20 Engaging ESL Shopping Role-play Situations for Practice

Shopping is a common topic in ESL lessons, whether you’re teaching beginners, intermediate learners, or advanced students. Whether you’re just starting to create an ESL shopping lesson plan or already have one, you’ll need role-play scenarios to give your students enough practice in the classroom.

Providing ample opportunities for practice through role-play makes your lessons more engaging and fun.

But how do you create scenarios that give your students a real-life language experience? It’s important to choose the right situations that will encourage active participation from your students.

The first question to ask is: what are the common activities people engage in while shopping—before, during, and after the trip?

For example, before shopping, making a shopping list is an essential task. During shopping, we usually choose a store, read labels, compare prices, negotiate, ask for help, try on items, use coupons, complain about a product, or ask for discounts. After returning home, we organize the items into their proper places.

In real life, all these situations have many different aspects because people have different needs, preferences, and choices. Additionally, various products from different brands are sold at different stores by people with varying levels of professional communication skills.

In these countless possible situations, we ask shopping-related questions and have conversations—whether with a partner, shopkeeper, manager, cashier, or fellow shoppers.

When creating a situation for your ESL class, it’s important to present an opportunity for students to use actual language in these multifaceted situations. This will allow them to step into different roles and practice speaking.

In this post, I’ll share 20 different shopping scenarios based on 20 possible shopping situations. These scenarios can be used for role-plays between any two students (person A and person B), allowing them to practice in pairs.

Making a Shopping List

Person A
Imagine you want to prepare for a dinner party at your home this weekend. You need to make a shopping list, but you’re unsure about all the items you’ll need. You’re talking to your friend to get suggestions. Now make a conversation with Person B about what to include on your list.

Person B
Imagine you’re Person A’s friend who loves planning events. Help Person A create a complete shopping list. Ask questions about the number of guests, the type of food they want to prepare, and any special items they may need.

Example Conversation

A: Hi! I’m planning a dinner party this weekend, but I’m not sure what I need to buy. Can you help me make a shopping list?
B: Of course! How many people are you inviting?
A: Around six guests.
B: Okay. What kind of food are you planning to serve?
A: I’m thinking of making pasta and a salad, plus some dessert.
B: Great! You’ll need pasta, sauce, vegetables for the salad, and maybe some bread. Do you have drinks on your list?
A: Oh, I forgot! I’ll need some soda and juice.
B: Perfect. What about dessert? Are you baking something or buying it?
A: I might buy a cake. Should I add ice cream too?
B: Yes, that’s a good idea. Anything else you can think of?
A: I think that’s it for now. Thanks for helping!

Instructions for Students:

1. Focus on asking and answering questions to create a detailed shopping list.
2. Work in pairs. One student will play Person A, and the other will play Person B.
3. Use the conversation example to guide your role-play, but feel free to add your own ideas.

Setting a Budget for Shopping

Person A
Imagine you’re planning to shop for clothes for an upcoming event, but you have a limited budget. You’re discussing with your friend how much you should spend and how to make the most of your money. Now make a conversation with Person B to decide your budget and shopping strategy.

Person B
Imagine you’re Person A’s friend who is good at budgeting. Help Person A decide how much to spend. Ask questions about their needs, priorities, and whether they want to save or splurge on certain items. Offer tips for staying within budget.

Example Conversation

A: Hey, I need to buy some clothes for an event, but I don’t want to spend too much. Can you help me set a budget?
B: Sure! What kind of event is it?
A: It’s a wedding, so I need something formal.
B: Got it. Do you need a full outfit or just certain pieces?
A: A full outfit—maybe a dress and shoes.
B: Okay. How much are you thinking of spending?
A: I’m not sure. What do you think is reasonable?
B: For a dress, maybe around $50 to $70. Shoes can be $30 to $40 if you look for sales. How does that sound?
A: That seems okay. Should I leave some extra in case I find something I really like?
B: Yes, maybe $20 more, just in case. But stick to your plan unless it’s perfect!
A: Good idea. Thanks for helping me figure this out.

Instructions for Students:

• Pair up with a classmate. One student plays Person A, and the other plays Person B.
• Use the conversation example to guide your role-play or create a unique scenario.
• Focus on discussing the budget and making decisions about spending wisely.

