you? Give examples. If you could edit your memories, which ones would you erase and why? Which ones would you make clearer and more vivid? Do you have a photographic memory? Do you know anyone who has a photographic memory? Conversation Questions Money & Shopping A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Please remember that some questions about money may be considered too personal to ask anyone who is not a very close friend or a family member. About how much did you spend on presents last year? About how much do you usually spend each day? Are you a price conscious shopper? Are you good at saving money? Are you saving money to buy something? If so, what are you planning to buy? How much will it cost? How much longer will you need to save before you can buy it? Do banks pay a higher percent of interest here or in your country? Do you compare prices at different stores when you shop? Do you enjoy shopping? Do you ever buy second-hand things? ("used things") Do you ever give money to charity? How often do you give to charity? How much do you give? Do you gamble? Do you give tips at a restaurant in your country? How about to taxi drivers? Do you haggle when you shop ? Do you have a credit card? Do you have a credit card? If so, do you have more than one? Do you have more than one bank account? Do you have to pay a sales tax in your country? Do you invest in the stock market? Do you often put money in the bank? Do you sometimes buy things that you don't need? If so, give some examples. Do you sometimes give money to charities? Do you think that money can buy love? Do your parents give you an allowance? (Did your parents give....?) How much? (Maybe not a good question to ask.) What do you use it for? How often do they give it to you? Have you ever been in debt? (Have you ever owed money to people?) Have you ever bought a lottery ticket? Have you ever found any money? If so, what did you do with it? Have you ever given money to a beggar? Have you ever given money to a homeless person? Have you ever had any money stolen from you? How important is money to you? If you had no money, do you think you could be happy? How many different kinds of coins are there in your country? What are they? How much did you spend last week? How much did you spend yesterday? How much do you have to spend to eat a good meal at a restaurant in your country? How much do you spend on food each week? How much do you think it costs to fly to Guam? How much do you think it costs to stay at a hotel in London? How much do you usually spend each month on entertainment? How much do you usually spend each month on food? How much do you usually spend each month on transportation? How much does it cost to get a haircut in your country? How much does it cost to ride a bus in your country? How much is a liter of gasoline in your country? How much money did you make on your first job? (How much money do you think you will make on your first job?) How much money did you spend yesterday? Where did you spend it? What did you spend it on? Do you often spend that amount in one day? How much money did your parents give you for an allowance when you were ten years old? How much money do you have on you now? (Maybe not a polite question to ask.) How much money do you have with you now? (Maybe not a good question to ask.) How much time did you spend the last time you went shopping? How often do you go shopping? If someone gave you a lot of money, what would you do with it? If someone gave you a million dollars, what would you do with it? Some people say that "money makes the world go around." Do you agree? Why or why not? What bank do you use? What do you need to buy next? What do you spend most of your money on? What do you spend the most money on each month? What do you want to buy next? What is something that you have bought recently that cost a lot of money? What is something that you have bought recently that was a good bargain? What is something that you have bought recently? What is something that you want to buy, but don't have enough money to buy. What is something that you want to buy, but think you never will. What is the average salary in your country? What is the most expensive thing you've ever bought? How much did it cost? What is your opinion of discount stores? What kind of things do you often shop for? What kinds of things are you saving your money for? What store did you like best and what store did you like least? What was the last thing you bought for someone else? What was the last thing you bought for yourself? Where did you buy it? why did you buy it? What was the last thing you spent money on? What's the most expensive thing you have ever bought? What's the most expensive thing you've ever bought? What's the most money you have spend on one thing? What's the most money you have spent on something to eat? What's the most money you have spent on something to wear? What did you buy? What's your favorite place to shop? What's your favorite shopping area or store? Where did you buy ___? (your shoes / your watch / etc.) How much did you pay? When did you buy it/them? Where do you keep your money? Where do you usually buy food? Where is your favorite shopping area? Which costs more, a hamburger in America or a hamburger in your country? Which costs more, your telephone bill or your electric bill? Which do you prefer, large stores or small stores? Which do you think is more important, love or money? Which store do you go to the most often? Where is it? Why do you like to go there? Who do you often go shopping with? Who do you spend money on? In a marriage, do you think one person should handle the finances, or both? How do you think money helps make us happy? Do you think money is more important than love? How much money do you want to earn each month? What qualities must a person have to make BIG money? Should children get an allowance (pocket money) from their parents? When do you get your allowance? How long does it last? Is it enough money? How do you usually spend your money? What do you usually buy? How much should you give to your children? How much do you give to your children? Do you ever give money to beggars on the street? Why or why not? Do you ever give money to charity? Why or why not? If you found 100,000 won (or local currency) in a bag on the street, what would you do? Keep it? What are you saving your money for? Do you want to buy something special? Who takes care of the money in your house? When you buy something, do you "shop around" and go to many stores to compare prices? When you buy something, what is most important to you: price, quality, fashion trend, status/image? Explain these proverbs: What do they mean? Say them in other English words. The best things in life are free. Time is money. Save your pennies for a rainy day. Money talks. You can't take it with you when you go. Money doesn't grow on trees Your rich uncle just died and gave you 50,000,000 won. (or local currency) How would you spend it? What would you buy? Would you spend it on yourself, put it in the bank or buy something for your family? Would you spend it all? What is the most you have ever spent on a gift? What was it? Who did you give it to? What was the occasion? If you had to save money, what can you do without? I would stop spending money on ___. If you needed to earn some extra money, how would you do that? If you had a large amount of money, what would you do with it? Have you or your family ever won any money in a lottery? How much money would you have to win to be happy? Why do people often want more money, no matter how much they have got? Why are poor people in many cases more generous than rich people? What are some reasons for people being poor? Can poverty be avoided? How do people become rich? Do you think that riches can have a bad effect on a person? How? What do you do if you can't get the clerk's attention at the store? Is it easier to return items in the U.S. or in your country? If you can't find an item at the store, do you find a clerk and ask for help, or do you leave and go somewhere else? If you don't want help when the clerk asks if you need help, what do you say? Is it OK to bring children to the market or the department store? Is it bad if one person or company controls the market that it specializes in? For example, is it wrong for Microsoft to control most of the operating system software in the world? Do you consider companies like Microsoft and people like Bill Gates smart and shrewd? Some questions about Taxation. In New Zealand at the moment the government is thinking of imposing a "flatulence tax" on farmers for the livestock they own, as the flatulence contributes to Ozone depletion (supposedly). What is the most ridiculous tax in your country, past, or present? Do you think taxes in your country are too high/low? What about New Zealand Taxes? / What about taxes here? What is the effect on the economy of high taxation? What is the effect on the economy of low taxation? What are some of the different kinds of taxes your country has? If you were the ruler of your country, what would you do to change the taxation system? What is the funniest tax you can think of to introduce? Are you good at saving money? What do you like spending money on? What don't you like spending on? What would you love to buy but you can't afford? What is the next "big" thing you are going to buy? Have you ever given money to people who beg in the streets? Do you have a credit card? How many? Is it better to pay cash or by credit card? What things do you pay cash for? What things do you pay by credit card? Do you pay your credit card on time? Have you ever paid late your credit card? What happened? Are credits cards a good thing? Do/Did your parents give you an allowance? How much? Have your parents ever given you a credit card to pay for something? What did you buy? Should parents give a credit card to teenagers? Have you ever lent money to someone? Who? What did he/she need the money for? Have you ever borrowed money from someone? Who? What did you need the money for? Who wouldn't you lend money to? Do you play the lottery? What kind of lottery do you play? Do you play football pools? Do you play slot machines?   Conversation Questions Motivation A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Have you ever tried to lose weight? What motivated you to start a diet? Is it important to motivate children? How do you motivate children? Can some people destroy your motivation? What is something a boss can do to motivate his workers? How are you best motivated? How do you motivate your friends? Have you ever tried to quit smoking? How do you define motivation? What are some of the factors of motivation? What part does motivation plays in effective teaching? What is the role of motivation for slow learners? What are three things that motivate you? Do you feel motivated when you are at school? Do you feel motivated when learning something new? How would you describe motivation? Does motivation affect learning? In what way can we help people to increase their motivation? Why do you study English? What is your proudest accomplishment so far this year? What is the difference between internal and external motivation? Do you find that motivated people are more successful than unmotivated people? What do you do to keep your motivation? Do you have an English goal? Is your goal specific, measurable, with a deadline? How do you maintain your motivation when you fail? Do you share goals and plans with others so that they will help you maintain your motivation and drive?   Conversation Questions Movies A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is your all-time favorite movie? What is your favorite movie? Are there any kinds of movies you dislike? If so, what kinds? Why do you dislike them? Do you like to watch horror movies? Do you prefer fiction or nonfiction books? How about movies? Do you usually watch movies at home or at a movie theater? Have you ever seen the same movie more than once? If yes, name it (or them). Have you ever seen ___? (Insert the name of a movie.) How often do you go to movies? How often do you rent videos? If a book has been made into a movie, which do you prefer to do first, see the movie or read the book? Why? What do you think of people who talk during movies at a movie theater? What is the best movie you have ever seen? Who was in it? Why did you like it? Who was the director? What is the scariest movies you have ever seen? What's the funniest? What's the most romantic? What is the worst movie you've ever seen? What was the last movie you saw? Was it good? Who did you see it with? What's the best movie you've ever seen? Which do you like better, action movies or comedy movies? What movie star would you most like to meet? Who is your favorite actor or actress? What do you think of reality shows? Do you think that films can be educational? Is there a movie you could watch over and over again? Who's your favorite director? See any good movies lately? How much does it cost to see a movie in your country? Do you usually rent DVD's or videos when you rent movies? What's one of your favorite movies? What kind of movie is it? Who's in it? Who directed it? Why do you like it? When did it come out? Where was it filmed? How many times have you seen it? Would you recommend it? Why? Do you think movies have been developing technology or technology has been developing movies? What is the most horrible movie you have ever seen? What kind of movie do you like? How much do you spend to buy DVD movies? Are an adicted to watching movies? Do you like to see a movie many times? Would you like to be an actor/actress? Why or why not? Do you think action movies are bad for children? Which do you prefer to watch movies or to read books? How much money do you spend when you go to movies? What do you prefer animated movies or real movies? What is your favorite movie soundtrack? Do you think historical movies are educational? Do you like documentaries? Who is your favorite movie hero? What do you think about comic books movies? Can you remember the name of the first movie you saw that made you cry? What is your favorite classical movie? Which do you prefer, comedy movies or horror movies? Have you ever watched a movie twice that you disliked? Do you ever download bootleg movies? In your country what common courtesies apply when watching a movie at the cinema? Have you ever seen a movie in another country? Describe the experience. What movie ratings are enforced in your country? What does it mean if a movie "bombs"? Are movie trailers common at the cinema in your country? Do you like foreign films that are dubbed in your mother tongue or do you like watching the film in its original form? What kind of movie would you like to star in? Why? Do you think there should be more movies made in your country? What is something that you have never seen happen in a movie? What things happen too often in movies? What is the name of a boring movie you have seen. Is there a way to make it better? How would you make a really bad movie? Which movie star do you think should die today? Which movie star should live forever? Which two movie stars would you like to have for your parents? If a movie star wanted to marry you, would you divorce your spouse? If you could be a movie bad guy, which one would you be? Have you ever thought about what super powers you would like to have? Which famous person would you like to have for a best friend? How often would you go to the movie theater if you always had free tickets? Which movie has the best story ? Tell me about it. Which horror movie is the scariest? Why? If they made a movie about your life, what kind of movie would it be? Which actor or actress would be you in a movie about your life? Do you want your children to be actors or actresses? How would your life change if you could do TV commercials? How would you like to clean house for a celebrity? Would