601 Best ESL Conversation Questions on Talking about Money

When adults talk about money, they’re serious about it! Therefore, learning to talk about money in English is crucial for adult ESL students. It helps them understand financial concepts, discuss monetary issues, and engage in meaningful conversations about personal and global finances.

ESL teachers can use these as daily conversation questions to help students practice speaking and participating in discussions about financial topics, including budgeting, saving, spending, and investing. These questions are excellent for building vocabulary and boosting confidence in discussing financial matters.

This resource has 601 questions in 10 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, financial role-plays, or presentations.

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

This set of 601 money conversation questions, divided into 10 categories and six proficiency levels, is a valuable tool for ESL teachers to teach speaking skills and promote financial understanding among ESL students.

Category 1: Talking about Basic Concepts

Beginner (A1):

1. What is money?
2. Is money important?
3. How do people use money?
4. Where can you keep your money?
5. Can you buy things with money?
6. What colors do you see on money?
7. What do you call small pieces of money?
8. Do you need money to buy food?
9. Can you give money to other people?
10. Why do people work for money?

Elementary (A2):

11. Who prints money?
12. What are coins made of?
13. Do you use cash or cards more often?
14. Where can you get money from?
15. What is the difference between saving and spending money?
16. Can you name three different types of currency?
17. Have you ever borrowed money from someone?
18. How do you count money?
19. Do you have a piggy bank?
20. Why do people sometimes say “money doesn’t grow on trees”?

Intermediate (B1):

21. How does inflation affect money’s value?
22. What are the advantages of using credit cards?
23. What is the role of banks in managing money?
24. How do you manage your daily expenses?
25. Have you ever had to exchange money when traveling?
26. Can you explain the concept of interest?
27. What is the importance of budgeting?
28. Do you think it’s better to save money or spend it?
29. What are some common ways people waste money?
30. How can you protect yourself from counterfeit money?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. What is the difference between income and wealth?
32. How does taxation work in your country?
33. Have you ever invested money in stocks or real estate?
34. What is the role of insurance in personal finance?
35. Can you explain the concept of compound interest?
36. How do cultural attitudes toward money vary around the world?
37. What are some ethical considerations when it comes to money?
38. How can technology help manage personal finances?
39. What impact does government spending have on the economy?
40. Do you think everyone should have equal access to money?

Advanced (C1):

41. How do economic theories influence monetary policies?
42. What role does globalization play in the world of finance?
43. How do financial markets impact the economy?
44. Can you discuss the concept of wealth inequality?
45. What strategies can individuals use to build long-term wealth?
46. How do behavioral economics principles affect financial decision-making?
47. Can you analyze the pros and cons of different investment strategies?
48. What are some historical examples of major financial crises?
49. How does corporate finance differ from personal finance?
50. What is the future of digital currencies like Bitcoin?

Proficient (C2):

51. How do international trade agreements influence global financial flows?
52. Can you discuss the role of central banks in shaping monetary policy?
53. What ethical dilemmas arise in the world of high finance?
54. How do cultural perceptions of money affect economic development?
55. What impact does economic globalization have on income inequality?
56. Can you evaluate the effectiveness of government stimulus measures during economic downturns?
57. How do financial derivatives work, and what risks do they pose?
58. What is the role of financial regulation in preventing financial crises?
59. Can you explain the concept of quantitative easing and its effects on the economy?
60. How might emerging technologies like blockchain revolutionize the future of finance?

Category 2: Talking about Personal Finance

Beginner (A1):

1. Do you have money?
2. How do you earn money?
3. What do you spend money on?
4. Do you save money?
5. What is a bank?
6. Do you have a wallet?
7. Can you buy clothes with money?
8. Why is it important to save money?
9. What is a job?
10. Do you pay for food with money?

Elementary (A2):

11. How do you manage your money?
12. Have you ever made a budget?
13. Do you have a bank account?
14. What is a paycheck?
15. How do you pay bills?
16. Have you ever borrowed money from a friend?
17. Do you use cash or cards for everyday purchases?
18. What are some ways to save money?
19. Have you ever had to pay taxes?
20. How do you decide what to spend money on?

