If you want to help your ESL students talk confidently about money, this post is for you. Here, you will find 20 real-life money conversations that are perfect for beginner and intermediate learners. These conversations use simple language and cover everyday situations that students will find useful in real life.
This resource is more than just dialogues. Each conversation includes important vocabulary, common questions, and expressions that your students need to learn. You can also use these conversations to create fun role-plays in class, helping students practice speaking naturally and with confidence.
We also include interesting idioms and ideas for debates about money topics. These make your lessons more engaging and help students understand different ways to talk about money. Your students will not only improve their speaking skills but also learn cultural details about how people discuss money in English.
By using this post, you will save time preparing lessons and get effective materials that work. Whether you teach beginners or intermediate students, these conversations will help your class feel more confident, active, and ready to talk about money in real life.
Table of Contents
1. Talking About Monthly Budget
Level: A1 (Beginner)
Context: Two roommates are talking about how they spend money each month.
Emma: Hey, Jake. Have you made your monthly budget yet?
Jake: Not really. I always forget. Why?
Emma: I just finished mine. I thought we could compare.
Jake: That’s a good idea. What’s the first thing on your list?
Emma: Rent. I pay 500 dollars every month.
Jake: Same here. Rent takes most of my money.
Emma: Me too. Then I list groceries. I usually spend 200 dollars.
Jake: I think I spend a little more, maybe 250.
Emma: Do you cook at home a lot?
Jake: Not really. I eat out too much.
Emma: That’s why your food cost is higher.
Jake: Yeah, I need to cook more. What’s next?
Emma: Utilities. Electricity, water, and gas.
Jake: Mine are about 80 dollars.
Emma: Mine are 90. What about your phone bill?
Jake: 50 dollars. What about you?
Emma: Same. I also put money for savings—just 100 dollars.
Jake: That’s smart. I want to save more too.
Emma: Even small savings help. Do you have money for fun?
Jake: I try to keep 100 dollars for movies and coffee.
Emma: That’s nice. I keep 50. I like quiet weekends.
Jake: Maybe we can try saving together.
Emma: Yeah! We can remind each other every month.
Jake: Great idea. Budgeting is not so hard with help.
2. Paying at the Grocery Store
Level: A1 (Beginner)
Context: A customer is at the checkout counter at a local grocery store.
Cashier: Hello! Did you find everything you needed?
Maria: Yes, thank you. Just these items today.
Cashier: Great. I’ll start scanning them.
Maria: I hope I stayed under my budget.
Cashier: Let’s see… your total is $42.50.
Maria: Oh, that’s not too bad.
Cashier: Do you have any coupons?
Maria: Yes, I have one for the cereal.
Cashier: Perfect. That takes off $2. Now it’s $40.50.
Maria: Nice! I’ll pay with my card.
Cashier: Okay, please insert your card.
Maria: Done. Do I need to sign?
Cashier: No, just wait for the receipt.
Maria: Thanks. Can I get a bag?
Cashier: Sure! Paper or plastic?
Maria: Paper, please. I’m trying to use less plastic.
Cashier: Good choice. Here’s your receipt.
Maria: Thank you! Have a good day.
Cashier: You too! Come again soon.
3. Asking for a Loan from a Friend
Level: A1 (Beginner)
Context: Two friends are talking about money. One needs a little help.
Noah: Hey, Lucy. Can I ask you something?
Lucy: Sure, what’s up?
Noah: I’m a little short on money this week.
Lucy: Oh no. What happened?
Noah: I had to fix my bike. It cost more than I thought.
Lucy: I see. How much do you need?
Noah: Just $30. I get paid on Friday.
Lucy: That’s okay. I can lend you $30.
Noah: Really? Thank you so much!
Lucy: No problem. You always help me too.
Noah: I’ll pay you back on Friday. Promise.
Lucy: Don’t worry. I trust you.
Noah: I hate asking for money.
Lucy: It’s okay. We all need help sometimes.