you let a movie crew film in your house? Would you like to be a movie extra? Do you think there is too much nudity in movies, or not enough? Do you think there is too much violence in movies? Does it affect children? Do you think a movie has to be expensive to make to become a blockbuster? Why? Why do some people become famous and others don't? Would you rather be in a movie, or be given $500.000? Would you like to be in a television drama? What kind of character would you like to play in a television drama? Would you be willing to be on a TV show in only your underwear   Conversation Questions Music A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. About how many CDs do you have? How about MDs and tapes? Are you a good dancer? Are you a good singer? Can you concentrate on other things when you are listening to music? Can you play a musical instrument? If so, what do you play? How long have you been playing? Are you good at it? Can you play any musical instruments? Can you play the drums? Can you play the guitar? Can you read music? Do you enjoy music videos? Do you ever listen to MP3 files on your computer? Do you have an expensive stereo system? (... a MD player, ... an old record player) Do you know the band named Metallica? If so, do you like them? Do you like all kinds of music? Do you like American rock bands? Do you like country music? Do you like heavy metal bands like Megadeth, Marilyn Manson, and so on? Do you like jazz? Do you like to listen classical music? Do you like to listen country music? Who is your favorite country singer? Do you like to listen to Broadway musicals? What is your favorite Broadway musical show? Do you like punk music? Do you like singing karaoke? How often do you sing karaoke? Do you like to dance? Do you like to sing karaoke? Do you listen to music while doing your homework? Do you sing while taking a bath? Do you think there is a relationship between drugs and music? How about violence and music? Do you think your favorite music twenty years from now will be the same as it is today? Do you watch music shows on TV? If so, what do you watch? Does you mother play the piano? Have you ever been to a concert? Have you ever been to a rock concert? Have you ever been to an orchestra concert? Have you ever taken part in a singing competition? How does music make you feel? How many CD's do you have? How much time do you spend listening to music? How often do you listen to music? (...to classical music, ... to jazz, ...) How often do you listen to the radio? If you could play any musical instrument, what would it be? If you could start a band, what type of music would you play? Why? If you were a song, what song would you be and why? Is live music popular in your country? Is there any kind of music that you hate? Should music lyrics be rated similar to the way movies are rated? What are some concerts you have been to? What are some special or traditional musical instruments in your country? What do you think the world would be like without music? What do you think of manufactured bands? Can you name any? What is one of your favorite songs? Why do you like it? When did you first hear it? Who sings it? What is your favorite karaoke song to sing? What is your favorite kind of music? What kind of music do you like? What kind of music do you listen to to cheer you up? What kind of music do you usually listen to? What kind of music do your parents listen to? What kind of music you like the most? What kind of songs do you like to sing? What kinds of music do people listen to in your country? What kinds of music do you dislike? What musicians did you like when you were in junior high school? How about high school? What radio station do you usually listen to? What was the last CD you bought? What was the last concert you went to? What was your favorite music five years ago? 10 years ago? How have your musical tastes changed? When was the last time you went dancing? When was the last time you went to a concert? Where do you usually listen to music? Which do you prefer, songs in English or songs in your own language? Who is your favorite singer or group? Who is your favorite singer? Why do you think music is important and how does it affect different people? Why is music so important to people and culture? Is the image of the group or singer more important than the music? Can you think of examples of music calming people or increasing their efficiency? Do you mind singing to other people? (Another wording: ...singing in front of people?) If you don't mind then how large an audience would be too many? While listening to the radio, do you ever want to sing the song that is being played? Why do you think some people believe opera singers should be fat? Do you ever download MP3 files from the Internet? Do you prefer rock music or romantic music? Do you think music can heal sick people? Do you think that animals can enjoy music? How do you know? Do you think that music can help make world peace? How? How important do you think a good music teacher is to mastering an instrument? What do you think the next piece of music technology will be, after digital technology? If you could invent a new instrument, what would it sound like? Do you think the use of drugs by some musicians increases their artistic creativity? Who is your favorite composer? Did you go to the symphony when you were a child? Do your brothers and sisters also love classical music? What makes a song popular for you, the lyrics of the song or the melody?   Conversation Questions Names A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What's the most beautiful girl's name you've heard? What's the best boy's name you've heard? How did your parents choose your name? Are you happy with your name? If not, why not? What are some of the most common names for boys and girls in your country? What are some really unusual names you've heard? Are there any names you absolutely hate? If so, what are they? Why do you hate them? Do you think names shape our personality? To what degree? Does your name have a meaning? If so, what does it mean? Do you have a middle name? What is it? If you have multiple middle names, what are they? In your culture, when you introduce yourself, does the last name come first or the first name? Other wordings: ... does the surname come first? / ... does your family name come first? Do you have a nickname? If so, what is it? How did you get it? Do you like it? What are some interesting nicknames that you have heard? How many letters are in your name? How many syllables are in your name? Does your first name have the same number of syllables as your last name? How many duplicate letters are in your name? What do you think of people who name their children after months, seasons or days of the week? What do you think of parents who make up unique names for their children? Some parents give their children names in alphabetical order. Do you think this is a good idea? What was the name of your first girlfriend or boyfriend? Have you ever dated two different people with the same first name? What are some titles you can think of? (e.g. Mr., Mrs., Professor, Duke etc.) Do you think it is okay to give pets human names? What is the most popular name for a dog in your country? How about cats? Do you know the names of some famous race horses? If so, please name a few. Can you name some famous world leaders? Can you name some famous composers? Can you name some famous artists? Can you name some Western foods? Can you name some Eastern foods? Can you name some Middle-Eastern foods? Can you name some cars? What are some names of famous companies you know? What's the name of your favorite singer? What's the name of your favorite character from a story you've read What's the name of your favorite writer? What's the name of your favorite novel? What's the name of your favorite restaurant? What's the name of your favorite television show? What's the name of your favorite movie? What's your name? Do you know the meaning of your name? If yes, what does it mean? What does your name mean? Have ever changed your name? Do you have names in two different languages? (ex. a Chinese name and an English name )? If not, would you like to? Do women change their name after marriage in your country or keep their maiden name? Can you name some notorious people or criminals ? Is it ever appropriate to "call someone names"? When? Can you name the seven continents? How many U.S. state names do you know? How many Canadian province names do you know? Do you believe some names or words have magical qualities? Do people in your country predict the future according to names? If you could change your name would you? What would it be? Why this name? Do you remember any kids whose names other kids in school made fun of? Why? What were their names? Are you named after anyone in your family? Do you ever feel pressure to live up to your name? Can your name mean anything funny in your language? Have you ever known a boy that has a "girl's name" or a boy that had a "girl's name"? Do you wish your name was less common, or more unusual?   Conversation Questions News A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is the role of newspapers in society? What sells newspaper? Why do we buy newspapers? Do you think that news is censored in some countries? Is the news censored in your country? Will newspapers disappear in the future? How does American news differ from your country's news? What is your favorite section of the newspaper to read? How often do you watch the news? Do you make a point of watching the news? Do you feel bad if you miss the news? Which kind of news is the best? Why? (e.g. newspaper, TV, internet etc) Do you think there should be more or less of this news? Do you think that the news is necessary? Why or why not? What would the world be like without news? Do you think the news tells us just information without giving its opinion? Should the news give an opinion? Do you think the news influences people too much? Do you think the news is shocking now? How has it changed over the years? What is the biggest news you ever heard in your life? Do you think anything could be bigger news? How did it affect you? Were you glad you heard this news? Do you think people need to know all of the news? What do people not need to know? What do you think is the most important thing the news should report? What was the most memorable news you ever watched? If the news reported your week, what would be the headline? Think of a news headline for the following countries: America, Britain, France, China, Australia, Indonesia, Russia, Germany. Do you read the newspaper everyday? How often do you read the newspaper? What newspaper do you read? How much does the newspaper cost? What kind of magazines do you like to read? What is your favorite newspaper? What is your favorite magazine? Are magazines expensive in your country? Do you enjoy reading a newspaper? What sections of a newspaper do you like to read? What are the different sections in a newspaper? Do you think that reading a newspaper is a good way to improve your English? What kinds of information can you get from the newspaper? Where do you get most of your news? Do you like to keep up with current events? If you are someone who usually follows the news, has there been a time when you decided to stop? Why and for how long? Do you think it's important to read the newspaper and know what is going on in the world? Why or why not?   Conversation Questions Parenting A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Your Children How many children do you have? How old are they? Are your children involved in clubs such as Girl Guides or Boy Scouts? What kind of chores do you require your child (or children) to do? Tell us one special thing about each of your children. (What are their strong points?) Do you prefer to have a daughter or a son? Raising Children Do you think boys are more expensive than girls or vice versa? Why? Do you think boys are easier to take care of than girls or vice versa? Why? Do you help your children with their homework? How much help do you think is appropriate? Would you allow your son or daughter to pierce body parts? If so, what parts of the body would you allow to be pierced? Would you allow you child to get a tattoo? What are some things that you would not allow your children to do? What are some things that you would allow your children to do that you think other parents may not allow their children to do? Why do you think it is okay to allow this? Are there any sports that you consider too dangerous to allow your child to try? If so, what sports? Do you spoil your child? In what ways do you spoil your child? What are some ways that you have seen others spoil their children? Are you careful about your child's diet? Are there any foods that you do not let your children eat? Is there any food that you force your children to eat even though they don't like the food? Parenting Skills Do you think that you are a good parent? Why? Do you think your parents were good parents? Do you think your children will be good parents? What are some things that your parents did that you would never do? What are some things that you have seen other parents do that you would never do? What do you think are some of the most difficult problems faced by parents? Have you ever changed cloth diapers with safety pins and rubber pants before? How do you cope with sibling rivalry? How do you reward your children for the good things that they do? Are all couples who can have children qualified enough for being parents? Opinions Should a good mother give up her job to stay at home with her children? Do you think it is OK for a father to stay at home with the children and have the mother work instead? Do you think a mother is a better "stay at home parent" than a father? Why or why not? Does the age of the children matter? Should women always get custody (keep the children) after a divorce? Why or why not? Do you think it is okay for children to call their parents by their first names? Do you call your parents by name? Do your children call you by name? Do you know anyone who does? Do you think there should be a maximum age for parents to have a new child? Should children work? Do you agree or disagree? Do you think its OK to use drugs while pregnant? Should criminals and morally corrupt people be prevented from having children by law? Does biological parenthood necessarily mean that the parents are also qualified enough for bringing the child up? Activities Do you often read to your children? / Did you often read to your children? How often? For how long each time? What kinds of books? What kinds of things do you do with your children? What kinds of things would you like to do with your children? What kinds of things did you do with your children? About how many hours a week do you spend doing things with your children? Do you spend more time doing things with your children now than you did last year? Punishment How do you usually punish your children? What would you do if you found out your child was shoplifting (stealing)? What would you do if your child lied to you? What would you do if you found out your child jigged (skipped) school for a day? How do you deal with your children when they fight with each other? Do you think spanking is an appropriate form of punishment? Why or why not? Have you ever rinsed your child's mouth out with soap as punishment for swearing? Some of the following should perhaps be avoided in some classes. Do you think it is OK to breast-feed in public? What do you think when you see a mother breast-feeding her child in public? Would you have your son circumcised? Why or why not? Do you think gay couples can be good parents to adopted children? What do you think about single mothers? Should pregnant women that are unwed consider abortion? Should any women consider abortion? In what cases do you think abortion is acceptable? When do you think abortion is unacceptable? If you were a mother or father, would you allow your son or daughter to listen heavy metal music?   