If you’re looking for a great speaking activity and ESL conversation questions for the first day of class, look no further! This no-prep “Find Someone Who” speaking activity is the perfect way to get your students moving, talking, and connecting — all while practicing essential language skills.
ESL Conversation Questions for the First Day of Class
Walking into a new classroom can be intimidating — especially when English isn’t your first language. That’s why it’s so important to start with an activity that is interactive, supportive, and student-centered. This “Find Someone Who” resource does just that!
Students circulate the room asking each other yes/no questions to find classmates who match prompts like:
- – Find someone who worked yesterday.
- – Find someone who ate spicy food last night.
- – Find someone who lived in another country last year.
The prompts are designed with clear visuals and accessible language, making the activity ideal for low intermediate and high beginner learners. The engaging format lowers anxiety and helps learners ease into speaking in English — even if they’re shy or nervous.
What Makes These ESL Conversation Questions a Must-Have
- ✅ No prep required — Just print and go!
- ✅ Visually appealing layout that supports comprehension
- ✅ Built-in writing task to reinforce learning after the speaking portion
- ✅ Ideas for extension and differentiation, so you can tailor the activity to your group’s level and needs
Whether you’re teaching in a community ESL program, an adult school, or a workplace setting, this resource is flexible and adaptable.
More Than Just an Icebreaker
This activity isn’t just fun — it’s purposeful. Students will:
- – Practice forming yes/no questions and short answers
- – Learn vocabulary for common interests and everyday activities
- – Build confidence in speaking English with classmates
- – Discover what they have in common with others, which helps build classroom community
Differentiation Tips Included
The resource comes with helpful tips for scaffolding or extending the activity. Need to support beginners? Use sentence frames or allow pairs to work together. Want to challenge more advanced learners? Add a follow-up question requirement or a mini-presentation task.
💬 Teacher Tip: Wrap up the activity with a short class discussion or writing task where students share something new they learned about a classmate. It’s a great way to transition from speaking to writing while reinforcing interpersonal connections.
Ready to kick off your ESL year with confidence and connection?
This “Find Someone Who” resource is more than an icebreaker — it’s the first step toward building a warm, communicative classroom culture.
These ESL conversation questions for the first day of class will make your job easier. 👉 Grab your copy now and make your first day unforgettable! Getting ready for back to school? Check out this blog post filled with back to school ESL activities.
