Old friends, new friends, and what keeps a friendship going. 20 questions from A1 to C1, with follow-ups and role plays. Answer out loud in full sentences.
Show questions for
A1Beginner
Do you like to meet new people?Then: Where can you meet new people?
What do you like to do with friends?
Where do people meet friends in your town?
Do you like big groups or small groups of people?
Did you have a best friend as a child?Then: What did you do together?
A2Elementary
How do adults usually make new friends where you live?Then: Is it easy or difficult?
Have you ever lost touch with a friend and then found them again?Then: How did it happen?
What is a nice way to celebrate a friend’s birthday?
Was it easier to make friends when you were younger?Then: Why do you think so?
B1Intermediate
What quality do you think is most important in a friend?Then: Why that one?
What would you do if a friend borrowed something and never gave it back?
Can people from very different backgrounds become close friends?Then: What helps them get closer?
What advice would you give someone who has just moved to a new city and wants to make friends?
Have you ever made a friend in an unexpected place?Then: What brought you together?
B2Upper intermediate
Can a friendship stay strong when two people live in different countries for many years?Then: What does it take?
What are the pros and cons of having a few very close friends compared with many casual ones?
How do ideas about friendship differ between cultures you know, for example in how quickly people become close?
C1Advanced
Is it possible to be genuine friends with someone who has authority over you, like a manager or a teacher?
Many adults say they feel lonelier than ever, despite being constantly connected online. Why might that be?
When, if ever, is it right to end a friendship, and how should it be done?Then: Have you seen a friendship end in a respectful way?
Role plays
Work with a partner or a tutor. Read the situation together, then each person opens only their own card. Use the phrases to help you.
A2 Elementary
Canceling plans with a friend
You agreed to have dinner with a friend tonight, but now you are very tired after a long week. You call your friend.
Card A: Caller
Cancel politely and explain why. You don’t want your friend to feel bad. Suggest another day next week.
Card B: Friend
You are disappointed because you booked a table at a popular restaurant weeks ago. Say how you feel, then work together to find a solution.
Useful phrases
I’m really sorry, but…
I’m just too tired tonight.
Can we do it another day?
I was really looking forward to it.
How about…?
No problem, I understand.
B1 Intermediate
Asking a friend for a big favor
You are going away for a week and need someone to water your plants and feed your cat. You ask a friend who lives nearby.
Card A: Person asking
Explain what you need and why you are asking this friend. You can’t find anyone else. Offer something in return.
Card B: Friend
You want to help, but you have a very busy week and you are a little nervous around cats. Ask questions and agree on what you can realistically do.