How to Practice Active Listening: 16 Examples & Techniques

Active listening techniques

Do you wonder if you could be better?

Good listeners can stay present and engaged with what is being said. This article will describe a listening technique called active listening. It’s useful in building therapeutic relationships and creating empathy.

You will learn the benefits of active listening and how it makes you a better communicator. And we will provide a list of the skills needed and techniques to learn exactly how to practice this. Finally, we’ll go over common pitfalls that keep us from being good listeners.

Before you continue, we thought you might like to download our three Positive Communication Exercises (PDF) for free . These science-based tools will help you and those you work with build better social skills and better connect with others.

This Article Contains:

What is active listening 3 principles, is it important in communication 4 benefits, active listening skills you can foster, 7 techniques to train your active listening skills, 3 counseling exercises & activities, 3 worksheets to practice active listening, questions to ask others: 3 examples, possible barriers & psychology tips to overcome them, 3 courses for training on effective communication, resources from positivepsychology.com, a take-home message.

Often, while we are listening, we are thinking of how we will respond. We might get distracted and miss some of what was said. We may not be paying much attention to the nonverbal communication cues of the speaker.

Active listening requires the listener to pay close attention to what is being communicated verbally and nonverbally. The listener is encouraged to interpret not only the content of what is being said, but also the emotions present and the body language.

In order to achieve this, the listener must be willing to devote energy to the task. They will need to have an excellent attention span and honed empathic abilities . Active listening has even been referred to as the “measurable dimension of empathy” (Olson & Iwasiw, 1987, p. 104).

There are three main components of successful active listening (Rogers & Farson, 1987):

  • Listen for total meaning When someone is conveying a message, there are two meanings to gather: the content and the feeling or attitude underlying the message. An active listener is not only tuned in to the information conveyed, but also how it is conveyed and any nonverbal cues present.
  • Respond to feelings After listening, when a response is appropriate, the listener should respond to the feeling of what was said. In this way, the speaker feels understood and empathy is established.
  • Note all cues Nonverbal cues include tone of voice, facial or body expressions, and speed of speech. All of these taken together can convey a much deeper meaning than merely the content of what was said.

Carl Rogers’s take on active listening

Psychologists Carl Rogers and Richard Farson (1987) are responsible for defining the concept of active listening. They describe the skill as vitally important for effective communication. For Rogers, the ultimate goal of active listening was to foster positive change (Rogers & Farson, 1987). This change can occur in the context of a client/helper relationship or in the context of a group.

Rogers described three important principles in effective counseling: empathy, genuineness, and unconditional positive regard . Active listening is a tool that fosters and supports these principles.

Empathy is demonstrated in active listening by the listener reflecting the thoughts and feelings of the speaker. These thoughts and feelings are believed, supported, and respected. They are not dismissed or challenged.

Rogers stresses that in order to be successful in active listening, the listener must be authentic in their care. This reflects the principle of genuineness. Active listening can’t be faked.

Active listening requires true feelings of respect toward the individual speaking. The listener accepts and supports the speaker regardless of the content of their words. This illustrates the principle of unconditional positive regard.

The importance of active listening

It is also a skill that will benefit the listener in their life outside of work.

Whether at work or in casual conversation, active listening can provide a safe and empathetic space for a speaker, fostering feelings of trust.

Active listening in counseling

Active listening has been shown to be a vital skill in counseling. Empathy and empathic listening foster the therapeutic relationship , and the relationship between therapist and client has been shown to be the one of the most crucial and stable predictors of client success (Martin, Garske, & Davis, 2000).

Another benefit of learning active listening as a counselor is that it may increase self-efficacy . Levitt (2002) examined the impact of teaching active listening to counseling students and found that this skill created greater levels of confidence in the students and helped to reduce their anxiety as new counselors.

Active listening in the workplace

Kubota, Mishima, and Nagata (2004) examined the effects of an active listening training program on middle managers, finding positive results. In workplaces, a large portion of stress experienced by employees comes from interpersonal relationships.

The study showed that teaching managers who learned active listening skills were better able to support employees with mental health issues, providing a safe environment for them to share their difficulties without judgment. This led to calmer behaviors and more success (Kubota et al., 2004).

Can active listening skills even work through text conversations? Perhaps so. A unique and interesting study looked at the application of active listening to written communication online (Bauer & Figl, 2008). This case study was examining soft skills among computer science students and to see if active listening could come across in instant message conversations.

presentation listening worksheet

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Active listening requires a skill set that differs from typical everyday listening. Not only are you using the principles of empathy, genuineness, and unconditional positive regard, but you must also develop certain skillful ways of interacting.

It’s useful to begin with the body language of the listener (Robertson, 2005). How do you know when someone is listening to you? Maintaining eye contact and appropriate facial expressions is important to convey empathy and attention. As with all aspects of active listening, these indicators shouldn’t be forced or faked. They are simply a reflection of your genuine attentiveness.

It also helps to remove distractions from the environment. Depending on the context, you may desire to set up an environment that conveys peace and quiet. If you are in a public place, putting away distractions or moving to a quieter location can also be helpful.

Another skill is following (Robertson, 2005). To actively follow what the speaker is conveying, you allow space for them to speak, reducing or eliminating questions and giving space for silence .

In a non-active listening situation, there may be quick back and forth, many rapid questions, or people may talk over one another. With active listening, the speaker is given the time and space to speak as much as they want. And they are encouraged to continue.

A third skill is reflecting (Robertson, 2005). This is the skill of repeating what you heard the speaker say, but avoiding parroting it back verbatim. You are trying to capture the essence of what they said and reflect it back to them. You may also try to capture the feelings that are conveyed.

This is always done without expressing judgment and with the goal of understanding. It may even be useful to ask if you have it right before asking them to continue.

Active Listening Skills

Each technique is listed with an example and an explanation of the use.

Use the below suggestions to help your clients improve their listening.

Practicing with a partner

For counselors in training, it is important to practice active listening with a partner. One partner shares a story of something emotional that happened, and the listener will practice the following techniques:

  • Demonstrating listening through body language and nonverbal responses
  • Reflecting back the content of what the partner shared
  • Reflecting back the emotions that the partner shared

It’s important to check in with your partner after you’ve reflected to be sure that it’s accurate.

Mindful listening group practice

In many ways, active listening is a mindfulness practice. The listener is trying to stay focused on the present, with what is being shared. And they are working to accomplish this without judgment.

Here is an excellent activity to practice mindful listening in a group.

  • Have the group sit in a circle.
  • Offer an ice breaker question or prompt, such as something they are grateful for today.
  • Rather than go around the circle, ask participants to share spontaneously when they feel ready.
  • Invite them to notice if they are thinking about their answer, rather than listening.
  • Ask them to be present with the person who is sharing.
  • Challenge them to notice if they are uncomfortable with the silences.

Mindful listening alone

At any moment, you can drop in and practice mindful listening. Simply stop what you are doing, close your eyes, and try to see how many sounds you can hear around you and within you. Notice if there are judgments arising and try not to attach to them. Stay with the flow of sounds for as long as you can.

Active listening worksheets

Listening Accurately

This worksheet offers a five-step process to improve your communication skills with another person. It would be a useful tool for working with couples or anyone who would like to hone their listening skills.

The five steps are:

  • Step in their shoes.
  • Fact-check your interpretation.
  • Give your full attention.
  • Clarify what they’ve said.
  • Clarify what you’ve said.

500 Years Ago

This creative exercise helps both the listener and the speaker develop their empathy by imagining themselves in someone else’s place.

