ESL Writing and Listening Exercises

This exercise involves some study of a written passage. Here we are most interested in looking at a writing style that develops progression. The text for this exercise is a story which was written by someone who saw a beautiful woman on the subway but did not have an opportunity to approach her.

Part 1: Jigsaw

The story is divided into eight sections. Each person reads their small numbered section. Take time to understand unknown words. Appreciate what might be happening.

Part 2: Combine

In order, each person reads their section. We put the story together.

Part 3: Pair Work

Discuss story with partner: setting, plot characters. What was the ending?

Part 4: Listen

Listen to the full story, as read by professional radio people. This version comes from the people at CBC Radio’s Wiretap.

Media

Here are the pieces for this exercise:

numbered sections for the story and full text
radio clip

Part 5: Extension

Now students write their own piece which demonstrates progression. Or, a piece about a missed connection.