Conversation Questions

600 Best ESL Conversation Questions on Talking About Hobbies

Affiliate Disclosure: ESL Info participates in affiliate programs, including the Amazon Associate Program. This means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through links on our site, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting us! Access our full disclosure.

Learning to talk about hobbies and leisure activities in English is crucial for ESL students. It helps them discuss their interests, share leisure pursuits, and engage in meaningful conversations about recreational activities.

ESL teachers can use these conversation questions to help students practice speaking and participating in everyday conversations about hobbies and leisure, including favorite pastimes, leisure preferences, and leisure-related experiences. These questions are excellent for teaching vocabulary and improving confidence in discussing leisure-related topics.

This resource has 600 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 speaking activities like group discussions, hobby showcases, or presentations.

By using these questions in the classroom, students will improve their ability to talk about hobbies and leisure in English. This will help them become more expressive, well-rounded, and effective communicators in various settings.

This set of 600 hobbies and leisure conversation questions, divided into 10 categories and six proficiency levels, is a valuable tool for ESL teachers to teach speaking and promote discussions about leisure among ESL students.

Category 1: Talking About Sports and Outdoor Activities

Beginner (A1):

  1. Do you like to play sports?
  2. What is your favorite outdoor activity?
  3. Have you ever played soccer/football?
  4. Can you swim?
  5. Do you enjoy walking in the park?
  6. Have you tried cycling?
  7. Do you like to run?
  8. Have you ever played basketball?
  9. What do you do for fun outside?
  10. Do you enjoy picnics in nature?

Elementary (A2):

  1. What sports do you watch on TV?
  2. Have you ever climbed a mountain?
  3. Do you prefer team sports or individual sports?
  4. Have you ever gone fishing?
  5. Can you skate on ice?
  6. Have you tried playing tennis?
  7. Do you go hiking often?
  8. Have you ever ridden a horse?
  9. What outdoor activities do you do with your friends?
  10. Have you ever camped in the wilderness?

Intermediate (B1):

  1. What’s the most popular sport in your country?
  2. Do you think exercise is important for a healthy lifestyle?
  3. Have you ever done any extreme sports?
  4. What’s your opinion on adventure sports like bungee jumping or skydiving?
  5. Do you follow any sports teams? Which ones?
  6. Have you ever competed in any sports events?
  7. What outdoor activities do you enjoy in different seasons?
  8. Are there any traditional outdoor games in your culture?
  9. How do you prepare for a long hike or camping trip?
  10. Would you like to try any new outdoor activities?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

  1. How has technology changed outdoor activities and sports?
  2. What are the benefits of practicing outdoor sports?
  3. Have you ever faced any challenges while doing outdoor activities?
  4. What role do parks and natural reserves play in promoting outdoor activities?
  5. Do you think cities should have more sports facilities?
  6. Have you ever volunteered for any outdoor conservation projects?
  7. What’s your opinion on adventure tourism?
  8. How do you think climate change affects outdoor activities?
  9. Have you ever participated in a marathon or endurance race?
  10. Do you think schools should focus more on outdoor education?

Advanced (C1):

  1. In what ways can outdoor activities contribute to mental well-being?
  2. How do cultural differences influence attitudes towards outdoor recreation?
  3. What impact does sponsorship have on professional sports?
  4. How can communities encourage participation in outdoor sports?
  5. Discuss the environmental impact of popular outdoor activities like skiing or hiking.
  6. What role do national parks play in preserving biodiversity?
  7. How do sports contribute to social cohesion?
  8. Analyze the relationship between sports and national identity.
  9. How do sports reflect societal values and norms?
  10. Explore the psychology behind extreme sports enthusiasts.

Proficient (C2):

  1. Evaluate the ethical considerations of hunting and fishing as leisure activities.
  2. Examine the economic implications of hosting major sporting events.
  3. Critically analyze the role of sports in promoting gender equality.
  4. Discuss the intersection of politics and sports at international events.
  5. Explore the concept of “wilderness therapy” and its effectiveness.
  6. Investigate the history and evolution of a specific outdoor activity.
  7. Assess the impact of commercialization on the authenticity of outdoor experiences.
  8. Discuss the concept of risk management in adventure sports.
  9. Analyze the relationship between outdoor recreation and ecotourism.
  10. Explore the potential of virtual reality in simulating outdoor experiences.

