Academic English UK – Listening Worksheets
Here are a range of different listenings and worksheets based on a variety of topics. All of these listenings can be used in the academic English classroom or for self-study.
Listening Worksheet Topics
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4 tips to improve active listening skills by A.Lyon
This lesson is an introduction to active listening. It focuses on four key improvements to become a better active listener. It includes a set of listening questions and an active listening speaking task (mirroring, paraphrasing, summarising and clarification). Time: 90-120mins. Level ***** [B1/B2/C1] Video [05.33] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Listening Note-Taking Methods
- Listening Note-taking Methods 1
- Listening Note-taking Methods 2
- Listening Note-taking Methods 3
- Listening Note-taking Methods 4
Listening note-taking methods 1
This lesson is an introduction to taking notes using a variety of methods. It begins by providing a guide to seven common methods. The lesson includes five 30-second listenings, two 2-minute listenings and one 8-minute lecture to practice using these methods. Example / Webpage link / Time: 90-120mins. Level ***** [B1/B2/C1] Video [08.50] / MP3 / Webpage link / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Listening note-taking methods 2
This lesson is an introduction to abbreviations and note taking using linear, mind map and table methods. The lesson includes four approximately 2-minute lectures and one 8-minute lecture to practice using these methods. Example / Webpage link / Time: 90-120mins. Level ***** [B1/B2/C1] Video [07.00] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Listening note-taking methods 3 (Technology): Cornell Notes System
This lesson introduces students to the Cornell notes system. It starts with the students discussing their note-taking experience before introducing them to Cornell’s 5Rs. They then practice using this method by listening to five mini lectures on subjects connected to technology. Sample notes for each lecture are included. Example / Webpage link / Time: 90-120mins. Level ***** [B1/B2/C1] Video [08.35] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Listening note-taking methods 4 (Science): Cornell Notes System
This lesson introduces students to the Cornell notes system. It starts with the students discussing their note-taking experience before introducing them to Cornell’s 5Rs. They then practice using this method by listening to five mini lectures on subjects connected to science. Sample notes for each lecture are included. Example / Webpage link / Time: 90-120mins. Level ***** [B1/B2/C1] Video [09.18] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
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What is academic English?
Academic English: How is it different?
What is academic English? This lecture by Cambridge University Press discusses the key differences between Academic and General English. The listening worksheet has a variety of questions and is great introduction to understanding Academic English. Example Level ***** [B1/B2/C1] Video [5:20] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Active Listening
4 tips to improve active listening skills by A.Lyon
This lesson is an introduction to active listening. It focuses on four key improvements to become a better active listener. It includes a set of listening questions and an active listening speaking task (mirroring, paraphrasing, summarising and clarification). Time: 90-120mins. Level ***** [B1/B2/C1] Video [05.33] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Business Accounting: Documentation
Business Accounting & Finance: Documentation
This is a 12-minute accounting lecture on the key terms connected to business transactions and documentation. It discusses purchase orders, invoices, terms of trade, statement of account, VAT, credit note etc.. It is a 4 -page test booklet with a variety of question types (see example). Level ***** [B1/B2/C1] Video [12:01] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Bloom’s Taxonomy
Bloom’s Taxonomy – higher-order thinking skills – LSU Centre for Academic Success
This short video provides a brief overview of Bloom’s taxonomy: classification of learning levels. It discusses each level but pays particular attention to the higher levels of analysing, evaluating and creating. It is a nice introduction to the theory of critical thinking. Example. Level: ***** [B2/C1] / Video [3.51] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
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Business Model Innovation gap-fill summary
What are gap-fill summaries? go here
Business Model Innovation – University of St.Gallen
This lecture discusses how important innovation is for a company. It defines business model innovation and discusses the key steps in using business model patterns to reinvent a company, The worksheet is based on note-taking followed by a gap-fill summary. Example. Level: ***** [B2/C1] / Video [08.10] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
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Business Leaders
Business Leadership: the most important skill
This is a 6-minute HBR lecture interviewing key leaders and academics on what they believe is the most important skill for future leaders. The worksheet is a table format to be filled in with the key skill and support (see example). Level ***** [B1/B2/C1] Video [5.41] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Critical Thinking
Critical Thinking: an introduction – Lecture Listening Lesson
This lecture focuses on critical thinking at university. It includes a definition, alternative thinking styles, Bloom’s taxonomy and how to apply analysing and evaluation questions to reading and writing. It includes a video, test questions, tapescript and PPT (example). Level ***** [B2/C1] / PPT link in download / Video [10.00] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Critical thinking – reading text analysis
A great lesson for developing and practising critical thinking skills. It is a 400-word text on ‘going to university’ with over 15 possible problems. Students use the higher level thinking skills of analysis and evaluation to examine, question and critique the text. Example. Level: ***** [B1/B2/C1] MEMBERSHIP
Critical Speaking – 8 questions most people get wrong!