Noah: Thanks again, Lucy. You’re a good friend.
Lucy: You’re welcome, Noah. Let me get the money.
Noah: I’ll write it down so I don’t forget.
Lucy: Good idea! Let’s both remember.
4. Talking About a Salary
Level: A1 (Beginner)
Context: Two coworkers are having lunch and talking about their salaries.
Ben: So, how do you like your new job?
Lina: It’s good. The people are nice.
Ben: That’s great. What about the pay?
Lina: It’s okay. I make $400 a week.
Ben: Not bad. I started with $380.
Lina: Do you get paid every week?
Ben: No, I get paid every two weeks.
Lina: Oh, so that’s $760 every two weeks?
Ben: Yes, but taxes take some of it.
Lina: Me too. I get less than $400 after taxes.
Ben: Same here. Do you get any bonuses?
Lina: Not yet. Maybe after six months.
Ben: That’s how it works for me too.
Lina: Do you save some of your pay?
Ben: A little. I also help my family.
Lina: That’s kind of you. I send money home too.
Ben: It’s not easy, but we manage.
Lina: Yes, we just have to plan carefully.
5. Buying a Used Phone
Level: A1 (Beginner)
Context: A person is buying a used phone from someone online.
Buyer: Hi! Are you selling the phone?
Seller: Yes, it’s still available.
Buyer: Great. Can I see it?
Seller: Sure. It’s in good condition.
Buyer: It looks nice. Does it work well?
Seller: Yes, everything works fine.
Buyer: How old is it?
Seller: About one year old.
Buyer: Why are you selling it?
Seller: I bought a newer model last week.
Buyer: How much are you asking?
Seller: $120.
Buyer: That’s a bit high. Can you do $100?
Seller: Hmm… how about $110?
Buyer: Deal. Do you take cash?
Seller: Yes, cash is perfect.
Buyer: Okay, here you go.
Seller: Thanks. Let me give you the charger too.
Buyer: Great! Thank you. Have a good day.
Seller: You too. Enjoy the phone!
6. Talking to the Bank Teller
Level: A1 (Beginner)
Context: A man is visiting his bank to ask about his account.
Teller: Hello! How can I help you today?
Raj: Hi. I want to check my balance.
Teller: Sure. May I have your account number?
Raj: Yes. Here’s my bank card.
Teller: Thank you. One moment, please.
Raj: I want to make sure my paycheck arrived.
Teller: I see the deposit. It came in this morning.
Raj: Great! Can I take out $200?
Teller: Of course. Do you want large or small bills?
Raj: Large bills, please.
Teller: Here you go. Is there anything else?
Raj: Yes, I need to pay my phone bill.
Teller: You can do that from the ATM too.
Raj: I didn’t know that. Thanks!
Teller: You’re welcome. You can also use our app.
Raj: I’ll try that next time.
Teller: Let me print your receipt.
Raj: Thank you for your help!
Teller: Have a great day!
Raj: You too!
7. Talking About Saving for a Trip
Level: A1 (Beginner)
Context: Two friends are planning a trip and talking about how to save money for it.
Anna: Hey Sam, are you still thinking about our trip to the beach?
Sam: Yes! I really want to go. But I need to save some money first.
Anna: Me too. I started saving last week.
Sam: That’s good! How much do you save each week?
Anna: I try to save 20 dollars every week.
Sam: That’s smart. I can maybe save 15 each week.
Anna: That’s still good! Every bit helps.
Sam: How much do you think the trip will cost?
Anna: Maybe around 200 dollars, including travel and food.
Sam: Okay, so we need to save for a few months.
Anna: Yes. I stopped buying coffee to save more.
Sam: That’s a great idea! I’ll try bringing lunch from home.
Anna: It’s hard at first, but it works.
Sam: Do you have a savings jar?
Anna: No, I keep it in my bank account.
Sam: I think I’ll open a savings account too.
Anna: Let’s keep each other motivated!
Sam: Yes! Beach trip, here we come!