Category 2: Talking About Arts and Crafts

Beginner (A1):

  1. Do you like to draw?
  2. Have you ever painted a picture?
  3. Can you make paper airplanes?
  4. Do you enjoy coloring?
  5. Have you tried making a simple craft?
  6. Can you cut paper with scissors?
  7. Do you like to play with clay?
  8. Have you ever made a card for someone?
  9. What colors do you like to use?
  10. Have you ever made a collage?

Elementary (A2):

  1. What’s your favorite thing to create?
  2. Have you ever tried origami?
  3. Do you enjoy making things out of recycled materials?
  4. Have you ever made jewelry?
  5. Can you knit or crochet?
  6. Do you like to decorate your room?
  7. Have you tried making a photo album?
  8. What’s the last thing you created?
  9. Do you enjoy making gifts for people?
  10. Have you ever attended an art class?

Intermediate (B1):

  1. What role does art play in your life?
  2. Have you ever visited an art museum or gallery?
  3. Do you prefer traditional or digital art?
  4. Have you ever sold any of your artwork?
  5. Can you describe your creative process?
  6. What art style do you admire the most?
  7. Have you ever participated in a craft fair?
  8. Do you think everyone is capable of being artistic?
  9. How does art influence society?
  10. Have you ever taken an art workshop?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

  1. How has technology changed the way we create art?
  2. What’s the significance of art therapy?
  3. Do you think art should be taught in schools?
  4. How do you critique artwork?
  5. Have you ever collaborated with other artists?
  6. What’s your opinion on art censorship?
  7. How do cultural differences influence artistic expression?
  8. Have you ever explored different art mediums?
  9. What’s the role of museums in preserving art?
  10. How do you stay motivated when working on a long-term art project?

Advanced (C1):

  1. Discuss the relationship between art and politics.
  2. Analyze the impact of social media on contemporary art.
  3. Explore the concept of “outsider art” and its significance.
  4. Discuss the role of public art in urban spaces.
  5. How has globalization influenced the art world?
  6. Examine the ethics of cultural appropriation in art.
  7. What’s the role of art criticism in shaping public opinion?
  8. Discuss the evolution of street art as a legitimate art form.
  9. How do artists navigate the tension between commercial success and artistic integrity?
  10. Explore the connection between art and spirituality.

Proficient (C2):

  1. Analyze the concept of “art for art’s sake” in the context of modern art movements.
  2. Examine the influence of art on psychological well-being.
  3. Critically analyze the representation of gender and identity in art.
  4. Discuss the role of art in addressing social justice issues.
  5. Explore the relationship between art and memory.
  6. Analyze the cultural significance of a specific art movement.
  7. Discuss the impact of globalization on indigenous art forms.
  8. Explore the intersection of technology and art in the digital age.
  9. Examine the role of art in shaping national identity.
  10. Reflect on the future of art in a rapidly changing world.

Category 3: Talking About Music and Performing Arts

Beginner (A1):

  1. Do you like music?
  2. Can you sing a song?
  3. Do you enjoy dancing?
  4. Have you ever played a musical instrument?
  5. What’s your favorite type of music?
  6. Can you clap your hands to the beat?
  7. Have you ever been to a concert?
  8. Do you like to listen to music while doing other activities?
  9. Have you ever watched a dance performance?
  10. Can you name any musical instruments?

Elementary (A2):

  1. What’s your favorite song?
  2. Have you ever played in a band?
  3. Do you know how to play any musical instruments?
  4. Have you ever performed in a talent show?
  5. Can you name any famous singers or musicians?
  6. Do you enjoy watching musicals?
  7. Have you ever written a song?
  8. What’s your favorite type of dance?
  9. Do you know any traditional dances from your culture?
  10. Have you ever taken dance lessons?

