So half the class has finished, how should I keep them occupied? Try this.

Arrrghhhh, two fo my students have finished their work and they´re reaching for their phones. I know I'll tell them to do another activity in the book. That'll keep them motivated and focused on the task. I know what, instead of punishing them for being efficient I'll just chuck them a couple of conversation cards to keep time ticking over and keep their minds clicking in English.

There are a couple of examples of what I like to use below.

Your favourite book/movie. Who is it by? Why do you like it? What is it about?	A movie you haven't enjoyed. Why? Eg the plot was terrible	A beautiful place you've visited. Use adjectives and adverbs!	Something you've been learning for a long time.
Something strange you've eaten.	Your favourite city. When did you go? How long did you spend there? Who did you go with?	A city you would love to visit.	Something dangerous you've done/would like to do.
Your favourite English word. What makes it special? The meaning, the sound?	Something you've wanted to do since you were a child.	Someone interesting you've met recently.	Something delicious you've eaten this week.
The best/worst holiday you've ever had.	The most expensive thing you've ever bought.	The best bargain you've ever got.	An exam you've passed/failed.
The nicest compliment you've ever received.	The most uncomfortable situation you've ever been in.	Something you've given up.	A journey you've enjoyed.
A present you've given to someone recently.	An interesting programme you've seen on TV.	Someone you've been thinking about today.	A sport you enjoy.

Your favourite day of the week and why?	What are your opinions on smoking?	Somewhere you'd like to live.	Something you want to/have to do this week.
Describe your dream holiday.	Something you'd like to do more often.	Describe your perfect evening at home.	Something you'd like to change about yourself.
Something you like doing in winter.	Your perfect evening out.	What are your opinions on getting up early.	Are cars important to you?
TV programmes you HATE!	What makes you laugh?	What makes you cry?	Music you love listening to when you're sad?
Your favourite food.	What do you do to keep fit?	Jobs you hate doing at home.	A job you'd like to have.

Chop them up and hand them out and keep them talking.