614 Best ESL Conversation Questions on Talking about Friendship

Friendship is one of the best relationships anyone can have in their life. Learning to talk about friendship in English is crucial for your ESL students. It helps them talk about relationships, and the benefits of having good friends, and engage in meaningful conversations about building and maintaining friendships.

ESL teachers can use these conversation questions to help students practice speaking and participating in daily conversations about friendship topics, including making friends, qualities of a good friend, resolving conflicts, and sharing experiences. These questions are excellent for building vocabulary and boosting confidence in discussing interpersonal relationships.

This resource has 614 questions in 12 categories for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced learners, ensuring that every student can participate. These questions create fun and interactive learning experiences when used in different speaking activities like class discussions, role-plays, or presentations.

By using these questions in the classroom, students will improve their ability to talk about friendship in English. This will help them become more empathetic, confident, and effective communicators in various social contexts.

This set of 614 friendship conversation questions, divided into 10 categories and six proficiency levels, is a valuable tool for ESL teachers to teach speaking skills and promote social understanding among ESL students.

Category 1: Talking about Getting to Know Each Other

Beginner (A1):

1. Do you have any friends?
2. What is your friend’s name?
3. How old is your friend?
4. Where does your friend live?
5. Do you and your friend have fun together?
6. What does your friend like to do?
7. Do you talk to your friend often?
8. How did you meet your friend?
9. What is your favorite thing about your friend?
10. Would you like to make more friends?

Elementary (A2):

11. Can you describe your best friend?

12. What do you and your friend do when you hang out?
13. How long have you known your friend?
14. Do you share secrets with your friend?
15. Have you ever had an argument with your friend? Why?
16. What qualities do you think are important in a friend?
17. Do you have any childhood friends?
18. Have you ever helped your friend with something?
19. What makes a person a good friend?
20. Would you introduce your friends to your family?

Intermediate (B1):

21. How do you stay in touch with your friends?

22. What do you usually talk about with your friends?
23. Have you ever made friends with someone from a different country?
24. Do you prefer spending time with friends or alone?
25. How do you resolve conflicts with your friends?
26. Have you ever lost touch with a friend? What happened?
27. What kind of activities do you enjoy doing with your friends?
28. How important are friends in your life?
29. Do you have any friends who are very different from you?
30. Have you ever traveled with friends? How was it?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. How do you think friendships change as people get older?

32. Can you be friends with someone who has different opinions than you?
33. What role do friends play during difficult times?
34. How do you handle jealousy in friendships?
35. Have you ever had a long-distance friendship? How did you maintain it?
36. Do you think it’s possible to have too many friends?
37. How do you make new friends as an adult?
38. What’s the biggest sacrifice you’ve made for a friend?
39. How do you know when someone is a true friend?
40. Have you ever reconnected with an old friend? What was it like?

Advanced (C1):

41. Do you believe friendships can last a lifetime?

42. How do friendships differ between cultures?
43. Have you ever had to end a friendship? Why?
44. How do you navigate friendships in the age of social media?
45. What role do trust and loyalty play in friendships?
46. Can you be friends with someone you’ve never met in person?
47. How do friendships impact mental health?
48. Have you ever experienced a betrayal by a friend?
49. How do friendships change after major life events?
50. Do you think friendships between men and women are different?

Proficient (C2):

51. How do friendships evolve over time?

52. Have you ever had a friend who became like family to you?
53. Can friendships be platonic between people of different genders?
54. What do you think is the key to maintaining long-lasting friendships?
55. How do friendships influence personal growth?
56. Have you ever had to confront a friend about their behavior?
57. How do you navigate friendships when your values clash?
58. What role do shared experiences play in friendships?
59. How do you define true friendship?
60. Can you be friends with someone who you don’t fully trust?

Category 2: Talking about Activities and Hobbies

Beginner (A1):

1. Do you have any hobbies?
2. What do you like to do for fun?
3. Do you enjoy playing games with friends?
4. What is your favorite activity to do with friends?
5. Do you like to go outside with your friends?
6. Do you enjoy watching movies with friends?
7. What kind of music do you like to listen to with friends?
8. Do you like to cook or eat with friends?
9. Do you prefer indoor or outdoor activities with friends?
10. Do you like to take photos with your friends?

Elementary (A2):

11. Can you describe a hobby you have?

12. What activities do you and your friends do together?
13. Have you ever tried a new hobby with friends?
14. Do you enjoy going to parties with friends?
15. What’s your favorite outdoor activity to do with friends?
16. Do you like to travel with friends?
17. Have you ever attended a concert or event with friends?
18. What do you and your friends talk about during activities?
19. Do you enjoy sports or games with friends?
20. Do you prefer active or relaxing activities with friends?

