The World of Work: English conversation prompts

Discuss the world of work with your students, from teens to adults! In this set you will find 40 conversation prompts designed to:

a) demonstrate the usage of common English vocabulary to describe work and working conditions.

b) elicit the usage of these words and phrases.

The prompts elicit a number of common words, phrases, and collocations that are used in daily conversation to talk about work.

Vocabulary and phrases included in this set:

dream job
good/bad boss
good/bad coworker
salary
vacation time
work better (alone/under pressure etc.)
working hours
Pension
Health benefits
High/low stress
Stressful
International travel
Overseas work
Retire
Require
Job interview
Working environment
Skills
Full-time
Part-time

These prompts are suitable for all learners of English of pre-intermediate level and above. They are designed to elicit discussion from students whether they have worked before or not, and regardless of if they are currently working. In contrast to the “Business English: Conversation prompts using English business vocabulary” prompts also available from TEFL Teachers, the prompts in this set are designed to elicit opinions rather than facts, and require less background knowledge of business and business terms.
Enliven your language classroom with engaging discussions!

Example questions: What makes a good working environment? Which would you prefer, a full-time job or a part-time job? What characteristics make a good coworker? What skills do you need to get a good job?