A great lesson for highlighting facts over opinions. This lesson asks students to discuss 8 questions based around a variety of topics. The lesson is based on research by Hans Rosling a UN advisor, professor of international health and medical physician, who argues many people have an over-dramatic world view that its not based on facts. The lesson includes factual data from the World Bank and UN to support all answers. Example. Level: ***** [C1 – High level] MEMBERSHIP
Critical Thinking Lesson PDF Book
AMAZING VALUE – Five lessons in one book. Introduction, definition, text analysis reading, lecture listening test, and speaking discussion. Example.
TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Economic inequality gap-fill summary
Economic Inequality – by AEUK
This lecture discusses what is economic inequality, how wealth is distributed, how the past has affected the future and the current debate. The worksheet is based on note-taking followed by a gap-fill summary. Example. Level: ***** [B2/C1] / Video [10.00] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
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Economic Inequality- Lecture Listening Lesson
This is a lecture on what is economic inequality, how is wealth distributed, how the past has affected the present and the current debate. It includes a video, test questions and PPT (example). Level ***** [B2/C1] / PPT Link in download / Video [10.00] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Reading Test: Economic Inequality.
The text defines economic inequality. It discuses differences in income distribution between the rich and poor, it highlights how inequality is measured and offers a range of solutions to address income inequality. The reading test worksheet tests headings / T,F,NG / open answers / gap fill / information tables / reference words / vocabulary. (Example) Level ***** [B2/C1] TEACHER MEMBERSHIP
Economic Inequality: Summary Reading & Writing Lesson
The text discusses what is economic inequality and how it is measured. It also discusses the unfairness of wealth distribution between the rich and the poor and suggests possible solutions to address the situation. Students take notes on key idea and write a summary of 200-250 words. The lesson includes a critical thinking worksheet too. (Example) Level ***** [B2/C1] TEACHER MEMBERSHIP
Economic Inequality Lesson PDF Book
AMAZING VALUE – Five lessons in one book. Introduction, definition, reading test & summary writing, 1 x lecture listening, [extra reading text] & seminar / example
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Evaluating Sources
The C.R.A.A.P Test – a guide to evaluating sources – UoSA
This University of South Australia video explains what is the C.R.A.A.P Test and how to use it to evaluate all types of information. This worksheet helps students to understand what is considered a ‘credible’ source and how to check this using an evaluation tool. Example. Level: ***** [B2/C1] / Video [03.17] / MP3 /TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
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Webpage link – Evaluating Sources
Fast Fashion gap-fill summary
The environmental impact of Fast Fashion – by S.Williams
This lecture discusses how the fast fashion clothing industry is one of the biggest polluters in the world. It focuses on materials, manufacturing and consumer waste. The worksheet is based on note-taking followed by a gap-fill summary. Example. Level: ***** [B2/C1] / Video [8.10] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Fair Trade BBC Radio Podcast
The Future of Fair Trade [podcast]
This is a 28-minute Radio Podcast from BBC Radio 4. The podcast divides into two parts with the first 15 minutes discussing the positives of Fair Trade and the second part interviewing critics of Fair trade (see worksheet example). Level ***** [B2/C1] Podcast [27.54] TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
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Globalisation gap-fill summary
Globalisation: economic, political, & cultural relationships – by Edeos
This lecture discusses the key elements to the rise of globalisation. It focuses on the inter-connected relationships of politics, culture and the economy. It includes a lots of important vocabulary. The worksheet is based on note-taking followed by a gap-fill summary. (Example). Level: ***** [B2/C1] / Video [8.10] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
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Reading Test: Globalisation: International Trade.
