Welcome back to our ESL blog! Today, we are diving into a topic that many English language learners can relate to – a trip to the barber shop. We can all agree that visiting the barber or hair salon can be a bit nerve-wracking, especially when you’re in a new country and trying to communicate your desired haircut. In this post, we will explore the vocabulary and phrases commonly used at the barber shop, along with some helpful worksheets for your ESL classroom. So grab your scissors and let’s get ready to explore the world of haircuts and styling!
ESL Speaking Questions About At The Barber Shop
Beginner ESL Questions about At the Barber Shop
- Do you go to the barber shop often?
- What is your favorite thing about going to the barber shop?
- How do you usually style your hair?
- Who cuts your hair at the barber shop?
- What is a common hairstyle you see at the barber shop?
- Have you ever changed your hairstyle completely at the barber shop?
- What do you usually talk about with the barber while getting your hair cut?
- Do you like the way your hair feels after it has been cut at the barber shop?
- Do you prefer getting a haircut or trimming your hair at the barber shop?
- How often do you think people should go to the barber shop?
- Do you usually get a shampoo before or after getting your hair cut?
- What do you do while waiting for your turn at the barber shop?
- How long does it usually take for you to get your hair cut at the barber shop?
- What kind of products do you use in your hair after it has been cut at the barber shop?
- Have you ever had a bad experience at the barber shop? Can you share it?
- Is there a difference between a barber shop and a salon?
- What do you pay attention to when choosing a barber shop?
- Do you have any favorite barber shop stories to share?
- Do you usually book an appointment or just walk-in to the barber shop?
- What are some common hair-related phrases or vocabulary you hear at the barber shop?
Intermediate ESL Questions about At the Barber Shop
- What services does a barber shop usually offer?
- Have you ever been to a barber shop? How was your experience?
- Do you prefer going to a barber shop or a hair salon? Why?
- What are the most common hairstyles that people request at a barber shop?
- Describe the process of getting a haircut at a barber shop.
- What is the role of a barber in a barber shop?
- Do you think it’s important for barbers to have good communication skills? Why or why not?
- Have you ever had a bad haircut at a barber shop? What happened?
- Do you think it’s necessary for barbers to be knowledgeable about different hair types and textures?
- How often do you usually go to a barber shop?
- What qualities do you look for in a good barber?
- What do you think are some common challenges that barbers face in their profession?
- Do you think barbers should be skilled in using different barber tools and equipment? Why or why not?
- What are some typical conversations that happen between a barber and their clients?
- Do you have any tips or recommendations for someone who is visiting a barber shop for the first time?
- Do you prefer getting your hair cut by the same barber every time? Why or why not?
- What do you think is the average duration of a haircut at a barber shop?
- Have you ever had an interesting or memorable conversation with a barber? What was it about?
- Do you think the barber shop experience differs between different cultures or countries?
- What are some popular barber shop chains in your country?
Advanced ESL Questions about At the Barber Shop
- What services can you typically get at a barber shop?
- How often do you usually go to the barber shop?
- Do you prefer a specific hairstyle when you visit the barber shop?
- Have you ever had a bad experience at a barber shop? Can you describe what happened?
- Do you enjoy making small talk with the barber while getting your hair cut?
- Have you ever dyed or highlighted your hair at a barber shop?
- What is your opinion on men having long hair? Should barbers be able to cut and style long hair?
- What do you think is the most important quality for a barber to have?
- Do you have any specific requests or instructions for the barber when you go to get a haircut?
- Have you ever tried a new hairstyle that you saw at a barber shop?
- Would you ever go to a barber shop that offers additional services, such as a shave or facial treatment?
- What qualities or skills should a barber possess to be considered a professional?
- Do you find the atmosphere at the barber shop to be relaxing or stressful?
- What do you think is an appropriate tip to give to a barber after receiving a haircut?
- Do you think it’s important for the barber to be knowledgeable about current hairstyle trends?
- Are there any major differences between barber shops and hair salons?
- Do you think it’s necessary for barbers to attend special training or courses to improve their skills?
- Would you be open to trying new hairstyles suggested by your barber?
- Do you prefer going to the same barber each time or trying out new ones?
- Have you ever considered becoming a barber yourself? Why or why not?
