Conversation Starters

A Global Language

IN TODAY’S PROGRAM:
The surprising beginnings of the world's most popular invented language.

DISCUSS!
Begin by introducing yourself to your group. Each person should say his or her name.
1. What languages do you speak?
a. Why did you learn these languages? (Club Leader: answers could include
learning it from parents, mother tongue, education, business, etc.)
b. What is your favourite language? Why is it your favourite language?

2. Together, read lines 7-9 out loud. (Club Leader: if you have an Internet Club, for
this reading and all following readings, choose just one person to read.)
a. Could someone please use English to explain the meaning of the word
conflict? (Club Leader, conflict is a fight, particularly a long one)
b. What do you do when you see conflict in your community?

3. Together, read lines 10-16 out loud. What divides people in your community?
a. Do you agree with Zamenhof’s mother? Do you believe that all human
beings are children of a loving God? (Club Leader: you can talk about your
belief in God, and that God’s love is for all people).

4. Together, read lines 21-24 out loud. Could someone please use English to explain
the meaning of the word barrier? (Club Leader: a barrier is something that
prevents or blocks movement from one place to another, or that makes it difficult for
people to understand each other)
a. How can language be a barrier between people?
b. What other barriers stop people from communicating?

5. Together, read lines 58-63 out loud.

a. How can language unite people?
b. Why do you think people of the same language and culture fight?
c. What do you think best unites people?

6. Together, read lines 64-68 out loud. Could someone please use English to explain
the meaning of the word idealist? (Club Leader: an idealist is a person who desires
and works toward positive, high level goals.)
a. Are you an idealist?

What high level, positive goals would you like to achieve? (Club Leader: you can talk
here about your faith and how that influences your goals.)

TIPS FOR VOLUNTEERS: Encourage all group members to talk. The volunteer should not do
all of the talking.
© 2018 www.SpotlightEnglish.com ALL RIGHTS RESERVED