Did you enjoy your Labor Day holiday?
This question is one you could simply say “Yes” or “No” to, and that might be the end of the conversation on this topic … so we call it a “closed end question”.
If, on the other hand, I ask you, “How did you spend your Labor Day holiday?”, then I’ve encouraged you to speak in some depth about your experience. You’ll feel naturally comfortable to say more, and I’ll learn more about your holiday. This is an “open end question”.
Why would we care about being aware of this? (open end question to myself!) … being aware of the form of our question let’s us ask in a manner that will generate flow in the conversation, allowing the creation of a closer relationship between listener and speaker. The more information we exchange, the more we will get to know each other. In language learning, this gives speakers greater opportunity to express themselves and expand vocabulary, and it gives companions more listening practice.
I’m not suggesting we avoid closed end questions. Closed end questions are useful to establish opinions or facts, and we can use them effectively to clarify a situation. Then, we can expand on the opinion or fact by following up with an open end question beginning with “Why …?“, What …?”, or “How …?”
Do you feel this suggestion is useful? Why? What do you find useful about it? How will you use it with friends and colleagues?
See what I mean? … I hope your answer is “Yes”… haha!
Cheers, Mark