EFL Student Warm Up Questions.

Warm up questions are important to get your students thinking about speaking in English in the ESL classroom.

Teach ESL Talking

You must become an expert in teaching conversational skills if you want to help your students become better speakers. You must be able to encourage your students to talk, guide the discussion along, offer constructive criticism, and make everything seem natural. Additionally, you need interesting subjects, which is what this tutorial is all about.

Knowing what to discuss with students is one of the challenges a teacher may encounter. When you realize that only five minutes have passed after finishing your conversation about the daily topic or lesson, what do you do?

Selecting a specific topic for a class is a wonderful idea. After you have that subject, proceed through the questions, making an effort to get the students to talk as much as they can.

Basic Questions for ESL Learners

Here is a list of questions to warm up your students and get them thinking in English. I always like to start a lesson with 30 minutes of talking, using games if it is age-appropriate. More on games with links later.

Also check out the ESL teacher survival guide on Amazon, downloadable or paperback version. About $22.00 US for Kindle and $25.00 for paperback. Go the download… Your Special Amazon Link.

ESL survival guide

School.

  1. Do you like school?
  2. What is your favorite subject?
  3. What is your least favorite subject?
  4. Who is your favorite teacher?
  5. Why do people have to go to school?
  6. Do you like homework?
  7. What would you do if you were the headteacher?
  8. How could schools be more fun?
  9. How long are the summer holidays?
  10. Can you learn and have fun at the same time?

Family

  1. How many people are in your family?
  2. Who are they?
  3. What job does your dad do?
  4. What job does your mum do?
  5. Who cooks in your family?
  6. Is your family important to you?
  7. Which is more important, friends or family?
  8. Who is the weirdest person in your family?
  9. Are families less important nowadays than in the past?
  10. What would happen if we didn’t have families?

Home

  1. Where do you live?
  2. What is there to do in your city?
  3. What is your place like?
  4. What is your neighborhood like?
  5. Are there any parks near where you live?
  6. Have you ever lived elsewhere?
  7. How many rooms does your place have?
  8. If you moved, where would you like to live?
  9. Would you prefer to live in the city or country?
  10. Would you like to live abroad?

Learning English.

  1. Do you enjoy speaking English?
  2. What is the best way to improve your speaking?
  3. What is the best way to improve your listening?
  4. What is the best way to improve your vocabulary?
  5. What is the best way to improve your writing?
  6. What is the most difficult part of learning English?
  7. How is English different from your language?
  8. How can you be a good conversationalist?
  9. Do you read English books?
  10. Do you watch English videos?

Everyday Life

  1. What is your daily routine on weekdays?
  2. How do you usually spend your weekends?
  3. What is your favorite meal of the day? Why?
  4. How do you usually travel to work or school?
  5. What is your favorite season and why?
  6. What’s your favorite local restaurant or café?
  7. What is your favorite way to relax after a long day?
  8. What is one thing you can’t live without? Why?
  9. How often do you go shopping for groceries or clothes?
  10. What’s something you want to learn how to do?

Travel and Culture

  1. Have you ever traveled to a foreign country? What was your experience like?
  2. If you could visit any country in the world, where would you go and why?
  3. What is the most interesting cultural festival or event you have attended or heard of?
  4. How does the cuisine in your country differ from that in other countries you know about?
  5. Can you describe a traditional outfit or costume from your culture?
  6. What are some customs or traditions from your culture that others might find surprising?
  7. What cultural differences have you noticed between your country and others?
  8. Is there a language you would love to learn? Why?
  9. What’s the most beautiful place you’ve ever seen in your travels?
  10. How do you think traveling affects a person’s view of the world?

Hypothetical Situations

  1. If you could have any job in the world, what would it be and why?
  2. If you could live in any era of history, when would you choose and why?
  3. If you had a superpower, what would it be, and how would you use it?
  4. What would you do if you won a million dollars?
  5. If you could have dinner with any person from history, who would it be and why?
  6. If you could instantly learn any skill, what would it be?
  7. Imagine you’re stranded on a deserted island. What three items would you want to have with you?
  8. If you could change one thing in your life, what would it be and why?
  9. What would your perfect day look like?
  10. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why?

There are hundreds of questions you can think up and these are examples only. Make sure you use age and culture-appropriate questions. You know your students, so tailor the questions to their age and skill level.