8. Asking About Prices at a Market
Level: A1 (Beginner)
Context: A shopper is buying fruits and vegetables at a local market.
Ali: Excuse me, how much are the apples?
Vendor: They’re two dollars per pound.
Ali: Okay. And what about the bananas?
Vendor: One dollar per bunch.
Ali: That’s a good price. I’ll take two bunches.
Vendor: Sure. Anything else?
Ali: How much for the tomatoes?
Vendor: Three dollars for a bag.
Ali: Hmm. That’s a little high.
Vendor: They’re very fresh. Picked this morning.
Ali: Alright, I’ll take one bag.
Vendor: Great. So that’s 2 apples, 2 bananas, and 1 bag of tomatoes.
Ali: How much in total?
Vendor: That’s eight dollars.
Ali: Here you go. Do you have a bag?
Vendor: Yes, I’ll pack them for you.
Ali: Thank you. Everything looks good.
Vendor: Come back again!
Ali: I will. Thanks again!
9. Talking About Splitting the Bill
Level: A1 (Beginner)
Context: Two friends are having lunch at a restaurant and talking about how to split the bill.
Lily: That was a delicious lunch!
Tom: Yes! I loved the chicken sandwich.
Lily: Me too. Should we ask for the bill?
Tom: Yes, I’ll call the waiter.
Lily: Let’s split the bill, okay?
Tom: Sure. Do you want to go half and half?
Lily: Yes. How much is it?
Tom: The bill is 24 dollars.
Lily: So, we each pay 12.
Tom: Right. I’ll pay with cash.
Lily: I’ll use my card. You can give me the cash.
Tom: Okay, here’s 12 dollars.
Lily: Thanks. I’ll pay now.
Tom: Don’t forget the tip!
Lily: Oh yes! Let’s leave 4 dollars.
Tom: I’ll add 2, and you add 2.
Lily: Perfect. We’re a good team.
Tom: Always! Let’s eat here again soon.
10. Paying a Utility Bill
Level: A1 (Beginner)
Context: A man is calling the utility company to pay his electricity bill.
Clerk: Hello, thank you for calling the power company. How may I help you?
John: Hi. I want to pay my electricity bill.
Clerk: Sure. Can I have your account number?
John: Yes, it’s 345-829.
Clerk: Thank you. Let me check your account.
John: How much do I owe?
Clerk: Your bill this month is $62.40.
John: Okay. I’d like to pay by card.
Clerk: No problem. Please read the card number.
John: It’s 1234 5678 9012 3456.
Clerk: And the expiration date?
John: August 2026.
Clerk: Got it. One moment please.
John: Sure.
Clerk: Your payment is complete. Would you like a receipt by email?
John: Yes, please. Send it to john@gmail.com.
Clerk: Done. Is there anything else?
John: No, that’s all. Thanks for your help.
Clerk: You’re welcome. Have a nice day!
John: You too!
11. Discussing a Car Loan
Level: B1 (Intermediate)
Context: Two colleagues are talking during lunch about buying a car and applying for a loan.
Mia: Hey, John, I heard you’re thinking about buying a new car?
John: Yes, I am. But I’m not sure if I should pay cash or take a loan.
Mia: Taking a loan can make it easier to afford. Have you checked the interest rates?
John: I looked online. The bank offers around 6% per year.
Mia: That sounds reasonable. How much do you need to borrow?
John: About $15,000. The car costs $20,000, but I have $5,000 saved.
Mia: Okay. And what’s the loan term?
John: I’m considering five years.
Mia: That means your monthly payment will be about $290.
John: That fits my budget, but I worry about the total cost with interest.
Mia: True. You’ll pay more overall, but it’s spread out over time.
John: I also want to check if there are any fees or penalties for early payment.
Mia: Good idea. Some loans charge extra if you pay off early.
John: Right. I’d prefer to pay it off sooner if I can.
Mia: Have you spoken to the bank’s loan officer?
John: Not yet. I’m planning to visit tomorrow.