Intermediate (B1):

21. What is the difference between wants and needs?
22. How do you plan for big purchases?
23. Have you ever had to take out a loan?
24. Can you explain the concept of credit scores?
25. What are some common financial goals people have?
26. How do you prioritize spending when you have limited income?
27. Do you have any investments?
28. How do you handle unexpected expenses?
29. Have you ever experienced financial stress?
30. What strategies do you use to control impulse buying?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. Can you discuss the importance of emergency funds?
32. What are some strategies for reducing debt?
33. How do you plan for retirement?
34. Can you explain the concept of financial independence?
35. What are some advantages and disadvantages of renting vs. buying a home?
36. How do you negotiate salaries or prices?
37. Can you discuss the concept of financial risk?
38. What are some ways to diversify your investments?
39. How do economic conditions affect personal finance decisions?
40. How do cultural factors influence personal financial habits?

Advanced (C1):

41. Can you analyze the impact of interest rates on personal finance?
42. How do economic downturns affect individual financial situations?
43. What role does psychology play in personal financial decision-making?
44. Can you discuss the ethics of personal finance, such as tax evasion or insider trading?
45. How do different types of insurance protect personal finances?
46. What are some strategies for estate planning?
47. Can you explain the concept of asset allocation?
48. How do economic policies impact personal finance?
49. Can you evaluate the effectiveness of financial education programs?
50. How do cultural attitudes toward wealth impact personal financial goals?

Proficient (C2):

51. How do behavioral biases influence investment decisions?
52. Can you discuss the role of financial advisors in personal finance?
53. What are some strategies for minimizing investment taxes?
54. How do geopolitical events impact global financial markets and personal finances?
55. Can you analyze the implications of income inequality on personal finance?
56. What are some alternative investment strategies beyond stocks and bonds?
57. How do macroeconomic trends affect individual financial planning?
58. Can you discuss the challenges of retirement planning in an uncertain economic environment?
59. How do technological advancements impact personal finance management?
60. Can you propose strategies for achieving financial well-being and security in the long term?

Category 3: Talking about Shopping and Expenses

Beginner (A1):

1. Do you like to go shopping?
2. What do you buy when you go shopping?
3. Where do you buy groceries?
4. How do you pay for things when you go shopping?
5. What is your favorite thing to buy?
6. Do you buy clothes often?
7. Do you spend a lot of money when you go shopping?
8. Why do people go shopping?
9. How do you feel when you buy something new?
10. Do you prefer shopping online or in-person?

Elementary (A2):

11. How do you plan your shopping trips?
12. What are some essential items you buy regularly?
13. Do you compare prices before buying something?
14. How do you know if something is a good deal?
15. Have you ever bought something online?
16. Do you have a favorite store to shop at?
17. What do you do if you can’t find what you’re looking for?
18. Have you ever returned something you bought?
19. Do you prefer to shop alone or with friends/family?
20. What factors influence your purchasing decisions?

Intermediate (B1):

21. Can you discuss the impact of advertising on shopping habits?
22. How do you resist impulse buying?
23. What are some ways to save money while shopping?
24. Have you ever haggled over prices?
25. Can you explain the concept of buyer’s remorse?
26. What role does brand loyalty play in your shopping habits?
27. How do you handle sales and discounts?
28. Do you think shopping addiction is a real problem?
29. What are some ethical considerations when shopping?
30. Can you discuss the environmental impact of consumerism?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. How do cultural differences affect shopping behaviors?
32. Can you discuss the rise of online shopping and its impact on traditional stores?
33. What are some emerging trends in retail and shopping experiences?
34. How do economic factors influence consumer spending patterns?
35. Can you analyze the role of packaging and presentation in marketing products?
36. What are some strategies for responsible shopping?
37. How does the sharing economy affect traditional retail models?
38. Can you discuss the concept of conspicuous consumption?
39. What role does peer pressure play in shopping decisions?
40. How do subscription services change the way we shop?

