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The grammar, vocabulary or content of the story can be gleaned and a lesson subsequently created around it.Most audio short stories are under fifteen minutes long and therefore can easily be incorporated into any lesson plan.There are stories to be found that are appropriate for all learners.They provide a natural voice, complete with natural intonation and expression.While audio short stories are an awesome way for students to practice listening at home, they’re also the perfect tool for any ESL classroom. That’s right, their listening practice potential need know no limits! Why Audio Short Stories Are Perfect for the ESL Classroom Listening to an audio short story is perfect for those busy students on the go, who can simply listen while out and about. Students can access them on their own as a brilliant way of practicing listening skills outside of the classroom. There are countless stories available to download from the internet, suited to all ages, levels, personalities and interests. So why shouldn’t they listen to short stories too? By using audio short stories in class, you’ll show your students that they’re relevant and engaging, and can have your students listening away in no time.įluentU takes real-world videos-like music videos, movie trailers, news and inspiring talks-and turns them into personalized language learning lessons.Among these, there are stories that your students can enjoy, along with their video accompaniments and interactive subtitles and quizzes. Students play apps, read magazines, listen to songs, go on social networking sites and use interactive websites, like FluentU, to practice English in their spare time.
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The subject matter of an audio short story can be tailored to suit the interests of your students, and can be used to promote and spark discussion of a particular topic. Unlike movies and TV, audio short stories don’t give students the luxury of being able to infer meaning from visual action, gestures or lip movements. And unlike listening dialogues, audio short stories have a proper plot, providing invaluable practice in understanding a situation and events, all based solely on aural comprehension. If they want to know whether Manny gets back from the moon or if Jane and Larry will get together again after their disastrous first date, then they’ll have to concentrate! So choose something relevant and fun, and even those adolescent learners will be begging to hear how the story turns out. In using short stories, students will gain much needed exposure to English conversation, boosting their confidence when it comes to putting language knowledge into practice.Ī gripping topic or juicy storyline will ensure students’ investment in a listening exercise. Try FluentU for FREE! Why Use Short Stories for ESL Audio?
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