“Conversation Starter Lesson Series: Intermediate” is designed for intermediate-level ESL learners who want to improve their fluency and confidence in speaking English.
Each lesson includes an engaging reading material with audio, vocabulary and expressions, comprehension questions, and discussion questions to be used for one to one class, group class, or self-study for both online and offline classes.
Unit 2: Home and Neighborhood
Story 02: Neighborhoods
Key Lesson Vocabulary & Expressions: Look over and review before proceeding.
- Bustling
- Chatter
- Enriching
- Galleries
- Broadway
- Center of the action
- Tranquility
- Skyline
- Chaos
- Balcony
Read or Listen to the following passage:
I live in the heart of Manhattan, in a bustling neighborhood full of life and energy. Every day, I am surrounded by the sounds of honking horns, the chatter of people rushing to their next destination, and the clinking of glasses at the local cafes and bars.
One of my favorite things about my neighborhood is the diversity. People from all over the world come to live and work here, and it makes for a truly unique and interesting community. I’ve made friends with people from all different cultures and backgrounds, and it’s been an enriching experience.
There are plenty of things to do in my neighborhood, from visiting the museums and galleries, to catching a show on Broadway, or simply walking around and exploring the different shops and restaurants. It’s never boring, and I always feel like I’m in the center of the action.
But amidst all the hustle and bustle, there are also peaceful moments. I love taking a walk in Central Park on a quiet morning, or sitting on my balcony and watching the sun set over the city skyline. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of chaos, there is always beauty and tranquility to be found.
Comprehension Questions:
- Where does the speaker live?
- What are some of the sounds the speaker hears in their neighborhood?
- What does the speaker like about their neighborhood?
- What are some activities the speaker enjoys doing in their neighborhood?
- What are some peaceful moments the speaker enjoys in their neighborhood?
Conversations Starters:
- Describe your neighborhood. What do you like or dislike about it?
- What do you think makes a neighborhood a good place to live?
- What are some of your favorite memories from your childhood neighborhood?
- Have you ever lived in a bad neighborhood? What were some of the challenges you faced?
- What are some important factors that you consider when choosing a new neighborhood to move to?
- Have you ever experienced any issues with noise or disturbances in your neighborhood? How did you handle it?
- How do you think neighborhoods affect a person’s sense of community and belonging?
- What are some ways that you try to be a good neighbor to those around you?
- Do you think it’s important for a neighborhood to have access to public transportation? Why or why not?
- Do you think it’s important for neighborhoods to have parks or green spaces? Why or why not?