Advanced (C1):

41. Can you analyze the psychology behind consumer behavior?
42. How do supply chain disruptions impact shopping experiences?
43. What are some strategies for promoting sustainable consumption?
44. Can you discuss the impact of globalization on consumer culture?
45. How do emerging technologies like AR and VR influence shopping?
46. What are some challenges facing brick-and-mortar retailers in the digital age?
47. Can you evaluate the effectiveness of loyalty programs in driving sales?
48. How do economic recessions affect consumer confidence and spending?
49. What role does social media play in shaping shopping trends?
50. Can you discuss the future of retail and the evolution of shopping experiences?

Proficient (C2):

51. How do cultural attitudes toward materialism influence shopping behaviors?
52. Can you analyze the role of data analytics in personalized shopping experiences?
53. What are some strategies for combatting overconsumption in affluent societies?
54. How do regulatory policies impact consumer rights and protections?
55. Can you discuss the ethics of fast fashion and its impact on the environment?
56. What role do influencers and celebrities play in shaping consumer preferences?
57. How do geopolitical events affect global supply chains and product availability?
58. Can you discuss the implications of online reviews and ratings on consumer choices?
59. How might augmented reality and virtual reality reshape the future of shopping?
60. Can you propose innovative solutions to address the challenges facing traditional retailers in the digital era?

Category 4: Talking about Saving and Investing

Beginner (A1):

1. Do you save money?
2. Where do you keep your savings?
3. Why is saving money important?
4. How do you save money?
5. What do you do with your saved money?
6. Have you ever saved money for something special?
7. Can you save money by not buying things?
8. What are some things you don’t spend money on?
9. Do you have a piggy bank?
10. Why do people put money in banks?

Elementary (A2):

11. How do you decide how much to save?
12. What are some things you can save money for?
13. Do you have a savings account?
14. How often do you deposit money into your savings account?
15. Can you explain the difference between saving and spending?
16. Have you ever saved money to buy a toy or a game?
17. What are some benefits of saving money?
18. How do you feel when you reach a savings goal?
19. Do you have a rainy day fund?
20. Can you give an example of a long-term savings goal?

Intermediate (B1):

21. What are some common types of investments?
22. How do you research investment opportunities?
23. Can you explain the concept of risk vs. return in investing?
24. Have you ever invested in stocks or bonds?
25. What factors do you consider before investing in something?
26. How do you diversify your investment portfolio?
27. Can you discuss the importance of setting investment goals?
28. What are some strategies for managing investment risk?
29. How do economic conditions affect investment decisions?
30. Can you explain the concept of compound interest and its importance in investing?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. How do you analyze financial statements when evaluating investment opportunities?
32. What role does timing play in investment decisions?
33. Can you discuss the impact of inflation on investment returns?
34. How do you know when it’s time to buy or sell an investment?
35. Have you ever experienced a loss in your investments? How did you handle it?
36. What are some tax implications of different types of investments?
37. How do you stay informed about market trends and investment news?
38. Can you discuss the ethics of certain investment practices?
39. What are some alternative investment options beyond stocks and bonds?
40. How do cultural attitudes toward risk influence investment behaviors?

Advanced (C1):

41. Can you analyze the impact of geopolitical events on financial markets and investments?
42. How do behavioral biases influence investment decisions?
43. What are some strategies for building a sustainable investment portfolio?
44. Can you discuss the role of corporate governance in investment analysis?
45. How do technological advancements like algorithmic trading affect investment strategies?
46. What are some challenges facing ethical investing in today’s global economy?
47. How do environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors impact investment decisions?
48. Can you evaluate the effectiveness of different investment management strategies?
49. What role does regulation play in protecting investors and maintaining market integrity?
50. Can you discuss the future of sustainable finance and impact investing?