Choosing Where to Shop

Person A
Imagine you need to buy groceries for the week, but you’re unsure where to shop. You’re talking to your friend to get advice on the best place to go. Now make a conversation with Person B to compare different stores and decide where to shop.

Person B
Imagine you’re Person A’s friend who knows a lot about different grocery stores. Help Person A decide where to shop by asking about their budget, preferences, and the items they need. Share your knowledge about the stores and their pros and cons.

Example Conversation

A: Hey, I need to buy groceries for the week, but I’m not sure where to shop. Do you have any suggestions?
B: Sure! What kind of groceries do you need?
A: Mostly fruits, vegetables, and some snacks.
B: Okay. Are you looking for a place with lower prices or better quality?
A: A bit of both, but I don’t want to spend too much.
B: In that case, you could try the supermarket on Main Street. Their produce is fresh, and the prices are reasonable.
A: What about the farmers’ market? Is it cheaper?
B: It can be, but it depends. The quality is great, but some items are more expensive.
A: Hmm, I think I’ll check out the supermarket. Thanks for the advice!
B: No problem. Let me know how it goes!

Instructions for Students:

• Pair up with a partner. One student will play Person A, and the other will play Person B.
• Use the example conversation or create your own version.
• Focus on comparing options and making a decision together.

Deciding Between Shopping Online or In-Store

Person A
Imagine you need to buy a new pair of shoes, but you’re not sure whether to shop online or go to a store. You’re discussing the pros and cons with your friend to decide. Now make a conversation with Person B to figure out the best option for you.

Person B
Imagine you’re Person A’s friend who has experience with both online and in-store shopping. Help Person A decide by asking about their needs, preferences, and time. Share your own experiences to highlight the advantages and disadvantages of both options.

Example Conversation

A: Hey, I need to buy a new pair of shoes, but I can’t decide whether to shop online or go to a store. What do you think?
B: That depends. Do you know what style or size you’re looking for?
A: Not exactly. I’d like to try them on first, but shopping online seems so convenient.
B: If you want to try them on, shopping in-store might be better. You can check the fit and see how they look.
A: That’s true. But online shopping has more options, and I can compare prices easily.
B: That’s a good point. Just make sure to check the return policy if they don’t fit. Do you have time to go to a store?
A: Not much, but I could make time this weekend.
B: Maybe start by looking online to get ideas, then visit a store to try on your top choices.
A: That’s a great idea! Thanks for helping me decide.
B: Anytime! Let me know what you end up getting.

Instructions for Students:

• Work in pairs. One student plays Person A, and the other plays Person B.
• Use the example conversation to guide your role-play or come up with your own ideas.
• Focus on discussing the pros and cons of each option and making a decision together.

Comparing Prices of Similar Items

Person A
Imagine you want to buy a new backpack for school or work, but you’ve found two options with different prices. You’re unsure which one to choose and need advice from your friend. Now make a conversation with Person B to compare the prices and decide which backpack is the better choice.

Person B
Imagine you’re Person A’s friend who is good at comparing products. Help Person A decide by asking questions about the backpacks, such as their price, quality, and features. Offer advice based on what you think is important to consider.

Example Conversation

A: Hey, I need help choosing a backpack. I found two I really like, but I can’t decide between them.
B: Sure! What’s the price difference?
A: One is $40, and the other is $60.
B: Okay. What’s the difference between them? Are they the same size and quality?
A: The $40 one is smaller, but it has enough space for my books. The $60 one is bigger and has extra compartments.
B: Do you need the extra compartments?
A: Not really, but they might be useful for traveling.
B: If you don’t need them now, the $40 one might be a better deal. But if you think you’ll need more space later, the $60 one could be worth it.
A: That’s true. I think I’ll go with the $40 one for now. Thanks for the advice!
B: Good choice! Let me know how it works out.

Instructions for Students:

• Pair up with a partner. One student will play Person A, and the other will play Person B.
• Use the example conversation or create your own version.
• Focus on asking and answering questions to compare prices and features of similar items.

Looking for Discounts or Special Offers

Person A
Imagine you want to buy a jacket, but you’re hoping to find discounts or special offers to save money. You’re asking your friend for advice on where to look and how to find the best deals. Now make a conversation with Person B to explore your options.

Person B
Imagine you’re Person A’s friend who knows a lot about finding discounts and special offers. Help Person A by asking questions about their budget, preferences, and urgency. Share tips on finding sales, promo codes, or discounts.

