Language Learning

The list of discussion questions on this page is part of a publication called Number One ESL Discussion Book & Reference Guide.

1. What is your first language? How many languages do you speak? If you can speak another language, how did you learn this language? Do most people where you live speak more than one language?

2. How often do you study English? Do you only study English in class or do you also study on your own? How many hours per week do you spend studying English?

3. If you want to improve your English to an intermediate or advanced level, what would you need to do? How much time do you think you need to reach the next level?

4. How often do you need to speak English in your current job? How often do you need to have conversations on the phone in English? How often do you need to write in English in your current job? How often do you need to read English documents or material?

5. Which do you prefer for language classes: groups of five or more students, or one-on-one classes? Please explain your choice.

6. What are some effective language learning strategies that have worked well for you?

7. Have you ever experienced a language barrier while traveling or living abroad? How did you overcome it?

8. How important is cultural immersion in language learning? Have you ever spent time in an environment where people only spoke and understood English? How difficult was it for you to express yourself?

9. Can you recall a memorable experience you had while practicing a new language with native speakers?

10. What challenges do you think adults face when learning a new language compared to children?

11. There are four main language learning styles: visual (graphics, symbols, charts), auditory (listening to information), reading and writing (worksheets, written text), and kinesthetic (relating to movement or sensation). What language learning styles do you prefer?

12. What advice would you give to someone who is struggling to learn a new language?

13. Can you share a funny or embarrassing language learning moment? (Where and when did this happen? Who was with you? What happened?)

14. How do you think being bilingual or multilingual influences cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills?

15. Have you ever used language learning apps or online platforms? Which ones do you find most helpful?

16. Do you read or watch English language content on the Internet? How often do you watch TV programs in another language? How about movies? Do you ever read books, magazines or newspapers that are in another language?

17. How do you think cultural differences impact language learning? Do you know how languages are taught in other countries?

18. Can you share a story about a time when knowing a second or foreign language helped you in a professional or personal setting? (Where were you? Who was with you? What was the problem?)

19. How do you balance learning multiple languages simultaneously?

20. Do you think there are any disadvantages to being multilingual? If so, what are they?

21. How do you think globalization has affected the importance of learning different languages? What language other than English would you consider learning? Would you learn this language for professional or personal reasons?

22. How do you think language learning contributes to cultural understanding and appreciation?

23. What role do you think formal education plays in language acquisition compared to informal learning methods?

24. If you become an advanced level English speaker, would you get another job? Will it make your current job easier? What other jobs would you be able to do if you improve your English?

25. Would you consider moving to another country if your English abilities were good enough? If yes, to what country would you consider moving?

Number One ESL Discussion Book & Reference Guide: CONTENTS