Proficient (C2):

51. How do macroeconomic factors like interest rates and inflation impact investment performance?
52. Can you analyze the correlation between geopolitical risk and investment returns?
53. What are some advanced strategies for hedging investment risks?
54. How do cultural differences influence investment philosophies and strategies?
55. Can you discuss the implications of artificial intelligence and big data in investment management?
56. What role do financial derivatives play in modern investment portfolios?
57. How do investment bubbles form, and what are their potential consequences?
58. Can you propose innovative solutions to address financial market volatility?
59. How might emerging technologies like blockchain revolutionize the investment landscape?
60. Can you predict the future trends and challenges in global investment markets?

Category 5: Talking about Careers and Income

Beginner (A1):

1. What is a job?
2. Do you work?
3. Where do you work?
4. What do you do at work?
5. Why do people work?
6. Do you get paid for working?
7. How often do you work?
8. What is your dream job?
9. Can you name some jobs?
10. Do you like your job?

Elementary (A2):

11. How did you find your job?
12. What skills do you need for your job?
13. How do you spend your income?
14. Have you ever changed jobs?
15. What is the difference between a job and a career?
16. Do you have any career goals?
17. How do you feel about your income?
18. What benefits do you receive from your job?
19. Have you ever had a part-time job?
20. Can you describe a typical workday for you?

Intermediate (B1):

21. How do you negotiate salary at a new job?
22. Can you discuss the importance of networking in career advancement?
23. What are some common challenges people face in their careers?
24. How do you balance work and personal life?
25. Can you explain the concept of job satisfaction?
26. Have you ever received a promotion at work?
27. What are some strategies for career development?
28. How do you handle workplace conflicts?
29. Can you discuss the role of education in career progression?
30. What are some factors to consider when choosing a career path?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. How do cultural norms influence career choices?
32. Can you discuss the impact of technology on the future of work?
33. What are some emerging career fields?
34. How do you stay motivated in your career?
35. Can you explain the concept of work-life balance?
36. What are some strategies for career reinvention?
37. How do you navigate career transitions?
38. Can you discuss the importance of continuous learning in today’s job market?
39. What role does mentorship play in career development?
40. How do you measure success in your career?

Advanced (C1):

41. Can you analyze the impact of globalization on job markets?
42. How do you evaluate job offers and opportunities?
43. What are some challenges facing remote work arrangements?
44. Can you discuss the implications of automation on employment?
45. How do you manage career setbacks and failures?
46. What are some strategies for fostering diversity and inclusion in the workplace?
47. How do you approach career planning and goal setting?
48. Can you discuss the concept of workaholism and its effects on well-being?
49. How do you navigate ethical dilemmas in the workplace?
50. Can you propose strategies for fostering innovation and creativity in your career?

Proficient (C2):

51. How do economic trends shape career opportunities and job markets?
52. Can you analyze the role of leadership in driving organizational success?
53. What are some strategies for building a personal brand in your career?
54. How do you approach strategic career decision-making?
55. Can you discuss the impact of gig economy and freelance work on traditional employment models?
56. What role does emotional intelligence play in career advancement?
57. How do you address systemic inequalities in the workplace?
58. Can you discuss the challenges and opportunities of a multi-generational workforce?
59. How do you navigate ethical challenges in leadership roles?
60. Can you propose innovative solutions to address future challenges in workforce management?

Category 6: Talking about Economic Systems

Beginner (A1):

1. What is an economy?
2. How do people get things they need?
3. What is the role of money in an economy?
4. Why do people work in an economy?
5. Can you name some things people buy?
6. Do you know what taxes are?
7. How do people get food in an economy?
8. What is the difference between buying and selling?
9. Do you know what a business is?
10. Why is it important to have rules in an economy?

Elementary (A2):

11. How do people trade goods in an economy?
12. Can you explain the concept of supply and demand?
13. What is the difference between needs and wants in an economy?
14. How do governments regulate economies?
15. Can you name some types of businesses?
16. What are some services people pay for in an economy?
17. How do economies grow?
18. Can you describe the role of consumers in an economy?
19. What are some examples of resources in an economy?
20. How do prices affect what people buy in an economy?

