In educational institutions where English is taught as a second language, only 25% of listening happens in English but rather 75% of listening takes place in other language like Hindi/Urdu/Punjabi etc. In this way, English remains neglected in English classes.
Generally speaking, building strong English listening skills for non-native speakers of other languages demands a multifaceted approach. To start, it's critical to expose students to a wide range of accents, speaking styles, and vocabulary through a variety of authentic audio and video materials. Grading these listening resources, starting simple and gradually increasing complexity, allows students to build confidence and progress at a manageable pace.
Students’ skills are further strengthened by adding specific listening comprehension exercises like identifying important details, summarizing major ideas, and making content predictions. Transcripts and subtitles can be provided, and then progressively removed to aid in comprehension. Students can also improve their pronunciation and fluency through shadowing and repetition exercises.
Fostering collaborative listening tasks and creating a supportive, low-anxiety classroom environment are also crucial. By consistently implementing this mix of strategies, non-native students can steadily improve their English listening proficiency.
It must be done in steps according to the levels of the students as well as the available teaching-learning facilities. It is better to start with the listening activities in which the students are listening and looking at the text at the same time. After a few weeks, they should be given the tasks to listen and demonstrate their understanding in the class. There are different models, but it depends on the teacher's experience to choose what to do particularly when we have L2 learners.
To develop English listening skills among Hindi/Urdu-speaking students, incorporate the following strategies:
Exposure to English Media
Movies and TV Shows: Encourage students to watch English movies, TV shows, and documentaries with subtitles. Start with English subtitles and gradually move to no subtitles as their listening skills improve.
Podcasts and Audiobooks: Recommend English podcasts and audiobooks that are suitable for their proficiency level. They can listen during commute times or at home.
2. Interactive Listening Exercises
Songs and Lyrics: Use English songs and have students follow along with the lyrics. This can help them understand different accents, intonations, and colloquial expressions.
Language Learning Apps: Utilize apps like Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, or Memrise that include listening exercises tailored to different proficiency levels.
3. Engage in Conversations
Language Exchange Programs: Pair students with native English speakers or advanced English learners for regular conversation practice.
Role-Playing: Organize role-playing activities where students practice real-life scenarios in English, such as ordering food in a restaurant or asking for directions.
4. Classroom Activities
Listening Comprehension Exercises: Use audio clips followed by comprehension questions to test and improve students' listening skills.
Group Discussions: Conduct group discussions in English on various topics to encourage active listening and participation.
5. Use of Technology
Online Courses: Enroll students in online English courses that emphasize listening skills.
YouTube Channels: Recommend educational YouTube channels that focus on English listening skills. Channels like BBC Learning English or English Addict with Mr. Duncan can be very helpful.
6. Regular Practice and Feedback
Daily Listening Practice: Encourage students to dedicate a certain amount of time each day to listening practice. Even 15-20 minutes daily can make a significant difference.
Feedback Sessions: Provide regular feedback on their listening skills, highlighting areas of improvement and celebrating progress.
7. Cultural Immersion
English-Speaking Clubs: Establish or join English-speaking clubs where students can immerse themselves in an English-speaking environment.
Cultural Events: Participate in events or activities where English is the primary language, such as theater performances, lectures, or seminars.
8. Adapt to Individual Learning Styles
Visual Learners: Use videos and visual aids to complement listening exercises.
Auditory Learners: Focus more on audio resources and ensure they have ample opportunity to listen to spoken English.
9. Encourage Curiosity and Confidence
Curiosity: Encourage students to explore topics they are interested in through English media. This keeps them motivated and engaged.
Confidence Building: Create a supportive environment where students feel comfortable making mistakes and learning from them.
Implementing these strategies consistently will help Hindi/Urdu-speaking students improve their English listening skills over time.
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