Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Computers” ESL Discussion Questions

1. Why do you need internet access for your computer?
2. What does “boot up” mean?
3. How much does an average computer cost?
4. What are some things that people can do with their computers that they couldn’t do before they existed (e-mail, Internet browsing, etc.)
5. Are computers good or bad for society today?
6. What are some examples of software?
7. How does a computer store data on its hard drive?
8. What are the best things about computers?
9. Is it possible to have an internet connection without having a computer?
10. What are USB ports and what can they be used for?
11. Why do we need to use computers in everyday life?
12. What is a processor?
13. How can you find out more about computers if you don’t know anything about them yet?
14. What do you use a computer for?
15. Is it possible for computers to think like humans?
16. What is your favorite operating system?
17. What is an operating system?
18. Do people still write letters in this day and age? Or do they just write messages and emails instead?
19. Is there any reason why people should not use computers at work or at home?
20. How do computers work?
21. Can you borrow books from a library using a computer?
22. What is the difference between a laptop and a desktop computer?
23. Do you own a computer? If so, what kind do you own and why did you choose that one?
24. What are some of the hardware parts of a computer?
25. What is a hard drive?
26. How does memory work in computers?
27. How many computer do you have at home?
28. How long does it take to boot up your computer?
29. What does it mean to “shut down” a computer?
30. What do you have to do to keep your computer safe from viruses and other harmful programs?
31. Do you know how to program a computer?
32. Why do you need an antivirus program on your computer? What does it protect you from?
33. How many gigabytes does your hard drive have?
34. What are the parts of a computer?
35. What is the difference between a computer and a phone?
36. What are the advantages of using a laptop over a desktop computer?
37. How can you tell if your computer has been hacked by someone else?
38. What is a browser?
39. What are the most important features of a computer?
40. How many keys are on your keyboard?
41. What is a computer?
42. How does the internet work?
43. Have you ever used Linux or MacOS before?
44. What is RAM and why do you need it?
45. What does a computer do?
46. What are the disadvantages of using a laptop over a desktop computer?