Conversation Questions Personality A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What are some characteristics of your personality? What makes you happy? What are some things that make you angry? Are you happy with your personality? Would you like to be different? Are you a determined person? Are you a stubborn person? Are you shy ? In which occasions are you shy? Do you consider yourself selfish ? Why? Is your personality suited to your job? In what way has your personality changed? Why has it changed?? Are you more introverted (focused on your inner world) or more extraverted (focused on other people and the outer world)? Do you think you can change a major characteristic of your personality if you try? Do you think you have an unusual personality? Why? If you could change any aspect of your personality, what would it be? What sort of things would you do to amuse yourself during a car journey? What personality traits do you consider important in a good friend / a boss / a partner? Do you consider yourself to be even-tempered? What is one thing that many people don't know about you? What expressions include colors when discussing illness? (ex., white or pale, pink eye, black and blue for bruises, yellow fever) What expressions include colors and feelings? (ex. I feel blue, green with envy, red with rage, turning red, black circles under the eyes, you are turning blue (with the cold)) What do the colors in your home country's flag represent? Do you think birth order(oldest, youngest or middle) makes a difference in your personality?   Conversation Questions Police A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you have any friends who are policemen? How do the police help you? Are you afraid of the police? What are some situations when you would call the police? Can you think of some situations when you wouldn't want to call the police? Can you describe the police uniform of the policemen in your country? What do you think about police in your country? Are they effective? Do you trust them? Would you like to be a police officer? Do you think that it is a very dangerous job? Do you think that a male police officer is required to do different or more difficult/dangerous jobs than a female police officer Do you have any friends that are police officers? Have you ever been stopped by the police? Have the police ever helped you? How? What is the general feeling towards police in your country, is it positive or negative? Do policemen in your country ask for bribes? Have you ever bribed the police? How much was the bribe? Did you bribe in U.S. dollars or local currency? Do you think police are well paid in your country? Have you ever seen a police officer collecting bribe before? Where and when? What do you think would happen if all police officers decide to go on a strike? Do you hate the police?   Conversation Questions Politics A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Did you vote in the last election? How old were you when you first voted? What is the minimum voting age in your country? What type of political system does your country have? What different types of governments are there? What does an ambassador do? Who appoints an ambassador? Why is it important to have reliable ambassadors? What characteristis should a good ambassador have? Who is your mayor? What are the main political parties in your country? How do you decide how you will vote? Who represents you in your local and national government? How long is the term of elected officials in your country? Which party is now in power in your country? When were they elected? Who is the leader of this party? How has your political views changed during your lifetime? How can we get more people to vote? Is voting a important responsibility of a citizen? Why do you think voting is important? How are elections financed? Do you think too much money is spent on campaigns? How can campaigns be better organized? How could elections be more representative? What is your opinion about actors or actresses who run for a position in politics? Would you vote for an actor or actress who runs for a government office? Why or why not? If you were going to vote for an actor or actress for a government office, who would it be and why?   Conversation Questions Poverty A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What do you think about people receiving welfare? Should the government fund the welfare system? What do you think about people who work for cash and receive welfare as well? Do you feel sorry for people who live on the street? Are people who live on the street necessarily lazy? Have you ever talked to a homeless person? Are there homeless people in your country? Have you ever helped a homeless person? How? How does the government in your country support the homeless? What do you think of countries that do not have a welfare system? Why do people end up being homeless? Have you ever visited a homeless shelter? Have you ever donated to the food bank? Have you ever thought about going to the food bank? Do you know anyone who has gone to church for food? Do you believe that the rich are growing richer, and the poor are growing poorer? Should governments invest money in space missions or welfare? Would you eliminate the welfare system? Do you think it's okay for the government to keep decreasing the welfare amount? How long should someone receive welfare? Forever? What is a good reason for someone to receive welfare? What punishment would you give someone who is on welfare illegally, but has lots of money? Would you report welfare fraud to the police, even if it were a close friend? Should welfare recipients receive free housing? Shouldn't all people work for a living? Do you think the government should create jobs for the homeless, instead of just giving them money? Would you pay more taxes, if this would eliminate poverty by creating jobs for everyone? What do you think of governments who put the homeless in jails or even torture or kill them? Will there always be poverty in the world? Should countries send troops to foreign countries to fight terrorism, or should governments fight poverty around the world instead? Are there more important issues than poverty? If so, name them in order of importance. Why does every country in the world have poor people? Do you consider yourself to be poor, middle-class, or rich? What country do you think has the best record for helping its poor? What country do you think has the worst record for helping its poor?   Conversation Questions Restaurants & Eating Out A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Related: Food, Tipping How often do you eat out? Where do you usually go when you eat out? How much do you usually pay when you eat out? Who do you usually go with when you eat out? Do you like western food? Japanese? Thai? Italian? Can you name restaurants in this area that serve food from other countries? What kinds of foods do these restaurants serve? Have you ever eaten at any of them? Do you ever eat greasy food? Salty? Sweet? Spicy? Do you know how to order food in English? Have you ever done so? If so, was it easy to do so? Do you ever eat at McDonalds? KFC? Other fast food restaurants? What is your favorite appetizer? Main Course? Dessert? Do you ever drink alcoholic beverages when you eat out? If so, what do you drink? Do you know what a Caesar salad is? Buffalo wings? Nachos? Chicken fried steak? Did you enjoy eating out in other countries you have visited? Which country had the best food? Which foods did you enjoy the most? Did you think the cost was high or low? Do you know anyone who has owned a restaurant? Have you ever worked in a restaurant? If so, what kind of restaurant? How long did you work there? Did you enjoy your job? How many different types of salad dressing can you name? What salad dressings can you name? Do you worry about calories and fat content when you eat out? How about cholesterol ? How about insecticides and other chemicals? Would you send a dish back if it did not taste good or you received the wrong food? Do you ever leave a tip at a restaurant? How much? In what ways have people's eating habits changed nowadays? Do you think western food is too expensive? Why or why not? Have you ever had a restaurant cater a party at your house? If not, would you consider it? If so, were you happy with the service? Would you do it again? What kind of food did they serve? Who pays when you go out for dinner? What's the worst experience you ever had at a restaurant? What's the most disgusting food you ever ate in a restaurant? Do you like eating at buffets? Why or why not? Where was the best buffet you've ever eaten at? What kinds of foods were there? Have you ever eaten at an all-you-can-eat restaurant? Did you eat too much? Do you think it was a good value? Was the taste as good as a regular restaurant? Why do you think westerners are usually heavier than Asians? Do you ever order out from a restaurant? What kind of foods? Do you think this area has a good variety of foreign restaurants? What other kinds of restaurants would you like to see opened? Can kids eat free at any of the restaurants you go to? Do senior citizens get a discount? Are there times of the day when anyone can get a discount? Have you ever been to a restaurant with valet service? Do you like to try new restaurants, or do you prefer to go to those you have already been to? Why? Do you care what a restaurant looks like, or is the food the only thing you care about? What do you think about children crying in a restaurant when you are trying to eat? What do you think about people smoking in a restaurant when you are trying to eat? What would you think if you saw the cook at the restaurant smoking while he is cooking your food? Do you prefer fresh ingredients prepared by a chef as you order or do you prefer pre-cooked food?   Conversation Questions Retirement A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is the age for mandatory retirement in your country? At this stage of your life, are you beginning to make plans for your retirement years? Why? What would be a perfect retirement for you? (For retired people) How would you rate your career in general? Ranging from 1-10, 10 being the highest, how would you rate your career? Why? Where would you like to spend your retirement years? Why? During retirement, where would you like to stay, in the city or in the province? Do you intend to look for another job after you retire? Why? In one word, how would describe your career? Would you like to spend the rest of your life in another country? Is it common in your country to leave for another one after retirement? In your culture, do the children have to support their parents financially after they retire? Would you like to live together with your children even if they are already married? Why? Do you have a pension plan? What are your goals before you retire? Would you consider retiring early if you make it big? Do you consider spending the rest of your career in your present company? Why? Five years from now, what do you think would be the improvements in your career? Do you expect any promotion sometime soon? Are you going to move to another company if you don't get the promotion you are expecting? Do you think you would be able to save enough for your retirement years? What is your major goal before you retire? If you can still work after your mandatory retirement, will you look for another job? Are you planning to open your own business when you retire? What kind of business would it be? What are the three (3) things you would like to accomplish/have before and after you retire? How would you spend your daily life after retirement?   Conversation Questions School A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Related: Standardized Exams Are you allowed to eat in the classrooms? Are you allowed to smoke in the classrooms? Did you belong to any clubs in high school? Did you go to a public high school or a private one? Did you have to wear a uniform in high school? How about elementary school? Did you study art in high school? Did your high school have a band? If so, did you play in it? Do most of your teachers take attendance? Do some of your teachers let class out early? Do you carry a dictionary to your English classes? How about your other classes? Do you enjoy studying English? (...math, science, ...) Do you ever skip class? Do you have any evening classes? Do you play on any of the school's sports teams? Do you still keep in touch with your best friend in elementary school? Have you ever been absent? Have you ever been late for a class? Have you ever been late for class? If so, why? When was the last time? Did the teacher get angry? Have you ever failed a class? (Maybe this is not polite to ask.) Have you ever slept in class? How do you usually come here? (How do you get to school?) How long does it take you to get to school? How many times have you been absent from school this year? How much homework do you do every day? Was your high school strict? Were you on any sports teams in high school? What classes do you not like? Why don't you like them? What did you like best about high school? What do you like best about your school? What do you like the least about your school? What do you think about your English class? Your gym class? What do you think of our cafeteria? What do you think of this campus? What do you want to do after you graduate? What is your best memory from junior high school? How about high school? What's your worst memory? What school did you graduate from? What high school? What junior high school? What time does your first class begin on Tuesday? What was the name of your junior high school? What were some of the rules you had to follow at your high school? Which rules did you think were unfair? Did you ever get caught breaking any school rules? Were you allowed to smoke on campus? Were you allowed to eat food in the classroom? What's your favorite subject? Why do you like it? Who is the teacher? How many times a week does the class meet? Which subjects are you good at? (What are your strong subjects?) Which subjects are you poor at? (Which subjects are difficult for you?) Who is your favorite teacher? What course does he or she teach? Why do you like him or her? What did you find the most surprising thing about the USA school system? What are the major characteristics you think a teacher should have? Do you have to wear a uniform to your school? (Did you have to....) Do you like wearing a uniform? Tell us about your favorite teacher. Why do you like him/her? Do you like to wear a school uniform? Why or why not? How are the customs of the classrooms in the US different from the customs that you have experienced in other places?   