These 20 conversation questions about punishment are suitable for adult English learners at B2 (upper-intermediate) level. They can also be used with C1+ (advanced) students. The questions can be used in one-to-one lessons, pair or group discussions, or set as writing homework.
For more activities on this topic, see our complete Punishment ESL lesson plan.
- Why do we punish people who commit crimes?
- What different types of punishment are there?
- Do you think prison sentences are too short or too long these days? Why?
- Should all crimes result in a prison sentence? Which crimes deserve alternative punishments?
- What would be a suitable punishment for each of these crimes: pickpocketing, robbery with violence, shoplifting, assault, fraud, bank robbery, murder and corruption?
- Should theft always be punished? What about if a person steals to feed their family?
- Should children ever be sent to prison? If not, what is an appropriate punishment for a child?
- Which crimes, if any, should result in a life sentence? Should life mean life?
- Should the death penalty be legal for the most serious crimes? What about the possibility of executing an innocent person?
- What is the difference between justice and revenge? When does punishment become a form of revenge?
- Should victims and their families have a say in the punishment offenders receive? Why or why not?
- Why do people continue to commit crimes when they know what the consequences will be?
- Should prisoners ever be released before completing their sentences? Under what circumstances? What rights should prisoners have, if any?
- Are there any better alternatives to prison?
- Why do you think the United States has the largest prison population in the world?
- Are rich people and poor people punished differently for similar crimes? If so, why do you think this is?
- Should fines depend on a person's income, so that wealthy people pay more for the same offence?
- What should we do with violent criminals who, for whatever reason, are not convicted of their crimes?
- Do you agree with three-strikes laws, under which repeat offenders can receive a life sentence for a third felony conviction? Would this be an effective deterrent? What problems could it cause?
- Do you agree with the concept of 'an eye for an eye' as a form of punishment? Why or why not?