Example Conversation

A: Hey, I need to buy a jacket, but I don’t want to spend too much. Do you know how I can find some good discounts?
B: Sure! Do you need it right away, or can you wait for a sale?
A: I can wait a little, but not too long.
B: In that case, check out end-of-season sales at stores. They often have big discounts on jackets.
A: That’s a good idea. What about online? Are there any good deals there?
B: Definitely. Look for promo codes or check websites like [name of discount website]. They list deals from different stores.
A: Should I sign up for email alerts from stores?
B: Yes, many stores send exclusive offers to their subscribers. Also, don’t forget to check for clearance items!
A: Thanks for the tips! I’ll start by looking at some sales online.
B: Good luck! Let me know if you find a great deal.

Instructions for Students:

• Pair up with a partner. One student will play Person A, and the other will play Person B.
• Use the example conversation or create your own version.
• Focus on discussing where to find discounts, sales, or special offers and how to take advantage of them.

Asking a Salesperson for Product Recommendations

Person A
Imagine you’re shopping for a new laptop and you don’t know which one to choose. You decide to ask a salesperson for their opinion on the best laptop for your needs. Now make a conversation with Person B, the salesperson, to get advice.

Person B
Imagine you’re a salesperson at an electronics store. Help Person A by asking questions about their needs, preferences, and budget. Provide recommendations based on what you think would work best for them.

Example Conversation

A: Hi, I’m looking for a new laptop, but I’m not sure which one to choose. Can you help me?
B: Of course! What will you be using the laptop for most?
A: I need it for work, mostly office programs, and maybe some light gaming.
B: Okay. Do you have a budget in mind?
A: I’d like to stay under $800.
B: In that case, I’d recommend this one. It has a good balance of performance and price. It’s great for office work and casual gaming.
A: That looks good! What about the battery life?
B: It has up to 10 hours of battery life, which should be more than enough for a day of work.
A: Sounds perfect! Thank you for your help.
B: You’re welcome! Let me know if you need anything else.

Instructions for Students:

• Pair up with a classmate. One student will play Person A, and the other will play Person B.
• Use the example conversation as a guide or come up with your own scenario.
• Focus on asking for recommendations and discussing product features, budget, and needs.

Returning or Exchanging an Item

Person A
Imagine you bought a shirt online, but when it arrived, it didn’t fit. You decide to return or exchange it. You’re calling the store’s customer service to explain the situation and ask for help. Now make a conversation with Person B, who works in customer service, to process the return or exchange.

Person B
Imagine you work in customer service for the store where Person A bought the shirt. Help Person A by asking for details about the item, such as when it was purchased and why it needs to be returned or exchanged. Provide instructions for the return or exchange process.

Example Conversation

A: Hi, I recently bought a shirt online, but it doesn’t fit. I’d like to return or exchange it. Can you help me?
B: Of course! When did you make the purchase?
A: It was last week. I ordered it online and received it two days ago.
B: I see. Do you have the receipt or order number?
A: Yes, here’s the order number. It’s [order number].
B: Great! Since the shirt is unworn and in its original condition, we can process the return for you. Would you like a refund, or would you prefer to exchange it for a different size?
A: I think I’ll exchange it for a larger size.
B: No problem! We’ll send you the new size, and the return shipping is on us. Just make sure to send the shirt back within the next 14 days.
A: Thanks for your help! I’ll return the shirt today.
B: You’re welcome! Let me know if you need any further assistance.

Instructions for Students:

• Pair up with a partner. One student will play Person A, and the other will play Person B.
• Use the example conversation as a guide, or create your own situation based on returning or exchanging an item.
• Focus on explaining the issue and working together to process the return or exchange.

Asking About Product Availability in a Store

Person A
Imagine you’re looking for a specific brand of headphones, but you’re not sure if the store has them in stock. You decide to ask a salesperson for help. Now make a conversation with Person B to find out if the product is available in the store.

Person B
Imagine you work as a salesperson at a store. Person A is asking about the availability of headphones. Help Person A by checking the store’s inventory and letting them know if the product is in stock.

Example Conversation

A: Hi, I’m looking for a pair of [brand name] headphones. Do you have them in stock?
B: Let me check. What model are you looking for?
A: I’m looking for the [specific model].
B: Okay, let me see… Yes, we have that model available in black and silver.
A: Great! Are there any discounts or special offers on them?
B: Not at the moment, but you can check for any upcoming sales. Would you like me to set one aside for you?
A: Yes, please! I’ll take the black one.
B: Perfect! I’ll keep it at the counter for you. Let me know if you need anything else.
A: Thanks so much!