Conversation Questions Science and Technology A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What do you think are the three most important or interesting inventions since 1850? How about since 1950? Do you think pets should be cloned? Why or why not? Do you think people should be allowed to clone people or organs of people? Why? What do you think about GMO (genetically modified organisms) vegetables? Is it better to use natural food although it might not produce as much or should we use GMO crops? What do you think about GMO farm animals? Would you eat pork from a GMO pig? Do you think couples should be allowed to choose the sex or other characteristics of their baby like eye color? Why or why not? Are you willing to pay more for food that is really organic? How much more? What do you think robots should be used for? Do you think robots will cause unemployment (loss of jobs) in the future or make more work? Why? Do you think using cell phones too much is bad for our physical or mental health? Why? If you could copy your brain for future generations, would you? How do you think face to face communication differs from communication using computers? What changes have social changes have cell phones made? What are good and bad points of using computers? Do you think to stop global warming that the amount of car driving should be limited or changed? For example, should there be some kind of encouragement to use public transportation or to do car pooling? What are some local ways you have seen to reduce waste and pollution or conserve energy? In your life time what changes have you seen in your environment for better or worse? Do you think modern technology reduces or increases stress? Why? Do you think money should be spent to explore space or is it better spent helping people on earth? Why? What is your opinion about children playing violent videogames or computer programs? Should anything be allowed to be posted on the Internet or should certain things be restricted like child pornography, grossly violent real scenes and suicide or hate encouragements? What do you think should be done to people who spread viruses, start hoaxes or create SPAM on the Internet? How often do you buy things via the Internet? Why do you buy this often or not buy online? Do you worry about identity theft or credit card number theft when buying things on the Internet or do you avoid buying things online because of this concern? Have you used a chat site? Have you ever used voice chat? What do you think about it? Have you used the Internet to learn English or read or talk in English? What are the pros and cons (good and bad points) about improving your English by Internet rather than with a teacher?   Conversation Questions Self-employment A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Related: Jobs Are you self-employed? Have you always been self-employed? Why did you start your own business? What are some things that you need to consider when starting your own business? Is it easy to start a business in your country? Have you ever worked for a self-employed person? Would you be happier if you were self-employed? What are some of the difficulties in being self-employed?   Conversation Questions Silly Questions A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is your favorite way to eat a cockroach? Who fell out of the apple tree? Why did the ghost cry on Halloween Day? Do you enjoy swimming when it is snowing? Why don't you want Christmas presents this year? How did you escape from the alien space ship? How did you feel after watching television for 24 hours? Would you ever wear your mother's dress to your all boys high school? What is a typical day in the life of your dictionary (pet frog, walking shoes, classroom)? Did your parents ever have children? Would you rather kiss a crocodile or a bear? What is on your mouse pad? If you were a color, what would you be? Why? Why do people call "mouse trap" mouse trap? Are couch potatoes good to eat? What are the names of the eight colors of rainbows? Why do you make your bed in the morning? Why do you look at yourself in the mirror? What planet are you from? When was the last time you went to the restroom? How much does your imagination weigh? What some of the ways can you ride a bike?   Conversation Questions Single Life A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Why do you think some people remain single? Would you like to be single all your life? Is it better to be single or married? Why? What are the advantages of being single? Do you think that single people are happier? Do you think it is easier for man or woman to be single? Why did you think some people prefer to be single? How do you think single people feel on Valentine's Day? Do you think that there is a soulmate somewhere for everyone? Do you think that single people like being single? In your country, what do people think about a woman in her 30s who is unmarried? In your country, what do people think about a man in his 30s who is unmarried? In your country, do single people of opposite sex ever live together as roommates, not as boyfriend/girlfriend? Do you think it is fair that in some countries married people get tax benefits and single people don't?   Conversation Questions Social Problems A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Are there food kitchens for the needy in your country? Are there homeless shelters in your country? Are there many homeless people where you live? Are there many suicides in your country? Are there nursing homes in your country? Do you agree that teachers should use corporal punishment as a means of discipline? Do you know anyone who is homeless? Do you think in vitro fertilization should be available to parents so they can choose the sex of their child? Do you think it's acceptable for parents to use corporal punishment as a means of discipline? Why/why not? Do you think people should be allowed to smoke in public buildings? Do you think that minorities should be given job priority because of their race? Why/why not? Have you ever been a volunteer at a hospital? Have you ever experienced discrimination? Have you ever known someone with an addiction? In an overpopulated world, should people be free to have as many children as they want? Is there assistance available to people that are homeless? Is there public assistance in your country? What are some expectations parents have for their children? What are some reasons people use illegal drugs? What are some reasons that people become homeless? What are some things people can do to eliminate discrimination and prejudice? What are some ways we can help homeless people? What do you think is the most serious problem in the world? Why do you think so? What can we do as individuals to solve this problem? What do you think when you see a homeless person? What types of noise pollution do you hate the most? Who takes care of the elderly when they are no longer able to care for themselves? Does poverty cause crime? Have you ever experienced discrimination on a personal level? What is racism? Graffiti is considered a social problem. Here are some related questions. What is graffiti? Where do you see it? i.e. walls, trains What messages do you see? i.e. political, love messages, funny, personal, poetic? Should the government punish those who write graffiti? Should the government reserve places for those who want to write graffiti? Is graffiti a type of "art"? If you were allowed to write something, what would you say? What can we do about graffiti writers? What are some ways we can wear words and slogans? i.e. badges, clothes, hats etc. What should be done about football hooligans? Is it morally right to spend a lot of money on pets, rather than helping people in need?   Conversation Questions Sports A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Related: Baseball, Baseketball Are you a good skier? If so, when did you start? How often do you ski? Who taught you to ski? Are you a good ___? (tennis player, basketball player, swimmer, ...) Are you a member of any sports team? If not, have you ever been? Are you good at basketball? Are you good at sports? What sports are you good at? Do you often play sports? Did your high school have a good baseball team? Do you ever listen to baseball games on the radio? Do you jog more than once a week? Do you know how to play golf? Do you like to exercise? Do you like to ski? Do you like playing tennis? Do you like to snowboard? Do you like to watch sports on TV? Do you like watching car races? Do you like wrestling? Do you like ___? (insert a name of a baseball player, tennis player, etc.) Do you play any sports? Do you think athletes earn enough money, not enough money or too much money? Do you think everybody should practice sports? Do you think playing sports helps people work better as a team at work? Do you think that parents are too involved in their children's sports activities? Have you ever been skiing? Have you ever been to a soccer game? (...a football match) Have you ever played golf? Have you ever been to watch a professional game? Have you ever played tennis with your mother? Have you ever tried snow-boarding? How often do you exercise? How often do you go swimming? Where do you go? Who do you go with? How often do you ___? (play tennis, swim, go surfing, ...) Is it good that professional sport is so commercial nowadays? Were you on a sports team in high school? Were you on any sports teams in high school? How about junior high school? How about now? What do you think is the most popular sport in the world? What do you think of pro wrestling? Thai kick boxing? Japanese sumo? What do you think of women playing hockey professionally? What do you think the top five most watched sports are in the world? What is the most dangerous sport? What is the most expensive sport? What is the most popular sport in your country? What is your favorite summer sport? What is your favorite team sport? What is your favorite winter sport? What new sports would you like to try? What sport do you think is the most dangerous? What sport do you think is the most expensive? What sports did you do in junior high school? How about high school? How about now? What sports do you follow? What sports do you watch? What sports do you hate to watch? What sports do you like to play? What sports do you like to watch live? What sports do you like to watch on TV? What sports do you like to watch? What sports do you think are the best? What's a sport that you don't like? Why don't you like it? What's your favorite baseball team? What's your favorite sport? Why do you like it? How often do you play it? How often do you watch it? When did you start ___? (playing tennis, swimming, learning to snowboard, ...) When was the last time you went to a baseball game? Where do you usually ___? (play tennis, swim, ...) Where is the nearest stadium to your house? Which do you prefer, baseball or volleyball? (..., tennis or golf) Which sport would you not let your child play? Why? Who do you think is the best athlete in the world? In your country? Who is your favorite professional athlete? Why? Who swims better, your mother or your father? Would you like to become a champion at Wimbledon? Would you rather go swimming or skiing? How do you feel about extreme sports? Would you like to try any of these? Does it bother you that people gamble on sporting events? In some cultures, fishing is a sport. Is fishing viewed as a sport in your culture or solely a way of living? If you had the opportunity to do away with any sport, what sport would you do away with? Why? Which Olympic sports do you like to watch on TV? Does your country do better at the summer or the winter Olympics? Do you think that the Olympics are important, or have there been too many negative things (use of performance-enhancing drugs, corrupt judges) in recent history?   Conversation Questions Standardized Exams A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you have standardized exams for students in your country? (UK spelling = standardised) Have you taken a standardized exam? Do you think they are useful? Do you think they are fair? Do you think they are a good assessment for how well a student is learning? Should there be exams or tests at all? Which is more important to you? Results from a standardized exam. Results from teachers' evaluation. Do you know of students who are currently studying for exams? How do they feel about the exam? Should exams be so important that they can determine a student's future? If exams are no longer used, what do you think should be used?   Conversation Questions Stress A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Recognizing Stress What is stress? What causes stress? How do you recognize stress in your life? Have you been under stress recently? How does stress affect you? Do you have a kind of red warning flag that indicates too much stress? When you are stressful, how do you feel physically? Do you feel tired during the day? Can you sleep well at night? Does your stomach hurt? How do you feel emotionally? Do you feel nervous or worried about the stressful situation? Do you get angry easily? Helping Others Have you ever helped someone who was feeling stressful? What did you do? Did you give them advice? Did you listen to them? Did you do most of the talking? Did you take some action to help them? Have you ever helped someone that you didn't know? What are characteristics of a good counselor? Is it necessary to have shared the same experience? Is it important to be an expert? Is it important to be patient? Healthy Stress Do you think stress is ever good, useful, or necessary? Why or why not? Do you play games or sports that are sometimes stressful? When can stress be a good thing? If you are playing a sport and your team is losing, does it give you extra energy? Does stress make you feel more alive? Is your home life stressful? Are you busy at home? Can you relax at home? Do you enjoy having discussions about politics with other people who have different opinions? Do you like to argue about different ways to do things at work or at home? Personal Have you felt stress recently? Did the stressful feeling last a long time or a short time? Had the cause of the stress happened to you before or was this a new situation? How often do you think you feel too much stress? Do you feel too busy sometimes? In what way does a too full schedule lead to stress? Do you like being busy? If you are very busy at work or at school, do you have ways to balance your life? If you have nothing to do, do you enjoy yourself or do you get bored? Does stress make it hard for you to think or act? How can you judge what is the right amount of stress for you? Is your stress caused by relationships with other people? At work? At school? At home? With best friends? With partners? Can you think of some examples? Does stress come when you worry about your life? Do you keep your worries a secret from other people? Do you have anyone you can talk to when you are worried? When did we start talking about stress as a psychological condition? What do you do when you have stress? Stressful Situations Are there situations that you find stressful? Do you feel tense when you meet someone for the first time? Do you get nervous if you have to make a speech? Do you suffer from stress when you have too much work to do? Do you work or study for long hours under stressful conditions? Does the place you live have a low-stress environment? Can you be alone as much as you like? Can you be with friends as often as you like? Is it easy for you to make decisions about important things? Can you relax when you are sleeping away from home? In what kinds of situations do you observe other people feeling stressed? What are some situations that you enjoy? What are some situations that make you feel stressful? How can you eliminate stressful situations? Plan a low-stress, cheap, one-day holiday. Controlling Stress How do you relieve stress? What stresses you out? Do you have a stressful lifestyle? How can you eliminate stressful situations? How do you get control of a stressful situation that is getting too tough? What is the "fight or flight" response? How does it relate to stress? Do you enjoy the feeling of being stressed? If you are feeling stressed, what do you do? Do you like to relax or be active when stressful? Are you capable of relieving your stress or do you need help? Can alcohol cure stress temporarily? Living Stress Free How can you live a stress free life? Can you give five suggestions that would be inexpensive? Can you give five suggestions for children? Can you give five suggestions for the wintertime? Give us suggestions for making school life less stressful. When stressful do you like to listen to a certain kind of music? Does it help to go shopping or take a long walk? Do you like to be alone or be with other people? Do you eat more or eat less? Do certain colors make you feel happier? Do you always follow the same pattern to relieve stress or do you try different things? What are some positive ways people deal with stress? What are some negative ways people deal with stress? How do you deal with stress? What is the most stressful experience you have ever had? When was the most stressful time of your life? Did you learn anything from that experience? What do you think is the greatest cause of stress for most people? What is your greatest cause of stress? Do you deal with stress differently that your parents do/did? If so, how? Do you know of anyone who likes to break things or become violent when they are stressed? What have they broken? What kind of violence do they do? What is the most stressful job you can think of? What is the least stressful job you can think of? Which would you choose: A stressful job with very high pay or a relaxing job with considerably low pay? Why? Is being single less stressful than married life? What are the advantages & disadvantages of each? How do you reduce stress in your life? Do you think they would be considered good or bad ways of dealing with stress?   