Intermediate (B1):

21. How do different economic systems allocate resources?
22. Can you discuss the role of competition in an economy?
23. What are the advantages and disadvantages of a market economy?
24. How does government intervention impact market economies?
25. Can you explain the concept of economic cycles?
26. What role do central banks play in managing economies?
27. How do economies recover from recessions?
28. Can you discuss the impact of globalization on modern economies?
29. What are some examples of economic indicators?
30. How do economic policies affect employment rates?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. Can you analyze the strengths and weaknesses of different economic systems?
32. How do economic systems address income inequality?
33. What are the factors that influence economic growth?
34. Can you discuss the impact of technology on modern economies?
35. How do economic systems adapt to changing demographics?
36. What role do international trade agreements play in global economies?
37. How do economies address environmental sustainability?
38. Can you discuss the concept of economic development?
39. What are some challenges facing emerging economies?
40. How do cultural factors influence economic systems?

Advanced (C1):

41. Can you analyze the role of government in regulating monopolies and promoting competition?
42. How do economic theories shape public policy decisions?
43. What are some strategies for addressing structural unemployment in economies?
44. Can you discuss the concept of economic resilience in the face of crises?
45. How do economic systems address the distribution of wealth and resources?
46. What role does entrepreneurship play in driving economic innovation?
47. Can you evaluate the effectiveness of fiscal and monetary policies in managing economic stability?
48. How do economic systems balance individual freedoms with societal welfare?
49. Can you discuss the impact of income mobility on economic opportunities?
50. How do economic systems address the challenges of automation and technological disruption?

Proficient (C2):

51. How do economic systems adapt to changing geopolitical dynamics?
52. Can you analyze the implications of demographic shifts on labor markets and economic growth?
53. What role does economic diplomacy play in international relations?
54. How do economic systems address the social determinants of health and well-being?
55. Can you discuss the relationship between economic development and political stability?
56. What are some strategies for fostering inclusive growth in economies?
57. How do economic systems address the challenges of resource scarcity and sustainability?
58. Can you propose innovative solutions to address income inequality and social disparities within economic systems?
59. How do economic systems balance short-term economic goals with long-term sustainability?
60. Can you predict the future trends and challenges in global economic systems?

Category 7: Talking about Budgeting and Planning

Beginner (A1):

1. What is a budget?
2. Do you make a budget?
3. Why is budgeting important?
4. How do you plan your spending?
5. Can you explain the difference between needs and wants?
6. Do you keep track of your expenses?
7. How do you know if you have enough money for something?
8. What is the purpose of saving money?
9. Can you give an example of a monthly expense?
10. Why should you avoid spending all your money at once?

Elementary (A2):

11. How do you create a budget?
12. What are some common expenses in a budget?
13. How do you prioritize expenses?
14. Can you explain the concept of budgeting for emergencies?
15. Have you ever had to adjust your budget?
16. What are some strategies for sticking to a budget?
17. How do you budget for irregular expenses?
18. Can you discuss the importance of setting financial goals?
19. What are some ways to increase your income in a budget?
20. How do you review your budget to make sure it’s working?

Intermediate (B1):

21. How do you allocate money for savings in your budget?
22. Can you discuss the role of tracking expenses in budgeting?
23. What are some strategies for reducing expenses in a budget?
24. How do you plan for long-term financial goals in a budget?
25. Can you explain the concept of zero-based budgeting?
26. What role does debt repayment play in budgeting?
27. How do you handle unexpected expenses in a budget?
28. Can you discuss the impact of lifestyle inflation on budgeting?
29. What are some tools or apps you can use for budgeting?
30. How do cultural attitudes toward money influence budgeting habits?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. Can you analyze the pros and cons of different budgeting methods?
32. How do you budget for irregular income?
33. What are some strategies for budgeting as a couple or family?
34. Can you discuss the importance of flexibility in budgeting?
35. How do you incorporate financial planning into your budget?
36. What role does risk management play in budgeting?
37. How do you prioritize saving for different financial goals in a budget?
38. Can you discuss the impact of inflation on budgeting?
39. What are some strategies for balancing short-term and long-term financial priorities in a budget?
40. How do economic conditions affect budgeting decisions?

