Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Beijing” ESL Discussion Questions

I. Introduction to Beijing
1. What is Beijing known for?
2. How large is the city of Beijing?
3. Can you name some historical landmarks in Beijing?
4. What is the capital city of China?
5. What makes Beijing special among other cities in China?

II. Historical Sites
6. What is the Forbidden City?
7. Have you heard of the Great Wall? Where is it?
8. Can you name a famous temple in Beijing?
9. What is Tiananmen Square famous for?
10. How old is the city of Beijing?

III. Culture and Tradition
11. What are some traditional dishes from Beijing?
12. Can you name a popular festival in Beijing?
13. What is Peking opera?
14. How do people in Beijing celebrate Chinese New Year?
15. What traditional crafts come from Beijing?

IV. Daily Life in Beijing
16. What do people in Beijing do for fun?
17. What kind of public transport is in Beijing?
18. What are hutongs?
19. How do people in Beijing typically dress?
20. What do children in Beijing do after school?

V. Beijing’s Economy
21. What industries is Beijing known for?
22. Is Beijing a good place to start a business?
23. What are some of the biggest companies in Beijing?
24. How does Beijing contribute to China’s economy?
25. What products are made in Beijing?

VI. Education in Beijing
26. Can you name a famous university in Beijing?
27. How do schools in Beijing differ from those in your country?
28. What subjects are most popular in Beijing universities?
29. Do many international students study in Beijing?
30. What opportunities are there for learning Mandarin in Beijing?

VII. Tourism in Beijing
31. What is the best time of year to visit Beijing?
32. What souvenirs would you buy from Beijing?
33. Are there any parks in Beijing?
34. What is a must-see place for tourists in Beijing?
35. How tourist-friendly is Beijing?

VIII. Modern Life and Technology
36. How has technology changed daily life in Beijing?
37. What are some popular apps used in Beijing?
38. Is Beijing considered a tech-savvy city?
39. How can tourists use technology to navigate Beijing?
40. What are smart cities, and is Beijing one?

IX. Environmental Issues
41. What is Beijing doing to combat pollution?
42. How does the weather in Beijing affect its residents?
43. What are some green initiatives in Beijing?
44. How can tourists be environmentally friendly in Beijing?
45. Is air quality in Beijing improving?

X. Food and Cuisine
46. What is Beijing Duck?
47. Where can you find the best street food in Beijing?
48. What is a hot pot, and is it popular in Beijing?
49. Are there vegetarian options in Beijing cuisine?
50. How is tea part of the culture in Beijing?

XI. Nightlife and Entertainment
51. What can you do in Beijing at night?
52. Are there any famous theaters in Beijing?
53. Where can you listen to live music in Beijing?
54. What kinds of sports are popular in Beijing?
55. How do young people in Beijing spend their weekends?

XII. Language and Communication
56. What language is spoken in Beijing?
57. Are English signs common in Beijing?
58. How do you say “hello” in Mandarin?
59. What are some basic Mandarin phrases a tourist should know?
60. How do residents in Beijing view foreigners trying to speak Mandarin?