Intermediate (B1):

  1. How does music make you feel?
  2. Have you ever attended a live performance?
  3. Do you prefer listening to music alone or with friends?
  4. Have you ever composed your own music?
  5. Can you describe a memorable concert you attended?
  6. Do you think learning to play a musical instrument is important?
  7. Have you ever participated in a theater production?
  8. What’s your favorite musical?
  9. Do you think music can help people learn languages?
  10. Have you ever performed in front of an audience?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

  1. How has technology changed the music industry?
  2. What’s your opinion on music streaming services?
  3. Have you ever studied music theory?
  4. Do you think talent shows are a good way to discover new artists?
  5. What’s the role of music in celebrations and ceremonies?
  6. Have you ever been to a music festival?
  7. How do you think music reflects cultural values?
  8. Have you ever volunteered for a community theater production?
  9. What’s your favorite genre of music to dance to?
  10. How do you discover new music?

Advanced (C1):

  1. Analyze the influence of music on popular culture.
  2. Discuss the role of music in protest movements.
  3. How has globalization affected the diversity of music genres?
  4. Explore the relationship between music and memory.
  5. Discuss the impact of digital piracy on the music industry.
  6. Analyze the representation of gender in music videos.
  7. How do musicians navigate the tension between artistic expression and commercial success?
  8. Discuss the evolution of music technology throughout history.
  9. Explore the concept of “musical authenticity” in a globalized world.
  10. How do musicians adapt to changes in audience preferences?

Proficient (C2):

  1. Analyze the cultural significance of a specific music genre.
  2. Examine the role of music in shaping individual and collective identities.
  3. Discuss the ethics of sampling and appropriation in music production.
  4. Explore the intersection of music and technology in composition and performance.
  5. Analyze the impact of streaming services on music consumption habits.
  6. Discuss the role of music in promoting social change and activism.
  7. Explore the relationship between music and spirituality.
  8. Examine the influence of music on mental health and well-being.
  9. Discuss the future of live music in a post-pandemic world.
  10. Reflect on the enduring power of music to unite people across cultures and generations.

Category 4: Talking About Reading and Literature

Beginner (A1):

  1. Do you like to read?
  2. Can you read a simple story?
  3. Do you have a favorite book?
  4. Have you ever been to a library?
  5. What’s your favorite bedtime story?
  6. Can you name any animals from storybooks?
  7. Do you like to look at picture books?
  8. Have you ever read a comic book?
  9. What’s your favorite fairy tale?
  10. Do you know any nursery rhymes?

Elementary (A2):

  1. How often do you read?
  2. Can you summarize the plot of a book you’ve read?
  3. Do you prefer fiction or non-fiction books?
  4. Have you ever borrowed a book from a friend?
  5. Can you name any famous authors?
  6. Do you enjoy reading magazines?
  7. Have you ever participated in a book club?
  8. What’s your favorite genre of books?
  9. Do you like to read outside?
  10. Have you ever written a short story?

Intermediate (B1):

  1. How do you choose what books to read?
  2. Have you ever read a book in another language?
  3. Do you prefer e-books or physical books?
  4. Have you ever attended a book signing event?
  5. Can you describe a character from a book you’ve read?
  6. Do you think reading improves vocabulary?
  7. Have you ever read a book that changed your perspective?
  8. What’s your opinion on audiobooks?
  9. Do you enjoy discussing books with others?
  10. Have you ever written book reviews?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

  1. How has technology changed the way we read?
  2. Have you ever read a book that was made into a movie?
  3. Do you think classic literature is still relevant today?
  4. Have you ever visited a literary landmark or museum?
  5. Can you analyze the themes of a book you’ve read?
  6. Do you think reading fiction can make us more empathetic?
  7. Have you ever participated in a reading challenge?
  8. What’s your opinion on book adaptations for TV series?
  9. Do you think schools should assign more diverse literature?
  10. Have you ever attended a literature festival or conference?