The listener is instructed to pretend that they have come from the past, 500 years ago. The speaker is trying to explain something to them and must use language that they can understand.

Using Small Rewards

In working to create a therapeutic alliance, nonverbal communication is key. This worksheet lists some “small rewards,” subtle but powerful nonverbal gestures that the therapist can use to let their client know that they hear them and are following along.

The worksheet invites the practitioner to listen to a five-minute segment of their session and see how often they were using these nonverbal cues. There is space to reflect on how better to incorporate them and consider why there may have been trouble.

How to actively listen to others – Scott Pierce

Active listening starts with refraining from questions. It’s important that the stage be set by allowing the speaker enough time and space to speak.

Start with reflection

Begin with reflections and try to capture the feeling of what was said. A reflection mirrors back what the person just said and tries to capture the meaning or the tone.

For example, let’s say a friend comes to you about a fight she had with her husband. She describes how the argument got heated, and they ended up sleeping separately. She is feeling worried about the state of their marriage.

A reflection restates what she said: “Things got really heated last night – so bad you didn’t even want to be in the same room.” Or “You’re feeling really worried because this fight felt so intense.”

The first example is a reflection of the content of what was shared. The second reflects the emotions. These types of reflections validate the speaker and help them feel heard and understood.

Asking questions

Only after reflection has been done will it be time to ask questions. The types of questions are important. The purpose of questions during active listening is to continue to move the individual toward self-discovery.

Open questions are vital for this step. Open questions can’t be answered with a simple yes or no. They invite introspection. Powerful questions stimulate curiosity in the listener and encourage conversation. They reveal underlying assumptions and invite creativity. They don’t change the subject or close down the conversation.

The point of an open-ended question as part of active listening is to learn more and continue to connect with the speaker. It is not to drive the conversation in a particular direction.

Here are three examples of closed questions vs open questions to ask, given the above situation. Remember, your friend just told you about a terrible fight that she had with her husband, and she is upset.

Closed question: “Did you make up?” Open question: “How are you feeling about the fight today?”

Closed question: “Did your kids hear you?” Open question: “How does it feel to share this with me? Have you thought about talking to anyone else?”

Closed question: “Are you going to leave him?” Open question: “What sorts of responses or solutions are you considering?”

You can see that the open questions invite conversation and show compassion , whereas the closed questions seem more like information gathering.

Positive listening barriers

When practicing active listening, practitioners should also self-monitor for judgments that might come up while the person is speaking.

If these judgments aren’t monitored, they may cause criticizing, labeling, diagnosing, or even praising in a way that leads the speaker (Robertson, 2005).

The goal of active listening is to create a safe environment for the individual to speak freely. Any of these responses may lead to defensiveness, distrust, or shutting down.

Another barrier is suggesting solutions (Robertson, 2005). Although it may seem well meaning, the urge to suggest solutions often comes from a discomfort with what the speaker is saying. While it may seem supportive, it creates an imbalance of power in the dynamic. The speaker is left feeling unheard, and they are disempowered to create their own solutions.

A third barrier is avoiding what the person is sharing. This may manifest as diverting the conversation away, logically arguing, or even reassuring. Again, while reassurance seems comforting, it often shuts down or ends the conversation for the other person.

A wonderful example of the comparison of empathetic and other responses can be found in Brené Brown’s video below about sympathy versus empathy.

Active listening is a straightforward skill, and taking a short course is the perfect way to learn how to do it effectively. While it is possible to learn it simply by reading, it’s always helpful to see it in action and practice with other people.

If you are hoping to learn active listening to improve your workplace as a manager or a leader, these courses would be great for you.

Udemy offers thousands of short courses on everything from programming to cooking, and this course on active listening has over 10,000 downloads.

LinkedIn Learning offers courses for businesses, including one on effective listening . Your team can take a listening assessment, address challenges that they have, and learn effective listening behaviors.

A wonderful course for in-depth active listening training is offered by Voice of Health (VOH). VOH is an online peer-support community that offers free training for anyone interested.

presentation listening worksheet

17 Exercises To Develop Positive Communication

17 Positive Communication Exercises [PDFs] to help others develop communication skills for successful social interactions and positive, fulfilling relationships.

Created by Experts. 100% Science-based.

Our Positive Psychology Toolkit© has excellent resources for learning how to listen more effectively and empathetically. One such tool is the exercise Listening Without Trying to Solve .

This exercise is done with a group. Individuals are paired off with one person as the listener and one as the storyteller. Each listener is given a card with instructions, half are told to listen without trying to solve and half are told to try to solve the problem as best as they can. Each pair is given five minutes for the storyteller to share a problem.

After sharing, the group returns together and discusses how it felt to be on the receiving end of a person who is working hard to solve the problem vs someone who is fully listening and empathizing. This is a powerful activity to show the effectiveness of active listening.

This checklist is a helpful tool for practicing active listening techniques. The checklist lists the techniques and then asks the listener to check back to see if they successfully used each one. There is space to write what worked well, what was difficult, and how to better incorporate unused techniques.

If you’re looking for more science-based ways to help others communicate better, this collection contains 17 validated positive communication tools for practitioners. Use them to help others improve their communication skills and form deeper and more positive relationships.

Active listening is a skill that anyone can learn. It’s a vital tool for therapists and counselors to connect empathically with their clients. But it’s also useful for better communication with family, friends, and coworkers.

Practicing active listening can deepen connections in your relationships and help to create stronger and more lasting bonds. Try some of these exercises to improve your communication skills today.

We hope you enjoyed reading this article. Don’t forget to download our three Positive Communication Exercises (PDF) for free .

  • Bauer, C., & Figl, K. (2008). ‘Active listening’ in written online communication-a case study in a course on ‘soft skills’ for computer scientists. In 2008 38th Annual Frontiers in Education Conference (pp. F2C–1). IEEE.
  • Kubota, S., Mishima, N., & Nagata, S. (2004). A study of the effects of active listening on listening attitudes of middle managers. Journal of Occupational Health , 46 (1), 60–67.
  • Levitt, D. H. (2002). Active listening and counselor self-efficacy: Emphasis on one microskill in beginning counselor training. The Clinical Supervisor , 20 (2), 101–115.
  • Martin, D. J., Garske, J. P., & Davis, M. K. (2000). Relation of the therapeutic alliance with outcome and other variables: A meta-analytic review. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology , 68 (3), 438–450.
  • Olson, J. K., & Iwasiw, C. L. (1987). Effects of a training model on active listening skills of post-RN students. Journal of Nursing Education , 26 (3), 104–107.
  • Robertson, K. (2005). Active listening: More than just paying attention. Australian Family Physician , 34 (12), 1053–1055.
  • Rogers, C. R., & Farson, R. E. (1987). Active listening. In R. G. Newman, M. A. Danziger, & M. Cohen (Eds.), Communicating in business today . DC Heath & Company.

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Active Listening Skills, Examples and Exercises

September 20, 2017 - Sophie Thompson

In today’s world of high tech and high stress, communication is more important than ever, however we spend less and less time really listening to each other. Genuine, attentive listening has become rare.

Active listening skills can help build relationships, solve problems, ensure understanding and avoid conflict. By becoming a better listener, you’ll improve your workplace productivity, as well as your ability to  lead a team , persuade and negotiate.

Active listening definition

Active listening requires the listener to fully concentrate, understand, respond and then remember what is being said. You make a conscious effort to hear and understand the complete message being spoken, rather than just passively hearing the message of the speaker.

