ESL Conversation Questions – Protests

A2 Level (Elementary)

1. What is a protest?
2. Why do people join protests?
3. Have you ever seen a protest?
4. Can protests be peaceful?
5. What signs might people carry at a protest?
6. Do you think protests can change things?
7. Who can participate in a protest?
8. What are some reasons for protests?
9. Can children go to protests?
10. How do police react to protests?

B1 Level (Intermediate)

1. How do protests bring attention to issues?
2. What role do social media play in organizing protests?
3. Can protests be dangerous? Why or why not?
4. How do governments respond to protests?
5. Discuss a famous protest you know about.
6. Why is it important for protests to be peaceful?
7. How can people protest without going to a demonstration?
8. What are some symbols associated with protests?
9. How do protests impact society?
10. What are your rights when participating in a protest?

B2 Level (Upper-Intermediate)

1. Analyze the effectiveness of protests in bringing about change.
2. Discuss the ethical implications of disruptive protests.
3. How do international protests influence each other?
4. Evaluate the role of leadership within protest movements.
5. How do protests reflect the cultural values of a society?
6. Discuss the impact of protests on public opinion.
7. Analyze the legal aspects of protesting in different countries.
8. How do protests contribute to democratic processes?
9. Discuss the role of art and music in protests.
10. Evaluate the media’s portrayal of protests.

C1 Level (Advanced)

1. Critique the argument that protests are an essential form of free speech.
2. Discuss the globalization of protest movements.
3. Analyze the psychological effects of participating in or witnessing protests.
4. Evaluate the sustainability of long-term protest movements.
5. Discuss the intersectionality of issues within protest movements.
6. Analyze the role of counter-protests in democratic societies.
7. Evaluate the impact of government surveillance on protests.
8. Discuss the role of international organizations in supporting protesters.
9. Analyze the balance between public safety and the right to protest.
10. Discuss strategies for maintaining momentum in protest movements.

C2 Level (Proficiency)

1. Analyze the philosophical foundations of civil disobedience in relation to protests.
2. Critique the impact of digital activism vs. physical protests on societal change.
3. Discuss the role of anonymity in protest movements.
4. Evaluate the historical impact of protests on policy changes.
5. Analyze the dynamics between local and global issues in protests.
6. Discuss the implications of protest fatigue on social movements.
7. Evaluate the role of non-violent resistance in successful protests.
8. Analyze the effect of governmental repression on the evolution of protest tactics.
9. Discuss the ethical considerations of involving minors in protests.
10. Evaluate the long-term societal changes initiated by protests.