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TESL 0120 Unit 3:

“Aha” Moment

In this Unit, my “aha moment” was learning that “Myths of Listening Instruction” do exist.  Before, I just notice these behaviors but now, I can name them and it helps to know that it does exist.  When I learned that “Students shouldn’t try to understand every word” broadens my understanding to listening approach considering the difference of the beginners, intermediate, and advanced listening process. It does make sense to me.  (Wilson Chapter2: pg23) The “Can Do Statements” (CBL) will definitely be a big help in my future practice how to assess and help students in terms of understanding their listening through prior learning.    

The summary of “What makes a good recorded text?” mentioned in Wilson, Chapter 2: pg 33, is also a great tool in identifying students needs for choosing activities that is appropriate for class. I would agree with Jan Bell and Roger Gower as stated that they wanted listening to be natural and as authentic as possible. In the perfect world, it should be the case, but knowing the different levels of students, semi-scripted recording will definitely be helpful. Length, speed and number of speakers will be one major factor in listening for beginners and intermediate. 

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