Intermediate (B1):

21. How do you choose activities to do with friends?

22. Do you prefer planned or spontaneous activities with friends?
23. Have you ever joined a club or group with friends?
24. What role do hobbies play in your friendships?
25. Do you and your friends have any traditions or rituals?
26. How do you introduce new activities to your friends?
27. Do you enjoy trying new things with friends?
28. Have you ever taught a friend a new hobby or skill?
29. How do you balance different interests when choosing activities with friends?
30. What’s the most adventurous activity you’ve done with friends?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. How do hobbies and activities strengthen friendships?

32. Have you ever had conflicts with friends over choosing activities?
33. Do you think shared hobbies are important for friendships?
34. How do you handle disagreements during activities with friends?
35. Have you ever had a falling out with a friend over a hobby?
36. What do you do if you’re not interested in an activity your friend likes?
37. Do you think hobbies reflect personality traits?
38. How do you find time for hobbies and friends in your schedule?
39. Have you ever turned a hobby into a business with friends?
40. Do you prefer one-on-one activities or group activities with friends?

Advanced (C1):

41. How do you support your friends’ hobbies and passions?

42. Have you ever traveled specifically for a hobby with friends?
43. How do you handle competition within friendships during activities?
44. Do you think hobbies can bring people from different backgrounds together?
45. Have you ever collaborated on a creative project with friends?
46. What’s the most memorable activity you’ve done with friends?
47. How do you deal with friends who are overly competitive during activities?
48. Have you ever had to compromise on an activity with friends?
49. How do you maintain friendships when interests diverge?
50. Do you think virtual activities can be as enjoyable as in-person ones with friends?

Proficient (C2):

51. How do you think technology has impacted shared activities with friends?

52. Have you ever organized a large-scale event or activity with friends?
53. How do you handle friendships where hobbies are the primary connection?
54. Do you think hobbies can reveal hidden talents in friends?
55. Have you ever felt pressured to participate in an activity with friends?
56. How do you navigate friendships when one friend is significantly more skilled in an activity?
57. What’s the role of spontaneity in friendship activities?
58. Have you ever used activities as a way to strengthen friendships during tough times?
59. How do you maintain a healthy balance between alone time and friend activities?
60. Do you believe friendships centered around shared activities are stronger?

Category 3: Talking about Memorable Moments

Beginner (A1):

1. Do you have any special memories with your friends?
2. What was your favorite moment with friends?
3. Have you ever celebrated a birthday with friends?
4. Do you like taking photos to remember fun times with friends?
5. What’s the happiest memory you have with your friends?
6. Have you ever laughed a lot with your friends? Why?
7. Do you enjoy spending holidays with friends?
8. What’s something fun you did recently with your friends?
9. Have you ever had a surprise party with friends?
10. Do you remember your first day of school with friends?

Elementary (A2):

11. Can you describe a funny memory with your friends?

12. What’s the most exciting adventure you’ve had with friends?
13. Have you ever had a sleepover with friends? How was it?
14. What’s a memorable trip you’ve taken with friends?
15. Do you have any inside jokes with your friends?
16. Have you ever gotten lost with friends? What happened?
17. What’s the best gift you’ve received from a friend?
18. Do you have any childhood memories with friends?
19. Can you describe a special moment you shared with a friend?
20. What’s a tradition you have with your friends?

Intermediate (B1):

21. How do you commemorate important moments with friends?

22. Have you ever surprised a friend? How did they react?
23. What’s the most meaningful conversation you’ve had with a friend?
24. Can you describe a moment when a friend helped you through a tough time?
25. What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve done with friends?
26. Have you ever had a disagreement with a friend? How did you resolve it?
27. What’s a memory that always makes you smile when you think about it?
28. How do you stay connected with friends who live far away?
29. Have you ever had a misunderstanding with a friend? What happened?
30. Can you recall a time when you felt truly grateful for a friend’s support?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. How do you document and preserve memories with friends?

32. Can you describe a moment when a friend surprised you?
33. What’s the most spontaneous thing you’ve done with friends?
34. Have you ever had a transformative experience with a friend?
35. What’s a memory that taught you something important about friendship?
36. How do you support friends during milestone moments in their lives?
37. Can you recall a time when a friend challenged you to step out of your comfort zone?
38. What’s the most memorable party or gathering you’ve attended with friends?
39. How do you handle conflicts that arise from differing memories of shared experiences?
40. Can you describe a time when a friend’s kindness deeply touched you?

Advanced (C1):

41. How do you navigate friendships when memories are central to the bond?

42. Can you recall a moment when a friend’s perspective changed your own?
43. What’s a memory that captures the essence of your friendship group?
44. Have you ever reconnected with a friend after years apart? What was it like?
45. How do you deal with nostalgia for past moments with friends?
46. Can you describe a time when a friend’s actions spoke louder than words?
47. What’s a memory that challenged your assumptions about friendship?
48. Have you ever had a falling out with a friend over differing interpretations of a memory?
49. How do you balance living in the present while cherishing past memories with friends?
50. Can you recall a time when a friend’s presence made all the difference in a difficult situation?

