Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Honesty and Lies” ESL Discussion Questions

I. Understanding Honesty and Lies

1. What does honesty mean to you?
2. Why do you think people tell lies?
3. Can a small lie be okay sometimes?
4. How does honesty affect relationships?
5. What is a situation where honesty is very important?

II. Personal Experiences with Honesty

6. Have you ever told a lie to protect someone’s feelings?
7. How did you feel after telling a lie?
8. Have you ever been caught in a lie?
9. What happened when you told the truth in a difficult situation?
10. Who do you trust to be honest with you?

III. Honesty in Society

11. Why is honesty important in a community?
12. How can honesty improve workplaces?
13. What role does honesty play in politics?
14. Do you think social media encourages honesty?
15. How can we promote honesty in our communities?

IV. The Consequences of Lies

16. What can happen if someone is caught lying?
17. How do lies affect trust between people?
18. Can lies lead to bigger problems?
19. How do you feel when someone lies to you?
20. What is the hardest lie you have ever had to tell?

V. Cultural Views on Honesty

21. How do different cultures view honesty?
22. Are there cultures where lying is more accepted?
23. How do cultural beliefs shape our ideas about honesty?
24. Can you think of a story from your culture that teaches about honesty?
25. How can we learn from other cultures about honesty?

VI. Honesty in Media and Literature

26. How are honest characters portrayed in books or movies?
27. Can you name a story where a lie caused big problems?
28. How do media stories influence our views on honesty?
29. Do you think movies should always show the truth?
30. How can literature teach us about the value of honesty?

VII. Teaching Honesty to Others

31. How can parents teach their children about honesty?
32. What role do schools play in teaching honesty?
33. How can friends encourage each other to be honest?
34. What activities can help teach honesty?
35. How can honesty be included in everyday conversations?

VIII. The Future of Honesty and Lies

36. How do you think technology affects honesty?
37. Will people tell more lies in the future?
38. How can we use technology to promote honesty?
39. What challenges will honesty face in the future?
40. How can we prepare for a future where honesty is valued?

IX. Reflecting on Honesty and Lies

41. What is the biggest lesson you have learned about honesty?
42. How has your view on honesty changed over time?
43. Do you think you are an honest person?
44. What do you wish more people understood about honesty?
45. How can you practice honesty in your daily life?

X. Honesty and Personal Growth

46. How does being honest help you grow as a person?
47. Can honesty lead to better decision-making?
48. How can honesty improve your self-esteem?
49. What is one honest thing you can do for yourself today?
50. How does honesty help build your character?

XI. Honesty and Emotional Well-being

51. How does being honest affect your mental health?
52. Can honesty reduce feelings of guilt?
53. How can honesty help you feel more connected to others?
54. What role does honesty play in your friendships?
55. How can being honest improve your relationships with family?

XII. Final Thoughts on Honesty and Lies

56. What do you think is the most important thing about honesty?
57. How can we create a culture of honesty?
58. What advice would you give someone struggling with honesty?
59. How can we celebrate honesty in our lives?
60. What changes would you like to see regarding honesty in the world?
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