In this article, we’ll cover the following:

Why is listening important?

Benefits of active listening, what makes a good listener.

  • Verbal and non-verbal signs of active listening

Four different listening styles

Examples of active listening, barriers to effective listening.

  • Tips to becoming an effective listener
  • Listening exercises

Listening is the most fundamental component of communication skills. Listening is not something that just happens, listening is an active process in which a conscious decision is made to listen to and understand the messages of the speaker.

Active listening is also about patience, listeners should not interrupt with questions or comments. Active listening involves giving the other person time to explore their thoughts and feelings, they should be given adequate time for that.

We spend a lot of time listening

Various studies stress the  importance of listening  as a communication skill. The studies on average say we spend 70-80% of our waking hours in some form of communication. Of that time, we spend about 9 percent writing, 16 percent reading, 30 percent speaking, and 45 percent listening.

Studies also confirm that most of us are poor and inefficient listeners. Most of us are not very good at listening, research suggests that we remember less than 50% of what we hear in a conversation.

Active listening skills are very important

There are many important benefits of active listening, these include:

  • Builds deep trust  – As you cultivate the habit of listening sincerely, you  invite people to open up . They can sense that you will not be jumping to conclusions based on superficial details. They also realise that you care enough about them to listen attentively. While building trust takes time, it leads to great benefits such as lifelong friendships and a promise of help in difficult times.
  • Broadens your perspective  – Your own perspective in life is not the complete truth or how everyone else sees it. The way you understand life from your beliefs and thinking is only one way to look at it – listening to other people’s perspectives allows you to look at life from different perspectives, some of which you may not have thought of before.
  • Strengthens your patience  – The ability to be a good listener takes time and you need to develop it with regular efforts over time. But as you gradually get better and better at listening, an automatic benefit is that you develop patience. Patience to let the other person express his or her feelings and thoughts honestly while you don’t judge.
  • Makes you approachable  – As you present yourself as a patient listener, people feel more naturally inclined to communicate with you. By being there for them, you give them the freedom to express their feelings.
  • Increases competence and knowledge  – Great listening skills make an employee more competent and capable, regardless of their position. The more an individual can get information out of the meetings, the instructions, and reports provided to him, the more efficient and successful they will be at completing the task. Listening also builds knowledge and helps fulfil work requirements through progressive learning.
  • Saves time and money  – Effective listening not only reduces risks of misunderstanding and mistakes that could be very damaging to the business, but it also saves time and money by avoiding starting a task or a project over again, just because the directives given were misunderstood. Employees do not waste precious time and a specific budget allocated to a project.
  • Helps detect and solve problems  – As a leader, they should always be attentive to what employees have to say. In the workplace, they are the first ones to spot flaws and come up with suggestions for improvements. Listening to colleagues will help you understand what needs to be changed and worked on to retain talent and make improvements.

Good listeners actively endeavour to understand what others are really trying to say, regardless of how unclear the messages might be. Listening involves not only the effort to decode verbal messages, but also to interpret non-verbal cues such as facial expressions and physical posture.

Effective listeners make sure to let others know that they have been heard, and encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings fully.

You also need to show to the person speaking that you’re listening through non-verbal cues, such as maintaining eye contact, nodding your head and smiling, agreeing by saying ‘Yes’. By providing this feedback the person speaking will usually feel more at ease and communicates more easily, openly and honestly.

Listening vs. hearing

Hearing is an accidental and automatic brain response to sound that requires no effort. We are surrounded by sounds most of the time. For example, we are accustomed to the sounds of cars, construction workers and so on. We hear those sounds and, unless we have a reason to do otherwise, we  learn to ignore them .

Hearing is:

  • Involuntary

Listening, on the other hand, is purposeful and focused rather than accidental. As a result, it requires motivation and effort. Listening, at its best, is active, focused, concentrated attention for the purpose of understanding the meanings expressed by a speaker.

Listening means paying attention not only to the story, but how it is told, the use of language and voice, and how the other person uses his or her body. In other words, it means being aware of both verbal and non-verbal messages. Your ability to listen effectively depends on the degree to which you perceive and understand these messages.

Listening is:

  • Intentional

Practice Active Listening

Practice your listening skills with exercises and audio recordings, then answer quiz questions to evaluate your listening skills. Learn More

Verbal and non-verbal signs of active listening skills

It’s a horrible feeling talking to someone and realising that they are not really listening. There are some simple steps you can take to let the speaker know you are actively listening, such as asking relevant questions,  positive body language , nodding and maintaining eye contact.

Verbal and non-verbal signs of active listening

Non-verbal signs of active listening

The people are listening are likely to display at least some of these signs. However, these signs may not be appropriate in all situations and  across all cultures .

  • Smile  – small smiles can be used to show that the listener is paying attention to what is being said or as a way of agreeing or being happy about the messages being received. Combined with nods of the head, smiles can be powerful in affirming that messages are being listened to and understood.
  • Eye Contact  – it is normal and usually encouraging for the listener to look at the speaker. Eye contact can however be intimidating, especially for more shy speakers – gauge how much eye contact is appropriate for any given situation. Combine eye contact with smiles and other non-verbal messages to encourage the speaker.
  • Posture  – can tell a lot about the sender and receiver in interpersonal interactions. The attentive listener tends to lean slightly forward or sideways whilst sitting. Other signs of active listening may include a slight slant of the head or resting the head on one hand.
  • Distraction  – the active listener will not be distracted and therefore will refrain from fidgeting, looking at a clock or watch, doodling, playing with their hair or picking their fingernails.

Verbal Signs of active listening

  • Positive Reinforcement  – this can be a strong signal of attentiveness, however too much use can be annoying for the speaker. Occasional words and phrases, such as: ‘very good’, ‘yes’ or ‘indeed’ will indicate that you are paying attention.
  • Remembering  – try to remember a few key points, such as the name of the speaker. It can help to reinforce that what is being said has been understood. Remembering details, ideas and concepts from previous conversations proves that attention was kept and is likely to encourage the speaker to continue.
  • Questioning  – the listener can demonstrate that they have been paying attention by  asking relevant questions  and/or making statements that build or help to clarify what the speaker has said. By asking relevant questions the listener also helps to reinforce that they have an interest in what the speaker has been saying.
  • Clarification  – this involves asking questions of the speaker to ensure that the correct message has been received. Clarification usually involves the use of open questions which enables the speaker to expand on certain points as necessary.

If listening were easy, and if all people went about it in the same way, the task for a public speaker would be much easier.

1. People oriented

The people-oriented listener is interested in the speaker. They listen to the message in order to learn how the speaker thinks and how they feel about their message. For instance, when people-oriented listeners listen to an interview with a famous musician, they are likely to be more curious about the musician as an individual than about music.

2. Action or task oriented

Action-oriented listeners are primarily interested in finding out what the speaker wants. Does the speaker want votes, donations, volunteers, or something else? It’s sometimes difficult for an action-oriented speaker to listen through the descriptions, evidence, and explanations with which a speaker builds his or her case.

For example, when you’re a passenger on an airplane, a flight attendant delivers a brief safety briefing. The flight attendant says only to buckle up so we can leave. An action-oriented listener finds buckling up a more compelling message than a message about the underlying reasons.

Content-oriented listeners are interested in the message itself, whether it makes sense, what it means, and whether it’s accurate. Content-oriented listeners want to listen to well-developed information with solid explanations.