ESL Reading Activities About At The Barber Shop
Beginner ESL Activities About At the Barber Shop
Going to the barber shop is an important part of taking care of yourself. At the barber shop, you can get your hair cut, styled, and even shaved. Let’s learn some useful words about what you can expect at the barber shop.
1. Barber: A barber is a person who cuts and styles hair.
2. Scissors: Scissors are the tool used by the barber to cut your hair.
3. Comb: A comb is used to brush and detangle your hair before and during the haircut.
4. Mirror: A mirror is used by the barber to show you the back of your head after the haircut.
5. Chair: You sit on a chair while getting your hair cut.
6. Clipper: A clipper is a type of electric tool that is used to cut hair very short.
7. Shampoo: The barber may wash your hair with shampoo before or after the haircut.
8. Razor: A razor is used to shave facial hair, like a beard or mustache.
9. Beard: A beard is the hair that grows on a man’s chin and cheeks.
10. Appointment: You may need to make an appointment to visit the barber shop, especially if it’s busy.
Vocabulary Word |
Definition |
|---|---|
Barber |
A person who cuts and styles hair. |
Scissors |
The tool used by the barber to cut your hair. |
Comb |
Used to brush and detangle your hair before and during the haircut. |
Mirror |
Used by the barber to show you the back of your head after the haircut. |
Chair |
You sit on a chair while getting your hair cut. |
Clipper |
An electric tool used to cut hair very short. |
Shampoo |
Used to wash your hair before or after the haircut. |
Razor |
Used to shave facial hair, like a beard or mustache. |
Beard |
The hair that grows on a man’s chin and cheeks. |
Appointment |
A scheduled time to visit the barber shop. |
Intermediate ESL Activities About At the Barber Shop
Visiting the barber shop is a common and necessary task for many people. It is a place where individuals go to get their hair cut and groomed. When you enter a barber shop, you will typically see several different stations with barbers working. The barbers use a variety of tools such as scissors, clippers, and combs to create different hairstyles.
The barber will first ask you how you would like your hair cut. You can tell them if you want it shorter or longer, and if you have a specific style in mind. They will then proceed to wash and prepare your hair for cutting. The barber may use a spray bottle to wet your hair and carefully comb it to remove any tangles.
Once your hair is clean and ready, the barber will start cutting. They will use the scissors to trim the length of your hair. You may hear the sound of the scissors cutting through the strands. If you want a specific style, the barber may use the clippers to create different lengths on different parts of your head. They will use a comb to guide the clippers and create a uniform look.
After the cutting is done, the barber will usually offer to style your hair. They may apply some gel, wax, or other products to give your hair a desired shape or hold. If you’re not comfortable with styling products, you can politely decline.
Finally, the barber will ask if you’re satisfied with the haircut. If you’re happy, you can thank them and pay for the service. It is customary to leave a tip for the barber as a way of showing appreciation.
Vocabulary Word |
Definition |
|---|---|
barber shop |
a place where people get their hair cut and styled |
stations |
specific areas where barbers work |
scissors |
a cutting tool with two sharp blades that pivot |
clippers |
electronic cutting tools used to create different lengths |
combs |
tools with teeth used to detangle and separate hair |
wet |
to make something moist or damp with water |
strands |
individual thin pieces of hair |
gel |
a substance used to style and hold hair in place |
wax |
a product for shaping and adding texture to hair |
tip |
an additional amount of money given as gratitude for good service |
Advanced ESL Activities About At the Barber Shop
Going to the barber shop is a common routine for many people. It is a place where you can get your hair cut, styled, or shaved. The barbers who work there are skilled professionals who know how to work with different hair types and styles. They use various tools, such as scissors, razors, and clippers, to create the desired look. Some barbershops offer additional services like beard trims, facials, and scalp massages.
When you arrive at the barber shop, you may have to wait for your turn. The barbers often have a waiting area with comfortable seats and magazines to help pass the time. While you wait, you can flip through the latest fashion and lifestyle magazines to get inspiration for your new hairstyle.
Once it’s your turn, you sit on a large chair called a barber chair. The barber will drape a cloth or cape around your neck to protect your clothes from falling hair. They will then ask you how you would like your hair cut. You can describe the style you want or show them a picture for reference.
After discussing and confirming the style, the barber will start cutting your hair using scissors or clippers. They will carefully trim your hair, ensuring that they maintain the desired length and shape. Throughout the process, they may ask for your feedback to make sure you are happy with the progress.
