Listening to Music at Work

man using MacBook during daytime
Type: Vocabulary
Originally published on February 11, 2022 and last updated on February 4, 2023

Listening to music, whether it be through speakers or headphones, is quite a common occurrence in the workplace. Manual workers such as builders, plumbers and labourers often listen to the radio throughout the day. Other professions such as programmers, designers and developers are often found working with headphones on listening to their favourite music or music which they claim helps them focus and be more productive. Even though this type of behaviour seems to be more common nowadays, there are still many people who believe listening to music while working is not only unprofessional, but also has a negative impact on the quality of work produced.

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.

Useful Vocabulary

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

  • likely (adverb)
  • affect (verb)
  • as a result of (phrase)
  • definitely (adverb)
  • take (somebody/something) for granted (phrase)
  • when it comes to (phrase)

Conversation Questions

  • Should workers be allowed to listen to music whilst working?
  • Do you like listening to music while you are working? Why?
  • Do you think listening to music while working allows you to do a better job?
  • What type of music do you think is best to listen to while working?
  • What professions should definitely not listen to music while working?
  • Do you think listening to music when in the office is rude?
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.