Conversation Questions Supernatural, Ghosts & Superstitions A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Ghosts Do you believe in ghosts? Do you believe that dead people come back to life as ghosts? Would you talk to a ghost? Do you know anyone who has said that they have seen a ghost? Have you ever come in contact with a ghost? (Have you ever seen a ghost?) If one of your friends told you they had seen a ghost, would you believe him/her? Why/Why not? What is the scariest ghost story you know? Is there an area where you live (park, house, etc.) that is known to be haunted? If so, what is the story or legend that makes people believe this area is haunted? Have you ever visited this place? Do you believe that houses can be haunted? Have you ever been to one? Do you believe that houses have ghosts in them sometimes? Were you ever touched or physically harmed by a ghost or "spirit"? If so, how? If you were a ghost who and where would you haunt? How do you know if a ghost is near you? If you don't believe in ghosts, then what have you heard other people say? If you don't believe in ghost, tell why? If you don't believe in ghost, and you actually have seen one, what were your reactions? Have you ever felt that you knew a ghost that you saw? If you were a ghost, who or what would you haunt? Why do people say they see ghosts even though they sometimes do not? Do you put any faith in the modern day ghost hunters? Can you recall any strange or unexplained events in your life? Do you believe your ancestors are watching you? What do you about the image movies give us about aliens? Would you stay the night in a place where people say that there are ghosts? Like in a very old uninhabited house, a church or a school? Have you seen a ghost? What kind of ghost? Did you get to talk with the ghost? Have you though about becoming a ghostbuster? Would you be scared if a ghost talked to you? Do you think we can feel if a ghost is near by us by the changes in the weather? Superstitions Do you think that there is truth behind superstitions? Do you walk under ladders? What are some superstitions in your country? What are some things that are considered unlucky? What are some things that are considered lucky? What numbers are considered to be lucky and unlucky in your country? A four-leaf clover is often considered lucky. What are some other things which are considered lucky. Do you have a lucky number? Psychics, Fortunetellers and Knowing the Future Have you ever gone to a psychic? If so, what were you told? Did you believe it? Why do some people consult psychics before doing important things? Do you know anyone that has ever been to a psychic? Why do some people need fortunetellers? How do people predict the future in your country? Do you believe in horoscopes? Do you read your horoscope? If so, do you believe it? Do you think that dreams come true? Do you think that dreams can help us solve our problems? Have you ever had a dream come true? / Have you ever had a dream that later came true? Do you think that some people can predict the future? What is your blood type? Do you believe that you can tell a lot about a person from his/her blood type? Do you believe that blood types can tell what a person's personality is? Is the belief in UFOs, aliens, physic powers, etc, growing because belief in religion is dying? What is your star sign? Do you believe the predictions contained within your horoscope? Are horoscopes important? Do you read your horoscope often? Does it come true? Does your star sign describe your personality traits well? The Unexplained Has anything ever happened to you that you cannot explain? Do you believe that there are many things in our universe that cannot be explained? Give examples. Do you believe that you are from another planet? Do you believe you have supernatural powers there? Have you ever tried to contact another planet? Did you succeed? Unsorted Do you believe in reincarnation? Have you ever felt that you knew someone the first time you met them? Have you ever visited a foreign country or city for the first time and found that you knew exactly where things were? Have you ever looked in the mirror and 'seen' a different face? What do you think a spirit would look like? Is the belief in UFOs, aliens, physic powers, etc, growing because the belief in religion is dying? ESP Do you believe in ESP? How can a person know what kind of ESP abilities he/she has? What do you think are some ways of developing these abilities? UFOs Do you believe that UFOs exist? / Do you believe in UFOs? Do you know anyone who has said that they have seen a UFO? Have you ever seen a UFO? Do you know anyone who says that they have? If you saw a UFO but were alone and had no proof would you tell anyone? Who? Do you think that UFOs from other planets visit Earth? What would you do if you were taken aboard a UFO? Do you believe there is life on other planets? Have you ever seen an E.T.? Do you know anyone who says that they have? Aliens (Perhaps you should also explain that alien sometimes means a person from another country.) Do you believe in aliens? Do you think that you are an alien? Do you think aliens are monsters? If you saw an alien what do you would do? Have you ever seen an alien? Has anyone ever told you that he or she has seen an alien? Other Questions Are you afraid of spirits? Do you believe in angels? Do you believe in witches why or why not. Do you believe in astrology? What is your astrological sign? Do you believe in coincidences? Why or why not? Do you believe in God? Why or why not? Do you believe in life after death? Do you believe in vampires? / Do you believe that vampires exist? In many countries people believe in ghosts, spirits and dragons. Is this true in your country, and why do you think these beliefs are so common? What is the most frightening things that has ever happened to you? What is the most frightening experience you have had? Have you ever been in a cementery at night? Why? Or why not? Would you go? Where do you think dead people go? Do you believe that people who were bad alive pay their bad behavior by staying here? Do you think heaven exist? Do you think hell exist? Have you played quija? Why or why no? Would you play? Do you think that spirits who appear to people are good or bad? Do you believe in angels? Have you ever been contacted an angel? What did it tell you? Have you been involved in a miracle? What was it about? Do you get scared by horror stories?     Conversation Questions Teenagers A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you think teenagers today should show more respect for adults? (teachers, parents etc) What do you think about teenagers who dye their hair blue, green, or another crazy colour? Do you think that wearing uniforms to school is a good idea? What type of punishment did your parents use when you were a teenager? At what age should teenagers leave home? At what age did you leave home? What would you do if your teenage son or daughter got a tattoo? What would you do if your teenage son or daughter shaved his or her head? How do you feel about swearing? Does it matter if teenagers sometimes use bad language? What do you think about rock videos today? What do you think parents can do to help teenagers avoid depression? Do you believe in anti-depression drugs? Do you think teenagers today have it 'too easy'? Did you have a good relationship with your parents? Why or why not? Do you think it's a good idea to give teenagers a lot of freedom? (example: come home when you like) Do teenagers in your former country have problems with drugs or alcohol? What can you do to keep your teenager away from drugs and alcohol? Is teenage suicide a problem? What is the most important thing a parent can do for a teenager? Why do you think some teenagers do good things and others (in the same family often) do bad things? At what age should a teenage girl have her first serious boyfriend? boys? How old were you when you had your first serious relationship? What can society do to help teenagers who have problems at home? Are there more pregnant teenage girls in Canada and the U.S. than in your country? Why? What is the best advice you could give to a teenager growing up in this culture? Do you think that advertising plays an important role in how teenagers think? Should teenagers work? why or why not? Did you work when you were a teenager? If you could be a teenager again, would you do anything differently? Do you think it is better to raise teenagers in the city, a small town, or the country? What is it like to be a teenager in your society? Would you rather be a child, teenager or an adult? Why? What are the advantages of being a child, a teenager and an adult? What are the disadvantages? If you could meet any teenager in the world, who would it be? At what age should teenagers be allowed to leave school? At what age should teenagers be allowed to smoke? At what age should teenagers be allowed to drink? At what age should teenagers be allowed to drive? At what age should teenagers be allowed to get married? At what age should teenagers be allowed to vote? Do you know any good role models for teenagers? Do you know any teenagers who don't act like other teens? Why do you think they act differently? What do teenagers think about? What do you/will you remember about being a teenager? Can teens change the world? If yes, how? If not, why not? What's the difference between teenage girls and teenage boys? What causes those differences? Would you rather be stuck in a bus with children, teens, young adults, adults or elderly adults? Why? When did you start to be a teen? How did you know that you were a teenager? Do you still feel like a teen sometimes? What is the difference between the teenagers of 19th century and the teenagers of the 21 st century? As a teenager, how do you think fashion changed or affected your life? Among the fashion stuff that is prevalent in the world today, which do you think is the most hideous one? How much freedom should parents give to their teenagers? If you were a parent and your teenage child did something wrong, how would you discipline him/her? What do you think is the greatest problems facing the teenagers of today? How do you think can we eradicate or at least lessen juvenile delinquency? How does media affect the thinking patterns of the teenagers of today? If you could do something differently, which mistake in the past would you not do and why? As a teenager, what do you think you can contribute to society?   Conversation Questions Telephones A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Is your name in the telephone book? What is an unlisted phone number? What kind of phone numbers can you find in the yellow pages of a phone book? Have you ever called for pizza delivery? Have you ever called a business (airlines, ELI, auto repair, insurance, bank, etc.) for information? Have you ever had a problem with your phone bill? What did you do? Have you ever dialed the wrong number? What happened? How did you feel? (frustrated, embarrassed, relaxed, etc.) Have you ever left a voice mail or a message on an answering machine? What is good telephone etiquette? What is considered rude in your culture? How do you communicate with someone who is in another place/country? Do you have a cellular/mobile phone? Is it difficult to communicate to someone who doesn't speak English very well? How many phone calls do you usually receive/make in one day? Do receive phone calls when you are already engaged to another call? Cell Phones Do you have a cell phone? How many people in your family have a cell phone? What cellphone company do you use? How did you decide to use this company? Are you happy with this company? About how many text messages do you send in a day? Who pays for your cell phone? Who is the youngest person you know who has a cell phone? What kind of features does your cell phones have? How long have you had a cell phone? Why have you decided not to have a cell phone? Is it in bad taste to leave your cell phone on when you are at a restaurant? What do you think of mobile phones? What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of mobile phones? Could you live without your mobile phone? How much do you spend a month on your cell phone? When did you first get a cell phone? Have your parents ever been angry with you because of your phone use? At what age do kids now get cell phones? Do you know how to use all the functions on your phone? Have you ever tried getting a date with your phone? Does it ever bother you when people use their cell phones? Are you worried about radiation from you cell phone? Who do you call most often? How many cell phones have you destroyed? What was the most expensive phone call you ever made? Are you allowed to have your mobile telephone switched on in class? Is it illegal to speak on your cell phone while you are driving in your country? Do you think it should be illegal to speak on your cell phone while driving? Which cell phone company do you use? How long have you used that company? Has your cell phone ever broken down? What did you do when your cell phone last malfunctioned? Have you ever lost your phone? Has your phone ever been stolen? What age you think children should be allowed to have a mobile phone?   Conversation Questions Television A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Some related questions can be found on the Entertainment page. Are you going to watch TV tonight? If so, what will you watch? What did you watch on TV yesterday? What is one of your favorite TV shows? Why do you like it? When is it on? Does you father like it, too? Do you like ___? (Insert the name of a TV show.) Do you prefer listening to the radio or watching TV? Do you think it is good for children to watch TV? Do you think TV is educational? Do you think that there is too much violence on TV? Do you think that TV is a good thing? If you could design a new television show to boost ratings, what kind of show would it be? How often do you watch TV. What are the advantages of watching TV? What are the disadvantages of watching TV? What do you usually watch on TV? What kind of TV programs do you usually watch? What kind of TV shows do you not like? Why? What TV commercials do you like? Which ones do you hate? What TV commercials do you like? Why? What's your favorite commercial? What is the purpose of advertising a product? Do you think there are subliminal messages? When you drive or walk, do you get distracted by advertisements on buses or billboards? When you go food shopping, do you buy foods you've seen in TV commercials? Do you like the _____ advertisements? If not, why? (You can substitute any company's name.) Do you think it's right to see naked women in TV commercials selling beauty products? What types of TV program are there? Which type do you like best? When do you usually watch TV? Do you think that TV makes people lazy? Do you think too much time is spent watching TV? Does TV make a person passive? Does TV take away a person's ability to think for himself or herself? Do you think that TV prevents people from communicating? What do you think of TV shows that are designed to "discover new talent?" If you couldn't watch TV at home but had to stay there, what would you do? Could you live without TV for a week?   