Mia: That’s great. Ask about all the conditions before signing.
John: Definitely. Thanks for the advice, Mia.
Mia: No problem. Buying a car is a big decision.
12. Planning a Monthly Budget with Unexpected Expenses
Level: B1 (Intermediate)
Context: A couple discusses their monthly budget and how to handle unexpected expenses.
Anna: We need to review our budget for next month.
Mark: I agree. Last month we spent more than planned.
Anna: Yes, especially because of the car repair.
Mark: That was unexpected and costly.
Anna: Should we add an emergency fund to the budget?
Mark: Absolutely. Maybe $200 each month.
Anna: That sounds good. It will help with sudden costs.
Mark: We also need to cut back on eating out.
Anna: I think so. It was too expensive last month.
Mark: How about cooking more at home?
Anna: Yes, and maybe planning meals in advance.
Mark: Okay. What about our utility bills?
Anna: They’re usually stable, but summer may increase electricity costs.
Mark: Let’s set aside extra for that, too.
Anna: Good idea. Also, I want to save more for our vacation.
Mark: We can adjust the entertainment budget to save more.
Anna: Perfect. A better plan will reduce stress.
Mark: I’m glad we talked about this.
Anna: Me too. Let’s keep checking our expenses every month.
13. Discussing Credit Card Use
Level: B1 (Intermediate)
Context: Two friends talk about the benefits and risks of using credit cards.
Sarah: Do you use a credit card, James?
James: Yes, I do. Mostly for online shopping.
Sarah: Do you pay the balance every month?
James: I try to, but sometimes I only pay the minimum.
Sarah: That can lead to high interest charges.
James: I know. I’m trying to be more careful now.
Sarah: Credit cards can be useful if you manage them well.
James: Exactly. They help build credit history too.
Sarah: But it’s easy to spend more than you have.
James: That’s true. I once had a big bill I couldn’t pay at once.
Sarah: How did you handle it?
James: I made a payment plan and cut back on other spending.
Sarah: Smart move. Do you use any rewards or cashback programs?
James: Yes, I get some cashback on groceries.
Sarah: That’s a good way to save money.
James: Yes, but I always check the fees and interest rates first.
Sarah: Good advice. Credit cards are tools, but you must use them wisely.
James: I agree. I’m learning to control my spending better.
14. Negotiating Rent with a Landlord
Level: B1 (Intermediate)
Context: A tenant is talking to the landlord about negotiating the rent.
David: Hi, Mrs. Smith. I wanted to discuss my rent for next year.
Mrs. Smith: Hello, David. What’s on your mind?
David: I’ve been a good tenant, and I was hoping to keep the rent the same.
Mrs. Smith: The rent usually goes up by 5% each year.
David: I understand, but I’ve checked other apartments nearby. They are cheaper.
Mrs. Smith: That’s true, but my apartment has better features.
David: I agree. But my budget is tight right now.
Mrs. Smith: How about a smaller increase, maybe 2%?
David: That would help a lot. Could you consider no increase this year?
Mrs. Smith: I’m afraid not, but I appreciate your honesty.
David: What if I sign a longer lease? Like two years instead of one?
Mrs. Smith: That’s a good idea. I can offer a 1.5% increase with a two-year lease.
David: That sounds fair. Can we put it in writing?
Mrs. Smith: Of course. I’ll prepare the new contract.
David: Thank you, Mrs. Smith. I appreciate your flexibility.
Mrs. Smith: You’re welcome, David. I’m glad we found a solution.
15. Talking About Saving and Investing
Level: B1 (Intermediate)
Context: Two friends discuss saving money and different ways to invest.
Laura: I want to start saving more, but I don’t know where to put my money.
Mike: Have you thought about investing?
Laura: A little. But I’m afraid it’s risky.
Mike: Some investments are safer than others.
Laura: Like what?
Mike: For example, government bonds or savings accounts.
Laura: Do they give good returns?
Mike: Not very high, but they’re safe.
Laura: What about stocks?
