Discussion points for English language learners on United Nations topics

Sam Colley
placeholder
Reading time: 3 minutes

Navigating global issues: United Nations topics to spark discussion for English language learners

The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, committed to maintaining international peace and security, developing friendly relations among nations and promoting social progress, better living standards and human rights. For English language learners, discussing the key issues addressed by the UN can be an enriching exercise that enhances both language skills and global awareness. For United Nations day on 24th October why not use some of the discussion points in this blog to spark meaningful conversations and deepen understanding of these critical topics.

Climate change and environmental sustainability

Climate change affects every corner of the planet. The UN has been actively working to mitigate its effects and promote sustainability. Here are some prompts to spark a conversation on this urgent issue:

Key points to discuss:

The impact of climate change: How does climate change affect different parts of the world? Discuss rising sea levels, extreme weather events and their consequences.
Sustainable practices: What are some sustainable practices individuals and communities can adopt to combat climate change? Consider renewable energy, recycling and conservation efforts.
Global cooperation: How important is international cooperation in addressing climate change? Look at agreements like the Paris Accord and the role of the UN in facilitating these agreements.

Discussion questions:

  • How has climate change affected your country or region?
  • What can individuals do to reduce their carbon footprint?
  • Why is it important for countries to work together to tackle environmental issues?

 

Global health and well-being

Global health and well-being are vital for sustainable development and international cooperation, underpinning the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Here are some ideas to start conversations around this topic:

Key points to discuss:

Health crises: Discuss major health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the role of the World Health Organization (WHO) in managing these crises.
Access to healthcare: What are the challenges to accessing healthcare in different parts of the world? Explore issues like healthcare infrastructure, affordability and availability.
Mental health: Why is mental health an important aspect of overall well-being? Discuss stigma, access to mental health services and the impact of mental health on communities.

Discussion questions:

  • How has the COVID-19 pandemic changed the way we think about global health?
  • What are the biggest healthcare challenges in your country?
  • How can we improve mental health awareness and support?

 

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 interconnected global objectives adopted in 2015 to address the most pressing challenges facing our world by 2030. These goals encompass a broad range of issues and can provide great conversation starters.

Key points to discuss:

Understanding the SDGs: What are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals set by the UN? Discuss goals like No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Quality Education and Climate Action.
Progress and challenges: What progress has been made towards achieving the SDGs and what challenges remain? Look at both global and local perspectives.
Individual contributions: How can individuals contribute to achieving the SDGs? Explore actions like volunteering, advocacy and sustainable living.

Discussion questions:

  • Which of the SDGs do you think is the most important and why?
  • How can we measure progress towards these goals?
  • What can you do in your daily life to support the SDGs?

Conclusion

Discussing the key issues addressed by the United Nations not only helps English language learners improve their language skills but also fosters a deeper understanding of global challenges and the importance of international cooperation. By engaging in these discussions, learners can develop critical thinking skills, broaden their perspectives and become more informed global citizens. Encourage active participation, respectful dialogue and an open mind as you explore these vital topics together.

See some more ways to spark discussion and enrich language learning in our blog post 'Boosting your students English speaking skills'.

More blogs from Pearson

  • Woman uses AI on computer
    Why grammar still matters in a world of AI
    By Hannah Lawrence
    Reading time: 7 minutes

    Given that AI can already write emails for us, generate reports and meeting summaries, do we really still need grammar skills? Surely we can just sit back, relax and leave our writing tasks to the machines?

    Don’t be fooled. AI is certainly revolutionizing our productivity and our work processes, but human oversight of AI is still essential – and grammar is fundamental to that oversight. In the same way that calculators didn’t eliminate the need for numeracy and spellcheck didn’t eliminate the need for spelling knowledge, AI doesn’t eliminate the need for language awareness. 

  • A young woman studying in a university library with a laptop
    Admissions integrity, built-in: What "secure by design" means for PTE Express
    By Alice Bazzi
    Reading time: 2 minutes

    Admissions teams rely on English test scores to make high-stakes decisions. If there is any doubt about the integrity of those scores, the entire process can be compromised. Fraudulent results or weak security measures can lead to delays, rejections and reputational damage for institutions and for agents who recommended the test. That is why security is a top priority for Pearson and a defining feature of PTE Express.

    "Secure by design" and what sets PTE Express apart

    PTE Express incorporates multiple layers of protection to guarantee authenticity and fairness:

    • Biometric ID verification: Every test taker's identity is confirmed using advanced biometric checks, reducing risks of impersonation.
    • AI-Enabled monitoring: AI continuously monitors the test session to detect any suspicious behaviour in real time.
    • Fraud detection protocols: Our built-in algorithms flag anomalies and prevent any score manipulation.
    • Remote proctoring: Live and automated proctoring ensures that the test environment remains secure when taken from home.

    These measures work together to create a testing experience that institutions can trust and students can feel confident about.

    Transparency builds confidence

    Security is not just about technology: it is also about communication. Pearson provides clear guidelines on how PTE Express maintains its integrity, giving universities and families peace of mind. When you share these details with your customers, you reinforce your role as a knowledgeable advisor who prioritizes quality and fairness.

    The impact on institutions and agents

    For universities, security means reliability. Admissions officers can confidently accept PTE Express scores, as they know they meet a rigorous standard. For agents, recommending PTE Express strengthens your reputation. You are not just offering speed and convenience: you are also providing a solution backed by global expertise and a commitment to integrity.

    Speed without compromise

    One of the most impressive aspects of PTE Express is its combination of robust security and rapid turnaround. Students can receive certified results within 48 hours, enabling them to meet tight deadlines without sacrificing quality. This balance of speed and security is what makes PTE Express a game-changer for US-bound students and the agents that support them.

    Lead with security in your conversations

    When presenting PTE Express to students or institutional partners, emphasize its security features alongside its convenience. Highlight biometric checks, AI-monitoring and fraud prevention as key differentiators. These elements resonate strongly with universities that prioritize integrity and families who value fairness when making investments. 

  • Business people stood together in a office talking to eachother, one is holding a laptop
    Daily conversation practice tips for busy adults
    By Charlotte Guest
    Reading time: 4 minutes

    Adults often spend over half the workday on "busywork" plus hours each week on email: long study sessions aren’t realistic. But busy schedules don’t have to stop your progress in English. The solution is short, consistent, contextual speaking practice with fast feedback. With the right system, 10–20 minutes a day is enough to build confidence, fluency and clearer pronunciation. This learner-friendly guide shares a step-by-step, time-efficient approach grounded in microlearning and real-life conversation.

    Core principle:

    Consistent speaking practice improves fluency and pronunciation more than an occasional long study session does, especially when the speaking practice mirrors real situations such as ordering food, joining meetings or interviewing.

    What does this look like in practice?

    • Predictable routines: Same time, short sessions.
    • Real-life contexts: Work, travel, daily interactions.
    • Quick feedback loops: Record → adjust → repeat.

    Use microlearning to turbocharge your sessions: essentially, focus on one skill only for each session, and keep it under 20 minutes. These powerful, focused and – crucially – short sessions fit rest periods and commutes, making daily practice easier to repeat and track. With exercises like quick role-plays, mini-dialogues and brief listening-then-speaking bursts, practice can be fun and energizing too. Follow our five practice tips and make learning work for your lifestyle.