Proficient (C2):

51. How do you reconcile conflicting memories within a friendship group?

52. Can you describe a moment when a friend’s absence made you appreciate their presence even more?
53. What’s a memory that captures the evolution of your friendship over time?
54. Have you ever revisited a place or activity from your past with friends? How did it feel?
55. How do you navigate friendships when memories hold different levels of significance for each person?
56. Can you recall a moment when a friend’s vulnerability deepened your connection?
57. What’s a memory that highlights the resilience of your friendship group?
58. Have you ever consciously created a new memory with friends to strengthen your bond?
59. How do you honor the memory of friends who are no longer part of your life?
60. Can you describe a moment when you realized the enduring impact of a friendship memory?

Category 4: Talking about Friendship Values

Beginner (A1):

1. What does friendship mean to you?
2. Is it important to have friends?
3. Why do people have friends?
4. How do friends make you feel?
5. Do you like spending time with your friends?
6. Why do friends help each other?
7. What do you like about your friends?
8. Do you think friends should be kind?
9. Why do friends share things with each other?
10. What makes a good friend?

Elementary (A2):

11. Can you name some qualities of a good friend?

12. Why is it important to trust your friends?
13. Do you think friends should listen to each other?
14. Why do friends apologize when they make mistakes?
15. What do you do to show your friends that you care about them?
16. Why is it important to be honest with your friends?
17. Do you think friends should support each other’s dreams?
18. Why do friends celebrate each other’s successes?
19. How do friends show gratitude to each other?
20. Why is it important to forgive your friends?

Intermediate (B1):

21. How do friends help each other during tough times?

22. Do you think friends should respect each other’s boundaries?
23. Why is it important to communicate openly with your friends?
24. What role does empathy play in friendships?
25. How do friends maintain trust in their relationships?
26. Do you think friends should give each other space sometimes? Why?
27. Why is it important to have common interests with your friends?
28. How do friends resolve conflicts?
29. Why is loyalty important in friendships?
30. What do friends do to make each other feel valued?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. How do friends navigate differences in opinions or beliefs?

32. Why is it important for friends to accept each other for who they are?
33. How do friends support each other’s personal growth?
34. Do you think friends should challenge each other? Why or why not?
35. Why is it important for friends to be reliable?
36. How do friends maintain balance in their relationships?
37. Why is it important for friends to communicate boundaries?
38. How do friends handle jealousy or envy in their relationships?
39. Why is it important for friends to show appreciation for each other?
40. How do friends foster a sense of belonging within their group?

Advanced (C1):

41. How do friends navigate power dynamics within their relationships?

42. Why is it important for friends to respect each other’s autonomy?
43. How do friends support each other’s mental and emotional well-being?
44. Do you think friends should challenge each other’s perspectives? Why or why not?
45. Why is it important for friends to be accountable to each other?
46. How do friends maintain authenticity in their relationships?
47. Why is it important for friends to understand each other’s boundaries?
48. How do friends address issues of privilege and inequality within their group?
49. Why is it important for friends to confront harmful behavior within their circle?
50. How do friends create a sense of inclusivity within their group?

Proficient (C2):

51. How do friends navigate complex emotions and vulnerabilities within their relationships?

52. Why is it important for friends to actively listen to each other?
53. How do friends foster a culture of consent and respect within their group?
54. Do you think friendships can be hierarchical or egalitarian? Why?
55. Why is it important for friends to challenge societal norms and injustices together?
56. How do friends navigate conflicts of interest within their group?
57. Why is it important for friends to recognize and address their own biases?
58. How do friends uphold ethical standards and values within their relationships?
59. Why is it important for friends to engage in ongoing reflection and growth together?
60. How do friends create a supportive and empowering environment for each other’s growth and fulfillment?

Category 5: Talking about Communication

Beginner (A1):

1. How do you talk to your friends?
2. Do you use words or gestures to communicate with friends?
3. Why is it important to listen to your friends?
4. How do you let your friends know you’re happy to see them?
5. Do you use facial expressions to show your feelings to friends?
6. Why is it important to say “thank you” to your friends?
7. How do you ask your friends for help?
8. Do you say “I’m sorry” when you make a mistake with your friends?
9. Why is it important to speak kindly to your friends?
10. How do you express your feelings to your friends?