The text defines the key points associated to globalization. It discusses the disparity of progression of trade between countries and highlights the integration of in-ward and out- ward looking policies. It finally points out that three key areas of international globalization are imperative for the economic growth of a country.The reading test worksheet tests headings / T,F,NG / open answers / gap fill / information tables / reference words / vocabulary. (Example) Level ***** [B2/C1] TEACHER MEMBERSHIP
Summary Writing: Globalisation: International Trade.
The text defines the key points associated to globalisation. It discusses the disparity of progression of trade between countries and highlights the integration of in-ward and out- ward looking policies. It finally points out that three key areas of international globalisation are imperative for the economic growth of a country. (Example) Level ***** [B2/C1] TEACHER MEMBERSHIP
Independent Learning
Independent Learning worksheet
This worksheet is based on four videos. Listen to the videos and take notes. Then use your notes to answer the questions and compare your answers to the key answers. Example / Video Level: ***** [B1/B2/C1] TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Webpage Link: Independent Learning
Listening Websites
Listening Websites: Improve your listening skills
Here are some great websites we recommend to our students to improve their listening outside of class. These websites will help students gain valuable practice in checking their understanding, identifying main ideas and recognising supporting ideas. Video. Webpage link .
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Note-taking Skills 1
Listening note-taking methods 1
This lesson is an introduction to taking notes using a variety of methods. It begins by providing a guide to seven common methods. The lesson includes five 30-second listenings, two 2-minute listenings and one 8-minute lecture to practice using these methods. Example / Webpage link / Time: 90-120mins. Level ***** [B1/B2/C1] Video [08.50] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Note-taking Skills 2
Listening note-taking methods 2
This lesson is an introduction to abbreviations and note taking using linear, mind map and table methods. The lesson includes four approximately 2-minute lectures and one 8-minute lecture to practice using these methods. Example / Webpage link / Time: 90-120mins. Level ***** [B1/B2/C1] Video [07.00] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Note-taking Skills 3 (Technology)
Listening note-taking methods 3 (Technology): Cornell Notes System
This lesson introduces students to the Cornell notes system. It starts with the students discussing their note-taking experience before introducing them to Cornell’s 5Rs. They then practice using this method by listening to five mini lectures on subjects connected to technology. Sample notes for each lecture are included. Example / Webpage link / Time: 90-120mins. Level ***** [B1/B2/C1] Video [08.35] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Note-taking Skills 4 (Science)
Listening note-taking methods 4 (Science): Cornell Notes System
This lesson introduces students to the Cornell notes system. It starts with the students discussing their note-taking experience before introducing them to Cornell’s 5Rs. They then practice using this method by listening to five mini lectures on subjects connected to science. Sample notes for each lecture are included. Example / Webpage link / Time: 90-120mins. Level ***** [B1/B2/C1] Video [09.18] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
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Peer Review Process
The Academic Journal Peer Review Process – NC State University
This NC State university video explains how an academic scholar submits a research paper to a journal publishing company and the full process the article goes through before it is published. This listening and worksheet helps students to understand what is considered a credible source and why. Example Level: ***** [B2/C1] / Video [03.15] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
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Mobile phone gap-fill summary
Mobile Phone Addiction [TED Talk] by R. Sleight
This lecture discusses the rise in smartphone use, associated data in terms of user usage, and five insights to control addictive tendencies. (Example). Level: ***** [B1/B2/C1] / Video [11:48] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Reading Test: Mobile Phone Addiction [new for 2020]
The text discusses the rise in mobile phone use, the factors that lead to addiction and implications for the future. The reading test worksheet tests headings / T,F,NG / open answers / gap fill / information tables / reference words / vocabulary. (Example) Level ***** [B2/C1] TEACHER MEMBERSHIP
Mobile Phone Addiction: Reading & Summary Writing Lesson [New for 2020]
The text discusses the rise in mobile phone use, the factors that lead to addiction and implications for the future. Students take notes on key ideas and write a summary of 200-250 words. The lesson includes a critical thinking worksheet too. (Example) Level ***** [B2/C1] TEACHER MEMBERSHIP
Rich and poor countries gap-fill summary
Why some countries are poor and others are rich – The School of Life
A really good lecture on the three key elements of why some countries are poor. It discusses how corruption of institutions, culture and geographical features all play a significant role in poverty. The worksheet is based on note-taking followed by a gap-fill summary. Example. Level: ***** [B2/C1] / Video [8.47] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
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Presentation Listening
Presentation Worksheet
This lecture discusses the key ideas of giving an academic presentation including referencing, signposting, delivery and rehearsal. 2-page listening worksheet with answers. A great introduction to giving a presentation. Example. Level ***** [B1/B2/C1] Video [7:00] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Seminar Discussion 1
Seminar Listening Worksheet 1 [5 minute seminar]
This listening worksheet is four different nationalities discussing ‘American Values’. Students listen and take notes on what the different nationalities (Indian, Ethiopian, Japanese, American) say about American Values and then answer the question sheet. (see example). Level ***** [B1/B2/C1] / Video (start 0:40 – 4:40) / MP3 TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Teacher’s Notes: Seminar Listening Worksheet 1
- Explain the seminar is four different nationalities discussing ‘American Values’.