People using a time-oriented listening style prefer a message that gets to the point quickly. Time-oriented listeners can become impatient with slow delivery or lengthy explanations. This kind of listener may be receptive for only a brief amount of time and may become rude or even hostile if the speaker expects a longer focus of attention.

To learn more about listening styles, read  The Importance of Listening – Listening Styles

Here are  some examples  of statements and questions used with active listening:

  • Paraphrasing  – “So, you want us to build the new school in the style of the old one?”
  • Brief verbal affirmation  – “I appreciate the time you’ve taken to speak to me”
  • Asking open-ended questions  – “I understand you aren’t happy with your new car. What changes can we make to it?”
  • Asking specific questions  – “How many employees did you take on last year?”
  • Mentioning similar situations  – “I was in a similar situation after my previous company made me redundant.”
  • Summarise questions  – A job candidate who summarises their understanding of an unclear question during an interview.
  • Notice people speaking  – A meeting facilitator encouraging a quiet team member to share their views about a project.
  • Summarise group conversations  – A manager summarizing what has been said at a meeting and checking with the others that it is correct.

Everyone has difficulty staying completely focused during a lengthy presentation or conversation, or even relatively brief messages. Some of the factors that interfere with good listening might exist beyond our control, but others are manageable. It’s helpful to be aware of these factors so that they interfere as little as possible with understanding the message. Here are some key barriers:

Barriers to effective listening by being distracted

Noise is one of the biggest factors to interfere with listening; it can be defined as anything that interferes with your ability to attend to and understand a message. There are many kinds of noise, the four you are most likely to encounter in public speaking situations are: physical noise, psychological noise, physiological noise, and semantic noise.

2. Attention Span

A person can only maintain focused attention for a  finite length of time . Many people argued that modern audiences have lost the ability to sustain attention to a message. Whether or not these concerns are well founded, you have probably noticed that even when your attention is glued to something in which you are deeply interested, every now and then you pause to do something else, such as getting a drink.

3. Receiver Biases

Good listening involves keeping an open mind and withholding judgment until the speaker has completed the message. Conversely, biased listening is characterized by jumping to conclusions; the biased listener believes, “I don’t need to listen because I already know this.” Receiver biases can refer to two things: biases with reference to the speaker and preconceived ideas and opinions about the topic or message. Everyone has biases but good listeners hold them in check while listening.

4. Listening Apprehension

This is the fear that you might be unable to understand the message or process the information correctly or be able to adapt your thinking to include the new information coherently. In some situations, you might worry that the information presented will be too complex for you to understand fully.

Tips to become an effective listener and improve active listening skills

Tips to help you develop effective listening skills.

Face the speaker and maintain eye contact

Talking to someone while they scan the room, study a computer screen, or gaze out the window is like trying to hit a moving target. How much of the person’s divided attention you are actually getting? Fifty percent? Five percent?

In most Western cultures,  eye contact  is considered a basic ingredient of effective communication. When we talk, we look each other in the eye. Do your conversational partners the courtesy of turning to face them. Put aside papers, books, the phone and other distractions. Look at them, even if they don’t look at you. Shyness, uncertainty or other emotions, along with cultural taboos, can inhibit eye contact in some people under some circumstances.

Be attentive and relaxed

Give the speaker your undivided attention, and acknowledge the message. Recognise that  non-verbal communication is very powerful . In order to be attentive, you’ll:

  • Maintain eye-contact with the speaker
  • Direct yourself towards the speaker
  • Pay attention to what’s being said
  • Put aside distracting thoughts

Mentally screen out distractions, like background activity and noise. In addition, try not to focus on the speaker’s accent or speech mannerisms to the point where they become distractions. Finally, don’t be distracted by your own thoughts, feelings, or biases.

Keep an open mind

Listen without judging the other person or mentally criticizing the things she tells you. If what she says alarms you, go ahead and feel alarmed, but don’t say to yourself, “Well, that was a stupid move.” As soon as you indulge in judgmental bemusements, you’ve compromised your effectiveness as a listener.

Listen without jumping to conclusions and don’t interrupt to finish their sentences. Remember that the speaker is using language to represent the thoughts and feelings inside her brain. You don’t know what those thoughts and feelings are and the only way you’ll find out is by listening.

Don’t interrupt or cut them off

Children used to be taught that it’s rude to interrupt. I’m not sure that message is getting across anymore. Certainly the opposite is being modelled on the majority of talk shows and reality programs, where loud, aggressive, in-your-face behaviour is condoned, if not encouraged.

Interrupting sends a variety of messages:

  • I’m more important than you are
  • What I have to say is more interesting
  • I don’t care what you think
  • I don’t have time for your opinion

We all think and speak at different rates. If you are a quick thinker and an agile talker, the burden is on you to relax your pace for the slower, more thoughtful communicator—or for the guy who has trouble expressing himself.

Ask questions to clarify what they are saying

When you don’t understand something, of course you should ask the speaker to explain it to you. But rather than interrupt, wait until the speaker pauses. Then say something like, “Back up a second. I didn’t understand what you just said about…”

Ask questions and summarise to ensure understanding

When the person speaking has finished talking, ask questions relevant to what they are saying – try not to lead people in directions that have nothing to do with where they thought they were going. Sometimes we work our way back to the original topic, but very often we don’t.

You can also summarise the conversation to make sure you understand all the person is trying to say – this works well at networking events at the end of conversations, it also gives you an excuse to move onto another conversation.

Try to feel what the speaker is feeling

Empathy is the heart and soul of good listening. To  experience empathy , you have to put yourself in the other person’s place and allow yourself to feel what it is like to be her at that moment. This is not an easy thing to do. It takes energy and concentration. But it is a generous and helpful thing to do, and it facilitates communication like nothing else does.

Give the speaker regular feedback

Show that you understand where the speaker is coming from by reflecting the speaker’s feelings. If the speaker’s feelings are hidden or unclear, then occasionally paraphrase the content of the message. Or just nod and show your understanding through appropriate facial expressions and an occasional well-timed “uh huh.”

Pay attention to non-verbal cues

The majority of face-to-face communication is non-verbal. We get a great deal of information about each other without saying a word. When face to face with a person, you can detect enthusiasm, boredom, or irritation very quickly in the expression around the eyes, the set of the mouth, the slope of the shoulders. These are clues you can’t ignore. When listening, remember that words convey only a fraction of the message.

To read these listening tips in more detail, visit  10 Steps To Effective Listening

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Summarise the conversation exercise

For a week, try concluding every conversation in which information is exchanged with a summary. In conversations that result in agreements about future activities, summarising will ensure accurate follow-through.

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Home » Blog » General » Practical Active Listening Worksheets for Effective Communication

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Practical Active Listening Worksheets for Effective Communication

Welcome to my blog post on practical active listening worksheets for effective communication in social emotional learning. In this post, I will discuss the importance of effective communication, the role of active listening, and provide you with practical worksheets to enhance your active listening skills. Let’s get started!

What is Active Listening?

Active listening is a crucial component of effective communication. It involves fully engaging with the speaker, not only hearing their words but also understanding their emotions and intentions. Active listening requires focus, empathy, and the ability to interpret nonverbal cues.

By actively listening, we can establish stronger connections with others, build trust, and foster positive relationships. In the context of social emotional learning, active listening plays a vital role in developing self-awareness, empathy, and effective communication skills.

Why Use Worksheets for Active Listening?

