Military Service

soldiers in truck
Type: Vocabulary
Originally published on September 27, 2020 and last updated on July 14, 2023

The topic of military service presents an excellent conversation topic for English learners, offering numerous benefits for language improvement. Discussing military service allows learners to practice expressing opinions, debating ethical considerations and exploring the complexities of this important topic. It exposes learners to specialised vocabulary related to the military, national defense and global conflicts. Additionally, discussing military service encourages critical thinking, cultural awareness and the development of persuasive speaking and listening skills.

Engaging in conversations about military service enhances English learners’ language skills while exploring a topic relevant to society and global affairs.

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.

Military Service Review

Military service is a topic that evokes diverse opinions and emotions. The decision to serve in the military carries significant responsibilities and impacts the lives of individuals and their communities. From defending national interests to promoting peacekeeping efforts, military service plays a crucial role in shaping societies and protecting their citizens.

Examining the reasons for joining the military, the challenges faced by service-members and the moral and ethical considerations involved provides valuable insights into the complexities of military service. Exploring this topic encourages thoughtful discussions on duty, sacrifice, and the role of the military in society.

Useful Vocabulary

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

  • miltary (noun)
  • mandatory (adjective)
  • abolish (verb)
  • compulsory (adjective)
  • force (verb)
  • extremely (adverb)
  • as a whole (idiom)
  • differ (verb)

Conversation Questions

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  • Should everyone have to enrol for military service?
  • Does your country have mandatory military service?
  • What are some reasons why people choose to serve in the military?
  • Do you think it is fair that in countries like South Korea only men have to perform compulsory military service?
  • Should military service be compulsory for all citizens in a country?
  • Should women be allowed to serve in all combat roles in the military?
  • How does military service impact an individual's personal and professional development?
  • What are the arguments against mandatory military service?
  • Would you like to see mandatory military service introduced in your country?
  • If your country already has mandatory military service, would you like to see it abolished?
  • What are some values and qualities that are important for military personnel?
  • Can you think of any ways in which the military can contribute to humanitarian efforts?
  • Should there be age limits or physical fitness requirements for military service?
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.