Also mixing them up in games is a great way to engage your students. If you are serious about ESL you should be building a resource bank and the books I have suggested are a basic staple, invest in your profession.

Games You Can Play.

You can get 101 games to play in an ESL classroom for as little as $10 or on kindle unlimited $0. Check it out NOW at Amazon. Downloadable instantly.

Kindle amazon

  1. Two Truths and a Lie: Participants state two true facts and one false fact about themselves. The rest of the class tries to guess which one is the lie.
  2. Role-play Conversations: Create scenarios (like ordering in a restaurant, asking for directions, etc.) where multiple students must act out a conversation in pairs or small groups.
  3. Picture Storytelling: Show a random picture and ask students to create a story around it. This can be done individually or in groups.
  4. Charades with Vocabulary: Students act out a word without speaking while others guess. Focus on new vocabulary or themes you’re studying.
  5. Find Someone Who: Prepare a list of statements (e.g., “Find someone who has visited another country”). Students must find classmates who match these statements.
  6. Word Association Game: Start with one word, and each student quickly says a word associated with the previous one. This can be tailored to the lesson’s vocabulary.
  7. Sentence Building Race: Give students a set of words and challenge them to create the longest, grammatically correct sentence.
  8. Cultural Exchange: Students share something about their culture or country, fostering cross-cultural understanding and conversation.
  9. ‘What’s in the Bag?’ Game: Place several objects in a bag. Students reach in, feel an object, and describe it (without looking) to the class.
  10. Alphabet Story: Create a story where each sentence begins with the following letter of the alphabet. Each student adds a sentence.
  11. Memory Challenge: Display a list of words for a minute. Hide them and then ask students to recall as many words as possible.
  12. Pictionary with Vocabulary Words: Similar to charades, but students draw the word instead of acting it out.
  13. Taboo Words: Give a student a word to describe without using a list of commonly associated words (e.g., describe “snow” without saying “cold,” “white,” or “winter”).
  14. Opinion Polls: Present a statement and ask students to move to areas of the room based on their opinion (agree, disagree, unsure). They then discuss their reasons.
  15. ESL Bingo: Create bingo cards with different characteristics or experiences. Students mingle to find classmates who match the squares and form a bingo.

And check out my blog, ESL Games for Adults.

Why Asking Questions is Important.

Asking questions to ESL (English as a Second Language) students is important for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to assess their understanding of the material being taught. By asking questions, teachers can gauge the students’ comprehension and identify areas that may need further explanation or practice.

Secondly, asking questions encourages ESL students to actively participate in the learning process. It can help them practice their English language skills, such as speaking and listening, and build their confidence in using the language.

Additionally, asking questions allows teachers to tailor their instruction to meet the specific needs of ESL students. It provides an opportunity to address any confusion or misconceptions that may arise during the learning process.

Teaching Online.

Final Thoughts.

Asking questions to ESL students is a valuable tool for promoting engagement, assessing understanding, and providing targeted support to help them succeed in learning English.

Don’t fall back on textbooks for teaching, use the resources of your brain and make better English speakers of your students.


My name is Stephen and I have been teaching ESL for over 15 years and have my own school. I also place teachers across Vietnam into both private and public schools. I am also the author and owner of this website.

You can check out my school on the YouTube link below.

Any or all links on this site may be affiliate links, and if you purchase something through those links I will make a small commission on them.

There will be no extra cost to you and at times due to my affiliation, you could actually save money.

You can read our full affiliate disclosure here.

My name is Stephen and if you want to find work as a teacher in Vietnam, I can help. That’s what I do. Bringing the world together one step at a time.

 

 

The Best Travel Cameras

Halong Bay is one of the wonders of the world.

Cameras for Recording Memories.

When you’re embarking on an adventure, capturing those moments is precious, whether it’s the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City or the serene landscapes of Halong Bay.

This isn’t just about snapping pictures; it’s also about retaining memories that’ll last a lifetime. That’s where a suitable travel camera comes in, turning fleeting moments into tangible keepsakes. You want to choose a camera that doesn’t weigh you down yet delivers high-quality images that are sharp, vibrant, and full of life.