- The different nationalities are an Indian man, Ethiopian woman, Japanese woman and an American woman.
- Play the sound only (not the visual video) two times – students take notes.
- Give out question worksheet – allow 5-10 minutes to answer.
- Video (start 0:40 – 4:40)
Seminar Discussion 2
Seminar Listening Worksheet 2 [3 minute seminar]
This listening worksheet is four teachers discussing whether it is better to learn English online or in a regular classroom. Each teacher provider an opinion and a justification for their choice (see example). Level ***** [B1/B2] / Video (3.27) / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Teacher’s Notes: Seminar Listening Worksheet 2
- Explain the seminar is four teachers discussing ‘whether it is better to learn English online or in a classroom’.
- Show the picture of the four teachers with their names (Ronnie, Alex, James, Adam)
- Play the video two times – students take notes.
- Give out question worksheet – allow 5-10 minutes to answer.
- Video
Seminar Discussion 3
Seminar Listening Worksheet 3 [5 minute seminar]
This listening worksheet is three teachers discussing their views on the TED Talk lecture: The Happy Planet Index by Nic Marks (see example). Level ***** [B1/B2] / Video (5.00) / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Teacher’s Notes: Seminar Listening Worksheet 2
- Students watch the TED Talk LectureThe Happy Planet Index’ by Nic Marks – go here
- Explain the seminar is three teachers discussing parts of the TED Talk Lecture.
- Show the picture of video and highlight its one woman, a Scottish man and another man.
- Play the video two times – students take notes.
- Give out question worksheet – allow 5-10 minutes to answer.
- Video
UK tourist attractions for international students
UK Tourist Attractions
This listening video provides students with a range of places to visit while they are here in the UK. It includes natural areas, cities, tourist attractions outside London and also a list of London attractions. Watch the video [12:00] / MP3 /+ worksheet. TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
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The fourth industrial revolution gap-fill summary
What is the Fourth Industrial Revolution? – Graeme Codrington
This lecture briefly highlights how the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Industrial Revolutions connect to the 4th Industrial revolution. It clearly explains what is and what isn’t the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The worksheet is based on note-taking followed by a gap-fill summary. Example. Level: ***** [B2/C1] / Video [10.39] / MP3 / TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Reading Test: The 4th Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0) [new for 2021]
The text provides an overview of the 4th industrial revolution (industry 4.0). It discusses the previous industrial revolutions and the opportunities and challenges of industry 4.0. The reading test includes: headings / T,F,NG / open answers / reference words / vocabulary / paraphrasing. (Example) Level ***** [B2/C1] TEACHER MEMBERSHIP
The 4th Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0): Reading & Summary Writing Lesson [New for 2021]
The text provides an overview of the 4th industrial revolution (industry 4.0). It discusses the previous industrial revolutions and the opportunities and challenges of industry 4.0. The lesson includes a critical thinking worksheet too. (Example) Level ***** [B2/C1] TEACHER MEMBERSHIP
Self-Assessment Listening Questionnaire
Self-Assessment Questionnaires
These academic English self-assessment questionnaires focus on the four key skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening. Each questionnaire focuses on the individual elements of each skill and students rank their confidence level accordingly. These questionnaires help students evaluate and assess their learning and encourage learner autonomy. Questionnaire worksheet example. Level ***** [B1/B2/C1/C2] TEACHER MEMBERSHIP / INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
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