Tips for scoring well in the Listening Module
You have to do several things at the same time during the listening test. This is one of the biggest challenges that candidates face. You have to remember more than just names, places, dates and times. You should also be able to connect ideas and organize information. You should be able to infer.
Here are some strategies for the Listening module.
Read the instructions carefully. You should know how many words you are required to write. Note that articles and prepositions are all considered as words. Do not exceed the word limit. If you are asked to write 3 words, don’t write 4.
Read the questions and the notes on the question paper carefully. Listening will be more effective if you know what the topic is. Before they start playing the tape, ask yourself the following questions.
- Who is speaking?
- What are they speaking about?
The names of the speakers are given at the start of the conversation. Match them to the individual voices.
Read the questions and prompts to find out what type of information is required. This could be a name, price or time.
You might find options that are true in the given context but that don’t answer the question. Eliminate them by putting a cross beside them.
Underline the keywords in the task rubric and questions before you start listening. While listening, actively listen for clues that the speakers are about the answer the questions.
Stick to the word limit, and write the words that you hear. Do not change them.
Don’t panic if you miss an answer. Keep listening; otherwise you will miss the next question too.
There is no negative marking, so answer all questions.
While copying your answers, make sure that the words are correctly spelt. You will lose mark if there are spelling mistakes.
Don’t copy anything printed on the question paper while transferring your answers.