Conversation Questions Tell me about...? A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Tell me about something you love. Tell me about something you hate. Tell me about something you really care about. Tell me about someone you dislike. Tell me about a dream you've had. Tell me about a goal you have. Tell me about yourself. Tell me about your childhood. Tell me about something you believe in. Tell me about a place you've visited. Tell me about an accident you've seen. Tell me about a time when you were happy. Tell me about a time when you were sad. Tell me about a time when you were excited. Tell me about a time when you were frightened. Tell me about your favorite pastime. Tell me about chocolate. Tell me about rainy days. Tell me about something beautiful. Tell me about something ugly. Tell me about something delicious. Tell me about something pleasant. Tell me about something boring. Tell me about something with four legs. Tell me about something with a tail. Tell me about something spicy. Tell me about your education. Tell me about your work. Tell me about a teacher you had. Tell me about a boss you had. Tell me about the hardest thing you ever had to do. Tell me about a time you lied. Tell me about something you regret. Tell me about a mistake you made. Tell me about someone in your family. Tell me about your favorite book. Tell me about someone you envy. Tell me about something you've achieved. Tell me about the worst punishment you had when you were a child. Tell me about your first kiss (if it is possible). Tell me about someone you admire. Tell me about the last book you've read / movie you've watched. Tell me about a country or place you would like to visit and why. Tell me about your favourite music / song / band. Tell me about something you would happily do again.   Conversation Questions Terror A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Why do people use terror? What terror actions do you remember? What should be done to prevent terror? Are you afraid of traveling because of terror? Why is terror more used in some countries than others? Do you know of any forms of terror other than bombs? Have you been a victim of terror? Do you think terror is justified? How has airline travel been affected by terrorism? Is violence ever okay? Where were you during the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center buildings in New York City? Are terror tactics ever effective? When? What is the difference between a 'freedom fighter' and a 'terrorist'? Is there a difference? Is it possible for governments to cause terror? If so, give examples.   Conversation Questions Time A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you prefer to show up late or early? What is your busiest day of the week? Do you like to be busy, or do you like to have an easy schedule? What takes up most of your time? Do you think you manage your time wisely? Do you manage time, or does time manage you? What do you do if you show up too early for something? What do you do if you show up too late for something? What do you do if you forget an appointment? Do you spend a lot of time when preparing for something? How much time do you spend sleeping? Do you wish you could sleep more? Does waiting for something bother you? Do you get bored easily? Do you schedule out what you have to do every week? Do you make a schedule for every day? Are you good at getting things done on time? Do you think time moves slowly or quickly? What would you do if you had a few extra hours in a day? Would you rather have more time or more money? In your culture, is it polite to always show up on time, or to show up a little late? How important is time in your culture? Do you think people in America are too concerned with time? What time do you get up in the morning? What time do you go to bed? What time does school start? What time is it? What time do you go to work? What time does you work begin? What time does you work end? What time do you take a bath in the evening? When do you do your homework? What time do you like to get up? What time do you like to go to bed at night? What time do you think high school students should go to bed? What's the most significant time of your life? (Significant for any reason: because you liked it or hated it; because of your profession; because of a relationship; or because it was a turning point in your life) What's your perception of time now? Does it go by slowly or quickly? What does this depend on? Can you do without a watch or a clock? For how long? If you could stop time, what would you do and why? Time and World History If time travel were possible, which period of world history would you like to return to? Why? How far into the future would you like to travel? What do you hope to see? On your time travels, you can take five objects to show people what life is like towards the end of the 20th century. What five objects would you take? Why? Which famous person from the past would you most like to meet? Why? What would you ask this person? How would you spend the time with this person?   Conversation Questions Tipping A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you usually leave a tip? How much are you suppose to tip different people? Is tipping common in your country? Why is it important to leave tips? Can you think of jobs where tipping is an important part of the salary? When are some times you shouldn't leave a tip? When was the last time you left a tip for someone? How much do you usually leave for a tip? Would you leave a tip even if you thought the waiter or waitress didn't seem to work for it? Can you think of some places where tipping is required, not necessary or optional? Do you depend on tips for your income? What is the largest tip you have ever left? What is the largest tip you have ever received? Do you feel uncomfortable leaving tips? Why?   Conversation Questions Traffic Accidents A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Have you ever seen a traffic accident? Have you been involved in a traffic accident? Do you know someone who has been involved in a traffic accident? Have you been injured in a traffic accident? Do you think talking on cell phones can help cause traffic accidents? Do you think a motorcycle rider be required to wear a helmet? Do you think a person should be required to wear a seat belt? What kind of insurance do you have on your car? Have you ever hit an animal at night when you were driving your car? What kind of safety features in a car would help you if you had a traffic accident? Are traffic accidents a major cause of death in your country? Who dies in traffic accidents more? (young, old, etc.?) How can traffic accidents be prevented? What are people not doing that they should to prevent deaths in traffic accidents? What are *you* not doing that you should to prevent deaths in traffic accidents? What should be done in order to prevent traffic congestion in your city? How do you feel about spending time in rush hours?   Conversation Questions Transportation A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Related: Traffic, Travel Are there speed limits in your country? If so, what is the average speed limit? At what age does the average person obtain a driver's license? Can you ride a motorcycle? Do you drive a car often? Do you have a bicycle? If so, when did you get it? How much did it cost? How often do you ride it? What color is it? Do you have a car? If not, does your family have a car? Do you have a driver's license? If so, when did you get it? Do you often ride public transportation during rush hour? Do you often use public transportation? Do you ride a bicycle more than once a week? Do you always wear a seat belt? Even if you are riding in the rear seat? How about on a bus? Does your mother have a driver's license? Have you ever been in a traffic accident? Have you ever been stopped for speeding? (Have you ever gotten a speeding ticket?) Have you ever gotten a parking ticket? Have you ever missed your last train or bus home? If so, how did you get home that night? Have you ever ridden a horse? How about a motorcycle? Have you every carpooled? How do you get to school? How long does it take? How much is the bus fare or the train fare? How do you think countries can reduce congestion on the roads? How many times have you traveled by airplane? How much does gasoline cost is your country? Is parking a problem in your country? (shopping malls, etc) Is there any environmentally-friendly transportation in your area? What are the most annoying bad driving habits of other drivers in your country (/or this country /or compared to this country)? What do you have to do to get a driver's license in your country? Do you think it's a good test? What do you need to do in your country to get a driver's license? What do you think is the most dangerous form of transportation? Why? What do you think is the safest form of transportation? Why? What do you usually do when riding a train or bus? Do you read? Do you sleep? What is the penalty for speeding in your country? What is your favorite kind of car? Why? What is your favorite make of car? Why? What kind of car do you have? What kind of things annoy you about other people's driving? What kind of transportation do you use most often? What's the most readily available form of public transportation where you live? What's your favorite color for a car? What's your favorite form of transportation? When was the last time you rode a bus? Where is a good place to go for a drive? Would you like to go on a cruise? Why or why not? Do you sometimes take a taxi (cab)? How do you "call" a taxi in your country from the side of the road? (ex. raise your hand in the air, etc.) Is it expensive to take a taxi in your country? Are there seat-belts in the taxis? Is it common to give the cab driver a tip? If so, about how much do you give? Does the cab driver open the door for you, or do you open it yourself? Is it more appropriate to sit in the front or back of the taxi? How important do you think it is to use public transportation? Do you think that governments should encourage public transportation more? Do you think city governments should discourage use of privately driven cars within city limits? Do you have good public transportation where you live? How could public transportation in your city be improved? Do you think that we ought to be obligated to drive electrical- and solar-powered vehicles? Is the public transportation in your city efficient? Is public transportation in your city too expensive? If public transportation were free, would you use it more? Do you think that your city government maintains the public transportation well? In other words, are the buses and trains kept clean? Do you feel safe when you use public transportation? Do you feel safe going into the subway/metro/underground at all hours?   Conversation Questions Trauma A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. How can you help someone who has suffered if you are not a professional counsellor? When should we seek professional counseling help? Can trauma be mental and physical? Do you think disasters can help build a community? What are some ways of helping people who are suffering from PTSD? What is the biggest disaster that has ever struck your country? Do you know anyone who's ever been in a disaster? What is the most stressful or traumatizing situation you've ever been in? What is Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome? What causes it? What are the symptoms? What are some situations that cause PTSD? What are some ways of dealing with it? Have you ever been in a traumatic situation? How can you avoid it? Why is it difficult to deal with? Why is it important to deal with it? How does it affect your lifestyle? How does it affect the lifestyle of those around you?   Conversation Questions Travel A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Have you ever been abroad? Where have you been? Are you planning on going anywhere for your next vacation? If so, where? Who with? How long will you stay? Are you afraid of going abroad alone? Could you live in another country for the rest of your life? Describe the most interesting person you met on one of your travels. Describe your best trip. Describe your worst trip. Did your class in high school go on a trip together? If so, where did you go? How long did you stay? How did you get there? Do you have a driver's license? Do you like to travel with children? Why or why not? Do you like to travel with your mother? Why or why not? Do you prefer summer vacations or winter vacations? Do you prefer to travel alone or in a group? Why? Do you prefer to travel by train, bus, plane or ship? Do you prefer traveling by car or by plane? Have you ever been in a difficult situation while traveling? Have you ever been on an airplane? How many times? What airlines have you flown with? Have you ever been to a foreign country? Have you ever gotten lost while traveling? If so, tell about it. Have you ever hitchhiked? If so, how many times? Have you ever taken a package tour? How do you spend your time when you are on holiday and the weather is bad? How many countries have you been to? How many states? How many times have you traveled abroad? How much luggage do you usually carry? If you traveled to South America, what countries would like to visit? If you went to ___(Insert a country name)__, what kind of souvenirs would you buy? If you were going on a camping trip for a week, what 10 things would you bring? Explain why. What are some countries that you would never visit? Why would you not visit them? What are some things that you always take with you on a trip? What countries would you like to visit? Why? What countries would you most like to visit? What countries would you not like to visit? Why? What country do you most want to visit? Why? Do you think you will ever go there? What do you need before you can travel to another country? What is the most interesting city to visit in your country? What is the most interesting souvenir that you have ever bought on one of your holidays? What languages can you speak? What place do you want to visit someday? What was the most interesting place you have ever visited? What's the most beautiful place you've ever been to? When was the last time your traveled? When you are on a long car journey do you play games or sing songs to occupy your time? What kind of games? What songs? Where are you going to go the next time you travel? When are you going to go? Who are you going to go with? How long are you going to go for? What are you going to do there? What kind of things do you think you will buy? Where did you go on your last vacation? How did you go? Who did you go with? Where did you spend your last vacation? Your summer vacation? Your Christmas vacation? Where will you go on your next vacation? Would you like to take a cruise? Where to? With who? Do you prefer traveling on a hovercraft or a ferry? Would you prefer to stay at a hotel/motel or camp while on vacation? Would you rather visit another country or travel within your own country? Would you rather go to a place where there are a lot of people or to a place where there are few people? Do you find more fulfillment from your leisure activities including vacations than from your job? Do you think the type of vacation one takes reflects one's social status? What are popular tourist destinations in your country? Have you been to any of them? Which would you recommend if you could only recommend