Once your hair is cut, the barber may use a trimmer or a razor to clean up the edges around your ears and the back of your neck. This gives your haircut a polished and neat appearance. Some barbers finish off the service by applying a refreshing aftershave or grooming product to your hair and face.
Going to the barber shop is not just about getting a haircut; it’s also a social experience. It’s a chance to chat with your barber and other customers, sharing stories and getting recommendations for hair care products. It’s a place where you can feel pampered and leave with a fresh new look.
Vocabulary Word |
Definition |
|---|---|
barber shop |
a place where people go to get their hair cut, styled, or shaved |
skilled |
having the necessary ability, knowledge, or experience to do something well |
tools |
instruments or devices used to carry out a particular action or achieve a specific result |
beard trims |
services offered by barbershops to groom and shape beards |
facials |
beauty treatments for the face, involving cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing |
scalp |
the skin covering the top of the head, where hair grows |
waiting area |
a designated space in a barber shop for customers to wait for their turn |
reference |
something used to provide information or serve as an example |
clippers |
handheld devices with rotating blades used to cut hair |
aftershave |
a liquid or lotion applied to the face after shaving to soothe and refresh the skin |
ESL Writing Activities About At The Barber Shop
Beginner ESL Writing Questions about At the Barber Shop
1. Have you ever been to a barber shop? Describe your experience.
2. Can you name some common tools or equipment that you would find at a barber shop?
3. Write about the different hairstyles/barber services that you can get at a barber shop.
4. Imagine you are the barber. Write a dialogue between you and a customer who wants a haircut.
5. What is the importance of good communication between a customer and a barber at a barber shop?
Intermediate ESL Writing Questions about At the Barber Shop
1. Compare and contrast a barber shop experience in your country with that in a foreign country.
2. If you could suggest one improvement to a barber shop, what would it be and why?
3. Write about the role of a barber in society and how it has evolved over the years.
4. Describe a time when your hairstyle changed your appearance significantly. How did it make you feel?
5. Write an opinion piece about the pros and cons of getting a haircut at a barber shop versus doing it yourself at home.
Advanced ESL Writing Questions about At the Barber Shop
1. In your opinion, what are some emerging trends in the barbering industry? How are these trends affecting the traditional barber shop?
2. Describe a time when you had a challenging customer at your barber shop. How did you handle the situation?
3. Write an essay discussing the cultural significance of barbershops in various communities around the world.
4. How has social media influenced the way people choose a barber and the trends they follow in hairstyles?
5. Discuss the role of gender and cultural norms in the choice of hairstyles and the services offered at a barber shop.
ESL Roleplay Activities about At the Barber Shop
1. Booking an Appointment:
In this roleplay, students can practice making a phone call to book an appointment at a barber shop. One student acts as the customer and another as the receptionist/barber. They can practice asking for available time slots, discussing preferences for a specific haircut, and confirming the appointment details.
2. Haircut Consultation:
In this activity, students can practice discussing different haircuts and styles. One student can take on the role of a hairstylist, and another student can be the customer. They can practice asking and answering questions about the desired haircut, considering factors like hair length, style, and preferences. The hairstylist can also give recommendations based on the customer’s preferences.
3. Role Reversal:
In this roleplay, students can switch roles and take turns being the customer and the barber. They can practice giving instructions on how they want their hair to be cut, using appropriate vocabulary and phrases. Encourage students to use descriptive language to explain the desired hairstyle, such as “I want a short, layered cut with bangs” or “I prefer a classic, clean, and tapered look.”
4. Dealing with a Problem:
In this activity, students can practice handling a problem or complaint at the barber shop. One student can play the role of an unhappy customer, and another student can be the barber. The customer can express dissatisfaction with the haircut, and the barber can respond by offering solutions or alternatives, showing empathy, and addressing the customer’s concerns.
5. Small Talk at the Barber Shop:
In this roleplay activity, students can practice making small talk while getting their hair cut. They can pretend to be the barber and the customer, engaging in casual conversation during the haircut. Encourage students to ask questions about their daily lives, hobbies, interests, and upcoming events, fostering natural and relaxed conversation skills.
These roleplay activities will allow ESL students to practice real-life situations at the barber shop while improving their language skills.
