Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Mountains” ESL Discussion Questions

I. Exploring Mountains
1. Have you ever climbed a mountain? Which one?
2. What is the tallest mountain you know?
3. Why do people like to climb mountains?
4. What equipment do you need to climb a mountain?
5. What is the best season to go mountain climbing?

II. Mountains Around the World
6. Can you name three famous mountains in the world?
7. Where is Mount Everest located?
8. What is a mountain range?
9. Which mountain range is the longest?
10. Are there any mountains in your country? If yes, what are they called?

III. The Benefits of Mountains
11. How do mountains benefit the environment?
12. Why are mountains important for tourism?
13. Can you think of any sports that are played on mountains?
14. How do mountains affect the weather?
15. Do mountains have an effect on agriculture?

IV. The Dangers of Mountains
16. What are some dangers of climbing mountains?
17. Have you heard of avalanches? What are they?
18. Why is it harder to breathe at high altitudes?
19. What is altitude sickness?
20. How can climbers stay safe on mountains?

V. Mountain Wildlife
21. What kind of animals live in the mountains?
22. Can you name a plant that grows on mountains?
23. How do animals adapt to life in the mountains?
24. Are there any endangered species that live in the mountains?
25. What is the impact of human activities on mountain wildlife?

VI. Environmental Concerns
26. How does climate change affect mountains?
27. What is deforestation and how does it impact mountains?
28. How can we protect mountain environments?
29. Are there any organizations that work to save mountains?
30. What can tourists do to reduce their impact on mountains?

VII. Mountains in Culture and Religion
31. Are mountains important in your culture?
32. Can you name a mountain that is considered holy?
33. How do mountains appear in myths and legends?
34. Do you know any stories about mountains from your culture?
35. How have mountains inspired artists and writers?

VIII. Mountain Adventures
36. What is a famous mountain climbing adventure you know?
37. Would you like to go on a mountain expedition?
38. What is the difference between hiking and mountaineering?
39. Have you heard of anyone famous for climbing mountains?
40. What would you pack for a mountain adventure?

IX. Mountain Geography
41. How are mountains formed?
42. What is the difference between a hill and a mountain?
43. What are the different types of mountains?
44. Why do some mountains have snow on their peaks?
45. How do mountains affect rivers and lakes?

X. Mountain Climbing Experiences
46. Would you prefer to climb a mountain alone or with a group?
47. What is the highest place you have ever been to?
48. How do you train for mountain climbing?
49. Have you ever faced any challenges while climbing?
50. What would you like to tell someone who has never climbed a mountain?

XI. Mountains in Education and Research
51. Why do scientists study mountains?
52. What can we learn from mountains?
53. Are there any famous mountain research institutes?
54. How do mountains help us understand Earth’s history?
55. What subjects do you need to study to become a mountain researcher?

XII. Future of Mountains
56. How might mountains change in the future?
57. What is the future of mountain tourism?
58. How can we ensure mountains will be there for future generations?
59. Do you think more mountains will become popular tourist destinations?
60. What do you think will be the biggest challenge for mountains in the future?