Worksheets are valuable tools for practicing active listening skills. They provide structure and guidance, allowing individuals to develop and refine their abilities in a systematic way. Here are some advantages of using worksheets for active listening:

  • Enhanced understanding and retention: Worksheets help individuals internalize active listening techniques by providing opportunities for reflection and practice.
  • Structured practice: Worksheets offer a structured approach to learning, allowing individuals to focus on specific aspects of active listening and gradually build their skills.
  • Clear instructions: Worksheets provide clear instructions on how to complete the activities, ensuring individuals know what is expected of them.

Practical Active Listening Worksheets

Now, let’s explore three practical active listening worksheets that you can use to enhance your communication skills:

Worksheet 1: Identifying Nonverbal Cues

This worksheet focuses on improving your ability to interpret nonverbal cues, such as facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice. By understanding these cues, you can gain deeper insights into the speaker’s emotions and intentions.

To complete this worksheet, follow these steps:

  • Observe: Watch a video or engage in a conversation and pay close attention to the speaker’s nonverbal cues.
  • Identify: Identify the different nonverbal cues you noticed and write them down on the worksheet.
  • Interpret: Reflect on the possible meanings behind the nonverbal cues and write down your interpretations.

Remember, interpreting nonverbal cues requires practice and sensitivity. Here are some tips to help you interpret nonverbal cues effectively:

  • Consider context: Take into account the situation, cultural norms, and the speaker’s individual characteristics when interpreting nonverbal cues.
  • Be empathetic: Put yourself in the speaker’s shoes and try to understand their emotions and experiences.
  • Ask for clarification: If you’re unsure about the meaning behind a nonverbal cue, politely ask the speaker for clarification.

Worksheet 2: Reflective Listening Practice

This worksheet focuses on developing your reflective listening skills. Reflective listening involves paraphrasing and summarizing the speaker’s words to demonstrate understanding and encourage further communication.

  • Listen actively: Engage in a conversation and actively listen to the speaker’s words.
  • Reflect: Choose a specific statement or idea from the conversation and write it down on the worksheet.
  • Paraphrase: Paraphrase the statement or idea in your own words, capturing the essence of what the speaker said.
  • Summarize: Write a brief summary of the main points discussed in the conversation.

To reflect and paraphrase effectively, consider the following techniques:

  • Use active listening cues: Show that you are engaged and attentive by nodding, maintaining eye contact, and using verbal cues like “I see” or “That’s interesting.”
  • Focus on the speaker’s feelings: Reflect not only the content of the speaker’s words but also their emotions and underlying messages.
  • Avoid judgment or criticism: Create a safe and non-judgmental space for the speaker to express themselves.

Worksheet 3: Active Listening in Conflict Resolution

This worksheet focuses on practicing active listening skills in the context of conflict resolution. Active listening can help de-escalate conflicts, promote understanding, and facilitate effective problem-solving.

  • Choose a conflict scenario: Select a conflict scenario from your personal or professional life.
  • Listen actively: Imagine yourself in the conflict situation and actively listen to the other person’s concerns and perspectives.
  • Ask open-ended questions: Write down open-ended questions that can help you gather more information and understand the other person’s point of view.
  • Reflect and paraphrase: Practice reflective listening by paraphrasing and summarizing the other person’s statements.

During conflicts, it’s essential to employ active listening strategies, such as:

  • Stay calm: Maintain a calm and composed demeanor, even if the situation becomes heated.
  • Show empathy: Validate the other person’s emotions and demonstrate that you understand their perspective.
  • Avoid interrupting: Allow the other person to express themselves fully without interruptions.

Implementing Active Listening Worksheets

Now that you have these practical active listening worksheets, it’s important to incorporate them into your social emotional learning activities. Here are some suggestions:

  • Classrooms: Teachers can use these worksheets to promote active listening skills among students, fostering a positive and inclusive classroom environment.
  • Therapy sessions: Therapists can utilize these worksheets to enhance communication skills in individual or group therapy sessions.
  • Family discussions: Families can engage in active listening exercises using these worksheets to improve communication and strengthen relationships.

Remember to monitor your progress and provide feedback to yourself or others using these worksheets. Regular practice and reflection will help you develop and refine your active listening skills over time.

Effective communication is a cornerstone of social emotional learning, and active listening is a key component of that. By actively listening, we can foster understanding, empathy, and stronger connections with others. Utilizing these practical active listening worksheets will enhance your communication skills and contribute to your overall social emotional development.

So, what are you waiting for? Start practicing active listening today by downloading and using the provided worksheets. Remember, the more you practice, the more proficient you will become. Start your EverydaySpeech Free trial now and embark on your journey to improved social emotional learning!

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Academic English UK

LISTENING   / BBC English / TED Talks / TED Tests / 6 minute TED Tests / TED Ed Medicine  /   AEUK Listening Tests /    Listening Worksheets   /  Mini Lectures  / YouTube Lectures   / Pronunciation /

Academic English UK – Listening Worksheets

Here are a range of different listenings and worksheets based on a variety of topics. All of these listenings can be used in the academic English classroom or for self-study. 

Listening Worksheets

Listening Worksheet Topics

Academic english, active listening, bloom’s taxonomy, business innovation, business leaders, self-assessment listening questionnaire, critical thinking, economic inequality, evaluating sources, fast fashion, globalisation, independent learning, listening websites, note-taking methods1, note-taking methods2, note-taking methods3, note-taking methods4  , peer review process, phone addiction, poor countries, presentations, seminar discussion 1, seminar discussion 2, seminar discussion 3, uk tourist attractions, 4th ind. revolution.

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  4 tips to improve active listening skills by A.Lyon

This lesson is an introduction to active listening.  It focuses on four key improvements to become a better active listener. It includes a set of listening questions and an active listening speaking task (mirroring, paraphrasing, summarising and clarification).  Time: 90-120mins.   Level *** ** [ B1/B2/C1] Video   [05.33] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

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Listening note-taking methods 1

This lesson is an introduction to taking notes using a variety of methods.   It begins by providing a guide to seven common methods. The lesson includes five 30-second listenings, two 2-minute listenings and one 8-minute lecture to practice using these methods. Example / Webpage link  / Time: 90-120mins.   Level *** ** [ B1/B2/C1] Video   [08.50] / MP3 /   Webpage link /  TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

  Listening note-taking methods 2 

This lesson is an introduction to abbreviations and note taking using linear, mind map and table methods . The lesson includes four approximately 2-minute lectures and one 8-minute lecture to practice using these methods. Example / Webpage link / Time: 90-120mins.   Level *** ** [ B1/B2/C1] Video   [07.00] / MP3  /  TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

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  Listening note-taking methods 3 (Technology): Cornell Notes System 

This lesson introduces students to the Cornell notes system. It starts with the students discussing their note-taking experience before introducing them to Cornell’s 5Rs. They then practice using this method by listening to five mini lectures on subjects connected to technology. Sample notes for each lecture are included. Example  / Webpage link / Time: 90-120mins.   Level *** ** [ B1/B2/C1] Video   [08.35] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

  Listening note-taking methods 4 (Science): Cornell Notes System 

This lesson introduces students to the Cornell notes system. It starts with the students discussing their note-taking experience before introducing them to Cornell’s 5Rs. They then practice using this method by listening to five mini lectures on subjects connected to science. Sample notes for each lecture are included. Example   / Webpage link  /  Time: 90-120mins.   Level *** ** [ B1/B2/C1] Video   [09.18] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

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Terms & conditions of use, what is academic english, academic english: how is it different.

