ABSTRACT
'Active listening' involves the use of simple strategies that encourage the listener to participate actively in the learning environment. The child will need to be taught the rules for 'good listening' and to be helped to recognise these behaviours in him/her and others. Role play will be useful to demonstrate 'good listening' and 'not good listening'. It is vital therefore that they are taught the skills required for good listening and are able to think clearly and formulate own ideas. Once the children appear focused they need to take part in a range of activities that promote thinking skills. Memory skills play an important part in understanding and using language effectively. Language in school becomes more formalised, e.g. discussions and debates. In school, children are expected to follow stories or factual accounts or perhaps make sense of directions or instructions.