Mike: Stocks can give higher returns but are more volatile.
Laura: I don’t want to lose money.
Mike: Then start small and diversify.
Laura: What does diversify mean?
Mike: It means spreading your money across different investments.
Laura: That sounds smart. How do I start?
Mike: You can open an account with an investment platform.
Laura: Is it complicated?
Mike: Not really. Many platforms are user-friendly.
Laura: Thanks, Mike. I’ll do some research.
Mike: No problem. It’s great to think about your financial future early.
16. Discussing Credit Card Debt and Repayment Plans
Level: B1 (Intermediate)
Context: Two coworkers talk about managing credit card debt and creating a repayment plan.
Jenna: Hey Mark, I heard you’re dealing with some credit card debt?
Mark: Yeah, I made some mistakes and now I owe quite a bit.
Jenna: Have you thought about making a repayment plan?
Mark: I’m trying. The minimum payments are just barely covering the interest.
Jenna: That’s tough. You might want to pay more than the minimum to reduce the debt faster.
Mark: I agree, but my budget is tight right now.
Jenna: Could you cut some expenses or find extra income temporarily?
Mark: Maybe. I’m thinking of taking on a part-time job.
Jenna: That could help a lot. Also, some credit card companies offer debt consolidation.
Mark: What’s that?
Jenna: You combine all your debts into one loan with a lower interest rate.
Mark: That sounds helpful. I’ll call my credit card company to ask.
Jenna: Good idea. Just make sure you understand the terms.
Mark: Will do. I really want to get out of debt soon.
Jenna: Me too. It feels great to be debt-free.
Mark: Thanks for the advice, Jenna.
Jenna: Anytime. You can do it!
17. Comparing Prices Before Making a Purchase
Level: B1 (Intermediate)
Context: A woman is talking to a friend about comparing prices for a new laptop.
Emily: I want to buy a new laptop, but I’m not sure where to get the best deal.
Rachel: Have you checked online stores?
Emily: Yes, but prices vary a lot.
Rachel: Sometimes local shops have discounts or offers.
Emily: True. I saw one shop with free accessories included.
Rachel: That’s a good deal. What about warranty and service?
Emily: The online store offers a one-year warranty.
Rachel: Local shops might offer longer warranties or easier service.
Emily: I should ask them about that.
Rachel: Also, don’t forget to check return policies.
Emily: Good point. I want to avoid problems if it doesn’t work well.
Rachel: Sometimes it’s worth paying a bit more for good service.
Emily: Yes. I think I’ll make a list of pros and cons for each option.
Rachel: That’s smart. Take your time before deciding.
Emily: Thanks, Rachel. I feel more confident now.
Rachel: You’re welcome. Let me know what you choose!
18. Discussing Investment Risks and Rewards
Level: B1 (Intermediate)
Context: Two friends talk about the risks and rewards of different investment options.
Tom: I’m thinking about investing some money, but I don’t know where to start.
Sophie: It depends on how much risk you want to take.
Tom: I don’t want to risk losing everything.
Sophie: Then you should choose safer investments like bonds or mutual funds.
Tom: What’s the difference between them?
Sophie: Bonds are loans to the government or companies, usually low risk.
Tom: And mutual funds?
Sophie: They pool money from many investors to buy stocks and bonds.
Tom: That sounds interesting. Are mutual funds risky?
Sophie: They have some risk, but less than buying individual stocks.
Tom: What about stocks?
Sophie: Stocks can give high returns but can also lose value quickly.
Tom: How do I decide what to invest in?
Sophie: Think about your goals and how long you want to invest.
Tom: I want steady growth over five years.
Sophie: Then mutual funds or bonds might be good.
Tom: Thanks, Sophie. I’ll research more.
Sophie: No problem. Investing takes time to learn.
19. Discussing a Pay Raise Request
Level: B1 (Intermediate)
Context: An employee is talking to a coworker about preparing to ask their boss for a raise.
Carlos: I’m thinking about asking my boss for a pay raise.