Advanced (C1):

41. Can you analyze the role of behavioral economics in budgeting?
42. How do you optimize tax planning within a budget?
43. What are some strategies for optimizing investment allocation within a budget?
44. Can you discuss the ethics of budgeting, such as fair allocation of resources?
45. How do you integrate retirement planning into your budget?
46. What role does estate planning play in comprehensive financial planning within a budget?
47. Can you evaluate the effectiveness of budgeting in achieving financial independence?
48. How do economic trends and forecasts inform budgeting decisions?
49. What are some challenges and opportunities of budgeting in a globalized economy?
50. Can you discuss the future trends and innovations in personal budgeting tools and strategies?

Proficient (C2):

51. How do cultural differences influence budgeting practices and priorities?
52. Can you analyze the impact of socioeconomic factors on budgeting behaviors?
53. What role does financial literacy play in effective budgeting?
54. How do psychological biases affect budgeting decisions?
55. Can you propose strategies for promoting financial inclusion through budgeting initiatives?
56. What are some challenges of budgeting in complex financial situations, such as entrepreneurship or freelancing?
57. How do budgeting strategies differ for individuals, businesses, and governments?
58. Can you discuss the implications of environmental sustainability on budgeting priorities?
59. How might emerging technologies like AI and blockchain revolutionize the future of budgeting?
60. Can you predict the future trends and challenges in personal and organizational budgeting practices?

Category 8: Talking about Financial Goals

Beginner (A1):

1. What are financial goals?
2. Do you have any financial goals?
3. Why is it important to set goals?
4. How do you achieve your financial goals?
5. Can you give an example of a short-term financial goal?
6. Do you know what a budget is?
7. How does budgeting help you reach your goals?
8. What is the difference between short-term and long-term goals?
9. Can you give an example of a long-term financial goal?
10. Why do people save money?

Elementary (A2):

11. How do you prioritize your financial goals?
12. Can you explain the concept of SMART goals?
13. What are some common financial goals people have?
14. How do you measure progress toward your goals?
15. Have you ever achieved a financial goal?
16. What are some obstacles to achieving financial goals?
17. How do you stay motivated to reach your goals?
18. Can you discuss the importance of patience in achieving long-term goals?
19. How do you adjust your goals when circumstances change?
20. What role does discipline play in achieving financial goals?

Intermediate (B1):

21. Can you discuss the impact of setting specific financial goals?
22. How do you break down large goals into smaller, manageable steps?
23. What are some strategies for overcoming setbacks in goal achievement?
24. How do you balance short-term gratification with long-term goals?
25. Can you explain the concept of opportunity cost in goal setting?
26. What role does accountability play in achieving financial goals?
27. How do you celebrate reaching a financial milestone?
28. Can you discuss the importance of revisiting and updating financial goals regularly?
29. What are some psychological factors that influence goal setting and achievement?
30. How do cultural attitudes toward money affect goal setting?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. Can you analyze the role of visualization in goal achievement?
32. How do you leverage resources and support networks to achieve financial goals?
33. What are some strategies for balancing competing financial goals?
34. How do you incorporate risk management into goal setting?
35. Can you discuss the concept of stretch goals in financial planning?
36. What role does resilience play in overcoming challenges in goal achievement?
37. How do you navigate conflicting priorities when setting financial goals?
38. Can you discuss the impact of environmental factors on goal achievement?
39. What are some strategies for staying focused and disciplined in pursuing financial goals?
40. How do economic conditions affect the feasibility of financial goals?

