Listening Strategy Before the recording starts: 1. Check instructions – how many words/numbers are permitted for the answer 2. Skim and orientate – establish context (who, where, what) 3. Underline keywords and think of synonyms 4. Establish required information 5. Predict answers During the recording: 1. Listen for keywords (stressed words) 2. Listen for signposts and synonyms of keywords in the question 3. Work on the current question and look ahead to the next question 4. Skip missed answers and move on 5. Watch out for distracters (incorrect answers) After the recording (transfer time): 1. Check for spelling or grammatical errors 2. Fill in something for any missing answers