Maya: That’s a good idea if you feel you deserve it.
Carlos: I do. I’ve worked here for two years and improved a lot.
Maya: Have you prepared your reasons?
Carlos: Yes, I made a list of my achievements.
Maya: That’s smart. Have you checked the company’s policies?
Carlos: They usually review salaries once a year.
Maya: Good. Timing is important.
Carlos: I want to ask next week after the team meeting.
Maya: That sounds perfect. Practice what you’ll say.
Carlos: I’m a bit nervous about how to start.
Maya: Begin by talking about your work and then mention the raise.
Carlos: Should I ask for a specific amount?
Maya: Yes, but be realistic based on your role.
Carlos: Okay, I’ll do that. Thanks for your help.
Maya: You’re welcome. I hope it goes well!
20. Planning for Retirement Savings
Level: B1 (Intermediate)
Context: Two friends discuss how to start saving for retirement.
Nina: I’ve been thinking about saving for retirement, but I don’t know where to begin.
Leo: It’s good to start early, even with small amounts.
Nina: What options do I have?
Leo: You can open a retirement account, like an IRA or 401(k).
Nina: What’s the difference?
Leo: A 401(k) is offered by employers, with some matching contributions.
Nina: That sounds helpful. What about IRAs?
Leo: IRAs are individual accounts you open yourself.
Nina: Which one is better?
Leo: If your employer offers a 401(k) match, that’s usually best.
Nina: How much should I save?
Leo: Try to save at least 10-15% of your income.
Nina: That seems hard with other expenses.
Leo: Start small and increase over time.
Nina: What should I invest in?
Leo: Usually a mix of stocks and bonds based on your age.
Nina: Thanks, Leo. I feel more confident now.
Leo: No problem. Saving for retirement is important.
Conclusion
Using money conversations in your ESL class is a powerful way to help students learn practical language skills. These real-life dialogues make lessons interesting and relevant, so students stay motivated.
When you include vocabulary, common questions, role-plays, idioms, and debates, you create a rich learning environment. This approach not only improves speaking but also builds confidence for real-world situations.
Remember, practicing these conversations regularly helps students become comfortable with talking about money, a topic everyone faces in daily life. Feel free to adapt the dialogues and activities to fit your students’ needs and levels.
With consistent practice, you’ll see great progress in their speaking abilities and overall communication skills.
FAQs About Using Money Conversations in ESL Class
Q: Why should I use money conversations in my ESL lessons?
A: Money is a common and important topic in everyday life. Using money conversations helps students learn useful vocabulary and phrases they will need outside the classroom.
Q: How can I make these conversations more engaging?
A: Include role-plays where students act out the dialogues, add debates about money topics, and teach idioms related to money. This makes learning interactive and fun.
Q: What level of students can use these conversations?
A: The resource covers beginner (A1) to intermediate (B1) levels, so you can choose conversations that fit your students’ abilities.
Q: Can I adapt these conversations for different cultural contexts?
A: Yes! Feel free to change names, places, or money examples to better suit your students’ culture and experiences.
Q: How often should students practice these conversations?
A: Regular practice, at least once or twice a week, helps students become more confident and fluent in talking about money.
Q: Are there any common idioms related to money I should teach?
A: Yes, idioms like “break the bank,” “cost an arm and a leg,” and “money talks” are useful and fun to learn. Including them makes lessons more engaging.
Q: How do debates help with learning money conversations?
A: Debates encourage students to use new vocabulary and express opinions, improving their speaking and critical thinking skills.
Q: Can I use these conversations for assessment?
A: Absolutely. Role-plays and debates based on the conversations can be an excellent informal formative assessment of speaking ability.
Q: What if some students feel shy practicing money conversations?
A: Start with simple dialogues and pair work to build confidence. Gradually increase speaking activities as students become more comfortable.
Q: How do I track progress using these conversations?
A: Use checklists for vocabulary and fluency during role-plays and record students speaking to review improvement over time.
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