Conversation starters.

A great set of conversation starters: http://www.esl-tutor.com/2009/08/10-conversation-starters-for-esl.html

Icebreakers.

Here are a few of my favorite ice breakers. I think it's important to rotate through icebreakers so the group doesn't get bored... Participants first say their name, of course.

• What are you wearing today?
• How did you get to the library today?
• What movie have you seen recently?
• What book have you read recently?
• What did you eat for breakfast? What will you eat for dinner tonight?
• What are your plans for the weekend?
• Where in the world would you like to visit?
• What confuses you about English?
• Did you encounter any confusing words or phrases in English this week?
• What was the most fun show you saw on TV this week?
• Tell us about your favorite TV show.

Great tips...

I'm reading through "Compelling Conversations: Questions and Quotations on Timeless Topics" by Eric H. Roth and Toni W. Aberson (ISBN 414965828X). It includes excellent conversation starters on a variety of topics, and general tips to keep conversations flowing; a recommended resource for any Conversation Club facilitator.

A few general tips from the book:

• Be encouraging, be kind, be open, be supportive
• Be yourself, skip awkward questions, add natural questions
• Be curious, be open, be tolerant, be sympathetic, be honest
• Have fun, explore, take risks