What characteristic of open-ended questions makes them effective in ESL discussions?

Open-ended questions are particularly effective in ESL discussions because they allow for multiple perspectives. This characteristic encourages learners to express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas in a way that reflects their individual experiences and viewpoints. Open-ended questions stimulate deeper engagement and discussion, prompting students to elaborate on their answers and interact with their peers. This not only helps in practicing language skills but also fosters critical thinking and the ability to articulate one's opinions.

In contrast, questions that require short answers or focus on memorization tend to limit responses and do not encourage extended dialogue. Similarly, questions that yield factual responses restrict the conversation to specific information rather than allowing for personal interpretation or discussion. By facilitating a broader exchange of ideas, open-ended questions enrich the learning experience in ESL settings.