Free printable · Grades 6 to 12

Free conversation starters for teens

Conversation is a back-and-forth, like passing a ball: start, listen, add on, then pass it back with a question. This free set has a Conversation Turns page, add-on cards to cut apart (ask, connect, comment), follow-up question practice, and a one-page conversation starters and staying on topic card.

Conversation Turns: four numbered steps (start, listen, add on, pass it back) and three ways to add on (ask, connect, comment), with a page of add-on cards to cut apart.

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Conversation starters and staying on topic

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What it is

A social skills set for keeping a conversation going. Students practice taking a turn, staying on the other person's topic, and passing the turn back.

How to use it

Model a short conversation with another adult first.
Practice with the add-on cards in pairs: each person picks one card per turn.
Use the follow-up page to plan a question before a real conversation.

Three quick tips

Use topics the students care about.
Practice in short rounds of two or three turns.
Notice and name it when a student stays on someone else's topic.

Questions

What age is it for?: Middle and high school students working on conversation skills.
Can it be used in a group?: Yes. The add-on cards work well in pairs or small groups.
What is the second page?: A one-page card with conversation starters and how to stay on topic.

A starting point for your own professional judgment. Use initials only on any page about a student.