What is academic English? This lecture by Cambridge University Press discusses the key differences between Academic and General English. The listening worksheet has a variety of questions and is great introduction to understanding Academic English.  Example   Level *** ** [ B1/B2/C1] Video [5:20]  / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

  4 tips to improve active listening skills by A.Lyon  

Business Accounting: Documentation

Business accounting & finance: documentation.

This is a 12-minute accounting lecture on the key terms connected to business transactions and documentation. It discusses purchase orders, invoices, terms of trade, statement of account, VAT, credit note etc.. It is a 4 -page test booklet with a variety of question types (see example ).   Level *** ** [ B1/B2/C1]   Video [12:01] / MP3   / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

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Bloom’s Taxonomy – higher-order thinking skills  – LSU Centre for Academic Success

This short video provides a brief overview of Bloom’s taxonomy: classification of learning levels. It discusses each level but pays particular attention to the higher levels of analysing, evaluating and creating. It is a nice introduction to the theory of critical thinking.  Example. Level: ** ** * [B2/C1]  /   Video [3.51]   / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

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Business Model Innovation gap-fill summary

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Business Model Innovation   –  University of St.Gallen

This lecture discusses how important innovation is for a company. It defines business model innovation and discusses the key steps in using business model patterns to reinvent a company, The worksheet is based on note-taking followed by a gap-fill summary.  Example. Level: ** ** * [B2/C1]  /   Video [08.10] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

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Business Leadership: the most important skill

This is a 6-minute HBR lecture interviewing key leaders and academics on what they believe is the most important skill for future leaders. The worksheet is a table format to be filled in with the key skill and support (see example ).   Level *** ** [ B1/B2/C1]   Video [5.41] / MP3   / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

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Critical Thinking: an introduction – Lecture Listening Lesson

This lecture focuses on critical thinking at university. it includes a definition, alternative thinking styles, bloom’s taxonomy and how to apply analysing and evaluation questions to reading and writing. it includes a video, test questions, tapescript and ppt ( example ).   level *** ** [b2/c1] / ppt link in download   /   video   [10.00]  / mp3  / teacher membership / institutional membership.

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Critical thinking – reading text analysis

A great lesson for developing and practising critical thinking skills. It is a 400-word text on ‘going to university’ with over 15 possible problems. Students use the higher level thinking skills of analysis and evaluation to examine, question and critique the text .  Example.     Level: ** ** * [B1/B2/C1]   MEMBERSHIP  

Critical Speaking – 8 questions most people get wrong! 

A great lesson for highlighting facts over opinions . This lesson asks students to discuss 8 questions based around a variety of topics. The lesson is based on research by Hans Rosling a UN advisor, professor of international health and medical physician, who argues many people have an over-dramatic world view that its not based on facts. The lesson includes factual data from the World Bank and UN to support all answers.  Example.     Level: ***** [C1 – High level]   MEMBERSHIP

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Critical Thinking Lesson PDF Book

Amazing value – five lessons in one book. introduction, definition, text analysis reading, lecture listening test, and speaking discussion. example ., teacher membership / institutional membership.

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Economic inequality gap-fill summary

Economic inequality   –  by aeuk.

This lecture discusses what is economic inequality, how wealth is distributed, how the past has affected the future and the current debate. The worksheet is based on note-taking followed by a gap-fill summary.    Example. Level: ** ** * [B2/C1]  /   Video [10.00]   / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

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Economic Inequality- Lecture Listening Lesson

This is a lecture on what is economic inequality, how is wealth distributed, how the past has affected the present and the current debate. it includes a video, test questions and ppt ( example ).   level *** ** [b2/c1] / ppt link in download   /   video   [10.00] / mp3 / teacher membership / institutional membership, reading test: economic inequality..

The text defines economic inequality. It discuses differences in income distribution between the rich and poor, it highlights how inequality is measured and offers a range of solutions to address income inequality. The reading test worksheet tests  headings / T,F,NG / open answers / gap fill / information tables / reference words / vocabulary.  ( Example )  Level *** ** [ B2/C1]   TEACHER MEMBERSHIP

Economic Inequality: Summary  Reading & Writing Lesson

The text discusses what is economic inequality and how it is measured. It also discusses the unfairness of wealth distribution between the rich and the poor and suggests possible solutions to address the situation. Students take notes on key idea and write a summary of 200-250 words. The lesson includes a critical thinking worksheet too.  ( Example) Level *** ** [ B2/C1 ]   TEACHER MEMBERSHIP

Economic Inequality Lesson PDF Book

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Evaluating  Sources

The c.r.a.a.p test – a guide to evaluating sources – uosa.

This University of South Australia video explains what is the C.R.A.A.P Test and how to use it to evaluate all types of information. This worksheet helps students to understand what is considered a ‘credible’ source and how to check this using an evaluation tool. Example . Level: ** * ** [B2/C1]  /   Video [03.17]  / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

Webpage link – Evaluating Sources

Fast Fashion gap-fill summary

The environmental impact of fast fashion  –  by s.williams.

This lecture discusses how the fast fashion clothing industry is one of the biggest polluters in the world. It focuses on materials, manufacturing and consumer waste. The worksheet is based on note-taking followed by a gap-fill summary. Example . Level: ** ** * [B2/C1]  /   Video [8.10]   / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

Fair Trade BBC Radio Podcast

The future of fair trade [podcast].

This is a 28-minute Radio Podcast from BBC Radio 4. The podcast divides into two parts with the first 15 minutes discussing the positives of Fair Trade and the second part interviewing critics of Fair trade (see worksheet  example ).   Level *** ** [B2/C1]   Podcast  [27.54]    TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

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Globalisation gap-fill summary

Globalisation: economic, political, & cultural relationships   – by edeos.

This lecture discusses the key elements to the rise of globalisation. It focuses on the inter-connected relationships of politics, culture and the economy. It includes a lots of important vocabulary. The worksheet is based on note-taking followed by a gap-fill summary. ( E xample) . Level: *** ** [B2/C1]  /   Video [8.10] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

Reading Test: Globalisation: International Trade.

The text defines the key points associated to globalization. It discusses the disparity of progression of trade between countries and highlights the integration of in-ward and out- ward looking policies. It finally points out that three key areas of international globalization are imperative for the economic growth of a country.The reading test worksheet tests headings / T,F,NG / open answers / gap fill / information tables / reference words / vocabulary. ( Example )   Level *** ** [ B2/C1]   TEACHER MEMBERSHIP

Summary Writing: Globalisation: International Trade.

The text defines the key points associated to globalisation. It discusses the disparity of progression of trade between countries and highlights the integration of in-ward and out- ward looking policies. It finally points out that three key areas of international globalisation are imperative for the economic growth of a country. ( Example )  Level ***** [ B2/C1 ]   TEACHER MEMBERSHIP

Independent Learning worksheet

This worksheet is based on four videos. Listen t o the videos and take notes. Then use your notes to answer the questions and compare your answers to the key answers.    Example  / Video   Level: ** *** [B1/B2/C1]   TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

Webpage Link: Independent Learning 

Listening Websites: Improve your listening skills

  Here are some great websites we recommend to our students to improve their listening outside of class. These websites will help students gain valuable practice in checking their understanding, identifying main ideas and recognising supporting ideas. Video .   Webpage link .

Note-taking Skills 1 

Listening note-taking methods 1 

This lesson is an introduction to taking notes using a variety of methods.   It begins by providing a guide to seven common methods. The lesson includes five 30-second listenings, two 2-minute listenings and one 8-minute lecture to practice using these methods. Example  / Webpage link  / Time: 90-120mins.   Level *** ** [ B1/B2/C1] Video   [08.50] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

Note-taking Skills 2 

This lesson is an introduction to abbreviations and note taking using linear, mind map and table methods . The lesson includes four approximately 2-minute lectures and one 8-minute lecture to practice using these methods. Example  / Webpage link  / Time: 90-120mins.   Level *** ** [ B1/B2/C1] Video   [07.00] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

Note-taking Skills 3 (Technology)

This lesson introduces students to the Cornell notes system. It starts with the students discussing their note-taking experience before introducing them to Cornell’s 5Rs. They then practice using this method by listening to five mini lectures on subjects connected to technology. Sample notes for each lecture are included. Example  / Webpage link  / Time: 90-120mins.   Level *** ** [ B1/B2/C1] Video   [08.35] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

Note-taking Skills 4 (Science)

This lesson introduces students to the Cornell notes system. It starts with the students discussing their note-taking experience before introducing them to Cornell’s 5Rs. They then practice using this method by listening to five mini lectures on subjects connected to science. Sample notes for each lecture are included. Example   / Webpage link  / Time: 90-120mins.   Level *** ** [ B1/B2/C1] Video   [09.18] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

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The Academic Journal Peer Review Process – NC State University

This NC State university video explains how an academic scholar submits a research paper to a journal publishing company and the full process the article goes through before it is published. This listening and worksheet helps students to understand what is considered a credible source and why. Example   Level: ** * ** [B2/C1]  /   Video [03.15]   / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

Mobile phone gap-fill summary

Mobile phone addiction [ted talk]  by r. sleight .

This lecture discusses the rise in smartphone use, associated data in terms of user usage, and five insights to control addictive tendencies. ( Example) . Level: *** ** [B1/B2/C1]  /   Video [11:48] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

Reading Test: Mobile Phone Addiction  [new for 2020]

The text discusses the rise in mobile phone use, the factors that lead to addiction and implications for the future. The reading test worksheet tests  headings / T,F,NG / open answers / gap fill / information tables / reference words / vocabulary.  ( Example )  Level *** ** [ B2/C1 ]   TEACHER MEMBERSHIP

Mobile Phone Addiction: Reading & Summary Writing Lesson [New for 2020]

The text discusses the rise in mobile phone use, the factors that lead to addiction and implications for the future. Students take notes on key ideas and write a summary of 200-250 words. The lesson includes a critical thinking worksheet too .  ( Example )  Level *** ** [ B2/C1 ]   TEACHER MEMBERSHIP

Rich and poor countries gap-fill summary

Why some countries are poor and others are rich  – the school of life.

A really good lecture on the three key elements of why some countries are poor. It discusses how corruption of institutions, culture and geographical features all play a significant role in poverty. The worksheet is based on note-taking followed by a gap-fill summary. Example. Level: ** ** * [B2/C1]  /   Video [8.47]   / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

Presentation Listening

Presentation worksheet.

 This lecture discusses the key ideas of giving an academic presentation including referencing, signposting, delivery and rehearsal.  2-page listening worksheet with answers. A great introduction to giving a presentation.   Example.  Level *** ** [ B1/B2/C1]   Video [7:00]  / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

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  • Teacher's Notes - how to teach the lesson

Seminar Listening Worksheet 1 [5 minute seminar]

This listening worksheet is four different nationalities discussing ‘american values’. students listen and take notes on what the different nationalities (indian, ethiopian, japanese, american) say about american values and then answer the question sheet. (see example ).   level *** ** [b1/b2/c1]  / video (start 0:40 – 4:40) / mp3 teacher membership / institutional membership, teacher’s notes:   seminar listening worksheet 1.

  • Explain the seminar is four different nationalities discussing ‘American Values’.
  • The different nationalities are an Indian man, Ethiopian woman, Japanese woman and an American woman.
  • Play the sound only (not the visual video) two times – students take notes.
  • Give out question worksheet – allow 5-10 minutes to answer.
  • Video (start 0:40 – 4:40)

Seminar Listening Worksheet 2   [3 minute seminar]

This listening worksheet is four teachers discussing whether it is better to learn english online or in a regular classroom. each teacher provider an opinion and a justification for their choice (see example ).   level *** ** [b1/b2]  / video (3.27) / mp3 / teacher membership / institutional membership, teacher’s notes:   seminar listening worksheet 2.

  • Explain the seminar is four teachers discussing ‘whether it is better to learn English online or in a classroom’.
  • Show the picture of the four teachers with their names (Ronnie, Alex, James, Adam)
  • Play the video two times – students take notes.

Seminar Listening Worksheet 3   [5 minute seminar]

This listening worksheet is three teachers discussing their views on the ted talk lecture: the happy planet index by nic marks (see example ).   level *** ** [b1/b2]  / video (5.00) / mp3 / teacher membership / institutional membership.

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  • Students watch the TED Talk LectureThe Happy Planet Index’ by Nic Marks – go here
  • Explain the seminar is three teachers discussing parts of the TED Talk Lecture.
  • Show the picture of video and highlight its one woman, a Scottish man and another man.

UK t ourist  attractions for international students

This listening video provides students with a range of places to visit while they are here in the UK. It includes natural areas, cities, tourist attractions outside London and also a list of London attractions. Watch the video  [12:00] / MP3 /+ worksheet . TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

The fourth industrial revolution gap-fill summary

What is the  fourth  industrial revolution   –  graeme codrington.

This lecture briefly highlights how the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Industrial Revolutions connect to the 4th Industrial revolution. It clearly explains what is and what isn’t the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The worksheet is based on note-taking followed by a gap-fill summary. Example. Level: ** ** * [B2/C1]  /   Video [10.39] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP

Reading Test: The 4th Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0)  [new for 2021]

The text provides an overview of the 4th industrial revolution (industry 4.0). It discusses the previous industrial revolutions and the opportunities and challenges of industry 4.0. The reading test includes: headings / T,F,NG / open answers / reference words / vocabulary / paraphrasing.  ( Example )  Level *** ** [ B2/C1 ]   TEACHER MEMBERSHIP

The 4th Industrial Revolution ( Industry 4.0) : Reading & Summary Writing Lesson [New for 2021]

The text provides an overview of the 4th industrial revolution (industry 4.0). It discusses the previous industrial revolutions and the opportunities and challenges of industry 4.0. The lesson includes a critical thinking worksheet too .  ( Example )  Level *** ** [ B2/C1 ]   TEACHER MEMBERSHIP

Self-Assessment Listening Questionnaire

Self-assessment questionnaires , these academic english self-assessment questionnaires focus on the four key skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening. each questionnaire focuses on the individual elements of each skill and students rank their confidence level accordingly. these questionnaires help students evaluate and assess their learning and encourage learner autonomy. questionnaire worksheet example .   level *** ** [ b1/b2/c1/c2 ]   teacher membership  / institutional membership.

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LESSON PLAN FOR ENGLISH TEACHERS

Understanding presentations.

presentation listening worksheet

Level: Pre-intermediate (A2-B1)

Type of English: Business English

Tags: business people marketing management challenges business skills giving a presentation 16-18 years old 18+ years old Situation based Article based

Publication date: 10/26/2022

This lesson looks at the language of talking about graphs and charts in presentations. Students will read a presentation speech and listen to a presentation while completing a graph. Exercises focus on reading and listening skills, related vocabulary and offer the opportunity for students to discuss questions on the topic.

by Joe Wilson

presentation listening worksheet

Understanding_presentations_1_be.mp3

ANA CAROLINA

Really good, I loved the fact it has a lot of takilng points.

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COURSE PLANS

This comprehensive course plan covers the full range of language needs – listening, role play, vocabulary development.

Worksheets in English for Business course plan

presentation listening worksheet

Type of English: Business English Level: Pre-intermediate (A2-B1)

presentation listening worksheet

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presentation listening worksheet

IMAGES

  1. Listening Skills Worksheets

    presentation listening worksheet

  2. Listening Skills Worksheet Worksheets

    presentation listening worksheet

  3. Listening Test

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  4. listening Activity

    presentation listening worksheet

  5. Listening Skills Worksheet Worksheets

    presentation listening worksheet

  6. Active Listening Worksheet

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VIDEO

  1. 12. LISTENING WORKSHEET UNIT 13

  2. 10. LISTENING WORKSHEET UNIT 1

  3. 13. LISTENING WORKSHEET

  4. Listening worksheet 3

  5. listening worksheet 1

  6. listening worksheet 5

COMMENTS

  1. PDF Active Listening Handout

    Active Listening means being deeply engaged in and attentive to what the speaker is saying. It requires far more listening than talking. Your goal as an active listener is to truly understand the speaker's perspective (regardless of whether you agree) and to communicate that understanding back to the speaker so that he or she can confirm the ...

  2. How to Practice Active Listening: 16 Examples & Techniques

    3 Worksheets to Practice Active Listening. These worksheets also provides an interactive way to assist clients. Listening Accurately. This worksheet offers a five-step process to improve your communication skills with another person. It would be a useful tool for working with couples or anyone who would like to hone their listening skills.

  3. Business Skills Bank: Giving Presentations

    3 Comments. This Business skills lesson plan by Tim Bowen presents common features of presentations and practises useful language for putting together and giving presentations. Lesson length: 60-75 mins. Materials: Worksheets 1-5. Subsidiary aims: Listening (or reading) for specific information, discussion of what makes a good presentation.

  4. Active Listening Skills, Examples and Exercises

    Accidental. Involuntary. Effortless. Listening, on the other hand, is purposeful and focused rather than accidental. As a result, it requires motivation and effort. Listening, at its best, is active, focused, concentrated attention for the purpose of understanding the meanings expressed by a speaker.

  5. Presentation Skills EAP Worksheets Activities

    Impromptu Speech Practice. EAP Presentation Skills Worksheet - Reading and Writing Exercises: Identifying, Matching, Brainstorming, Creating an Outline - Speaking Activity: Presenting - Group Work - Upper-intermediate (B2) - 45 minutes. In this productive impromptu speech worksheet, students review, plan, prepare and deliver impromptu speeches.

  6. Academic Listening Worksheets

    A selection of mini lecture listenings and worksheets. Each listening is about 3-4 minutes long and includes video/mp3, PPT slides, question sheet & a transcript. This is listening note-taking using PPT slides practice and then answering a range of questions (T/F/NG, open answers, table filling, multiple choice).

  7. Practical Active Listening Worksheets for Effective Communication

    Worksheet 3: Active Listening in Conflict Resolution. This worksheet focuses on practicing active listening skills in the context of conflict resolution. Active listening can help de-escalate conflicts, promote understanding, and facilitate effective problem-solving. To complete this worksheet, follow these steps: Choose a conflict scenario ...

  8. Presentation Skills

    Presentation Worksheet This lecture discusses the key ideas of giving an academic presentation including referencing, signposting, delivery and rehearsal. 2-page listening worksheet with answers. A great introduction to giving a presentation. Example.

  9. STARTERS Listening: Presentations worksheet

    Liveworksheets transforms your traditional printable worksheets into self-correcting interactive exercises that the students can do online and send to the teacher. STARTERS Listening: Presentations worksheet | Live Worksheets

  10. Academic Listening Worksheets / Academic Listening tests

    Listening note-taking methods 2. This lesson is an introduction to abbreviations and note taking using linear, mind map and table methods. The lesson includes four approximately 2-minute lectures and one 8-minute lecture to practice using these methods. Example / Webpage link / Time: 90-120mins.

  11. Active/Reflective Listening Skills

    Option 7: Active Listening Activity Use the Stop, Look and Listen worksheet (pdf). Option 8: Practice Listening Skills Have students complete the Reflective Listening Skills Practice Worksheet (pdf). Option 9: Video To illustrate listening roadblocks show the clips from the movie, You've Got Mail and have students answer the You've Got Mail ...

  12. Active Listening: Communication Skill

    An active listener is a participant in a conversation—not just an audience. The Active Listening worksheet breaks the communication skill into three steps: show you're listening, encourage sharing, and strive to understand. The worksheet describes skills for each step, such as using verbal and nonverbal cues and asking open-ended questions.

  13. Presentation Worksheet for Active Listening

    classroom. Facilitation Example: In my classroom I use these reports during conversation centers. The room is split in two groups (an inner and outer circle). While the inner circle engages in a Spanish conversation (practicing speaking fluency) the outer circle actively listens (practicing their listening proficiency) and completes the 'Active ...

  14. Understanding presentations: ESL/EFL Lesson Plan and Worksheet

    Understanding presentations. This lesson looks at the language of talking about graphs and charts in presentations. Students will read a presentation speech and listen to a presentation while completing a graph. Exercises focus on reading and listening skills, related vocabulary and offer the opportunity for students to discuss questions on the ...

  15. Presentation skills worksheet

    Language: English (en) ID: 2159976. 29/09/2022. Country code: BR. Country: Brazil. School subject: English as a Second Language (ESL) (1061958) Main content: Listening comprehension (2013242) From worksheet author: Students watch a talk and develop listening skills and vocabulary.

  16. Self presentation 1 worksheet

    Country code: FR. Country: France. School subject: English as a Second Language (ESL) (1061958) Main content: Self presentation (1145794) From worksheet author: listening comprehension and exercises to learn out to introduce yourself. Other contents: listening, drag and drop + sorting exercises.

  17. 298 Listening and speaking English ESL worksheets pdf & doc

    Too much vacation. Listening and speaking. An excellent way to have students revise their summer. This worksheet includes: Listening comprehension, speaking activities, video activities. Find audio at t... 16380 uses.

  18. Listening Comprehension

    02/09/2020. Country code: AR. Country: Argentina. School subject: English as a Second Language (ESL) (1061958) Main content: Personal information (2013157) From worksheet author: listen to the interview and choose the correct option.

  19. Quick Minds 4 Listening Term II

    Liveworksheets transforms your traditional printable worksheets into self-correcting interactive exercises that the students can do online and send ... School subject: English as a Second Language (ESL) (1061958) Main content: Listening (2013233) From worksheet author: Loading ad... Share / Print Worksheet. Google Classroom Microsoft Teams ...

  20. Present Perfect Listening Activity worksheet

    Language: English (en) ID: 1435125. 23/09/2021. Country code: MX. Country: Mexico. School subject: English language (1061957) Main content: Present Perfect (2027110) From worksheet author: This is a listening activity to practice the present perfect in English.

  21. Quick Minds 4 Unit 7 Listening

    Liveworksheets transforms your traditional printable worksheets into self-correcting interactive exercises that the students can do online and send ... School subject: English as a Second Language (ESL) (1061958) Main content: Listening (2013233) From worksheet author: Loading ad... Share / Print Worksheet. Google Classroom Microsoft Teams ...