The quest isn’t solely for the lightest or the most feature-packed camera; it’s about finding the perfect balance that suits your needs. Portability is great, but not at the expense of image quality. You’re going to find out about various options that combine the best of both worlds, providing remarkable pictures without the bulk associated with professional equipment.

I’m here to help you figure out what clicks for your style of travel photography. Are you an avid adventurer needing something rugged and waterproof? Or maybe a city explorer who prioritizes style and ease of use? It’s also crucial to choose a camera that can be ready at a moment’s notice—because travel is full of fast-moving, spontaneous opportunities that wait for no one.

Once we’ve discussed what to look for in terms of usability and performance, we’ll transition to the next section. There, I’ll introduce you to the top contenders in the travel camera category. You’ll get a rundown of the latest models, a comparison of their standout features, and insights from both users and professionals to help guide your investment. So if you’ve ever wondered if there’s one camera that can handle all your travel needs, guess what? There are several, and I’m going to show you exactly how to pick the one tailor-made for you.

Top Contenders for the Best Travel Cameras of the Year

Now, let’s zero in on some specific models that are making waves as the best travel cameras on the market this year. I’m going to break them down by category and use case, so you can find out about the optimal choice for your adventures.

I’ve taken a close look at the key features you care about the most. We’re talking zoom capabilities for capturing distant details, low-light performance for those dimly lit alleyways and fabled sunsets, and, of course, battery life because who wants to be chained to an outlet when there’s so much to explore?

You’ll benefit from a mix of user reviews and professional opinions that I’ve curated. These insights come from seasoned travelers and top photographers who’ve put these cameras to the test in all sorts of environments. This isn’t just about rattling off specs; it’s also about how these cameras perform in the wild—the real world where you’ll be using them.

And to wrap things up, I’ll spotlight the cameras that offer the best value for money. Choose something that resonates with you, without breaking the bank. Rest assured, there’s a camera out there that’s a perfect traveling companion for your pocket and your passion for photography.

My Top 3 Travel Cameras

Panasonic Lumix.

These are a great camera. I have had one for a few years and they take great shots and you have a lot of options from auto shooting to shooting raw. Well worth the money, and it fits in your pocket. And as you can see it comes with a Leica lens. Who can ask for more at this price?

I used this for vlogging before I bought the Sony camera. But I would say for portability, this is better.

$399.00 for a great camera. Click the “Amazon” link to buy.

Specifications.

  • POINT-AND-SHOOT CAMERA: Large, 1-inch 20.1-megapixel MOS sensor plus 10X zoom LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens (25-250mm) and HYBRID O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) delivers brighter, more colorful photos with fewer image artifacts.Battery Voltage/capacity: 7.2 V/1025 mAh. Microphones: Stereo.
  • EYE-LEVEL ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER AND LCD DISPLAY: High-resolution 1,166k-dot viewfinder and rear touch-enabled 3-inch LCD (1040K dots) are clear even in bright sunlight
  • 4K VIDEO CAPTURE: 4K QFHD video recording (3840 x 2160), plus exclusive LUMIX 4K PHOTO and 4K Post Focus with internal Focus Stacking allows you to record photos up to 30fps and set your desired focus points after the photo has been taken
  • LENS-MOUNTED CONTROL RING: Manual lens-mounted control ring brings DSLR-like exposure control to a compact point-and-shoot camera body; Temperature: 23 °C (73.4 °F) / Humidity: 50% RH when the monitor is on.
  • USB CHARGING AND WI-FI CONNECTIVITY: Enjoy travel-ready technologies like USB charging and Wi-Fi connectivity to your mobile device; micro-HDMI type D (3) and USB 2.0 micro-B provide additional connectivity to your favorite devices

Panasonic LumixSony Alpha.

An amazing camera that I have been using for all my more professional shots. A devastatingly good camera that will last you a lifetime. A great build with a myriad of resources. The great thing about this camera is it has interchangeable lenses. If you are serious about a good shot, this is the one for you.

$848..00 for an amazing camera. Click the “Amazon link to buy.

Specifications.