Elementary (A2):

11. Can you describe a time when you had a conversation with a friend?

12. How do you greet your friends when you see them?
13. Why is it important to share your thoughts with your friends?
14. How do you show empathy to your friends?
15. Do you use body language to communicate with your friends?
16. Why is it important to be honest when talking to your friends?
17. How do you ask your friends about their day?
18. Can you give compliments to your friends? Why?
19. How do you express concern for your friends?
20. Why is it important to resolve conflicts with your friends?

Intermediate (B1):

21. How do you initiate a conversation with a friend?

22. Can you describe a time when you had to explain something to a friend?
23. Why is it important to understand your friends’ perspectives?
24. How do you give constructive feedback to your friends?
25. Do you use humor to communicate with your friends? Why or why not?
26. Why is it important to establish boundaries in communication with friends?
27. How do you handle misunderstandings in communication with friends?
28. Can you give examples of nonverbal communication used among friends?
29. How do you express appreciation to your friends?
30. Why is it important to be an active listener when talking to your friends?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. How do you maintain communication with friends who live far away?

32. Can you describe a time when you had a deep conversation with a friend?
33. Why is it important to practice empathy in communication with friends?
34. How do you navigate cultural differences in communication with friends?
35. Do you use technology to communicate with your friends? How?
36. Why is it important to communicate openly and honestly with friends?
37. How do you handle disagreements in communication with friends?
38. Can you give examples of assertive communication used among friends?
39. How do you provide support and encouragement through communication with friends?
40. Why is it important to show respect in communication with friends?

Advanced (C1):

41. How do you navigate difficult conversations with friends?

42. Can you describe a time when you had to confront a friend about an issue?
43. Why is it important to practice active listening skills in communication with friends?
44. How do you maintain authenticity in communication with friends?
45. Do you use different communication styles with different friends? Why?
46. Why is it important to communicate boundaries clearly with friends?
47. How do you handle conflicts of interest in communication with friends?
48. Can you give examples of effective negotiation techniques used among friends?
49. How do you provide constructive criticism in communication with friends?
50. Why is it important to be mindful of power dynamics in communication with friends?

Proficient (C2):

51. How do you navigate communication challenges in complex friendships?

52. Can you describe a time when you had to mediate a conflict between friends?
53. Why is it important to cultivate emotional intelligence in communication with friends?
54. How do you balance honesty with sensitivity in communication with friends?
55. Do you think digital communication has changed the nature of friendships? How?
56. Why is it important to address underlying emotions in communication with friends?
57. How do you foster a culture of trust and vulnerability in communication with friends?
58. Can you give examples of effective communication strategies used to strengthen friendships?
59. How do you handle communication breakdowns in long-term friendships?
60. Why is ongoing, open communication essential for maintaining healthy friendships?

Category 6: Talking about Challenges and Support

Beginner (A1):

1. Have you ever felt sad? Did your friends help you?
2. What do you do when you need help from your friends?
3. Do you like to help your friends when they have a problem?
4. Have you ever felt scared? How did your friends support you?
5. What do you do when your friend feels lonely?
6. Do you share your toys or things with your friends?
7. Have you ever felt angry? Did your friends help you calm down?
8. How do you show support to your friends?
9. Have you ever felt tired? Did your friends help you feel better?
10. What do you do when your friend is sick?

Elementary (A2):

11. Can you describe a time when you faced a challenge with your friends’ help?

12. How do you comfort a friend who is upset?
13. Have you ever helped a friend with their homework?
14. What do you do when your friend is having a bad day?
15. Can you describe a time when your friend helped you overcome a fear?
16. How do you cheer up a friend who is feeling down?
17. Have you ever stood up for a friend who was being treated unfairly?
18. What do you do when your friend is worried about something?
19. Can you describe a time when you and your friends worked together to solve a problem?
20. How do you offer encouragement to your friends?

Intermediate (B1):

21. How do you support a friend who is going through a difficult time?

22. Have you ever had to make a tough decision with your friends’ support?
23. What do you do when your friend is experiencing stress?
24. Can you describe a time when a friend’s encouragement helped you achieve a goal?
25. How do you maintain friendships during times of change or transition?
26. Have you ever had to ask for help from your friends? How did they respond?
27. What do you do when your friend is facing criticism or negativity?
28. Can you describe a time when your friends provided emotional support to each other?
29. How do you offer practical assistance to your friends in need?
30. Have you ever had to confront a friend about their harmful behavior? How did you handle it?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. How do you navigate conflicts within your friend group?

32. Have you ever had to support a friend through a breakup or loss?
33. What do you do when your friend is struggling with self-esteem or confidence?
34. Can you describe a time when your friends helped you see things from a different perspective?
35. How do you support a friend who is pursuing a challenging goal or dream?
36. Have you ever had to set boundaries with a friend to protect your well-being?
37. What do you do when your friend is experiencing relationship problems?
38. Can you describe a time when you had to give tough love to a friend? How did they react?
39. How do you handle friendships that become strained or distant over time?
40. Have you ever had to intervene in a friend’s self-destructive behavior? How did you approach it?

