The Stock Market

man sitting in front of the laptop
Type: Vocabulary
Originally published on October 10, 2020 and last updated on July 17, 2023

The topic of the stock market holds immense value for English learners as it not only enhances their language skills but also equips them with practical knowledge about finance and investments. Exploring the stock market allows learners to expand their vocabulary related to finance, economics and business.

Additionally, it provides an opportunity to develop critical thinking skills as learners analyse market trends, understand investment strategies and evaluate risk and return.

Instructions:
Go through the vocabulary below with your students and ask them to try and use this vocabaulry where possible when discussing the different conversation questions.

The Stock Market Review

The stock market, often regarded as a centrepiece of the global economy, is a dynamic and complex system where investors buy and sell shares of publicly-traded companies. It serves as a platform for companies to raise capital and for individuals to invest their money in hopes of generating returns. Understanding the stock market is valuable for individuals seeking financial literacy and exploring investment opportunities.

This topic explores the fundamental concepts of stocks, exchanges, market fluctuations and the factors that drive stock prices, providing insights into the functioning and significance of the stock market in the modern economy.

Useful Vocabulary

Try and use the following vocabulary when answering the question. Click to look up the definition in the dictionary

  • stocks (noun)
  • shares (noun)
  • bet (verb)
  • gamble (verb)
  • investment (noun)
  • risk (noun)
  • stock market (noun)
  • return (noun)

Conversation Questions

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  • Have you ever invested in the stock market or considered doing so?
  • What are some common reasons why people invest in the stock market?
  • What factors can influence stock prices in the stock market?
  • What are some risks and rewards associated with investing in the stock market?
  • What are some risks and rewards associated with investing in the stock market?
  • Have you ever heard of any famous or influential investors in the stock market?
  • Is investing in the stock market a reliable way to grow wealth?
  • Should stock market investing be included in school curricula to promote financial literacy?
  • At what point does investing become gambling?
  • What do you think is the difference between gambling and investing?
  • What type of businesses do you think are a good investment at the moment?
Gregory
This conversation topic was prepared by Gregory

Gregory is a qualified TEFL teacher who has been teaching English as a Foreign Language (ESL) for over a decade. He has taught in-person classes in Spain and to English learners around the world online.