Advanced (C1):

  1. Analyze the role of literature in preserving cultural heritage.
  2. Discuss the representation of marginalized voices in literature.
  3. Explore the relationship between literature and social change.
  4. How do authors use symbolism to convey deeper meanings in their works?
  5. Analyze the impact of censorship on literary expression.
  6. Discuss the ethics of adapting classic literature for modern audiences.
  7. How do different literary movements reflect the values of their time?
  8. Discuss the influence of postcolonial literature on global consciousness.
  9. Explore the intersection of literature and philosophy.
  10. How does literature reflect the human condition?

Proficient (C2):

  1. Analyze the evolution of the novel as a literary form.
  2. Discuss the role of translation in making literature accessible to global audiences.
  3. Examine the relationship between literature and trauma.
  4. Explore the concept of metafiction and its significance in contemporary literature.
  5. Discuss the impact of digital publishing on the literary landscape.
  6. Analyze the representation of identity and belonging in diasporic literature.
  7. Explore the role of literature in shaping national identity.
  8. Discuss the future of literature in a digital age.
  9. Reflect on the enduring power of storytelling throughout human history.
  10. Analyze a specific literary work in depth, considering its themes, characters, and cultural context.

Category 5: Talking About Cooking and Culinary Arts

Beginner (A1):

  1. Do you like to cook?
  2. Can you boil water?
  3. Have you ever made a sandwich?
  4. Do you enjoy eating fruits?
  5. What’s your favorite snack?
  6. Can you peel a banana?
  7. Have you ever helped in the kitchen?
  8. Do you like to eat vegetables?
  9. What’s your favorite dessert?
  10. Have you ever made toast?

Elementary (A2):

  1. What’s your favorite food?
  2. Have you ever cooked a meal for your family?
  3. Do you know how to fry an egg?
  4. Have you ever baked cookies?
  5. Can you follow a simple recipe?
  6. Do you enjoy trying new foods?
  7. Have you ever made a salad?
  8. What’s your favorite type of pasta?
  9. Do you like to drink juice?
  10. Have you ever made a pizza?

Intermediate (B1):

  1. How often do you cook at home?
  2. Can you cook a full meal from scratch?
  3. Have you ever hosted a dinner party?
  4. Do you prefer sweet or savory dishes?
  5. Can you cook traditional dishes from your culture?
  6. Have you ever tried cooking international cuisine?
  7. Do you enjoy experimenting with different ingredients?
  8. What’s your go-to comfort food?
  9. Have you ever taken a cooking class?
  10. Do you watch cooking shows on TV?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

  1. How has globalization influenced culinary trends?
  2. Have you ever participated in a cooking competition?
  3. What’s your opinion on food waste?
  4. Do you think it’s important to know where your food comes from?
  5. Can you identify herbs and spices by smell?
  6. Have you ever grown your own vegetables or herbs?
  7. What’s your favorite cooking technique?
  8. How do you adapt recipes to suit dietary restrictions?
  9. Have you ever tried molecular gastronomy?
  10. What’s your favorite cuisine to cook and why?

Advanced (C1):

  1. Analyze the cultural significance of food in different societies.
  2. Discuss the impact of food globalization on traditional cuisines.
  3. How do chefs balance creativity and tradition in their cooking?
  4. Explore the role of food in rituals and ceremonies.
  5. Discuss the ethics of food production and consumption.
  6. How do food trends spread through social media?
  7. Analyze the relationship between food and identity.
  8. Discuss the sustainability of current food systems.
  9. Explore the intersection of food and art in haute cuisine.
  10. How does food shape our sense of belonging and community?

Proficient (C2):

  1. Examine the history and evolution of a specific dish or cuisine.
  2. Discuss the representation of food in literature and film.
  3. Analyze the relationship between food and memory.
  4. Explore the cultural significance of street food around the world.
  5. Discuss the role of food in promoting social justice and equity.
  6. Examine the impact of food tourism on local economies.
  7. Discuss the future of food technology and innovation.
  8. Explore the concept of “food as medicine” in different cultures.
  9. Analyze the psychological effects of cooking and eating together.
  10. Reflect on the role of food in shaping human civilization.

