The list of discussion questions on this page is part of a publication called Number One ESL Discussion Book & Reference Guide.
Family Structure and Dynamics
1. Do you have a large family – more than ten people, or a small family – fewer than ten people? Do you think it’s better to be part of a large family? If yes, why? If not, why not?
2. How often does your family get together? What do you do when you’re together?
3. In some countries, children move out of the house when they graduate high school. In other countries they live together with their parents even after they get married. What is the custom in your country? Do you think it is good the way it is?
4. Are marriages in your country arranged by the parents? Do you think it can be a good thing if marriages are arranged by parents? Why or why not?
5. How common is it for people in your culture not to get married? Do many people get divorced? Is it expensive to get divorced in your country?
6. In many families, both parents have to work. How can this be a problem? Is it common for both parents to work in your country? If both parents work, where do the children go after school?
7. In some homes, everybody helps with the chores, including the children. How does it work in your household?
Relationships and Dating
8. Do you, or did you need your parents’ permission to go out with a boyfriend or girlfriend? How important is it in your culture to get the blessing of the parents before getting married?
9. If one person asks another person on a date in your culture, what do they usually say? How does the other person respond when they agree? How do they respond when they don’t want to go on a date?
Friendship Dynamics
10. How often do you get together with your friends? What do you like to do with your friends?
11. How long have you known most of your friends?
12. Who is your best friend? Where did you meet?
Advice and Support
13. If you need advice, who do you usually ask? How often do your friends ask you for advice? Do family members come to you for advice?
Extended Family
14. Do you have cousins who are the same age as you are? Are you friends with your cousins?
15. How often do you chat with your grandparents about their youth, or when they were young adults? Do you share any interests or hobbies with your uncles or aunts, or with other extended family members?