Enhancing your English listening skills can be a rewarding journey, and one effective method to achieve this is through daily dictation practice. This technique not only helps you improve your listening abilities but also expands your vocabulary and develops your English reflexes.
Dictation involves listening to a passage read aloud and transcribing it as accurately as possible. This method is widely used in language teaching and testing. You can utilize various listening sources such as videos, audio recordings, and podcasts featuring native speakers with either British or American English accents. Choose topics that are easier to listen to, covering areas like education, environment, work, school, subjects, IELTS, TOEIC, and TOEFL.
Step-by-Step Guide to Effective Dictation Practice
Step 1 - Start Listening
Begin by selecting a listening source that matches your current skill level. Pause the video or audio after hearing a segment of about 5-10 words, and take notes on what you hear. Continue this process until you've listened to the entire passage. Repeat the listening 1-2 more times to refine your skills.
Step 2 - Compare the Transcript with Your Dictation
After completing the listening exercise around three times, compare your notes with the transcript. Correct any mistakes and fill in any gaps you missed. This comparison will highlight common errors, helping you avoid them in future tests.
Step 3 - Correct Pronunciation Errors Through Reading
Look up any unfamiliar words in a dictionary and practice their pronunciation. Read the entire transcript aloud and record yourself. Listening to your recording will allow you to compare your pronunciation with that of native speakers, which is crucial for improving your listening comprehension.
Step 4 - Listen to the Audio Over and Over Again
Repeatedly listening to the audio will enhance your English listening reflexes and help you retain a wealth of useful vocabulary.
For those looking to support their dictation practice with specialized software, consider using Go Dictation, developed by Nguyen Van Duy. For further assistance, you can reach out via call, SMS, or Zalo at 0868934697, visit the Facebook page at facebook.com/duy.pablo, or send an email to [email protected].
