Asking Questions in English

In English, there are two basic types of question.

1. Yes/no questions often begin with the verb to be, but can also begin with other auxiliary verbs, such as do.
We ask these when we want a yes or no answer.

2. Wh-questions start with a question word, such as who, what, where, when, why or how.
We ask this type of question when we want different kinds of information. These questions cannot be answered with a yes or no. 

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Alice
Hi, I’m Alice.
Sophie
Hey, I’m Sophie.
Amith
And I’m Amith. Alright? OK, question one: Who do you love most in the world?
Alice
This is a tricky one. I can’t pick one person. I’d have to say my family.
Sophie
I think like a lot of people I’d probably say my mum. She’s my rock and my best friend.
Alice
My turn. Question two: What makes you scream?
Sophie
Rollercoasters. I’m absolutely terrified of being upside down.
Amith
Dentists. I scream like a baby.
Sophie
My turn. Question three: How do you take your coffee?
Amith
It’s never just coffee. I prefer cappuccinos, darling!
Alice
I’m more of a typical British tea drinker. If I do have a coffee I usually have an Americano with cold milk. Cold milk is very important.
Can I do another one? Question four: When did you last cry?
Amith
When I became an uncle.
Sophie
I think mine was the last time I went to see a musical. The show was so beautiful I was moved to tears.
Amith
Question five: Are you feeling excited?
Sophie
Yes! It’s really exciting to be here and I’m quite an excitable person.
Alice
Yes, very excited.
Sophie
OK, question six. This comes in three parts. Do you speak another language?
Amith
Yes, I have attempted to learn several languages.
Sophie
Which ones?
Amith
Bengali, Hindi and Urdu are my strongest and I’m learning Farsi and French.
Alice
I’ve studied French and Mandarin and Japanese, but I’m not very good at any of them.
Sophie
And can you sing a song in French?
Alice
How about Frere Jacque? (Sings) Come on Amith – your turn.
Amith
OK, a song in Hindi (Sings).
Sophie
That was lovely Amith! I think that’s all we’ve got time for with questions. I think we know each other a little better now.
Alice
I think we do!