Help your students build confidence in speaking, critical thinking, and persuasive communication with this engaging ESL persuasive speaking card activity. Each situation card includes a matching response card, creating meaningful partner discussions where one student tries to convince or persuade their partner. Perfect for Pre-Intermediate and Intermediate ESL/EFL classrooms, this activity encourages creativity, real-world decision-making, and natural speaking practice.
Before playing, introduce helpful persuasive language such as “should,” “could,” “have you thought about…,” “maybe you could…” to give students the tools they need to form strong and convincing arguments.
How It Works
Distribute the cards to your students. This is a partner-based speaking task that can be done one-on-one or performed in front of the class. Student A reads a situation card and presents their argument, while Student B listens and responds using the matching partner card. For an added challenge, set a 1–2 minute timer for each pair’s discussion.
What’s Included
- Full-color persuasive situation cards
- Matching partner response cards
- Teacher directions and usage ideas
How to Assemble and Use
This is a full-color PDF file. After printing, laminate the cards for durability and long-term classroom use. This low-prep speaking activity can be used during warm-ups, small groups, fluency stations, or as a fun class debate starter.
Also Available on Teachers Pay Teachers
If you prefer you can get this resource on TPT: Convince Me - ESL Persuasive Speaking Card Activity.
Pair It With:
For even more structured speaking practice, pair this activity with the Conversation Card Bundle Set from Hot Chocolate Teachables—perfect for building argument skills, discussion fluency, and student confidence.
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