Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Taboo Topics and Free Speech” ESL Discussion Questions

I. Understanding Taboo Topics

1. What is a taboo topic?
2. Why do you think some topics are considered taboo?
3. Can you name a taboo topic in your culture?
4. How do people react when taboo topics are discussed?
5. Do you think it’s important to talk about taboo topics? Why or why not?

II. Free Speech and Its Limits

6. What does free speech mean to you?
7. Are there limits to free speech? Why?
8. Can you think of an example where free speech is not allowed?
9. How do different countries view free speech?
10. Why do some people feel afraid to speak about taboo topics?

III. Personal Experiences with Taboo Topics

11. Have you ever discussed a taboo topic? How did it go?
12. How do you feel when someone brings up a taboo topic?
13. What taboo topics do you think should be discussed more openly?
14. How do you think discussing taboo topics can help people?
15. Have you ever felt judged for discussing a taboo topic?

IV. Cultural Differences in Taboo Topics

16. How do taboo topics differ from one culture to another?
17. What taboo topics are common in your culture?
18. How do you think globalization affects taboo topics?
19. Are there any taboo topics that you think should be more accepted worldwide?
20. How do you think younger generations view taboo topics compared to older generations?

V. The Role of Media in Discussing Taboo Topics

21. How does media portray taboo topics?
22. Do you think media helps or harms discussions about taboo topics?
23. Can you think of a movie or show that addresses a taboo topic?
24. How do social media platforms affect discussions on taboo topics?
25. Should there be more representation of taboo topics in media? Why?

VI. Education and Taboo Topics

26. Should taboo topics be taught in schools? Why or why not?
27. How can teachers create a safe space for discussing taboo topics?
28. What subjects do you think are often ignored in education?
29. How can discussing taboo topics benefit students?
30. What role do parents play in discussing taboo topics with their children?

VII. The Impact of Technology on Free Speech

31. How has technology changed the way we discuss taboo topics?
32. Do you think online platforms promote free speech?
33. How do you feel about censorship on social media?
34. Can technology help break down taboos? How?
35. What are the dangers of discussing taboo topics online?

VIII. Future of Free Speech and Taboo Topics

36. How do you think the view of taboo topics will change in the future?
37. Will free speech become more accepted or restricted in the future?
38. What role will technology play in future discussions of taboo topics?
39. How can we encourage more open discussions about taboo topics in the future?
40. What changes would you like to see in how society views taboo topics?

IX. Personal Reflections on Taboo Topics

41. What taboo topic are you most curious about?
42. How do your friends feel about discussing taboo topics?
43. What is the most surprising thing you have learned about a taboo topic?
44. How do you think your background influences your views on taboo topics?
45. What advice would you give someone who wants to discuss a taboo topic?

X. The Importance of Open Dialogue

46. Why is it important to have open dialogue about taboo topics?
47. How can open dialogue improve relationships between people?
48. What skills are important for discussing taboo topics respectfully?
49. How can we create a culture that accepts open discussions about taboo topics?
50. What role does empathy play in discussing taboo topics?

XI. Taboo Topics and Mental Health

51. How can discussing taboo topics help with mental health?
52. Why do you think mental health is often a taboo topic?
53. How can we support friends who want to discuss their mental health?
54. What resources are available for people dealing with taboo topics related to mental health?
55. How can we reduce the stigma around mental health discussions?

XII. Conclusion and Reflection

56. What have you learned about taboo topics through this discussion?
57. How has your perspective on free speech changed?
58. What steps will you take to encourage open discussions about taboo topics?
59. How can you apply what you learned today in your daily life?
60. What do you hope to see in future discussions about taboo topics?
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