ABSTRACT
In this chapter and in the following chapter, we examine the use of peer interactions to build language abilities in each of the four main skill areas: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. It is not surprising, of course, that peer interactions build listening and speaking skills, as most peer interactions require students to speak and listen to one another (interactions that take place through computers may occur in text form, as discussed in chapter 7). Yet the value of peer interactions for developing oral skills is not limited to conversational communication. Peer interactions can also allow students to develop a wide range of listening and speaking skills. Let’s start by considering some examples of the ways that learners listen and speak together in peer tasks.
