“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 3: Entertainment
Story 03: Music
Key Lesson Vocabulary & Expressions: Look over and review before proceeding.
- Die-hard
- Bubblegum pop
- Catchy hooks
- Upbeat melodies
- Raw energy
- Musicianship
- Artistry
- Intricate guitar solos
- Soaring vocal melodies
- Speak to my soul
Read or Listen to the following passage:
Hi, I’m Brian, and I used to be a die-hard pop music fan. I loved everything from bubblegum pop to boy bands, and I couldn’t get enough of catchy hooks and upbeat melodies. But something changed a few years ago when I discovered the world of rock music.
It all started when a friend introduced me to a band called Foo Fighters. I had heard of them before but had never really given them a chance. But as soon as I heard the opening riff of “Everlong,” I was hooked. From there, I dove headfirst into the world of rock music – from classic bands like Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd to modern groups like Royal Blood and The Black Keys.
What I love about rock music is the raw energy and emotion that it conveys. There’s something about the sound of a distorted guitar or pounding drums that just gets my blood pumping. I also appreciate the musicianship and artistry that goes into creating a great rock song – the intricate guitar solos, the soaring vocal melodies, and the powerful lyrics.
Nowadays, you’ll find me listening to rock music more often than pop. I still appreciate a good pop song now and then, but there’s something about rock music that speaks to my soul.
Comprehension Questions:
- What was Brian’s music preference before discovering rock music?
- How did Brian discover rock music?
- What does Brian appreciate about rock music?
- How has Brian’s music listening habits changed since discovering rock music?
- What words would Brian use to describe rock music?
Conversations Starters:
- What type of music do you enjoy listening to, and why?
- Have you ever attended a concert? If so, who did you see and what was the experience like?
- How do you usually discover new music?
- Do you prefer listening to music alone or with other people? Why?
- How has technology affected the way we listen to and consume music?
- Have you ever played a musical instrument? If so, which one(s) and how did you learn?
- Do you think music has the power to influence people’s emotions and behaviors? How?
- What is your opinion of the current state of the music industry? Are there any trends or changes you would like to see?
- Who are some of your favorite musicians or bands, and why do you admire them?
- Have you ever attended a music festival? What was it like, and would you go again?