Category 6: Talking About Gaming and Entertainment

Beginner (A1):

  1. Do you like to play games?
  2. Have you ever played a video game?
  3. Can you name any animals from cartoons?
  4. Do you enjoy watching cartoons?
  5. What’s your favorite toy?
  6. Can you play simple board games?
  7. Have you ever played hide and seek?
  8. Do you like to watch movies?
  9. What’s your favorite animated movie?
  10. Have you ever been to an amusement park?

Elementary (A2):

  1. What’s your favorite video game?
  2. Have you ever played a game on your phone or tablet?
  3. Do you like to watch TV shows?
  4. Can you name any characters from TV shows?
  5. What’s your favorite board game?
  6. Have you ever played a game outdoors?
  7. Do you enjoy going to the movies?
  8. Can you name any famous actors or actresses?
  9. What’s your favorite type of music to listen to?
  10. Have you ever been to a concert?

Intermediate (B1):

  1. How often do you play video games?
  2. Can you describe the plot of a video game you’ve played?
  3. Do you prefer single-player or multiplayer games?
  4. Have you ever attended a gaming convention?
  5. Can you name any famous video game designers?
  6. Do you follow any TV series regularly?
  7. Have you ever binge-watched a TV show?
  8. What’s your opinion on reality TV shows?
  9. Do you like to watch sports on TV?
  10. Have you ever been to a live sports event?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

  1. How has technology changed the gaming industry?
  2. Have you ever participated in online gaming communities?
  3. What’s your opinion on virtual reality gaming?
  4. Do you think video games can be educational?
  5. Have you ever attended a film festival?
  6. What’s your favorite movie genre?
  7. Have you ever acted in a school play or amateur theater production?
  8. What’s your opinion on celebrity culture?
  9. Do you follow any musicians or bands closely?
  10. Have you ever been backstage at a concert?

Advanced (C1):

  1. Analyze the influence of gaming on popular culture.
  2. Discuss the impact of streaming platforms on the entertainment industry.
  3. How do gaming narratives compare to traditional storytelling?
  4. Explore the role of fan communities in shaping entertainment trends.
  5. Discuss the ethics of microtransactions and loot boxes in gaming.
  6. Analyze the representation of gender and diversity in video games.
  7. How do entertainment franchises build loyal fanbases?
  8. Discuss the future of immersive entertainment experiences.
  9. Explore the intersection of gaming and esports.
  10. How do entertainment media reflect societal values and norms?

Proficient (C2):

  1. Analyze the impact of globalization on the entertainment industry.
  2. Discuss the role of entertainment in shaping public opinion.
  3. Explore the evolution of gaming as an art form.
  4. Examine the influence of nostalgia on entertainment consumption.
  5. Discuss the role of entertainment in escapism and catharsis.
  6. Analyze the relationship between entertainment and consumerism.
  7. Explore the representation of social issues in entertainment media.
  8. Discuss the impact of piracy on the entertainment industry.
  9. Examine the intersection of entertainment and politics.
  10. Reflect on the enduring power of storytelling in entertainment.

Category 7: Talking About Travel and Exploration

Beginner (A1):

  1. Have you ever traveled to another city?
  2. Can you name any animals you might see on a trip?
  3. Do you like to take pictures when you travel?
  4. Have you ever visited a beach?
  5. What’s your favorite mode of transportation?
  6. Can you name any landmarks from around the world?
  7. Do you like to go on walks in new places?
  8. Have you ever stayed in a hotel?
  9. What’s your favorite thing to do when you travel?
  10. Have you ever been on a plane?

Elementary (A2):

  1. What’s the farthest place you’ve traveled to?
  2. Can you describe a memorable trip you’ve taken?
  3. Do you prefer traveling alone or with others?
  4. Have you ever visited a museum?
  5. What’s your favorite souvenir from a trip?
  6. Can you name any famous tourist attractions?
  7. Do you enjoy trying new foods when you travel?
  8. Have you ever gone on a guided tour?
  9. What’s your dream destination?
  10. Have you ever taken a road trip?

