Using Websites #2

Improving Listenging skills : Listen A Minute
: http://www.listenaminute.com/

What is this?

• This website is good for short listening activities and loads of contents are categorized alphabetically 
• Each topic shows the tapescript first followed by a series of activities such as vocabulary exercises, discussion, survey, or short writing.
• Some ideas for homework exercises are also provided for teachers.
• Listening, two types of quizzes, PDF and Word file are provided.

How might you use it to foster language learning?

• After listening, let the students talk about what they hear as much as possible
• Use Quiz 1 for collaborative work in pairs in order to rebuild the text by clicking right choices 
• Get more advanced leveled students to type words to rebuild the text in pair using Quiz 2 
• With no computers for students, make it as a group work to finish all the gaps on the printed page as quickly as possible
• Give them a chance to report back on what they listened to or read for speaking

What limitations should the teacher consider when using it?

• Needs a computer lab for more interesting activities
• Might be more helpful to provide more comprehension checking exercises 
• Better to have more colourful visual structure or layout