Advanced (C1):

41. Can you analyze the role of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in goal achievement?
42. How do you align financial goals with personal values and priorities?
43. What are some strategies for setting realistic yet ambitious financial goals?
44. How do you leverage feedback and reflection to refine goal-setting strategies?
45. Can you discuss the impact of self-efficacy on goal pursuit and achievement?
46. What role does adaptability play in adjusting goals in response to changing circumstances?
47. How do you cultivate a growth mindset to overcome obstacles in goal achievement?
48. Can you evaluate the effectiveness of various goal-setting frameworks and methodologies?
49. What are some ethical considerations in pursuing financial goals?
50. How do cultural perspectives on success influence goal setting and achievement?

Proficient (C2):

51. Can you analyze the interplay between short-term and long-term financial goals in holistic financial planning?
52. How do you integrate financial goals with broader life goals and aspirations?
53. What role does self-awareness play in setting meaningful financial goals?
54. How do you approach goal setting in complex and dynamic economic environments?
55. Can you propose strategies for fostering resilience and perseverance in pursuing challenging financial goals?
56. What are some innovative approaches to incentivizing and rewarding goal achievement?
57. How do you balance personal autonomy with collaborative goal-setting processes?
58. Can you discuss the ethical implications of pursuing ambitious financial goals in a global context?
59. How might emerging technologies like AI and data analytics inform goal-setting practices?
60. Can you predict future trends and challenges in the field of financial goal setting and achievement?

Category 9: Talking about Charity and Donations

Beginner (A1)

1. Do you know what charity means?
2. Have you ever given money to a charity?
3. Do you like helping people?
4. What is a donation?
5. Do you think it is important to help others?
6. Do you know any famous charities?
7. Have you ever seen a charity event?
8. Do you like to give old clothes to people who need them?
9. What is your favorite way to help others?
10. Do you think everyone should give to charity?

Elementary (A2)

1. Why do people give money to charity?
2. Have you ever participated in a charity event? What was it?
3. What can you donate to charity besides money?
4. Do you know any local charities in your town or city?
5. How often do you donate to charity?
6. What do you think charities do with the money they receive?
7. Have you ever volunteered for a charity? What did you do?
8. Do you prefer to donate money or items? Why?
9. How can you find out if a charity is trustworthy?
10. Do you think donating to charity makes a big difference? Why?
11. What if you suddenly had all the money you ever wanted? How would you spend it?

Intermediate (B1)

1. What motivates people to donate to charity?
2. How do charities raise funds?
3. Have you ever been affected by the work of a charity? How?
4. What are some challenges charities face?
5. How do you decide which charity to donate to?
6. What are some benefits of donating to charity?
7. Have you ever organized a charity event? What was it like?
8. What role do volunteers play in charities?
9. How do you think charities can attract more donors?
10. How do you feel after donating to charity?

Upper Intermediate (B2)

1. What impact do large-scale charity events have on society?
2. How can transparency in charities affect donor trust?
3. Do you think governments should support charities financially? Why or why not?
4. How can social media influence charity campaigns?
5. What are some ethical considerations when donating to charity?
6. How do economic conditions affect charitable donations?
7. What is the difference between a charity and a non-profit organization?
8. How important is corporate social responsibility in supporting charities?
9. Can donating to charity also benefit the donor? How?
10. How do you think technology is changing the way people donate to charity?

Advanced (C1)

1. How can charities ensure long-term sustainability?
2. What are the potential downsides of relying on charity for social services?
3. How can charities balance administrative costs with direct aid?
4. What role do celebrity endorsements play in charity fundraising?
5. How can data analytics improve the effectiveness of charitable organizations?
6. What are some innovative fundraising strategies for charities?
7. How can global charities address issues specific to local communities?
8. How do tax policies in different countries affect charitable giving?
9. How can charities measure the impact of their work effectively?
10. What are some ethical dilemmas faced by charities in fundraising?