Instructions for Students:

• Pair up with a partner. One student will play Person A, and the other will play Person B.
• Use the example conversation as a guide or create your own situation.
• Focus on asking about product availability and discussing options with the salesperson.

Choosing Between Two Different Brands

Person A
Imagine you’re shopping for a smartphone and you’ve narrowed it down to two brands, but you’re unsure which one to choose. You ask a friend for advice on which brand is better for your needs. Now make a conversation with Person B to compare the two brands and decide which one to buy.

Person B
Imagine you’re Person A’s friend who has experience with both smartphone brands. Help Person A make a decision by asking questions about what they need in a phone, such as features, budget, and preferences. Offer advice based on the strengths of each brand.

Example Conversation

A: I’m looking to buy a new smartphone, but I can’t decide between [Brand A] and [Brand B]. Do you have any advice?
B: Sure! What’s more important to you—camera quality or battery life?
A: I need a good camera for photos, but battery life is also important.
B: [Brand A] has an excellent camera, but [Brand B] lasts longer on a single charge.
A: Hmm, I take a lot of photos, but I also use my phone all day for work.
B: If you’re using your phone heavily throughout the day, [Brand B] might be better for you. But if you want top-notch photos, [Brand A] could be worth it.
A: Maybe I should go with [Brand B] for the longer battery life. Thanks for helping me decide!
B: You’re welcome! Let me know if you find any good deals.

Instructions for Students:

• Pair up with a partner. One student will play Person A, and the other will play Person B.
• Use the example conversation as a guide or create your own version.
• Focus on comparing two different brands and discussing their features, advantages, and drawbacks.

Explaining Dietary Needs or Preferences While Shopping for Food

Person A
Imagine you’re shopping for groceries, and you need to buy some food items that fit your dietary needs. You explain your dietary restrictions to the store staff or a friend who is helping you. Now make a conversation with Person B about your food preferences.

Person B
Imagine you’re a store employee or a friend helping Person A. Ask questions about their dietary needs and suggest food items that fit their preferences, ensuring they find suitable products.

Example Conversation

A: Hi, I’m looking for some groceries, but I have a few dietary restrictions. I’m vegetarian, and I also avoid gluten.
B: Got it! I can help with that. Do you need anything in particular, like bread or snacks?
A: Yes, I need some gluten-free bread and some plant-based snacks.
B: For gluten-free bread, we have a few options. There’s this brand with a nice texture. And for snacks, we have some veggie chips and gluten-free granola bars.
A: That sounds great! Do the granola bars have any nuts in them? I can’t eat nuts either.
B: No worries, we have a nut-free version of the granola bars. They’re made with seeds instead of nuts.
A: Perfect! I’ll take the gluten-free bread and the nut-free granola bars. Thanks for your help!
B: You’re welcome! Let me know if you need anything else.

Instructions for Students:

• Pair up with a partner. One student will play Person A, and the other will play Person B.
• Use the example conversation as a guide or create your own scenario.
• Focus on explaining dietary needs or restrictions and helping someone find appropriate food items in the store.

Discussing with a Friend Whether to Buy Something Now or Wait for a Sale

Person A
Imagine you want to buy a new pair of shoes, but you’re not sure if you should buy them now or wait for a sale. You ask your friend for advice on whether it’s better to purchase them immediately or wait for a discount. Now make a conversation with Person B to discuss your options.

Person B
Imagine you’re Person A’s friend and you’ve been in a similar situation before. Help Person A decide by asking about their needs and offering advice on whether it’s better to buy now or wait for a sale.

Example Conversation

A: I’ve been looking at these shoes for a while, but I’m not sure if I should buy them now or wait for a sale. What do you think?
B: Well, when did you last see a sale on shoes?
A: The last sale was about a month ago. But I really need them for an event next week.
B: If you need them right away, it might be worth buying them now. You don’t want to risk them being sold out.
A: That’s true. But what if there’s a sale soon and I miss out?
B: If you’re sure about the shoes and they’re exactly what you want, buying now might save you more stress. However, if the event isn’t urgent, you could wait for a sale in a few weeks.
A: I think I’ll buy them now. It’ll save me time, and I don’t want to miss out.
B: Sounds like a good decision! Hope they work out for you.
A: Thanks for the advice!

