A Framework to Enhance Listening Skills: A Few Suggestions for the Second Language Teachers

Dr. Girish Prasad Rath

Assistant Professor, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Odisha, India

Dr. Ajit Kumar Pradhan

Associate Professor, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Odisha, India

Keywords: Listening skill, listening models and strategies, L2 listening lesson


Abstract

Listening is often considered a passive skill in the process of language learning. The focus is mostly given to productive language skills i.e., speaking and writing. In the natural order of language learning, listening plays a very significant role. For the learners of mother-tongue, there is already a linguistic-rich environment where one can ‘acquire’ the language through the environment. However, for second language learners, the environment has to be created in the classroom or outside, where learners can learn a language as naturally as their mother tongues. Thus, the role of a language teacher is very significant to provide a conducive second language learning environment in the classroom. The study emphasizes the importance of improving listening skills for academic and professional purposes. The paper follows the exploratory research paradigm and a few strategies for second language listening have been provided. Further, a framework for second language listening lessons has also been provided. Further, a sample listening lesson has been designed for the language teachers. The implications of the paper are relevant for both language teachers and students.


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