Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

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“January” ESL Discussion Questions

I. The Month of January
1. What is January known for in your country?
2. How does the weather in January compare to other months?
3. Are there any special holidays or festivals celebrated in January where you live?
4. How do people typically celebrate New Year’s Day in your culture?
5. What are some New Year’s resolutions you have made or heard of?

II. January Traditions
6. Do you know of any traditions specific to January in other cultures?
7. How is the beginning of the new year celebrated around the world?
8. What foods are traditional to eat in January or for New Year’s celebrations?
9. Are there any specific January traditions related to nature or the environment in your country?
10. Can you describe a January tradition that you find interesting or unique?

III. Weather and Nature in January
11. How does January’s weather affect daily life in your area?
12. Are there any plants or animals that are particularly associated with January in your region?
13. How do people in colder climates cope with January’s weather?
14. What are some winter sports or activities popular in January?
15. Do you prefer January’s weather or that of another month? Why?

IV. January Events and Observances
16. What international or national days are observed in January?
17. Have you ever participated in or observed Martin Luther King Jr. Day? What does it signify?
18. Are there any health awareness campaigns or events that take place in January?
19. How do educational institutions or workplaces recognize January events?
20. Can you think of any historical events that happened in January?

V. Health and Wellness in January
21. January is often associated with new beginnings. How do you start the year on a healthy note?
22. What are some ways to stay active and healthy during the cold January weather?
23. How do you maintain mental health and wellness in the post-holiday season?
24. Are there any specific health challenges that arise in January?
25. Do you have any tips for keeping New Year’s health resolutions?

VI. Education and Work in January
26. How does the educational calendar change in January?
27. For many, January is a time to start new projects at work. How do you prepare for this?
28. What are the challenges of returning to work or school after the holiday season?
29. How do you set professional or academic goals for the new year?
30. Are there any sectors or industries that are particularly busy in January?

VII. Fashion and Style in January
31. What are some winter fashion trends that emerge in January?
32. How does the fashion industry reflect the seasonality of January?
33. What are your tips for staying warm and stylish in January?
34. Do you change your beauty or skincare routine in January? How?
35. What are some essential winter wardrobe pieces for January?

VIII. Travel in January
36. What are some popular travel destinations in January?
37. How do travel patterns change in January compared to December?
38. What are the advantages of traveling in January?
39. Are there any travel tips or advice for January vacations?
40. How does the travel industry cater to tourists in January?

IX. Entertainment and Leisure in January
41. What movies or TV shows are typically released in January?
42. How does the entertainment industry adapt to post-holiday audiences in January?
43. Are there any major sports events or competitions that take place in January?
44. What are some indoor activities or hobbies you enjoy in January?
45. How do cultural institutions like museums and theaters attract visitors in January?

X. Reflection and Looking Forward
46. How do you reflect on the past year in January?
47. What are your hopes or goals for the upcoming year?
48. How do you track or measure your progress on New Year’s resolutions?
49. In what ways do you plan to improve yourself in the new year?
50. How do you stay motivated throughout January and the rest of the year?

XI. Economy and Finance in January
51. How does consumer spending change in January after the holiday season?
52. What are some strategies for recovering from holiday spending?
53. January is often a time for financial planning. How do you approach this?
54. Are there any financial opportunities that are unique to January?
55. How do businesses adjust to the post-holiday market in January?

XII. Technology and Innovation in January
56. Are there any notable tech events or product launches that happen in January?
57. How does the tech industry typically perform in January?
58. What innovations or trends begin to emerge in January?
59. How do you stay updated with technology news in January?
60. What role does technology play in achieving your New Year’s resolutions?

🎉 Coming Soon ⏳

🧑‍💻 1 to 1 Online English Classes 👩🏻‍💻

Practice English through Zoom with me, Paul, or one of the teachers I have chosen for you. Suitable for all ages and levels.

Choose the teacher and time you want. 🧑🏻‍🏫👩‍🏫⌚️

You can learn:
– English writing skills (essays, emails, etc.) 
– English conversation practice 
– English pronunciation practice
– Textbook classes
Anything you want

Introductory prices:
60 minute class with native speaker (e.g. Paul): US$34.99 US$24.99
60 minute class with non-native speaker (e.g. Philippines, Indonesia): US$9.99 US$7.99

Interested? Please fill in the form and I will contact you soon!

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