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Dictogloss TEFL Listening Activity: Check Out this Fun ESL Dictation Activity Today

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Dictogloss is a language teaching technique that is used to teach grammatical structures and is often regarded as a multiple skills and systems activity since learners practice listening, writing and speaking (by working in groups) and use vocabulary and grammar in order to complete the task.

It’s similar to a classroom dictation activity, but not the same as a dictation, where students try to write down exactly what the teacher reads out. It’s much more active and interesting.

In Dictogloss learners are required to reconstruct a short text by listening and noting down key words, which are then used as a base for reconstruction.

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HOW TO APPLY DICTOGLOSS IN THE CLASSROOM? 

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HOW TO APPLY DICTOGLOSS IN THE CLASSROOM? 

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First, the teacher prepares a text (usually a story or a short passage ) that contains examples of the grammatical form to be studied.

Then the teacher reads the text to the students at normal speed. Students listen and try to understand the content of the text. Next the teacher reads the text again, and the learners take notes.

In small groups, students try to reconstruct the text. Then they prepare a summary of their work using the correct grammatical structures.

Finally each group presents their work to the rest of the class.

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Here are a few strengths associated with this teaching approach:

The method integrates multiple language skills, including listening, reading, writing, and, to some extent, speaking. This holistic approach supports comprehensive language development.

Listening Comprehension:

Dictogloss places a strong emphasis on developing listening comprehension skills. Students must listen carefully to the teacher's dictation, promoting the ability to understand spoken language.

Grammar and Syntax Focus:

The method is particularly effective for teaching grammar and syntax. By reconstructing the text collaboratively, students analyze sentence structures and gain a better understanding of grammatical concepts.

Collaboration and Communication:

Dictogloss encourages collaboration among students. Working together to reconstruct the text fosters communication skills and a sense of shared learning. It gives support to less confident students, as they are encouraged to participate in their groups as part of the structure of the activity.

Adaptability:

Dictogloss is adaptable to different levels of language proficiency. Teachers can adjust the difficulty of the texts based on the students' abilities, making it suitable for various learning environments. Dictogloss can be adapted to various topics and themes, making it versatile for teaching vocabulary and language structures across different contexts.

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Here are a few weaknesses associated with this teaching approach:

Dictogloss may be challenging for group of students with varying levels of language proficiency. Those with lower proficiency levels might struggle to grasp the content, leading to frustration.

The method emphasizes listening, reading, and writing skills, potentially neglecting the development of speaking skills. Working in groups, the students might not get enough opportunities to practice expressing themselves orally.

Some students may find the Dictogloss method less engaging, particularly if the chosen texts are not relevant or interesting to them. This lack of interest could affect motivation and hinder the learning process.

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INTRODUCTION:

Group the class into small groups of three or four. Write the topic on the board: „Healthy Lifestyle Habits”. Begin by having a class discussion about the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and how it can positively impact overall well-being.

TASK EXPLANATION:

Explain the Dictogloss task to the students. Let them know that you will read a passage related to healthy lifestyle habits, and their goal is to listen, take notes, and then work collaboratively to reconstruct the text.

READING THE PASSAGE:

Read a short paragraph or passage aloud to the class. The passage could include information about balanced diets, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep.

NOTE-TAKING:

Read the passage a second time, allowing students to take notes individually. Encourage them to focus on key points and essential details.

GROUP RECONSTRUCTION:

Divide the class into small groups and instruct them to work together to reconstruct the original passage using their combined notes. Emphasize the importance of collaboration and accuracy.

PRESENTATION:

Each group presents their reconstructed version to the class. This can lead to further discussion and comparison of the different reconstructions.

CLASS DISCUSSION:

Engage the class in a discussion about the key elements of a healthy lifestyle mentioned in the passage. Encourage students to share their thoughts and opinions on adopting healthier habits.

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It's a really interesting method because it can be applied at any stage of learning and adapted to any lesson topic, especially at the beginning of the school year when students typically don't have textbooks. This method is very helpful – it only requires paper and a pen.