Listening Skills
How can I concentrate on what a speaker is saying?
"Concentration" means the ability to focus on the center of attention (the Speaker). You must learn to think only about what you are listening to.
1. Choose your seat carefully.
Sit where you can see the speaker.
Sit away from windows and doors.
Sit away from the aisles so people don't walk by you.
Sit by quiet people who won't talk while you are trying to listen.
2. Watch and listen to the speaker carefully.
Certain actions signal that important information is being given. Write down what they are saying when these things occur:
Their voice gets louder or softer.
They stand up or straighten.
They write on the blackboard.
They glance at their notes.
They use their hands and arms.
They talk more slowly or more rapidly.
They repeat information.
They give several examples.
They tell you to remember it.
They use key phrases.
3. Write down anything the teacher numbers.
4. Read the assignment before the lecture.
5. Write fast and listen closely during the last 10 minutes of class!
6. Write down words and phrases during discussion and meetings.
7.Ask yourself questions about what is being said.
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revised 08.20.1999 08:44