  • 20.1MP stacked back-illuminated 1″ Exmor RS CMOS sensor w/ DRAM, large aperture 24-70mm1 F1.8-2.8 ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T lens
  • Enhanced subject capture: wide 425 Phase/ 425 contrast detection points over 84 percent of the sensor
  • Fast and accurate: Up to 11Fps continuous shooting at 24.2 MP raw with crisp, clear natural colors
  • Multiple movie functions: Make time-lapse movies or slow/quick motion videos without post-processing
  • Tiltable LCD screen: customizable for vlogging, still photography or recording a professional film
  • In the box: rechargeable battery (NP FW50) AC adaptor (ac uud12), shoulder strap, body cap, accessory shoe cap, eyepiece cup, and micro USB cable. Metering Type: 1200 zone evaluative metering.
Sony Alpha

Kodak Pixpro.

If you like taking surfing shots or even underwater shots, this is for you. It is dustproof, waterproof, and shockproof. And it comes in at an amazing $149.00. Also, it is a full HD video blogging camera. 16 megapixels and a 4x optical zoom. I have used one and they are simple to use with excellent results.

$149..00 for a freakishly good camera. Click the “Amazon link to buy. This is a great buy and the best value for money.

Specifications.

  • Waterproof to 15m (49′) – 2m (6′) Shockproof Rating – Dustproof
  • WiFi Connectivity – 1080P Full HD Video – Vlogging Camera
  • 16 MegaPixel BSI CMOS Sensor – 4X Optical Zoom – Digital Image Stabilization
  • Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery – 2.7″ LCD Screen
  • SD Card Compatibility: At least Class 4, no larger than 32GB (microSD, microSDHC) – MMC Card not supported
  • What’s In the Box: WPZ2 Camera, Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery, USB Cable, AC Adapter, Wrist Strap, Quick Start Guide, warranty card, and service card

Kodak Pixpro

Three Smartphones with Great Cameras.

If you like traveling light and only want to take your phone, these are my top 3 smartphones.

The One Plus Nord.

It comes with a 108-megapixel camera. The photos are great and you can share them immediately. $249.00 unlocked.

Find out more info on this Amazon link.

Samsung Galaxy A25

This comes with an advanced triple-camera system that shoots great photos. I had one of these for a while and the pictures are great. $264.00 unlocked on sale now.

Find out more info on this Amazon link.

Motorola Moto

An underrated phone with a great 50-megapixel camera. For the budget price of $129.99, you get a great camera phone with all the portability and service you need.

$129.00 unlocked with a 35% discount on sale NOW.

Find out more info on this Amazon link. What can I say, The best value for money.

Travel Photography Tips: Getting the Most from Your Camera

So you’ve picked up one of the top travel cameras. Great! But owning a good camera is just the beginning. I’m here to help you get the most out of it. After all, it’s not only the camera that matters but how you use it. Let’s jump into some photography tips that’ll take your travel snapshots to the next level.

First up, it’s crucial to have a grasp of basic photography principles. You’re going to find out about composition rules like the rule of thirds, which is about dividing your shot into a 3×3 grid and placing your subject off-center for a more engaging photo. Remember, these guidelines aren’t set in stone, but they’re a solid starting point.

Lighting can either be your best ally or your biggest foe in photography. I recommend chasing the golden hours—shortly after sunrise or before sunset—when the light is soft and warm. This kind of lighting adds an almost magical touch to your pictures without needing any fancy editing.

As much as the camera does significant heavy lifting, there’s a bunch of accessories that can add some kick to your pictures. Think about getting a sturdy travel tripod for those evening cityscapes, or invest in an extra memory card so you never run out of space at a critical moment.

Lastly

Let’s talk about protecting your gear. A good camera bag ( Amazon Link) is your first line of defense against bumps and scratches. And don’t skimp on things like lens cleaning kits and rain covers. When it comes to photographs themselves, back them up regularly. Whether you prefer cloud storage or an external hard drive, make sure your precious memories aren’t just stored in one place.

Just don’t focus too much on perfection. The aim is to capture the moment and the feelings that come with it. Your first attempt doesn’t need to be your last, and you can always adjust your approach down the road. I hope that these pointers help you enhance those wonderful travel stories you’re ready to tell through your lens.

And don’t buy the cheapest camera out there. You only get what you pay for. Buy cheap and your travel memories will reflect the quality of the camera. You have splashed out to travel, so don’t skimp on your memories.

Steve


Any or all links on this site may be affiliate links, and if you purchase something through those links I will make a small commission on them.