Instructions for Students:

• Pair up with a partner. One student will play Person A, and the other will play Person B.
• Use the example conversation as a guide or create your own version.
• Focus on discussing the pros and cons of buying something now versus waiting for a sale.

Deciding How to Spend a Gift Card

Person A
Imagine you’ve just received a gift card for a popular store, but you’re unsure what to spend it on. You ask your friend for advice on how to use the gift card wisely. Now make a conversation with Person B to discuss your options and decide what to buy.

Person B
Imagine you’re Person A’s friend, and you’ve received gift cards in the past. Help Person A figure out how to spend the gift card by asking questions about what they like, need, and what’s available at the store. Offer suggestions based on their preferences.

Example Conversation

A: I just got a gift card to [store name], but I’m not sure what to buy. I want to make sure I spend it wisely.
B: Well, what kind of things do they sell at that store?
A: Mostly clothes, accessories, and some home items.
B: Do you need any clothes right now, or are you more interested in home stuff?
A: I don’t really need clothes, but I could use some new home décor.
B: That sounds like a good option! They might have some nice items for your living room or kitchen.
A: I was also thinking of getting something fun, like a new gadget or a tech accessory.
B: You could also check their tech section. If you don’t need any big gadgets, maybe some small accessories like headphones or a phone case could be a good choice.
A: I think I’ll go with the home décor. It’ll help me freshen up my space. Thanks for helping me decide!
B: You’re welcome! Have fun shopping!

Instructions for Students:

• Pair up with a partner. One student will play Person A, and the other will play Person B.
• Use the example conversation as a guide or create your own version.
• Focus on discussing the options for spending a gift card and helping the other person decide what to buy.

Choosing a Gift for a Special Occasion

Person A
Imagine you have a friend’s birthday coming up, and you’re not sure what to get them. You ask another friend for advice on what kind of gift would be perfect for the occasion. Now make a conversation with Person B to discuss your options and choose the right gift.

Person B
Imagine you’re Person A’s friend, and you know them well. Help Person A choose a thoughtful gift by asking about the birthday person’s interests and offering suggestions based on that.

Example Conversation

A: My friend’s birthday is coming up, but I don’t know what to get them. Any ideas?
B: What does your friend like to do in their free time?
A: They love cooking and trying new recipes.
B: How about getting them a cooking gadget or some unique ingredients they haven’t tried before?
A: That’s a good idea! Maybe a new kitchen tool would be useful. What if I bought them a cookbook?
B: A cookbook is perfect! Especially if it’s a themed one, like one focused on their favorite type of cuisine.
A: That sounds great! I’ll look for a cookbook with new recipes. Thanks for the suggestion!
B: You’re welcome! I’m sure they’ll love it.

Instructions for Students:

• Pair up with a partner. One student will play Person A, and the other will play Person B.
• Use the example conversation as a guide or create your own version.
• Focus on choosing a thoughtful gift based on the recipient’s interests and the special occasion.

Explaining the Features You Want in a Product (e.g., a Phone or Shoes)

Person A
Imagine you’re shopping for a new phone, but you have specific features in mind. You explain these features to a salesperson to help them find the right product for you. Now make a conversation with Person B to describe the features you’re looking for in a phone.

Person B
Imagine you’re a salesperson in a store, and Person A is asking for help finding a phone. Ask questions about what features they need, and suggest options based on their preferences.

Example Conversation

A: Hi, I’m looking for a new phone, and I need some help finding the right one.
B: Of course! What features are you looking for in a phone?
A: I need a phone with a good camera because I love taking photos. It should also have a large screen, and the battery life needs to last all day.
B: Okay, that’s helpful. Do you have any preference for the brand, or are you open to options?
A: I’m open to different brands, as long as it has the features I need.
B: I recommend this model. It has a 48MP camera, a 6.5-inch screen, and a long-lasting battery. It should meet all your needs.
A: That sounds perfect! Does it come in any colors?
B: Yes, it comes in black, white, and blue.
A: I’ll go with the blue one! Thanks for your help!
B: You’re welcome! Let me know if you need anything else.

Instructions for Students:

• Pair up with a partner. One student will play Person A, and the other will play Person B.
• Use the example conversation as a guide or create your own version.
• Focus on explaining the specific features you want in a product and helping someone find a suitable option.

Asking for Help to Find an Item in the Store

Person A
Imagine you’re in a store looking for a specific item, but you can’t find it. You ask a store employee for help in locating the product. Now make a conversation with Person B to ask where the item is.

Person B
Imagine you’re a store employee, and Person A is asking for help. Respond politely and guide them to the location of the item they’re looking for.

Example Conversation

A: Excuse me, could you help me? I’m looking for a pair of running shoes.
B: Of course! We have a shoe section over there, next to the athletic wear. What size are you looking for?
A: I’m looking for size 8. Do you have any in stock?
B: Let me check for you. Yes, we have a few pairs in size 8. They’re right on the second row.
A: Great, thanks! Are there any specific brands you recommend for running shoes?
B: If you’re looking for comfort, I’d recommend the Nike or Adidas brands. They’re popular for running shoes.
A: I’ll check those out. Thanks for your help!
B: You’re welcome! Let me know if you need anything else.

Instructions for Students:

• Pair up with a partner. One student will play Person A, and the other will play Person B.
• Use the example conversation as a guide or create your own version.
• Focus on politely asking for help and guiding someone to find the item they’re looking for in the store.

Negotiating or Asking for a Better Price

Person A
Imagine you’re at a store or market, and you want to buy an item, but you think the price is a bit high. You ask the seller if they can offer a better price. Now make a conversation with Person B to try and negotiate a better deal.

Person B
Imagine you’re the seller, and Person A is asking for a discount. Politely respond to their request and see if you can come to a compromise.

Example Conversation

A: Hi, I’m interested in this jacket, but the price seems a little high. Is there any way you can offer a discount?
B: Well, this jacket is on sale, but I can offer you 10% off if you’re buying more than one item today.
A: Hmm, I was hoping for a little more of a discount since I’m on a tight budget. Could you do 20% off?
B: I understand, but 20% is a bit too much for me. How about 15%?
A: Okay, 15% sounds fair. I’ll take it!
B: Great! I’ll apply the discount for you at checkout. Thanks for your patience.
A: Thank you! I appreciate the deal.

Instructions for Students:

• Pair up with a partner. One student will play Person A, and the other will play Person B.
• Use the example conversation as a guide or create your own version.
• Focus on negotiating for a better price and offering a reasonable discount.

Deciding How to Split the Cost When Shopping with a Friend

Person A
Imagine you and a friend are shopping together and buying several items. You both need to decide how to split the total cost fairly. Now make a conversation with Person B to figure out how to share the payment.

Person B
Imagine you’re Person A’s friend. You discuss with Person A how to divide the cost of the items you’ve bought, considering who bought what and how to make the payment fair.

Example Conversation

A: We’ve bought quite a few things today. How should we split the total cost?
B: Well, we both got some items, so we could split it 50/50.
A: But I bought a few more expensive things, like this jacket, and you only got a couple of smaller items. Maybe I should pay a little more?
B: That’s fair. How about I pay for the snacks, and you pay for the jacket and the shoes? We can balance it out like that.
A: Sounds good! We’ll each pay for what we got.
B: Perfect. I’ll pay for the snacks at the counter, and you can cover the jacket and shoes.
A: Great! Thanks for being flexible.

Instructions for Students:

• Pair up with a partner. One student will play Person A, and the other will play Person B.
• Use the example conversation as a guide or create your own version.
• Focus on deciding how to fairly split the cost of shared items.

Talking About How to Carry the Items Home After Shopping

Person A
Imagine you’ve finished shopping and you and your friend need to figure out how to carry all your items home. Now make a conversation with Person B to decide who will carry what or how to organize the items.

Person B
Imagine you’re Person A’s friend. Help Person A figure out how to carry the items by suggesting who should carry what, or if you need to arrange for other help, like getting a taxi or using a cart.

Example Conversation

A: We’ve bought so many things today! How should we carry all of this home?
B: Yeah, it’s quite a lot. I can take the heavier bags, and you can carry the smaller ones.
A: That works, but the big box I bought might be too much for one person. Do you think we should call a cab?
B: Good idea! It’ll be easier and faster. We can put everything in the trunk, and it’ll save us from carrying all those heavy bags.
A: That sounds perfect! I’ll call a cab. You can help me organize the bags while we wait.
B: Great! We’ll be home in no time.

Instructions for Students:

• Pair up with a partner. One student will play Person A, and the other will play Person B.
• Use the example conversation as a guide or create your own version.
• Focus on deciding how to carry the shopping items home, whether it’s by organizing bags or arranging for a taxi or other help.

Storing the Items in Their Proper Places at Home

Person A
Imagine you’ve just come home from shopping with a lot of bags, and now you need to decide where to store your items. You discuss with your housemate how to organize and store everything properly. Now make a conversation with Person B to figure out where each item should go.

Person B
Imagine you’re Person A’s housemate. Help them decide where to store the shopping items by suggesting the best places for each item, such as food in the kitchen or clothes in the closet.

Example Conversation

A: We’ve got so much stuff! Where should I put the groceries?
B: Let’s put the fresh produce in the fridge, and the canned goods can go in the pantry.
A: Okay, sounds good. What about these clothes I bought?
B: You can hang the shirts in the closet, and fold the sweaters to put in the dresser.
A: Great! And the shoes? Should I leave them by the door?
B: Yes, but you can also store them in the shoe rack in the hallway if you want to keep them neat.
A: Thanks for the help! I think everything has its place now.
B: No problem! Glad we got everything organized.

Instructions for Students:

• Pair up with a partner. One student will play Person A, and the other will play Person B.
• Use the example conversation as a guide or create your own version.
• Focus on discussing where to store different items in the house, like food, clothes, or shoes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, shopping is a common part of everyday life, and using it in ESL lessons gives students useful practice for real situations.

The 20 shopping scenarios we’ve shared provide students with opportunities to practice the language they’ll need when they go shopping.

Whether it’s making a shopping list, deciding how to split costs with a friend, or organizing items at home, these role-plays make the lesson more fun and help students build confidence in using English.

By role-playing these shopping situations, your students can practice speaking in realistic ways, which helps them feel more prepared for everyday conversations.

These scenarios not only make your lessons engaging, but they also give students the skills they need to communicate clearly when shopping.

So, as you plan your shopping lessons, use these scenarios to make your lessons more enjoyable and practical for your students!

FAQs about ESL Shopping Role-play Situations

1. How can I make my ESL lessons more engaging for students?
To make your lessons more engaging, use interactive activities like role-plays, group discussions, games, and real-life scenarios. Incorporating multimedia (videos, songs, etc.) and using technology can also help keep students motivated.

2. What are some effective strategies for teaching vocabulary to ESL students?
Use a combination of visual aids, flashcards, word maps, and context-based activities. Encourage students to use new words in sentences, and practice them in real conversations to reinforce retention.

3. How can I improve my students’ speaking skills?
Encourage students to practice speaking in pairs or groups. Role-plays, debates, and conversation games are great ways to help them practice. Correct pronunciation and fluency are important, so focus on these through consistent speaking practice.

4. What can I do to help students improve their listening skills?
Incorporate a variety of listening activities, such as listening to songs, podcasts, and videos. Use comprehension questions afterward to check understanding. Listening to different accents and contexts will also help students improve their listening ability.

5. How can I assess my students’ progress effectively?
Use a mix of formative and summative assessments like quizzes, tests, projects, and regular speaking tasks. Observing students’ participation in class and giving feedback on assignments can also help track their progress.

6. How can I teach grammar in a way that students will understand and use it?
Teach grammar in context, using real-life examples that show how grammar is used naturally in conversation. Practice grammar through interactive activities like sentence-building exercises or grammar games.

7. What are some good resources for teaching ESL?
There are many online resources such as interactive websites, ESL apps, and free lesson plans. You can also use textbooks, educational YouTube channels, and language exchange programs to support your lessons.

8. How do I manage a classroom of mixed-level ESL students?
Differentiate your lessons by providing various activities that suit different levels. Pair higher-level students with lower-level ones to help with peer teaching. You can also give individual tasks that cater to each student’s language level.

9. How can I make my ESL classroom more student-centered?
Encourage students to take an active role in their learning. Have them set learning goals, ask questions, and choose topics for discussion. Giving students opportunities to lead activities or discussions will help create a more student-centered environment.

10. What should I do if my student is struggling with motivation?
Try to understand the root cause of the lack of motivation—whether it’s the lesson content, the pace, or something personal. Keep lessons fun and relevant by incorporating their interests and offering praise and encouragement for small successes.