Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Communication” ESL Discussion Questions

I. Basics of Communication
1. What is the importance of communication in daily life?
2. How many languages do you speak and why?
3. Which forms of communication do you prefer?
4. How has technology impacted communication?

II. Non-verbal Communication
5. How important is body language in communication?
6. Can you understand someone’s emotions without words?
7. How do facial expressions affect communication?
8. Why is eye contact significant in conversations?

III. Cultural Differences
9. How do communication styles vary among cultures?
10. Have you ever experienced a communication barrier?
11. How do you overcome language barriers?
12. What cultural norms impact communication?

IV. Interpersonal Communication
13. How do you start a conversation with a stranger?
14. How do you maintain a good conversation?
15. What is active listening, and why is it important?
16. How do you handle disagreements in conversations?

V. Professional Communication
17. What makes an effective presentation?
18. How do you communicate with your colleagues?
19. What is the importance of clear communication at work?
20. How do you handle work-related conflicts?

VI. Language Learning
21. Why did you decide to learn English?
22. What challenges do you face while learning English?
23. How do you practice and improve your English skills?
24. What are the most effective ways to learn a new language?

VII. Social Media and Communication
25. How has social media changed communication?
26. What are the pros and cons of online communication?
27. How do you protect your privacy online?
28. How can you improve your writing skills for online communication?

VIII. Public Speaking
29. How do you feel about public speaking?
30. What are some tips for overcoming stage fright?
31. How do you prepare for a speech or presentation?
32. What makes a speaker engaging and memorable?

IX. Communication and Relationships
33. How do you maintain long-distance friendships or relationships?
34. How do you express love or care to someone?
35. How important is trust in communication?
36. How do you handle misunderstandings with friends or family?

X. Conflict Resolution
37. What strategies do you use to resolve conflicts?
38. How do you stay calm in a heated argument?
39. How do you address someone’s offensive behavior?
40. How do you apologize effectively?

XI. Humor and Communication
41. How does humor play a role in communication?
42. What are your favorite types of jokes?
43. Can humor sometimes cause misunderstandings?
44. How do you use humor to connect with others?

XII. Assertiveness
45. How do you express your opinions assertively?
46. How do you handle criticism?
47. How do you set boundaries in communication?
48. Why is assertiveness important in communication?

XIII. Empathy and Emotional Intelligence
49. What is emotional intelligence, and why is it important?
50. How do you show empathy towards others?
51. How do you manage your emotions in communication?
52. How do emotions affect the way we communicate?

XIV. Asking for Help and Giving Advice
53. How do you ask for help when you need it?
54. How do you offer advice to someone?
55. What is the best advice you have ever received?
56. How do you handle unsolicited advice?

XV. Communication Challenges
57. How do you handle communication anxiety?
58. How do you deal with language barriers?
59. What do you do when you’re misunderstood?
60. How can you improve your communication skills?