There will be no extra cost to you and at times due to my affiliation, you could actually save money.

You can read our full affiliate disclosure here.

Tips For Teaching English Online.

This will help you if you are an English teacher teaching online.

Knowing your Students. 

Knowing your students makes all the difference.

And the first step is to introduce yourself and learn your students names, however difficult they may be to pronounce. You may want to introduce nicknames if you can’t master the tones of their language.

When you teach English online, you encounter learners from diverse backgrounds with unique needs. You’ll want to understand these differences and tailor your teaching strategies accordingly. For instance, some students might be visual learners while others prefer auditory methods or hands-on activities.

This brings us to the next piece of the puzzle: your virtual classroom. Creating an environment that’s both welcoming and conducive to learning is key. This isn’t just about having a stable internet connection or using a quality webcam; it’s also about the digital tools and platforms you choose. From whiteboard apps to interactive quizzes, the right tech can transform a lesson from mundane to memorable.

Now, let’s talk about cultural sensitivity. You’re going to be engaging with students from around the globe, and each one of them comes from a rich cultural tapestry that shapes their learning perspective. Understanding and respecting these differences are not just professional; they’re essential to creating an inclusive and effective learning experience.

I’m here to help you make those connections between students’ backgrounds and their learning processes. By doing so, you’ll be setting them—and yourself—up for a much more enriching educational journey.

So what comes after setting this foundation for success? You guessed it: engaging them with effective teaching techniques, which is exactly what we’re going to explore next.

Engaging and Effective Teaching Techniques

I’m going to share a secret with you: the best English teachers are magicians. They transform the screen into a stage and captivate their audience with words. How do they do it? Interactive tools, storytelling, and adaptive feedback are their wands.

First up, interactive tools and resources make a huge difference. I’m talking about quizzes, polls, and games that students can participate in real time.

These are not just fun; they’re essential for keeping attention spans hooked. Use platforms like Kahoot! or Quizlet to create dynamic learning sessions that feel like play.

QuizletStorytelling

That brings us to storytelling. Stories carry the power to transport us to different worlds, and they can do the same for your students. Introduce a complex grammatical structure within the context of a captivating tale. You’re going to find out that narrative context makes abstract concepts much more digestible.

Feedback.

I can’t stress enough how important feedback is. This isn’t just about correcting errors. it’s also about praising efforts and guiding students toward self-improvement. Strive for a balance of positive reinforcement and constructive critique. Remember, feedback is a two-way street, encourage students to give their thoughts on lessons as well.

Choose techniques that resonate with you, because your passion will shine through and enhance the learning experience. And don’t worry too much about each session being perfect; teaching is a journey, and you can always adjust your approach down the road.

You can find some of the best FREE online tools here. Free OnlineTools

Sustaining Motivation and Retention.

Keeping students motivated in an online English class can be just as challenging as the teaching itself. But don’t worry too much about it.

I have some strategies that I use that will help you sustain your students’ motivation and thus increase retention over time.

Goal setting with students is more than just a buzzword. it’s a practical way to steer their learning journey. You’re going to find out about the effectiveness of setting clear, achievable objectives that align with their ambitions. This isn’t just about learning English; it’s also about connecting the language skills to their future success.

Building a community online might seem like a lofty goal, but it’s achievable with the right approach. Choose something that resonates with you, whether it’s group projects, discussion forums, or virtual coffee breaks. These approaches foster a sense of belonging and can turn a disparate group of online learners into a tight-knit community.

Lastly

Your first attempt doesn’t need to be your last when it comes to keeping lessons fresh. Just don’t focus too much on perfection. A lot is happening very quickly in the world of online education, and there’s a lot of opportunity to experiment with new content and teaching methods.

Adaptability is your friend here; you can always adjust your approach down the road.

My name is Steve, hope this helps.

If you like this check out my blogs on speech -to -script and script-to-speech tools on my YouTube site.

youtube link

Please support me on Ko-Fi so I can continue to bring you FREE resources like this.


Any or all links on this site may be affiliate links, and if you purchase something through those links I will make a small commission on them.

There will be no extra cost to you and at times due to my affiliation, you could actually save money.

You can read our full affiliate disclosure here.

Please give me your thoughts, what do you think? Good or bad. Leave a comment below.