Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Experiences” ESL Discussion Questions

I. Past Experiences
1. What was your favorite childhood memory?
2. Describe a memorable vacation you had.
3. What was your first job experience like?
4. Tell me about a time you faced a difficult challenge.
5. What was your most memorable birthday celebration?
6. Describe a situation where you felt proud of yourself.
7. Tell me about a time you were lost. How did you find your way?
8. Talk about a time when you felt really scared.

II. First Experiences
9. What was your first day of school like?
10. Describe your first experience on an airplane.
11. Tell me about your first cooking experience.
12. What was your first time driving a car like?
13. How did you feel when you first moved to a new city or country?
14. Share your first public speaking experience.
15. Describe your first experience with snow.
16. Tell me about your first time using a computer or smartphone.

III. Future Experiences
17. What new hobby would you like to try?
18. Which country would you like to visit next?
19. What is one skill you want to learn?
20. If you could meet any famous person, who would it be?
21. What would your dream job be?
22. What new sport would you like to try?
23. What kind of food do you want to taste for the first time?
24. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

IV. Personal Experiences
25. What’s your favorite family tradition?
26. What is the most interesting book you’ve read?
27. Which movie or TV show has impacted you the most?
28. Tell me about a time you helped someone.
29. What is your favorite thing to do on weekends?
30. Describe a time you were really happy.
31. What was your most embarrassing moment?
32. Share a time when you felt very sad.

V. Cultural Experiences
33. What is a unique tradition in your country?
34. Tell me about a cultural festival you’ve attended.
35. How do people celebrate weddings in your culture?
36. What is a popular dish from your country?
37. What is the most famous landmark in your country?
38. Describe a traditional dance or music from your culture.
39. How do people in your country celebrate holidays?
40. What is one thing you find interesting about another culture?

VI. Learning Experiences
41. What was the most difficult subject for you in school?
42. Describe a time when you taught someone something.
43. What is the most useful thing you’ve learned in English?
44. How do you prefer to study, alone or with a group?
45. Talk about a time you learned from a mistake.
46. What is something you wish you could learn faster?
47. Describe a time when you struggled with learning something new.
48. What is your favorite way to practice English?

VII. Work and Career Experiences
49. What was your first impression of your workplace?
50. Have you ever had a difficult coworker? How did you handle it?
51. Describe a time you successfully completed a project.
52. What is the most interesting job you’ve ever had?
53. Tell me about a time you made a big decision at work.
54. What is your favorite part of your current job?
55. Describe a time when you had to work under pressure.
56. Have you ever had to make a difficult choice between work and personal life?

VIII. Social Experiences
57. How did you meet your closest friends?
58. What is your favorite way to spend time with friends?
59. Describe a time when you met someone new and interesting.
60. Talk about a memorable party or gathering you’ve attended.