Conversation Questions for Discussing Volunteer Work

Beginner Level Conversations- Series 5- Lesson 8

In this lesson, you learn 10 questions with sample answers for having a normal conversation discussing volunteer work. We also have added 10 extra conversation questions if you decide to extend your discussion.

 

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If You Were Questions for Conversation

 

Practice English Speaking by Talking about Volunteer Work

Here are some engaging questions with sample answers that delve into various aspects of volunteer work.

  • Would you like to work as a volunteer? Why or why not? 

Yes, I would absolutely love to volunteer. It’s about giving back to the community and helping those in need. I believe it’s important to contribute to society and make a positive impact, even in small ways.

  • Have you ever done any volunteer work? Explain. 

I haven’t had the opportunity to volunteer formally yet. It’s hard to find volunteer opportunities here in Iran for young women, especially if it involves working with men. But I have helped out with smaller tasks, like helping my neighbors with errands or translating for people who don’t speak English.

  • Is volunteering worth the time it takes? Why or why not? 

Absolutely! Even if it takes time, the feeling of making a difference is incredibly rewarding. It’s about giving back, learning new skills, and connecting with others. Plus, it often brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

  • What is your definition of volunteer work? Explain. 

To me, volunteer work is freely giving your time and skills to help others or a cause. It’s not about getting paid or recognition, but about making a positive contribution to society.

  • Have you ever benefited by someone’s volunteer work? How? 

Yes, I have! There’s a group of English-speaking volunteers who teach English to children in underprivileged areas. A few of my friends have benefited from their work, and it’s helped them improve their English skills.

  • What situations need volunteer workers? Explain. 

There are so many situations where volunteers are needed! Think about hospitals, animal shelters, community centers, environmental projects, and even schools. Volunteering can help with everything from teaching, cleaning, and fundraising to providing companionship and support.

  • Can you think of different types of volunteer work?

There are so many! We could have:

Direct service: working directly with people in need, like at a homeless shelter or a soup kitchen.

Skills-based: using our skills to help organizations, like accounting, web design, or translation.

Advocacy: speaking out for a cause, like environmental protection or human rights.

Event planning: organizing fundraising events or community gatherings.

  • Can you think of examples of professional and amateur volunteering?

Professional: Doctors, lawyers, or engineers might volunteer their expertise to a legal aid organization or a community health clinic.

Amateur: Anyone can volunteer! We could help out at a local animal shelter, plant trees in a park, or organize a clothing drive for the homeless.

  • Have you and your family ever worked on a volunteer project together? Explain. 

My family has helped out at a local orphanage before. We collected donations of clothes and toys, and we helped to organize a fun day for the children. It was a great experience to work together for a good cause.

  • What are volunteer activities that people do? Explain. 

Teaching: Helping kids learn, at school or in community programs.

Mentoring: Supporting young people, helping them with school or career goals.

Fundraising: Collecting money for organizations, like running a bake sale or organizing an event.

Providing companionship: Visiting older people at nursing homes or helping people with disabilities.

Cleaning and maintenance: Helping with tasks at a community center, park, or animal shelter.

Advocacy: Signing petitions, writing to politicians, or raising awareness about important issues.

 

Additional questions for conversation

For a longer conversation on volunteer work, you can use the below questions.

  1. Can you think of ways to help people who need help? Explain.
  2. Would you volunteer to help people outside your community?
  3. Have you ever volunteered to help victims of natural disasters? Why or why not?
  4. What benefits do you get personally by volunteering? Explain.
  5. Have you read a book about volunteer work? Explain.
  6. Can you list some reasons why people volunteer?
  7. What types of volunteer work would be unpleasant for you? Explain.
  8. What benefits other than personal satisfaction could you personally get by volunteering? Explain.
  9. Do you know anyone who has done volunteer work? Where did they work and why did they volunteer?
  10. Can a volunteer be treated the same as paid staff? Explain.

 

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