Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Neighbors” ESL Discussion Questions

I. Getting to Know Your Neighbors

1. How well do you know your neighbors?
2. How many neighbors do you talk to regularly?
3. What was your first impression of your neighbors?
4. Have you ever had a meal with a neighbor?
5. How do you usually greet your neighbors?

II. Neighborhood Characteristics

6. What do you like most about your neighborhood?
7. What would you change about your neighborhood?
8. How long have you lived in your current neighborhood?
9. Are there any community events in your neighborhood?
10. Is your neighborhood quiet or noisy?

III. Cultural Differences

11. Are there any cultural differences among your neighbors?
12. How do you learn about your neighbors’ cultures?
13. Do you celebrate any holidays together with your neighbors?
14. Are there any language barriers in your neighborhood?
15. How do your neighbors handle cultural differences?

IV. Neighborly Acts

16. Have you ever borrowed something from a neighbor?
17. Have you ever helped a neighbor with a task?
18. What is the nicest thing a neighbor has done for you?
19. Have you ever looked after a neighbor’s house or pet?
20. What do you think makes someone a good neighbor?

V. Neighbor Conflicts

21. Have you ever had a disagreement with a neighbor?
22. How do you handle conflicts with your neighbors?
23. Are there any ongoing issues in your neighborhood?
24. Have you ever had to contact the police about a neighbor?
25. How do you maintain privacy in your neighborhood?

VI. Socializing with Neighbors

26. Do you invite neighbors to your home for events?
27. Have you ever attended a neighborhood party?
28. Do you have any close friends in your neighborhood?
29. How often do you spend time with your neighbors?
30. What activities do you enjoy with your neighbors?

VII. Sharing Spaces

31. How do your neighbors maintain shared spaces?
32. Are there any public spaces in your neighborhood?
33. Do you share a garden or yard with your neighbors?
34. How do your neighbors handle shared parking spaces?
35. Are there any shared facilities in your neighborhood?

VIII. Moving In and Out

36. How did your neighbors welcome you when you moved in?
37. Have you ever helped a neighbor move in or out?
38. What advice would you give to new neighbors?
39. Have you ever had a bad experience with new neighbors?
40. How do you feel when a neighbor moves away?

IX. Safety and Security

41. Do your neighbors watch out for each other’s safety?
42. Have you ever reported suspicious activity in your neighborhood?
43. Is there a neighborhood watch program in your area?
44. How do you and your neighbors ensure a safe neighborhood?
45. Do you trust your neighbors?

X. Environmental Issues

46. Do your neighbors recycle or compost?
47. Are there any neighborhood clean-up events?
48. How do your neighbors handle trash and recycling?
49. Do your neighbors conserve water and energy?
50. Are there any green spaces in your neighborhood?

XI. Pets and Animals

51. Do your neighbors have pets?
52. How do your neighbors handle pet-related issues?
53. Are there any stray animals in your neighborhood?
54. Do your neighbors take care of their pets responsibly?
55. Have you ever had a problem with a neighbor’s pet?
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