Listening Strategies

1. Listen regularly. In addition to language tapes, make a regular effort to listen to the foreign language outside the classroom. Listen to the radio, attend lectures, and watch TV and films.

2. Choose appropriate materials. Find materials specially prepared for teaching listening comprehension such as textbooks and videos. Then try finding authentic material such as radio and TV programs, lectures, films and plays.

3. Find the right level of difficulty. If you are a beginning or intermediate learner, start with video rather than audio materials. Start with short TV segments on familiar topics. Advanced learners can listen to more complex materials.

4. Choose material that you will enjoy. If you are interested in sports, watch sports on TV or listen to sports reports. If you enjoy comedies, watch them in the foreign language.