Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Grocery Shopping” ESL Discussion Questions

I. Types of Grocery Stores
1. What types of grocery stores are popular in your country?
2. What are the main differences between supermarkets and local markets?
3. How do you feel about shopping at discount stores?

II. Grocery Store Items
4. What are some common items you buy during grocery shopping?
5. What are some fresh produce items you like to buy?
6. Do you prefer to buy canned or frozen vegetables?

III. Preferences and Habits
7. How often do you go grocery shopping?
8. Do you like shopping alone or with someone else?
9. Do you prefer shopping in the morning or evening?

IV. Planning and Budgeting
10. Do you make a shopping list before you go?
11. How do you plan your meals for the week?
12. Do you set a budget for your grocery shopping?

V. Environment and Sustainability
13. How do you feel about plastic bags versus reusable bags?
14. Do you buy organic food items? Why or why not?
15. How can we reduce food waste when grocery shopping?

VI. Discounts and Sales
16. Do you look for discounts or sales when grocery shopping?
17. How do you find out about grocery store promotions?
18. Have you ever used coupons for grocery shopping?

VII. International Food Items
19. Do you like trying new international food items?
20. What is your favorite international cuisine?
21. What are some popular imported food items in your country?

VIII. Dietary Restrictions and Preferences
22. Do you have any dietary restrictions or preferences?
23. How do you find food items that meet your dietary needs?
24. Are there many options for vegetarians or vegans in your local grocery store?

IX. Cooking and Meal Preparation
25. How much time do you spend cooking each day?
26. What are some staple ingredients in your kitchen?
27. What is your favorite recipe to cook?

X. Shopping for Special Occasions
28. How do you shop for special occasions or holidays?
29. What are some traditional foods for celebrations in your country?
30. Do you prepare a different shopping list for special events?

XI. Local and Seasonal Food
31. Do you prefer to buy local or imported food items?
32. What are some popular seasonal fruits and vegetables in your area?
33. How do the available food items change with the seasons?

XII. Food Storage and Organization
34. How do you organize your refrigerator or pantry?
35. What are some tips for keeping food fresh longer?
36. How do you store leftover food?

XIII. Brands and Loyalty
37. Are there any food brands you are loyal to?
38. What factors influence your decision to choose a brand?
39. Have you ever tried a store brand product?

XIV. Online Grocery Shopping
40. Have you ever tried online grocery shopping?
41. What are the advantages and disadvantages of online grocery shopping?
42. Would you consider using grocery delivery services?

XV. Customer Service
43. How important is customer service when grocery shopping?
44. What makes a good shopping experience for you?
45. Have you ever had a negative experience at a grocery store?

XVI. Self-checkout and Cashiers
46. Do you prefer using self-checkout or a cashier?
47. What are the benefits and drawbacks of self-checkout machines?
48. How do you feel about the increasing use of technology in grocery stores?

XVII. Nutrition and Health
49. How do you make healthy choices when grocery shopping?
50. Do you read food labels or nutritional information?
51. What are some ways to maintain a balanced diet?

XVIII. Snacks and Treats
52. What are your favorite snacks to buy at the grocery store?
53. How often do you buy sweet treats or desserts?
54. Do you have a favorite type of candy or chocolate?

XIX. Beverages
55. What types of beverages do you usually purchase?
56. Do you prefer to buy soft drinks, juices, or water?
57. How important is it for you to buy alcoholic beverages when grocery shopping?

XX. Comparing Prices
58. Do you compare prices between different stores or products?
59. Have you noticed any recent price changes for certain items?
60. What are some strategies you use to save money while grocery shopping?