Which activity is most beneficial in enhancing a child’s understanding of listening skills in a classroom environment?

Participating in group discussions is highly beneficial for enhancing a child's understanding of listening skills in a classroom environment. This activity requires students to not only listen attentively to their peers but also to respond appropriately, fostering interactive communication. Through group discussions, children learn to process verbal information, pay attention to different perspectives, and articulate their thoughts in response to what others have said. This dynamic exchange encourages active listening, which is fundamental for developing comprehension and critical thinking skills.

In contrast, individual reading comprehension exercises primarily focus on solitary work and do not provide the same level of engagement that a discussion offers. While listening to audiobooks can strengthen auditory skills, it lacks the interactive component vital for practicing conversational listening and responding. Conducting silent reading sessions also does not promote active listening as it is a solitary activity where children are not required to engage with others or respond to spoken language, limiting their exposure to collaborative discussion and sharing of ideas.