Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Politics” ESL Discussion Questions

I. Understanding Politics

1. What does the word “politics” mean to you?
2. Why do you think politics is important in our lives?
3. Can you name a political leader you admire?
4. How do you feel about discussing politics with friends?
5. What is the role of a government in society?

II. Political Systems

6. What is a democracy?
7. How is a monarchy different from a democracy?
8. Can you explain what a dictatorship is?
9. What are some advantages of a democratic system?
10. How do elections work in your country?

III. Political Parties

11. What is a political party?
12. Can you name some political parties in your country?
13. How do political parties influence elections?
14. Do you think it is important to belong to a political party?
15. What do you think about the idea of independent candidates?

IV. Voting and Elections

16. Why is voting important?
17. How do you feel about the voting process in your country?
18. What age do people have to be to vote in your country?
19. Have you ever voted in an election? Why or why not?
20. What issues are most important to you when you vote?

V. Current Events

21. What recent political event have you heard about?
22. How do you get news about politics?
23. Do you think social media affects politics? How?
24. What is your opinion on political protests?
25. How do you feel about political debates on TV?

VI. Political Ideologies

26. What is a political ideology?
27. Can you explain the difference between liberal and conservative views?
28. How do you feel about socialism?
29. What do you think about capitalism?
30. Which political ideology do you agree with the most?

VII. Rights and Responsibilities

31. What are some rights you think everyone should have?
32. What responsibilities do citizens have in a democracy?
33. How important is freedom of speech to you?
34. What do you think about laws that limit certain rights?
35. How can citizens protect their rights?

VIII. International Politics

36. What is international politics?
37. How do countries work together on global issues?
38. Can you name an international organization?
39. Why is diplomacy important between countries?
40. How do you feel about foreign aid?

IX. Political Participation

41. How can people participate in politics besides voting?
42. What is community service, and how is it related to politics?
43. Have you ever attended a town hall meeting? What was it like?
44. Why do you think some people choose not to participate in politics?
45. How can young people get involved in politics?

X. Future of Politics

46. How do you think technology will change politics in the future?
47. What issues do you think will be important in the next election?
48. How do you feel about the future of democracy in the world?
49. What role do you think youth will play in future politics?
50. How can we encourage more people to vote in the future?

XI. Personal Opinions

51. What political issue are you most passionate about?
52. How do you feel about political correctness?
53. Do you think politicians should be held accountable for their actions?
54. What do you think about the influence of money in politics?
55. How do you feel when you hear about political scandals?

XII. Politics and Society

56. How does politics affect everyday life?
57. What impact do you think politics has on education?
58. How do you feel about political correctness in society?
59. What role does media play in shaping political opinions?
60. How can we create a more informed society about politics?
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