one? Why? Do you prefer active or relaxing holidays? Why? Which is better, package tour or a tour you organize and book yourself? Why do you travel? Why do people travel? Would you like to go back to the same place? Did you find anything of particular interest? / Did you get attracted to anything special? What are some benefits of travel? Why do people travel? What is your favorite mode of travel? Have you travelled in business class? When you were a child did your family take a vacation every year? Do you prefer a budget or first class hotel? Why? Do you travel with a lot of baggage or do you like to travel light? What is your favorite method of travel at your destination? Train? Bus? Boat? Bicycle? Backpacking? What is the best kind of holiday for different ages of people? i.e. Children, teenagers, adults, elderly people Do you think it is a good idea to travel with friends, or alone? How about with your family? If you had $100,000, where would you go on holiday? How about if you had $10,000? What about $1,000? Which countries have you travelled to? Do you prefer hot countries or cool countries when you go on holiday Who makes the decisions when your family decides to go on holiday If you could choose one place to go this weekend, where would it be? (could be anywhere in the world) Has the airline ever lost your luggage? What happened? On long flights do you usually walk around the plane to avoid health problems? Have you ever read an interesting question in an in-flight magazine? What was it? Is there any difference between young tourists and adult tourists? Do you think tourism will harm the earth? Conversation Questions Tsunami A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Language What language is this word? Why is this word used internationally? What is the difference between a "tsunami" and a "tidal wave"? What is another word for tsunami? What is the origin of the word tsunami? What does it mean? Assistance What could your class do to help victims of a tsunami? How can people help victims of a tsunami? Have you ever volunteered for a group that helps victims of a natural disasters? What are some groups or organizations that help the victims of natural disasters? What outside aid might come in cases of a tsunami emergency? How might people be educated to understand the dangers of a tsunami? What methods might be used to help family get back together after a tsunami? To identify corpses? How might a family prepare for a tsunami emergency? Should assistance in preparing for disasters such as typhoons have priority over an early warning system for tsunami? Emergency Why is a tsunami an emergency? Why is a tsunami so dangerous? How should countries respond to natural disasters? What are some essential things that are needed after a natural disaster? Is the newspaper (tv) always correct? Why is it so hard to get accurate information after a tsunami? Personal Have you ever experienced a tsunami? Do you know anyone who has experienced the tsunami disaster? Do you know someone who has been affected by a tsunami? Has a tsunami ever hit the area where you live? Tsunami What causes a tsunami? Is there an early warning system for tsunamis in the area you live? What are some areas of the world that have many tsunamis? How do you know that a tsunami is going to hit soon? How fast do tsunamis travel? Can you surf on a tsunami? What are you suppose to do when you know a tsunami is coming? Why does the sea water level go down very low right before a tsunami hits? What are the immediate health effects of tsunami? What are the secondary (short term) health effects of tsunami? What are the long term health effects of tsunami? When do you know it is safe to return to your home? What kind of ecological damage do tsunamis cause? Conversation Questions Moving to the United States A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What are some expectations you have about living in the US? What is your worst fear about moving to the US. Are you concerned that you might be discriminated against? Why do you think discrimination exists? Have you ever experienced discrimination on a personal level? What are some expectations you have for your children moving to the US? What do you think is the most serious problem for you in your move to the US? What are some things you can do to make your move easier? Do you think it would be easier if you were moving there permanently? What states have you visited? Which one did you like the best and why? Which one do you want to visit next and why? What is the capital of the United States? What is the coldest state? What is the warmest state? Name three states that touch Canada. Name three states that touch Mexico. Name three states that on the Atlantic Coast. Name three states on the Pacific Coast. Name one state that has hurricanes. Name three states where it snows. Name two states that have the Rocky Mountains. Name two states that have the Appalachian Mountains. Name a state that has the Cascade Mountains. Name a state on the Gulf of Mexico. What is the name of the mountain range in California? Name two states that touch the Great Lakes. What is the highest mountain range in the United States? Conversation Questions Volunteer Work A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What is a volunteer project? Why do people volunteer? Would you like to work as a volunteer? Is volunteering worth the time it takes? Why would you enjoy volunteering? Do you know anyone who has done volunteer work? Where and why did they volunteer? Could you and would you like to work as a volunteer in the same way? What could you do to help if you had no money? What is volunteer work? What is your definition of "volunteer work"? What is the dictionary definition of "volunteer"? Have you ever benefitted by someone's volunteer work? What is volunteer screening? Have you ever done any volunteer work? What organizations do volunteer work? What kind of work do they do? What situations need volunteer workers? Can you think of different types of volunteer work? Can you think of examples of professional and amateur volunteering? Have you and your family ever worked on a volunteer project together? What did you do? What are volunteer activities that people do? Can you think of ways to help people who need help? Have you ever done any volunteer work? Did you do it alone, with friends or with your family? Did you make new friends while you were doing the work? Have you ever volunteered to help victims of natural disasters? Why? Would you volunteer to help people outside your community? Would you volunteer to help people outside your country? Have you ever volunteered to help victims of natural disasters? Why or why not? What are some organizations through which you can volunteer? Why benefits do you get personally by volunteering? How did you feel about volunteering before you started work? How did you feel during the work? How did you feel after you had finished the work? What are some organizations through which you can volunteer? What kind of work did they do? What are some websites maintained by volunteer organizations? Have you read a book about volunteer work? Can you list some reasons why people volunteer? How can volunteers benefit from their work? Why would you enjoy certain types of volunteer work? What types of volunteer work would be unpleasant for you? What benefits other than personal satisfaction could you personally get by volunteering? Is volunteering worth the cost to you? In what situations and at what times in your life could you afford to volunteer? Do you know anyone who has done volunteer work? Where did they work and why did they volunteer? Is there a history of volunteerism in your country? Can you find information about volunteering in your country and two other countries? Can a volunteer be treated the same as paid staff? Should you volunteer if your main reason is to benefit monetarily or materialistically? (ie. Getting first pick at donated merchandise. Underpricing merchandise for your friends or family.) Conversation Questions War A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Do you want to become a soldier? Is being a soldier compulsory in your country? Would you volunteer to become a soldier? Why does your country have an army? Which army would you join if you had to? Will you be a conscientious objector? Which job would you have in the army? Is having an army a waste of money in your country? Which jobs do soldiers do? Would you fight for another country other than your own? How can countries prevent conflicts when other nations are not trying to bring peace? Do you think women should be soldiers? Is there a special day to honor veterans in your country? Have you been in the army? Have you ever lived in a country at war? What is military service? Is it compulsory in your country? Do you know of any countries where military service is compulsory? Do many young people in your country join the army? Why/why not? Do you know anyone who is in the army or who has been? Tell me about him/her. What do you think of people whose job is in the army? Do you think soldiers are well paid? If you were the partner of a soldier who had just been sent to fight in a war, what would you include in his luggage? What things would you like to send your partner in the army? What do you think soldiers in miss the most? What do you think soldiers in find the most difficult to get used to? What do you think is the average age soldiers in the world? Why do you think people want to become soldiers? Has anyone in your family ever fought in a war? Conversation Questions Weather A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What's your favorite season and why? Are there any special traditions associated with different season in your country? Have you ever been caught in bad weather? If so, what did you do? What crops are produced in which seasons in your country? Do you think weather patterns are changing? If so, why do you think this is? Do you have many disasters in you country which are caused by weather? Do you know any interesting myths or stories about weather? Do you like snow? Which do you like better hot weather or cold weather? Do you have snow in your country? (Do you have hail?) What month gets the most rain in your country? What month gets the most rain around here?) About how many inches of rain does your hometown get per year? What's the average temperature in your country in the summer time? How about in the winter? Do you get tornadoes where you are from? Do you get typhoons? Do you have frost? Do you think that in recent years we are losing our four distinct seasons? What kind of climate do you prefer when choosing a place to go on vacation? What is the best season to get married? Can you think of other activities in which one season may be better than another? What are the seasons? What is the hottest season? What is the coldest season? In your opinion, which season is the most beautiful? Which season is the most comfortable for you? Why do you think spring (or another season) is the most beautiful season? Have you ever been stranded in a snowstorm? What did you do? Do you think weather affects the way people feel? How can extreme weather conditions affect the economy and social life in countries? Do you think weather patterns are changing? If so what do you think is causing these changes? What are the different kinds of weather? What is the weather like in your country for each season? What are the different kinds of weather? What is the weather like in your country for each season? How does weather affect your attitude? How does weather affect your lifestyle? What is the relationship between weather and natural disasters? How to you depend on the weather reports on TV? How does TV secure weather reports? Why is it important to know future weather conditions in advanced? When would knowing tomorrow's weather change you plans? Have you ever checked the weather for your city on the Internet? What time of year is the best weather where you live? Have you ever seen snow? Have you ever been in a typhoon? Where do you get your weather information? What is your favorite winter activity? What is the hottest natural temperature (not in a sauna) you have experienced? Where and when was it and what did it feel like? Conversation Questions What if...? A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. If you had only 24 hours to live, what would you do? If a classmate asked you for the answer to a question during an exam while the teacher was not looking, what would you do? If someone's underwear was showing, would you tell them? If the whole world were listening, what would you say? If one song were to describe your life, what song would it be? If you bumped your car into another car, but nobody saw you do it, would you leave your name and address? If you could ask God any one question, what would it be? If you could be a bird, what would you choose to be? If you could be a plant, what would you choose to be? If you could be a super-hero, which one would you be? If you could be an animal, any animal, what animal would you be and why? If you could be an animal, what would you be? If you could be an animal, what would you choose to be? If you could be another man or woman for a day, who would you choose? If you could be another person for a day, who would you be? If you could be invisible for a day what would you do and why? If you could change one thing about your spouse or significant other, what would it be? If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be? If you could choose how you were going to die, what would you choose your death to be? If you could choose to live on a different planet, which one would you choose? If you could commit any crime and get away with it, what would you do? If you could date a celebrity, who would you choose? If you could have only one food for the rest of your life (assuming that this strange situation would not affect your health), which food would you choose? If you could hear what someone is thinking for a day, who would you choose? If you could live anywhere, where would you live? If you could meet any famous person, dead or alive, who would it be and why? If you could speak any other language (besides English) which language would you like to speak? If you could spend a day with any celebrity, who would it be and what questions would you ask that person? If you could take a vacation anywhere in the world for any length of time, where would you go? if you could go anywhere in the world for a holiday, where would you go? If you could travel back in time, where would you go? If you didn't have enough money to get the bus home what would you do? If you discovered a new island, what would you name it and why? If you got arrested for murder, whom would you call with your telephone call from prison? And why? If you had an accident and you had to be at home to recover for a long time, what would you do to relieve the boredom? What would you do if you were at home at night, alone, and you heard a noise in your flat/house that seemed to be footsteps? Would you stay calm or would you panic? What would you do if you found the wallet of your next-door neighbor who you hated? If you could have any car you wanted, which car would you choose? Would it be practical or flashy? If your car broke down on the motorway, what would you do? Would you try to fix it yourself? If you could solve the problem of hunger in the third world or repair the ozone, which would you do? If you could stop a bad habit that you have, what would you stop? If you could go back to any moment in history, where would you go? If you could be famous (a household name), what would you like to be famous for? If you were on holiday and you lost your passport, would you know what to do? If you were offered a job in another part of the country, would you be willing to take the job, assuming that the pay is very good? If