Intermediate (B1):

  1. How do you plan your trips?
  2. Have you ever traveled to a different country?
  3. Do you prefer cultural or nature-based vacations?
  4. Have you ever experienced culture shock while traveling?
  5. Can you speak any phrases in another language?
  6. Do you think it’s important to learn about the history of a place before visiting?
  7. Have you ever stayed in a hostel?
  8. What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve done while traveling?
  9. Do you enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations?
  10. Have you ever traveled for work or study?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

  1. How has technology changed the way we travel?
  2. Have you ever volunteered abroad?
  3. What’s your opinion on sustainable travel?
  4. Can you navigate using maps or GPS?
  5. Have you ever experienced a travel mishap?
  6. Do you think it’s important to respect local customs when traveling?
  7. Have you ever traveled for a specific event or festival?
  8. What’s the most challenging aspect of traveling for you?
  9. Do you prefer spontaneous or planned trips?
  10. Have you ever traveled to a remote or isolated location?

Advanced (C1):

  1. Analyze the impact of tourism on local economies and cultures.
  2. Discuss the ethics of travel photography and its impact on communities.
  3. Explore the concept of “traveler’s privilege” and its implications.
  4. Discuss the role of travel in promoting intercultural understanding.
  5. Analyze the relationship between travel and environmental sustainability.
  6. How do travel narratives shape our perceptions of different places?
  7. Discuss the rise of “dark tourism” and its ethical considerations.
  8. Explore the intersection of travel and spirituality.
  9. Discuss the impact of over-tourism on popular destinations.
  10. Reflect on the transformative power of travel experiences.

Proficient (C2):

  1. Analyze the role of travel literature in inspiring exploration and discovery.
  2. Discuss the representation of travel in film and literature.
  3. Explore the concept of “slow travel” and its benefits.
  4. Discuss the impact of pandemics on the future of travel.
  5. Analyze the role of technology in revolutionizing the travel industry.
  6. Discuss the cultural appropriation and commodification of travel experiences.
  7. Explore the relationship between travel and personal growth.
  8. Discuss the potential of virtual reality in simulating travel experiences.
  9. Reflect on the ethical responsibilities of travelers in a globalized world.
  10. Analyze the future of travel in a world shaped by climate change and geopolitical shifts.

Category 8: Talking About Photography and Visual Arts

Beginner (A1):

  1. Do you like taking pictures?
  2. Can you smile for a photo?
  3. Have you ever seen a painting?
  4. Do you enjoy looking at colorful pictures?
  5. What’s your favorite animal to photograph?
  6. Can you name any colors?
  7. Have you ever drawn a picture?
  8. Do you like to look at pictures of nature?
  9. What’s your favorite thing to take a picture of?
  10. Have you ever been to an art museum?

Elementary (A2):

  1. What’s your favorite photo you’ve taken?
  2. Can you describe a painting you like?
  3. Do you prefer black and white or color photos?
  4. Have you ever tried painting?
  5. Can you name any famous artists?
  6. Do you like to take pictures of your friends?
  7. Have you ever been to an art gallery?
  8. What’s your favorite type of scenery to photograph?
  9. Do you like to edit your photos?
  10. Have you ever taken a selfie?

Intermediate (B1):

  1. How do you compose a good photo?
  2. Have you ever experimented with different camera settings?
  3. Do you think photography is a form of art?
  4. Have you ever taken a photography class?
  5. Can you identify different art styles?
  6. Do you prefer digital or film photography?
  7. Have you ever entered a photography competition?
  8. What’s your opinion on photo manipulation?
  9. Do you think everyone can be a good photographer?
  10. Have you ever visited a photography exhibition?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

  1. How has technology changed photography?
  2. Have you ever exhibited your photography work?
  3. What’s your opinion on street photography?
  4. Can you describe the process of developing film?
  5. Have you ever experimented with long exposure photography?
  6. Do you think photography can change people’s perspectives?
  7. How do you critique a photograph?
  8. Have you ever collaborated with other photographers?
  9. What’s your favorite photography project you’ve worked on?
  10. Have you ever sold your photographs?

