Intermediate Level Conversations- Series 4- Lesson 1- ESL Conversation about Birthday
In this lesson, you learn 10 ESL conversation questions about birthday with sample answers for having a normal conversation discussing birthdays. We also have added 10 extra conversation questions if you decide to extend your discussion.
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Talking About Unemployment in English
Practice English Speaking by Talking about Birthdays
Here is a list of 10 discussion questions with sample answers for practicing English speaking with your language partner.
- How are birthdays celebrated in your country? Explain.
Birthdays in Iran are usually celebrated with a family gathering. We might have a small party at home with delicious food like traditional Persian dishes or a special cake. It’s a time to be surrounded by loved ones, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company. Sometimes we even have a special birthday “sofreh,” a tablecloth spread with traditional treats like sweets and nuts.
- What are some birthday traditions you know from other countries? Explain.
I love learning about different birthday traditions from other countries! I’ve heard that in Germany, people give birthday gifts of money, which they put in a “birthday box.” They also have this tradition where people sing a special birthday song called “Happy Birthday to You” in a different way. In Japan, people celebrate birthdays with a special type of cake called “birthday cake” that has a small plastic flag on top with a number indicating how old they are. I think it’s really fun that in Mexico, they have a “piñata” for parties. It’s a decorated container filled with candy and treats that kids hit with a stick until it breaks open.
- How do you like to celebrate your birthday? Explain.
When it comes to my own birthday, I like to spend time with my close friends and family. I’m not really into big parties, but I love a cozy gathering with good food, laughter, and maybe some board games or movies.
- What is your best birthday memory? Explain.
My best birthday memory is when I turned 16. My family surprised me with a trip to a beautiful mountain resort. We went hiking, rode horses, and had so much fun together. It was a perfect escape from the city, and I’ll never forget it.
- What is your worst birthday memory? Explain.
My worst birthday memory was when I was in university. I was feeling really sick and didn’t want to do anything. I ended up staying home alone and feeling miserable.
- Have you ever had a surprise birthday party for yourself or someone else? Explain.
I’ve been surprised a few times with birthday parties! My friends once threw me a surprise party that they planned for weeks. They even managed to keep it a secret from my family. It was so thoughtful and made me feel really special. I also surprised my sister with a surprise party when she turned 21. It was a lot of work, but it was so much fun seeing the look on her face when she walked in and saw everyone.
- What is the best birthday gift you have ever received? Explain.
The best birthday gift I ever received was a beautiful handmade necklace from my grandmother. It’s made with turquoise stones and represents a traditional Persian design. It’s very meaningful to me because it was made with love and reminds me of my family heritage.
- What is the worst birthday gift you have ever received? Explain
The worst birthday gift I ever received was a pair of socks. Don’t get me wrong, I need socks, but it just wasn’t a very exciting gift!
- What are some things you like to do for your birthday? Explain.
For my birthday, I like to do things that are relaxing and enjoyable. I might go for a walk in nature, read a good book, or spend some time cooking a delicious meal. I also love to explore new places and try new things.
- Do you think getting older (40, 50, 60) is depressing for people or it is a happy occasion? Why?
I think getting older is a natural part of life and something to celebrate. It’s not necessarily about the number of years we’ve lived but the experiences we’ve had and the wisdom we’ve gained. There are challenges and joys that come with every age.
Additional Birthday Conversation Questions
For a longer conversation, you can use the below birthday conversation questions.
- What do you think is the best age? Why?
- Did you like going to school on your birthday when you were a child? Why or why not?
- Whose birthday do you always remember? Why?
- Have you ever forgotten someone’s birthday that you should have remembered? What happened then?
- Do you know any famous people’s birthdays? (Are any the same as yours?)
- Do you know of any big events that happened the year you were born? Explain.
- What is the best birthday gift you have ever given?
- What is the worst birthday gift you have ever given?
- If you could celebrate your own birthday the way you wanted, what would you do?
- What would you like to get most for your birthday this year?
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Conversation Questions about Transportation
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