your partner were offered a job in another part of the country, which was well paid, would you be willing to change places? If you were in the bank and somebody started to hold up the bank, what would you do? How would you react?If you had one wish, what would you wish for? If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, which song would you choose? If only one book existed, which book would you like it to be? If you could do any job, what would you like to do? If you could move anywhere, where would you like to live? If you found a suitcase full of $1,000,000, what would you do? If you found a wallet with £1,000 in it, what would you do? If you had 25-hour days (while everyone else continued to have 24-hour days), what would you do with the extra time? If you had one wish, what would it be? If you had the opportunity to be different, what would you change? If you had time machine, where would you go and why? If you had to choose between a wonderful romantic relationship that would end after only a year, or a so-so relationship that would last your entire life, which one would you choose? If you had to choose between love and no money or money and no love for the rest of your life, which would you choose? If you had to choose, would you give up your sight or your hearing? If you received lottery tickets as a gift at the office party, and you won $30,000.00, would you share the winnings with the person that gave you the gift? If you saw a robbery, would you report it? If you saw your zipper was down and people had noticed, what would you do? If you speak two languages and your spouse (husband or wife) speaks only one, will you raise your children to be bilingual? If you were a candy, what candy would you be? If you were a monster, what monster would you be? If you were a toy, what toy would you be? If you were abducted by aliens, would you tell anybody? Why or why not? If you were American/Chinese/Mexican, how would your life be different? If you were asked to choose which time you would like to live in, which century would you choose? If you were asked to speak to a graduating class, what would you say? If you were given a chance to go to the moon, would you go? Why or why not? If you were given a choice between being given great wisdom or great wealth, which would you choose? If you were given an opportunity to be born again, in which country would you like to be born? If you were given an opportunity to be born again, what kind of person would you choose to be? If you were given one million dollars, what would you buy? If you were given the opportunity to be born again, how would you change how you lived? If you were given the opportunity to mold your partner the way you wanted, how would you mold your partner? If you were given three wishes, what would you wish for? If you were God, how would you transmit or let people know your message? If you were going to a deserted island and could only take three things with you, what would you take? Why? If you were marooned on a desert island with one other person how would you survive? If you were invited to have tea with the Queen of England, what would say? if you were the leader of your country, what would you change? If you were the President, what problem or concern would you work on first? If you were to be stranded on an island, which three things would you bring with you? If you were told that you were going to die tomorrow, what would you do today? If you were walking through the forest and you suddenly saw a tiger, what would you do? If you woke up suddenly because your house was on fire, which three things would you save as you ran outside? If you worked for a store and you saw another employee steal something, would you tell the manager? If your friend could not have a child, would you carry her child for her? If you saw someone in public with toilet paper stuck to their shoe, would you tell them? If you could change one thing that you did that was bad,perhaps a crime or some wrong you did to another person,what would it be? What kinds of problems would you have if you had to always tell the truth? You were told you had a terminal illness and had six months to live. What three things would be most important for you to do? Your doctor has just told you that you have a month to live, what would you do in that stretch of time? If your doctor told you that you had only one month to live, how would you use the time left? What if you have to sacrifice yourself for the sake of saving your mother? What would you do? If you could live perfectly well without sleeping, if you had no need to sleep at all, how would you spend all your nights? If you could be married with a foreign (man/woman), how do you think your life would change? If you had a chance to choose a poor (man/woman) as a (husband/wife) from your culture or a rich (man/woman) from another culture, which would you choose? If you got into traffic accident, what would you do at first? If you could be God, what would you do for humanity? If you could receive praise from a person, what person would it be? What kind of praise would you like to receive? If you were a color, what color would you be and why? If you could be a crayon, What color and Why? If you were a fruit, what fruit would you be and why? If you had time machine and you could be transported to any time, the past or the future. What time would you choose? If you could ask an All-Knowing Being one question about life, what would it be? If you could have dinner with anyone (dead OR alive), who would you choose, and why? If you could live forever on earth as it is now, would you? Why or why not? If you could have a free chip put in your brain so that you would automatically be able to speak and understand another language besides English, which language would it be and why? If you were the Queen or King of Britain for a day, what would you do? If you were the President of the USA for a day, what would you do? If you had to spend 100 days on a desert island, what five things would you take with you and why? If you were down on your luck, would you seek the advice of a palm reader, You can ask current event questions using this pattern. However, depending on the class, you need to be careful about what kind of questions you ask. If the U.S. attacked North Korea, what would happen? What would you do if you lost your bathing suit while you were swimming? Imagine you woke up one morning to find you had switched bodies with someone you know. What would you do? If you could have any one supernatural power (flying, being invisible), which would you choose and why? If you could say a sentence which the whole world could hear, what would you say? If you were a loin would you like to eat a man? If you could choose to live anywhere in the world where would you prefer to live? If your spouse cheated on you, what would you do? If you were given a choice to live as long as you want, how long would you like to live? If we could live for 300 years, what would the life be like? If you could not differentiate beautiful from ugly, how would choose your spouse? (Perhaps not an appropriate questions, but it was submitted.) What if your cell phone fell in the toilet, what would you do? NOTE THAT CAME WITH THE SUBMITTED QUESTIONS: This happened to one of my students.... we had fun with this question   Conversation Questions Wishes A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What are three wishes you have for your life? If you could choose only one of these to come true, which would it be and why? What would be some positive and negative consequences (results) if each of these wishes came true? What other wishes do you have for yourself? What wishes do your parents have for you? Are they the same? What wishes do you have for your country? For your family members? For your classmates? For your roommates? How have your wishes changed since you were young? When you were young, how did you answer this questions: "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Have you ever had a wish come true? Was it what you always wanted? Why do we wish for things we don't have?   Conversation Questions Would you ever...? A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Note: You can follow up most of these questions with a why or why not or with the question "In what situation(s) would you consider doing so?" Would you ever adopt a child? Would you ever give your child up for adoption? Would you ever cheat on your husband/wife? Would you ever consider being a criminal? Would you ever consider being a farmer? Would you ever consider getting plastic surgery? Would you ever consider going bungee jumping? Would you ever consider going skydiving? Would you ever defy your boss if he/she asked you to do something you didn't agree with? Would you ever donate a kidney or another vital organ? Would you ever donate blood? Would you ever drive a car if you had forgotten your license at home? Would you ever drive at night with only one headlight? Would you ever drive your car with a flat tire? Would you ever eat rat meat? Would you ever eat rice with sugar? Would you ever feed the animals at the zoo? Would you ever get hair implants? Would you ever give money to a charity? Would you ever give money to a panhandler? (a beggar) Would you ever go skinny dipping? (swim naked) Would you ever lie to your children? ... to your husband/wife? ... your boyfriend/girlfriend? Would you ever lie to help a friend? Would you ever marry someone your parents didn't approve of? Would you ever paint your living room black? Would you ever pick up a hitchhiker? Would you ever slap someone for something they said? Would you ever smoke in a no smoking area? Would you ever spank your child? Would you ever steal from your family or friends? Would you ever "take a bullet" for someone else? Would you ever walk downtown without any shoes on your feet? Would you ever walk home alone at night? ... in this country? ... in your own country? Would you eat a live cricket for $500? If not, how much would it take? Would you ever consider killing yourself? Would you ever eat human flesh? Would you ever resort to cannibalism if it were the only option left to stay alive? Would you divorce your husband/wife if your favorite celebrity wanted to marry you? Would you name your children after favorite characters in movies or books? Would you do so if the names were strange, as in science fiction movies or books? Would you ever pull over and help someone on the side of the road? Do you think this could be dangerous to do? Would you ever say yes to someone even if you meant no? Would you ever donate an organ in order to save other person's life? Would you ever consider plastic surgery if a friend suggested it to you? Would you ever consider writing your own book? Would you ever try staying in the jungle for a month? Would you ever consider surrogacy? Would you ever consider being a surrogate mother yourself? Would you ever consider egg or sperm donation? Would you ever pretend to be someone (like a policeman, or a teacher, or a survey taker) just to get something that you wanted?   Conversation Questions Are you good at...? A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Are you good at climbing trees? Are you good at singing? Are you good at speaking English? Are you good at computer games? Are you good at playing the piano? Are you good at playing dodgeball? Are you good at playing basketball? Are you good at playing volleyball? Are you good at speaking English? Are you good at computer games? Are you good at Tetris? Are you good at cooking noodles? Are you good at math? Are you good at telling jokes? Are you good at making people smile? Are you good at writing in your first language? Are you good at solving problems? Are you good at drawing pictures? Are you good at art? Are you good at music? Are you good at imitating others? Are you good at reading maps? Are you good at whistling? Are you good at remembering song lyrics? Are you good at fixing things? Are you good at sending text messages? Are you good at making new friends? Are you good at finding places?   Conversation Questions Days of the Week A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What day is it today? What day was it yesterday? What day is tomorrow? What day is the day after tomorrow? What day was it yesterday? What day was the day before yesterday? Which days of the week do you have an English class? What is your last working day of the week? What is your first working day of the week? On which day do you start work again? What day of the week is the hardest for you to spell? What days of the week are the weekend? What is the date today? What was the date yesterday? What will be the date tommorrow?   Conversation Questions How do you...? A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. How do you use the phone? How do you make ice? How do you get dressed? How do you mail a letter? How do you play basketball? How do you climb a tree? How do you buy new shoes? How do you go to sleep? How do you send e-mail? How do you ride a bicycle? How do you go fishing? How do you enjoy a day at the beach? How do you wash a car? How do you do laundry? How do you set the table for a meal? How do you kill a cockroach? How do you lose weight? How do you shave? How do you take a shower? How do you iron your clothes? How do you make your house cooler? How do you get a driver's license? How do you know if someone really loves you? How do you succeed in school? How do you write a resume? How do you treat a cold? How do you wash dishes? How do you take care of a plant? How do you take care of a goldfish? How do you play tag? How do you raise a child? How do you play volleyball? How do you play golf? How do you play hide-and-seek? How do you make someone fall in love with you? How do you stop smoking? How do you advance at work? How do you improve your vocabulary? How do you improve your pronunciation? How do you sell your house? How do you book a hotel room? How do you prevent or treat pimples? How do you take a photo? How do you safely cross the street? How do you build a fire? How do you use a calculator? How do you make coffee? How do you build a sandcastle? How do you plant vegetables? How do you shave? How do you prepare for a wedding? How do you cheer up a friend if he or she got dumped by his or her girlfriend or boyfriend? How do you cheer up a friend if he or she failed an important test? How do you cheer up a friend if he or she is overwhelmed by how much he or she has to do? How do you cheer up a friend if he or she is having a hard time finding a job after graduation? How do you pray? How do you learn a new language? How do you love your pet? How do you thank your parents? How do you control your anger? How do you judge a person? How do you serve humanity? How do earn your living? How do you reach your office? How do you enjoy your holidays? How do you use a microwaves oven? How do you send a text message from a cell phone? How do you use a DVD player? How do you change a tire on a bicycle? How do you change a tire on a car? How do you stop hiccupping? How do you get rid of a headache? How do you boil an egg? How do you marry a millionaire? How do you make a mountain out of a molehill? How do you cram for an exam? How do you find the North Star (Polaris)? How do you make a snowman? How do you make a sandwich? How do you tie your shoes?   Conversation Questions Months of the year A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. What month is it now? What month is it next month? What month is last month? Which month is your birthday? What month is Christmas? What month is Easter? What month do you go on a holiday? Which month is the hardest for you to spell? Which month is the hottest? Which month is the coldest? Which month do you like best? Which month does summer begin? Which month does winter begin? Which month does your school begin? Which month does your school end?