This exercise focuses on students' understanding of the subtle differences in similar-sounding words. While it can be easier to differentiate between words in reading, this exercise promotes the quick understanding of similar-sounding words in everyday conversation. You can create your own MP3 recording of difficult word groups for your students and play it in your class. "Cheek, chick and check" is a potential word grouping for this exercise, according to the Learn English Feel Good website. Have your students choose the proper words from a multiple choice list or simply write down the words they hear.
Using movie clips is an effective method for teaching language. Scenes from movies allow students to listen to and observe the natural way native English speakers converse and interact with each other. Moreover, the subtle nuances of the language and corresponding body language are presented to the students in an entertaining format. When using movie clips in class, use clips that are under 10 minutes so students can focus on particular language exchanges. Have your students answer questions about the clip they are watching. Pose the questions orally or in a written short-answer format.
Traditional fill-in-the-blank activities are a common listening exercise. Prepare this exercise for your students by erasing key words in a passage. Print out copies of this modified passage for the class, and read the full story, including the erased words, aloud. Have your students write down the missing words. Depending on your students' language level, you may need to read the passage several times. Alternatively, use English songs instead of a story passage. Songs can be more engaging for your students, and can teach them native pronunciation and slang. Simply write down song lyrics and erase key words. Give your students copies of the modified lyrics, and play the song as they write down the missing words.
Create simple maps on paper for your students, and have them follow directions around their maps. Include buildings, streets and land marks on your map, and dictate where they travel. Have your students answer questions about their position and destination after several directions. You can provide these questions in a multiple choice or short answer format. Encourage your students to mark their "journey" in pen as you dictate directions to them.