Intermediate Level Conversations- Series 1- Lesson 6
In this lesson, you learn 10 questions with sample answers for having a normal conversation discussing foreign languages. We also have added 10 extra conversation questions if you decide to extend your discussion.
Previous Conversation Lesson
Conversation Questions about Job Interviews
Practice English Speaking by Talking about Foreign Languages
Here is a list of 10 discussion questions with sample answers for practicing English speaking with your language partner.
- What’s the best way to learn a foreign language? Explain.
Honestly, there’s no one best way. It depends on what works best for you! I personally find that a mix of things helps me the most. I surround myself with the language as much as possible. I listen to music, watch movies, read books and talk to people.The more you use the language, the better you’ll get. I always try to find someone to talk to, join a language exchange, or even just talk to myself in the mirror!
- What methods do you use to remember vocabulary better? Explain.
Here are a few things that work for me: I make flashcards with the word on one side and the definition and a picture on the other. I also try to create my own sentences using the new words I’m learning. This helps me remember the words in context. Plus, I make lists of words related to a specific topic, like food, travel, or sports. This helps me see how words connect to each other.
- Is it possible to understand and write well but not be able to have a conversation? Why?
Yes, absolutely! It’s like knowing all the ingredients for a delicious cake but not knowing how to bake it. You can understand grammar and vocabulary, but speaking requires different skills: fluency, pronunciation, and the ability to think quickly and respond in real time.
- Why do some people have more difficulty than others when learning a language? Explain.
There are a few reasons:
1) Learning Style: Some people are better at visual learning, some are auditory learners, and some are kinesthetic learners. The way a language is taught can affect how well someone learns.
2) Motivation: If you’re really passionate about learning a language, you’re more likely to put in the effort.
3) Exposure: The more you’re exposed to a language, the easier it is to learn it.
4) Native Language: Sometimes, the structure of your native language can make it easier or harder to learn another language.
- To what extent do you agree that it’s better to learn language as a child? Why or why not?
It’s true that children often pick up languages more easily than adults. They have a natural ability to absorb language and mimic sounds. But it’s not impossible for adults to learn languages well. Adults have more cognitive skills and life experience to draw on, and they can often learn more efficiently by using specific strategies.
- To speak its language well, how important is it to know something about the culture of a country? Explain.
It’s super important! Language is not just about words, it’s about how people use those words and what they mean in their culture. Understanding cultural norms and customs can help you avoid misunderstandings and communicate more effectively.
- When you travel to a foreign country, is it always easy to use your foreign language? Why or why not?
Not always! Sometimes, people speak a dialect or slang that I don’t understand, or they talk too fast. And then there are those moments when I’m completely lost and I just have to use gestures and hope for the best!
- How can the Internet be a helpful tool when learning a foreign language? Explain.
The Internet is like a treasure chest of language learning resources!
There are many online dictionaries and translators which are great for finding the meaning of words and phrases. There are also great language learning apps like Duolingo, Babbel, and Memrise, these apps can help you learn vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. Plus, you can connect with other language learners, practice your skills, and ask questions through online communities. Videos and podcasts are also great for listening to native speakers and getting familiar with different accents.
- Can you learn a language by watching television? Explain.
You can definitely learn some vocabulary and get a feel for the rhythm of a language by watching TV, but it’s not enough on its own. You need to actively practice speaking, writing, and listening to really master a language.
- Would you like to be a translator? Why? / Why not?
That’s a great question! I’m not sure. Being a translator would be cool because I love languages, but I think it would be a lot of work. I’m still figuring out what I want to do with my life!
Additional questions for conversation
For a longer conversation about foreign languages, you can use the below questions.
- Can a good teacher influence how well you enjoy learning a language? Why or why not?
- What languages would you like to learn in future? Explain.
- Is it a good idea to learn a language from a non-native speaker of that language? Why or why not?
- Could you teach your mother tongue to someone else? Why or why not?
- What tools can help you learn a foreign language? Explain.
- Is it possible to learn a language without studying grammar? Why or why not?
- Some people say “I’m no good at learning languages”.
- Is this just a question of attitude (because of a previous bad experience) or were some people born lacking the ability to learn a new language?
- Have teaching methods for language learning changed over the last 50 years? Explain.
- Have you had any particularly poor language learning experiences? Explain.
Next Conversation Lesson
Conversation Questions about Immigration
Related Conversation Lessons
None
Practice Conversation with HiCafe App
By using HiCafe App, you can join free discussion events and Practice English Conversation online or in-person and improve your verbal skills.
All Conversation Lessons
To see and read all of our conversation lessons, you can visit our Improve English Speaking Skills page.