Advanced (C1):

  1. Analyze the role of photography in documenting history.
  2. Discuss the ethics of photojournalism and image manipulation.
  3. Explore the representation of identity in portrait photography.
  4. Discuss the intersection of photography and activism.
  5. Analyze the impact of social media on photography culture.
  6. How do photographers navigate the balance between artistic expression and commercial work?
  7. Discuss the influence of photography on advertising and consumerism.
  8. Explore the concept of “found photography” and its artistic value.
  9. Discuss the relationship between photography and memory.
  10. Reflect on the future of photography in a digital age.

Proficient (C2):

  1. Analyze the role of photography in shaping cultural identity.
  2. Discuss the representation of marginalized communities in photography.
  3. Explore the relationship between photography and truth.
  4. Discuss the impact of globalization on photographic aesthetics.
  5. Analyze the role of photography in challenging societal norms and stereotypes.
  6. Discuss the ethics of voyeuristic photography.
  7. Explore the intersection of photography and performance art.
  8. Discuss the influence of photography on contemporary art practices.
  9. Reflect on the relationship between photography and mortality.
  10. Analyze a specific photographic work in depth, considering its context, techniques, and impact.

Category 9: Talking About Gardening and Nature

Beginner (A1):

  1. Do you like plants?
  2. Can you name any flowers?
  3. Have you ever planted a seed?
  4. Do you enjoy spending time outdoors?
  5. What’s your favorite color of flower?
  6. Can you water a plant?
  7. Have you ever picked flowers?
  8. Do you like to watch birds?
  9. What’s your favorite season?
  10. Have you ever visited a park?

Elementary (A2):

  1. Do you have any plants at home?
  2. Can you name any vegetables?
  3. Have you ever grown a vegetable garden?
  4. Do you enjoy going for nature walks?
  5. What’s your favorite type of tree?
  6. Can you recognize different types of leaves?
  7. Have you ever planted a tree?
  8. What’s your favorite outdoor activity?
  9. Do you like to go camping?
  10. Have you ever seen a butterfly?

Intermediate (B1):

  1. How do you take care of indoor plants?
  2. Have you ever grown herbs for cooking?
  3. Do you prefer wildflowers or cultivated flowers?
  4. Have you ever visited a botanical garden?
  5. Can you identify different types of birds by their calls?
  6. Do you think gardening is therapeutic?
  7. Have you ever tried composting?
  8. What’s your opinion on urban gardening?
  9. Do you like to collect rocks or shells?
  10. Have you ever participated in a nature conservation project?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

  1. How does gardening benefit the environment?
  2. Have you ever visited a national park?
  3. Can you identify different types of insects?
  4. Have you ever studied botany?
  5. Do you enjoy foraging for wild edibles?
  6. Have you ever grown plants from cuttings?
  7. What’s your opinion on genetically modified crops?
  8. Do you think cities should have more green spaces?
  9. Have you ever experimented with permaculture?
  10. What’s your favorite aspect of nature to observe?

Advanced (C1):

  1. Analyze the role of gardens in literature and art.
  2. Discuss the impact of climate change on gardening practices.
  3. Explore the cultural significance of specific plants and flowers.
  4. Discuss the ethics of plant breeding and genetic modification.
  5. Analyze the relationship between gardening and mental health.
  6. How do indigenous gardening practices contribute to biodiversity?
  7. Discuss the role of botanical exploration in shaping scientific knowledge.
  8. Explore the intersection of gardening and social activism.
  9. Discuss the relationship between gardening and food security.
  10. Reflect on the philosophy of gardening and its connection to spirituality.

Proficient (C2):

  1. Analyze the historical evolution of gardening as a cultural practice.
  2. Discuss the representation of gardens in different cultural traditions.
  3. Explore the role of gardens in creating sustainable urban environments.
  4. Discuss the aesthetics of garden design and landscaping.
  5. Analyze the impact of invasive species on local ecosystems.
  6. Discuss the role of gardens in shaping colonial landscapes.
  7. Explore the therapeutic potential of horticultural therapy.
  8. Discuss the cultural appropriation of indigenous gardening knowledge.
  9. Reflect on the future of gardening in a rapidly changing world.
  10. Analyze a specific garden or landscape design in depth, considering its cultural, ecological, and aesthetic dimensions.

