When we learn our native language, first we listen, then we speak, then we read, and finally, we write. Listening, speaking, reading, and writing is the four language skills we need to develop for complete communication.
Listening and reading are receptive: the exposure you have to authentic language in use.
Speaking and writing are productive: the action of producing language as part of the process of second language learning. It plays a very important part in learning any language. Effective listening ensures understanding and it helps improve accuracy when speaking, among other things.
How can you improve your listening skills?
By listening actively, i.e. paying attention not only to what is said but also how it is said. So, listen:
1. To music –old or modern; the type you prefer, but pay attention to the lyrics. (sometimes reading the lyrics may help you understand the song)
2. To movies, TV shows, news, entertainment, the radio – try the classics. If you can watch DVD’s you can watch the movie several times. Watching with subtitles and then, when you feel more comfortable, without them. You can have English radio at home or on your mobile phone. Even if are not actually listening to it, your ears will be getting used to the sounds of the language.
3. Attend plays, exhibitions, talks, etc. in English organized by English-speaking schools or communities.
4. Join voiced chats. Technology has advanced a lot in terms of social networks so, wherever you live, you’ll find a chat room to join.
5. Talk and record yourself. This may sound funny, but it will help you realize how you can improve by repeating the recording several times till you feel happy with the results.
6. Talk to your classmates in English when you are not in class. You can even make a group to play games, have a meal or just chat together.
7. Books in English and articles on the web. Maybe, books you have already read in your mother tongue or which have been turned into movies. Try to start with easy books, even children’s books, and comics: The images will help you understand even if you don’t know all the words
8. Switch the operating system of your mobile phone, your PC, or tablet into English. Associating a function with a certain word will improve your vocabulary.
9. Write down words or expressions you think useful with their meaning and examples. If you see them in sentences you will remember them better. You can use them if you keep a diary.
10. Write comments in English blogs. At present blogs are websites that resemble journals. Lots of people use them to expose their ideas on a certain topic or to explain things – from how to knit a scarf, to very complicated ones where technical or philosophical topics are dealt with. One common feature of all these blogs is that they are interactive: the readers can make comments or debate the ideas stated in the blog.