Advanced (C1):

41. How do you navigate friendships when values or priorities diverge?

42. Have you ever had to support a friend through a mental health crisis?
43. What do you do when a friend is struggling with addiction or substance abuse?
44. Can you describe a time when you had to confront a friend about their harmful habits?
45. How do you handle friendships that become toxic or unhealthy?
46. Have you ever had to address issues of codependency in a friendship?
47. What do you do when a friend is engaging in self-sabotaging behavior?
48. Can you describe a time when your friends staged an intervention for someone in the group?
49. How do you support a friend who is dealing with trauma or past experiences?
50. What do you do when a friend is resistant to receiving help or support?

Proficient (C2):

51. How do you navigate friendships when one person consistently takes more than they give?

52. Have you ever had to support a friend through a crisis of identity or existential questioning?
53. What do you do when a friend is struggling with existential or philosophical dilemmas?
54. Can you describe a time when you had to challenge a friend’s harmful beliefs or attitudes?
55. How do you address issues of privilege or power dynamics within your friend group?
56. What do you do when a friend is resistant to acknowledging their own toxic behavior?
57. How do you support a friend who is facing societal or systemic oppression?
58. Can you describe a time when your friendships played a crucial role in your own personal growth or transformation?
59. How do you navigate friendships when boundaries are constantly being tested or violated?
60. What do you do when a friend consistently fails to reciprocate support or empathy in the relationship?

Category 7: Talking about Socializing

Beginner (A1):

1. Do you like spending time with your friends?
2. How do you greet your friends when you see them?
3. Where do you like to hang out with your friends?
4. Do you enjoy going to parties with friends?
5. What do you do when you meet your friends?
6. How do you invite your friends to do something together?
7. Do you like to eat with your friends?
8. How do you say goodbye to your friends?
9. Have you ever invited your friends to your house?
10. Do you feel happy when you’re with your friends?

Elementary (A2):

11. Can you describe a typical day out with your friends?

12. How do you decide where to go when you meet up with friends?
13. Do you prefer small gatherings or big parties with friends?
14. What activities do you enjoy doing when socializing with friends?
15. Have you ever organized an event with your friends?
16. How do you stay in touch with your friends outside of meeting up?
17. Do you enjoy going to cafes or restaurants with friends?
18. How do you make plans with your friends in advance?
19. Can you describe a memorable social event you attended with friends?
20. What do you like most about socializing with friends?

Intermediate (B1):

21. How do you handle disagreements or conflicts when socializing with friends?

22. Can you describe a time when you met new people through your friends?
23. What role do shared interests play in socializing with friends?
24. How do you include everyone when socializing in a group?
25. Have you ever traveled with friends? How was the experience?
26. How do you maintain a healthy balance between socializing and personal time?
27. Can you describe a time when you had to mediate a disagreement between friends while socializing?
28. What do you do when you feel left out in a social gathering with friends?
29. How do you introduce your friends to each other?
30. Can you describe a cultural tradition related to socializing with friends in your country?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. How do you handle socializing in situations where you don’t know many people?

32. Can you describe a time when you had to navigate social hierarchies within a group of friends?
33. What do you do when you feel overwhelmed in a social setting with friends?
34. How do you maintain friendships when socializing becomes less frequent?
35. Have you ever hosted a gathering or event for your friends? How did it go?
36. How do you navigate socializing in multilingual or multicultural groups of friends?
37. Can you describe a time when you had to confront exclusionary behavior within a group of friends?
38. What do you do when you feel pressure to conform to social norms while socializing?
39. How do you handle socializing with friends who have different energy levels or preferences?
40. Can you describe a time when you had to advocate for inclusivity in a social setting with friends?

Advanced (C1):

41. How do you navigate social dynamics when socializing with friends from diverse backgrounds?

42. Can you describe a time when you had to confront issues of privilege or elitism within your social circle?
43. What do you do when you witness or experience microaggressions while socializing with friends?
44. How do you address systemic inequalities or injustices within your friend group while socializing?
45. Have you ever had to challenge harmful social norms or traditions within your social circle?
46. How do you navigate socializing in situations where there are power imbalances among friends?
47. Can you describe a time when you had to confront problematic behavior or attitudes within your friend group while socializing?
48. What do you do when you feel pressured to participate in activities or behaviors that go against your values while socializing with friends?
49. How do you foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity within your social circle?
50. Can you describe a time when you had to take a stand for social justice or equity within your friend group while socializing?