Category 10: Talking About Hobbies (Socializing and Community Activities)

Beginner (A1):

  1. Do you like to spend time with friends?
  2. Can you say hello in your language?
  3. Have you ever been to a party?
  4. Do you enjoy playing with others?
  5. What’s your favorite color to wear?
  6. Can you name any animals you like?
  7. Have you ever shared a meal with someone?
  8. Do you like to laugh with others?
  9. What’s your favorite thing to do with friends?
  10. Have you ever visited a park with others?

Elementary (A2):

  1. What’s your favorite way to meet new people?
  2. Can you describe a fun activity you’ve done with friends?
  3. Have you ever organized a get-together?
  4. Do you enjoy helping others?
  5. What’s your favorite type of social event?
  6. Can you name any hobbies you like to do with others?
  7. Have you ever celebrated a special occasion with friends?
  8. Do you like to share stories with others?
  9. What’s your favorite memory with friends?
  10. Have you ever volunteered with a group?

Intermediate (B1):

  1. How do you maintain friendships?
  2. Can you describe a community project you’ve been involved in?
  3. Have you ever joined a club or organization?
  4. Do you prefer small gatherings or large parties?
  5. Can you talk about a memorable cultural event you attended?
  6. Do you enjoy participating in group activities?
  7. Have you ever organized a community event?
  8. What’s your opinion on social media for staying connected?
  9. Do you think it’s important to have social support?
  10. Have you ever participated in a community cleanup?

Upper Intermediate (B2):

  1. How has socializing changed with technology?
  2. Can you discuss the importance of community engagement?
  3. Have you ever attended a cultural festival?
  4. Do you think communities should organize more events?
  5. Can you describe the role of volunteering in building communities?
  6. Do you believe in the concept of “paying it forward”?
  7. Have you ever participated in a neighborhood watch program?
  8. What’s your opinion on intergenerational socializing?
  9. Do you think communities should prioritize environmental initiatives?
  10. Have you ever organized a fundraiser for a cause?

Advanced (C1):

  1. Analyze the impact of social isolation on mental health.
  2. Discuss the role of community centers in fostering social cohesion.
  3. Explore the intersection of socializing and cultural identity.
  4. Discuss the challenges of building inclusive communities.
  5. Analyze the role of public spaces in facilitating social interactions.
  6. How do online communities differ from offline ones?
  7. Discuss the role of social rituals in building community bonds.
  8. Explore the impact of gentrification on community dynamics.
  9. Discuss the role of social capital in community resilience.
  10. Reflect on the future of community engagement in a digital age.

Proficient (C2):

  1. Analyze the relationship between social networks and social mobility.
  2. Discuss the role of social norms in shaping community behaviors.
  3. Explore the psychology of loneliness and its impact on society.
  4. Discuss the influence of socioeconomic factors on community participation.
  5. Analyze the role of community leaders in fostering social change.
  6. Discuss the impact of globalization on local community dynamics.
  7. Explore the potential of participatory democracy in community decision-making.
  8. Discuss the relationship between social inequality and community well-being.
  9. Reflect on the importance of empathy in building compassionate communities.
  10. Analyze a specific community initiative or movement in depth, considering its impact, challenges, and potential for change.

Conclusion

By integrating these 600 conversation questions about hobbies and leisure into your lessons, you can help ESL students enhance their ability to discuss leisure-related topics in English.

This will foster a deeper appreciation for recreational activities and improve their confidence in daily conversations. Utilizing these questions in different speaking activities will make learning interactive and enjoyable, ultimately helping students build their vocabulary and boost their confidence.

Use this resource to teach speaking skills effectively and support your students in becoming expressive and well-rounded communicators about hobbies and leisure.


Discover more from ESL Info

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Discover more from ESL Info

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading