DICTATION
(But You're Probably Doing it Wrong)
Dictation is a pretty well known and effective technique. BUT many people don't get the most out of it. Basically dictation is when you listen to something and then write it down. If you follow these steps, however, you're guaranteed to improve a bit more quickly.
Steps to practice dictation effectively:
1. Play 1 sentence from your CD or MP3.
One sentence only. A lot of people try to do too much. It's better to focus and get this one thing right.
2. Write that 1 sentence down.
Even if you didn't catch every word, you'll probably get a few of the content words.
3. Check your what you've written; correct it, and try to guess what the missing words might be.
Most people don't do this extra step. But it's useful to see how well you can understand what a real, complete, correct sentence should look like. Give it a try.
4. Listen to the CD again to check it. Were you right?
Again, most people don't do this. Do it and confirm that your mind isn't tricking you. Listen carefully! Don't trust yourself from 5 minutes ago!
5. Finally, check the written audio script and see if you were right.
At this point, you're 1 sentence practice has probably cost you a few minutes. But it's worth it!
If you've followed these steps, I promise that your listening skills will develop more quickly than if you had just listened to something and written it down and moved on without checking.
Using these steps you are not just listening to content words, but also learning to catch the tougher, faster, function words too.
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