Proficient (C2):

51. How do you navigate complex social dilemmas or ethical quandaries within your friend group while socializing?

52. Can you describe a time when you had to address systemic issues of discrimination or oppression within your social circle?
53. What do you do when you encounter resistance or backlash for advocating for social change within your friend group while socializing?
54. How do you cultivate a culture of accountability and allyship within your social circle?
55. Have you ever had to challenge entrenched patterns of privilege or power within your friend group while socializing?
56. How do you foster a sense of community and collective responsibility within your social circle?
57. Can you describe a time when you had to navigate the complexities of intersectionality within your friend group while socializing?
58. What do you do when you witness or experience acts of discrimination or marginalization within your social circle while socializing?
59. How do you actively work to dismantle oppressive structures and systems within your social circle?
60. Can you describe a vision for a more inclusive and equitable socializing culture within your friend group?

Category 8: Talking about Friendship in Different Cultures

Beginner (A1):

1. Do people in your country value friendship?
2. How do friends greet each other in your culture?
3. Are friendships important in your community?
4. How do people become friends in your country?
5. Do friends spend a lot of time together in your culture?
6. Are there special days to celebrate friendship in your country?
7. What do friends do for fun in your culture?
8. How do people show appreciation for their friends in your society?
9. Do friends help each other in times of need in your community?
10. How do friends say goodbye to each other in your culture?

Elementary (A2):

11. Can you describe the role of friendship in your culture?

12. How do people maintain friendships in your country?
13. Are there any traditional customs related to friendship in your society?
14. How do friendships differ between children and adults in your culture?
15. Can you describe a famous friendship story or legend from your country?
16. Are there any friendship-related rituals or traditions in your culture?
17. How do people show loyalty to their friends in your society?
18. Do friendships usually last a lifetime in your culture?
19. Are there any taboos or rules related to friendship in your community?
20. How do people celebrate milestones in their friendships in your country?

Intermediate (B1):

21. How do cultural values influence the formation of friendships in your society?

22. Can you describe the significance of reciprocity in friendships in your culture?
23. How do gender roles affect friendships in your community?
24. Are there any specific gestures or symbols associated with friendship in your culture?
25. How do people handle conflicts or disagreements in friendships in your society?
26. Can you discuss the role of trust in maintaining friendships in your culture?
27. How do friendships differ between urban and rural areas in your country?
28. Are there any social norms or expectations regarding friendships in your society?
29. Can you describe the impact of technology on friendships in your culture?
30. How do cultural changes influence the dynamics of friendships over time in your community?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. How do cultural attitudes toward individualism versus collectivism impact friendships in your society?

32. Can you discuss the role of family ties in shaping friendships in your culture?
33. How do people navigate friendships across different social classes or backgrounds in your community?
34. Are there any stigmas or stereotypes associated with certain types of friendships in your culture?
35. How do people maintain long-distance friendships in your society?
36. Can you describe the concept of “chosen family” or non-biological kinship in your culture?
37. How do people express intimacy or affection in friendships in your society?
38. Are there any cultural practices related to matchmaking or arranged friendships in your community?
39. Can you discuss the impact of globalization on friendship dynamics in your culture?
40. How do cultural attitudes toward time management and scheduling affect friendships in your society?

Advanced (C1):

41. How do cultural narratives or myths shape perceptions of friendship in your society?

42. Can you discuss the intersection of friendship with other social institutions, such as religion or politics, in your culture?
43. How do people navigate friendships within marginalized or minority communities in your society?
44. Are there any legal or institutional frameworks that support or regulate friendships in your culture?
45. How do people negotiate boundaries and autonomy within friendships in your society?
46. Can you describe the role of peer pressure or social conformity in shaping friendships in your community?
47. How do people navigate friendships across generational or intergenerational divides in your culture?
48. Are there any cultural practices related to mentorship or elder friendships in your society?
49. Can you discuss the impact of migration or diaspora on friendship networks in your community?
50. How do people reconcile cultural traditions with contemporary values in their friendships?

Proficient (C2):

51. How do cultural representations of friendship in media or literature reflect broader societal values in your culture?

52. Can you discuss the role of friendship in social movements or activism within your society?
53. How do people navigate friendships within diverse or multicultural communities in your culture?
54. Are there any philosophical or ethical frameworks that underpin concepts of friendship in your society?
55. How do people negotiate power dynamics or hierarchies within their friendships in your community?
56. Can you describe the impact of economic inequality or class stratification on friendship dynamics in your culture?
57. How do people reconcile traditional notions of friendship with contemporary challenges and realities in your society?
58. Are there any cultural rituals or ceremonies that mark significant milestones in friendships in your community?
59. Can you discuss the role of storytelling or oral history in preserving and transmitting cultural narratives of friendship?
60. How do people envision the future of friendships in the context of rapid social, technological, and cultural change in your society?

Category 9: Talking about Maintaining Friendships

Beginner (A1):

1. How often do you talk to your friends?
2. Do you enjoy spending time with your friends?
3. What do you do to stay connected with your friends?
4. How do you show your friends that you care about them?
5. Do you share things with your friends?
6. Why is it important to stay in touch with your friends?
7. How do you make plans with your friends?
8. What do you do when you miss your friends?
9. How do you support your friends when they need help?
10. Why is it important to be there for your friends?

Elementary (A2):

11. Can you describe a typical day spent with your friends?

12. How do you celebrate special occasions with your friends?
13. Do you have any shared hobbies or interests with your friends?
14. How do you resolve conflicts or misunderstandings with your friends?
15. Can you describe a time when you helped a friend overcome a challenge?
16. What do you do to keep the friendship exciting and fun?
17. How do you show appreciation for your friends?
18. Do you ever surprise your friends with gifts or gestures of kindness?
19. Can you describe a memorable adventure you had with your friends?
20. How do you ensure that your friendships remain strong and meaningful?

Intermediate (B1):

21. How do you prioritize your friendships amidst other responsibilities?

22. Can you describe a time when you had to make compromises to maintain a friendship?
23. How do you handle disagreements or conflicts that arise in friendships?
24. Do you set boundaries in your friendships? How?
25. Can you describe the role of communication in maintaining friendships?
26. How do you support your friends through life changes or transitions?
27. Do you ever seek advice or guidance from your friends?
28. How do you navigate differences in opinion or lifestyle with your friends?
29. Can you describe a time when distance challenged your friendship? How did you overcome it?
30. How do you express gratitude for your friends’ presence in your life?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. How do you maintain friendships with people from different cultural backgrounds?

32. Can you describe a time when you had to confront a friend about their behavior?
33. How do you balance giving and receiving support in your friendships?
34. Do you have any rituals or traditions with your friends?
35. Can you describe a time when you had to forgive a friend for something?
36. How do you handle friendships that have become one-sided or imbalanced?
37. Do you ever take breaks from certain friendships? Why?
38. Can you describe the role of trust in maintaining long-term friendships?
39. How do you adapt to changes in your friends’ lives or personalities?
40. Can you describe a time when you had to redefine the boundaries of a friendship?

Advanced (C1):

41. How do you navigate the complexities of friendships within social or professional circles?

42. Can you describe a time when you had to confront issues of privilege or inequality within a friendship?
43. How do you handle friendships that have become toxic or unhealthy?
44. Can you discuss the role of vulnerability and authenticity in maintaining deep friendships?
45. How do you support friends who are going through existential or spiritual crises?
46. Can you describe the impact of technology and social media on modern friendships?
47. How do you address conflicts or tensions that arise from differing life stages or priorities?
48. Can you discuss the role of forgiveness and reconciliation in repairing damaged friendships?
49. How do you navigate friendships with people who have conflicting values or beliefs?
50. Can you describe a time when you had to let go of a friendship for your own well-being?

Proficient (C2):

51. How do you navigate friendships within evolving social, cultural, and political landscapes?

52. Can you discuss the impact of societal norms and expectations on the formation and maintenance of friendships?
53. How do you foster a sense of community and belonging within your friendship circles?
54. Can you describe the role of empathy and compassion in sustaining meaningful friendships?
55. How do you support friends who are dealing with loss, grief, or trauma?
56. Can you discuss the intersection of friendship with broader concepts of identity, belonging, and self-expression?
57. How do you cultivate resilience and adaptability in the face of changing dynamics in friendships?
58. Can you describe the role of mutual growth and transformation in long-term friendships?
59. How do you navigate the complexities of friendships within non-traditional or chosen family structures?
60. Can you envision the future of friendships in a rapidly changing world, and how do you adapt to it?

Category 10: Talking about Future Plans with Friends

Beginner (A1):

1. Do you like making plans with your friends for the future?
2. What are some things you want to do with your friends in the future?
3. Do you want to travel with your friends someday?
4. How do you imagine spending time with your friends in the future?
5. Have you ever talked about future plans with your friends?
6. What do you think your friends want to do in the future?
7. Do you hope to stay friends with the people you know now?
8. How do you imagine celebrating special occasions with your friends in the future?
9. What are some dreams you have for your future friendships?
10. Why do you think it’s important to have friends in the future?

Elementary (A2):

11. Can you describe a dream vacation you’d like to take with your friends?

12. How do you envision your friendships evolving in the future?
13. Have you and your friends ever made a bucket list of things to do together in the future?
14. What are some goals you have for your friendships in the coming years?
15. Can you describe a future milestone or event you’re excited to share with your friends?
16. How do you plan to stay connected with your friends as you all grow older?
17. Do you believe in maintaining long-distance friendships in the future?
18. How do you think technology will influence friendships in the future?
19. Can you imagine yourself growing old with your current friends?
20. What values do you hope your future friendships will be built on?

