Very many second language learners find that listening is the most difficult skill to master. Teaching Second Language Listening explains why this is the case and gives practical advice on how to help learners improve their listening skills. This advice is based on the author's long experience as a language learner, teacher, teacher trainer, and researcher. It is rooted in classroom observation and experience, as well as current research into listening. Teaching Second Language Listening is organised into four parts: Part One ('Background Issues') analyses typical listening behaviour, listening media (CD/DVD, Internet, MP3), and the characteristics of spoken language. Part Two ('Listening Processes') reviews theoretical explanations of the process of listening, and explains how the findings of experimental and classroom research might influence listening activities. Part Three ('Teaching Second Language Listening') discusses practical implications for designing and choosing classroom listening activities. Part Four ('Learning Second Language Listening') looks at the process from the learner's perspective.

It sets out what features need to be included in listening materials designed for self-study and recommends resources and techniques for work done outside the classroom.