Proficient (C2)

1. How can philanthropic efforts shape public policy?
2. What is the role of philanthropy in addressing systemic social issues?
3. How can partnerships between charities and businesses benefit society?
4. What are the implications of donor-advised funds on charity funding?
5. How can charities navigate conflicts of interest in their operations?
6. What are the long-term impacts of large charitable donations on local economies?
7. How can charitable organizations maintain donor engagement and loyalty?
8. What is the role of accountability in charity governance?
9. How can cross-sector collaborations enhance the effectiveness of charitable initiatives?
10. How can ethical fundraising practices be ensured in the competitive charity sector?

Category 10: Talking about Money and Society

Beginner (A1):

1. What is money?
2. Why do people use money?
3. How do you pay for things?
4. Can you name some places where people use money?
5. What do you do if you don’t have enough money for something?
6. Why is money important in society?
7. How do people earn money?
8. What are some things people buy with money?
9. Do you know anyone who doesn’t use money?
10. How do you feel when you get money?

Elementary (A2):

11. Can you explain how money circulates in society?
12. What are some ways people save money?
13. How does money impact people’s lives?
14. Can you discuss the concept of income inequality?
15. What are some jobs related to money?
16. How do people share money with others?
17. Can you describe the role of banks in society?
18. How does money affect communities?
19. What are some cultural customs related to money?
20. How do people donate money to help others?

Intermediate (B1):

21. Can you analyze the role of currency in international trade?
22. How does inflation affect the value of money?
23. What are some economic factors that influence the value of money?
24. Can you discuss the impact of digital currencies on traditional banking systems?
25. How do financial systems differ across cultures and societies?
26. What are some ethical considerations related to money management?
27. How does consumer spending impact the economy?
28. Can you explain the role of central banks in regulating money supply?
29. How does taxation affect the distribution of wealth in society?
30. What are some economic theories regarding the creation and distribution of wealth?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

31. Can you analyze the impact of globalization on monetary systems?
32. How do economic policies affect the stability of currencies?
33. What role does the government play in regulating financial institutions?
34. How do cultural attitudes toward money influence economic behavior?
35. Can you discuss the impact of debt on individuals and society?
36. How do financial crises impact society as a whole?
37. Can you evaluate the effectiveness of social welfare programs in addressing poverty?
38. How does access to financial services vary across different demographics?
39. What are some strategies for promoting financial literacy in society?
40. How do economic systems influence social mobility and inequality?

Advanced (C1):

41. Can you analyze the role of money in shaping power dynamics within society?
42. How do economic theories explain wealth distribution and accumulation?
43. What are some strategies for reducing systemic economic inequalities?
44. Can you discuss the impact of globalization on income disparities between nations?
45. How do financial markets influence societal perceptions of wealth and success?
46. What role do philanthropy and charitable giving play in addressing social issues?
47. Can you evaluate the effectiveness of government interventions in addressing economic inequalities?
48. How does economic policy impact access to education and healthcare in society?
49. What are some historical examples of monetary systems shaping societal structures?
50. How do cultural attitudes toward money impact economic policy decisions?

Proficient (C2):

51. Can you analyze the impact of economic globalization on cultural identities and traditions?
52. How do economic systems interact with political systems to shape societal structures?
53. What are some strategies for promoting economic justice and equity in society?
54. How does the financialization of the economy impact societal well-being?
55. Can you discuss the role of speculative finance in exacerbating economic inequalities?
56. What are some innovative approaches to addressing poverty and economic disenfranchisement?
57. How do emerging technologies like blockchain and cryptocurrencies influence monetary systems and societal structures?
58. Can you propose policies to address the root causes of income disparities and economic injustices?
59. How might economic shifts, such as automation and AI, reshape societal relationships with money?
60. Can you predict future trends in monetary systems and their implications for society?

Conclusion

By integrating these conversation questions into daily conversations, ESL students will gain a deeper understanding of financial topics while building vocabulary and boosting confidence.

These questions enable engaging and interactive speaking activities, making it easier to teach speaking skills and discuss money matters.

This resource will help students become more knowledgeable and articulate about financial issues in English, preparing them for real-world financial discussions.