Intermediate (B1):

21. How do you plan to support your friends in achieving their future goals?

22. Can you describe a future adventure or project you’d like to embark on with your friends?
23. How do you envision your role within your friend group in the future?
24. Have you ever discussed career aspirations or life plans with your friends?
25. What steps are you taking now to ensure strong friendships in the future?
26. How do you navigate potential changes or challenges in your friendships as you all move forward in life?
27. Can you describe a future tradition or ritual you hope to establish with your friends?
28. How do you plan to prioritize self-care while maintaining your friendships in the future?
29. What strategies do you have for resolving conflicts or misunderstandings in future friendships?
30. How do you plan to celebrate each other’s successes and milestones in the future?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. Can you describe a future reunion or gathering you’d like to organize with your friends?

32. How do you envision your friendships contributing to your overall well-being in the future?
33. What role do you see your friends playing in supporting you through future challenges or transitions?
34. Have you ever discussed financial planning or saving for future experiences with your friends?
35. How do you plan to balance your individual goals and aspirations with those of your friends in the future?
36. Can you describe a future collaboration or creative project you’d like to undertake with your friends?
37. How do you plan to navigate potential shifts in priorities or interests among your friend group in the future?
38. What strategies do you have for maintaining boundaries and autonomy within future friendships?
39. How do you envision your friendships adapting to major life changes such as marriage or parenthood in the future?
40. Can you describe a future scenario where you and your friends support each other through a crisis or hardship?

Advanced (C1):

41. How do you anticipate your friendships evolving as you and your friends enter different life stages in the future?

42. Can you describe a future scenario where you and your friends challenge each other to grow and evolve personally?
43. What role do you see your friendships playing in shaping your future identity and sense of self?
44. Have you ever discussed legacy or the impact you hope to leave on each other’s lives with your friends?
45. How do you plan to navigate potential conflicts or tensions that may arise from diverging paths or goals in the future?
46. Can you describe a future scenario where you and your friends come together to support a common cause or mission?
47. How do you anticipate technology and digital platforms shaping the future of your friendships?
48. What steps are you taking now to invest in and nurture your future friendships?
49. Can you envision a future where your friendships serve as a source of wisdom, guidance, and mutual support?
50. How do you plan to prioritize authenticity, vulnerability, and intimacy within your future friendships?

Proficient (C2):

51. How do you see your friendships contributing to your overall sense of fulfillment and purpose in the future?

52. Can you describe a future vision where you and your friends create a lasting legacy or impact on the world?
53. What strategies do you have for fostering intergenerational friendships and mentorship in the future?
54. How do you plan to leverage your friendships as a source of resilience and strength in the face of future challenges?
55. Can you envision a future where your friendships transcend geographical, cultural, and societal boundaries?
56. How do you plan to challenge and disrupt traditional notions of friendship to create more inclusive and equitable relationships in the future?
57. What role do you see your friendships playing in shaping the future of your community, society, and world?
58. Can you describe a future where your friendships serve as a source of inspiration, creativity, and innovation?
59. How do you plan to cultivate a sense of collective responsibility and accountability within your future friendships?
60. Can you envision a future where your friendships serve as a model for compassion, empathy, and love in a rapidly changing world?

Category 11: Talking About Close Friendships

1. What if you could always rely on your closest friend? How would that change your life?
2. What if you never argued with your best friend? Would it affect your relationship?
3. What if you had to choose between your best friend and your dream job? What would you do?
4. What if your best friend moved to another country? How would you keep in touch?
5. What if your best friend disagreed with a big decision you made? How would you handle it?
6. What if your best friend became famous? How would that change your relationship?
7. What if you could do anything with your best friend today? What would you do together?
8. What if you could meet your best friend for the first time again? How would you approach the friendship?

Category 12: Talking About Friendships in General

9. What if you could make new friends anywhere? How would you meet them?
10. What if you could only have one friend for the rest of your life? Who would you choose?
11. What if you were friends with someone from a completely different culture? What would you learn from them?
12. What if you had to introduce your best friend to your family? How would you prepare?
13. What if you lost touch with a close friend? Would you try to reconnect?
14. What if your friend asked you to keep a secret that made you uncomfortable? How would you handle it?

Conclusion

By delving into discussions about friendship, ESL students not only enhance their language skills but also gain insights into the dynamics of interpersonal relationships.

With a plethora of conversation questions spanning various proficiency levels, this resource ensures a vibrant and engaging learning experience for students, fostering a deeper understanding of the significance of friendship in different cultural contexts.

Explore the dynamics of friendship through language with these 614 conversation questions designed to enhance vocabulary, boost confidence, and teach speaking skills to ESL students. Dive into discussions about qualities, experiences, and cultural perspectives on friendship.