English Conversation – Pets & Animals
This is the preparation material for an English conversation lesson about pets and animals. There are some idioms that we use when talking about animals, some common questions people ask eachother about this subject, as well as an audio discussion with questions.
Idioms we might use when talking about animals
- All bark and no bite – when someone or something looks tough but really isn’t.
- Keep your distance – do not get too close
- Would not hurt a fly – harmless; wouldn’t do anything to harm another person or thing
- Watch your back – look after yourself; look out for what may be behind you.
Conversation questions about pets and animals
- Do you have a pet?
- If not, would you ever consider getting a pet?
- Did you grow up with pets in your home?
- What are the most popular pets in your country?
- What are the pros and cons of keeping a pet?
- What do you think is the best pet to own?
- Why do you think some people have pets instead of children?
- What can children learn by having a pet?
- What are some animals that live in your country?
- Are there any dangerous animals in your country?
- Are there any animals or insects that you are afraid of?
- If you had to choose one animal to be, which one would you be?
- Are there any problems caused by animals in your country?
- Which animal do you think is the most intelligent?
- What animals used to exist in your country but do not anymore?
- What animal ability would you like to have (e.g. flying, breathing under water etc.)?
- What is the most useful animal in the world?
Audio discussion about zoos
- Do you agree with Lindsay that animals should not be kept in zoos?
- What is your opinion of Jake’s argument that zoos are good because they rescue animals?
- Do you think zoos are an important venue for education about animals?
Test your knowledge?
Do you know which animals make the following noises?
Do you know which animals these babies belong to?