HOW LISTENING SKILLS SUPPORT SPEAKING DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

This article analyzes the crucial role of listening skills in the development of speaking ability. According to modern language learning theories and practical approaches, listening and speaking are interrelated and mutually reinforcing communicative skills. Through listening, learners are exposed to the phonetic, lexical, and grammatical structures of a language, allowing them to internalize pronunciation, intonation, stress, and speech flow. Therefore, effective listening serves as a foundation for oral communicative competence in language acquisition.Through listening, language learners perceive the natural rhythm of the language, acquire conversational patterns, and observe how words and expressions are used in context. This expands their vocabulary and prepares them to participate actively in communication. In particular, authentic listening materials—such as native speakers’ natural speech in interviews, podcasts, and conversations—enhance learners’ pronunciation and intonation, while boosting their confidence in constructing speech.Research indicates that active listening, by providing speech models, significantly improves language acquisition (Brown, 2001; Vandergrift, 2007). Furthermore, interactive listening tasks (such as question-answer exercises and dialogue-based activities) develop learners' ability to respond to information they have understood, thereby enhancing their ability to speak naturally and contextually.The article also examines effective strategies for developing speaking skills alongside listening during the language learning process. These include the shadowing technique, interactive audio lessons, and differential listening methods. All of these help learners build speech that is more fluent, accurate, and appropriate to the communicative context.

In conclusion, listening is not merely a passive process but a vital tool for the development of speaking skills. To master a language, listening and speaking must be developed in an integrated manner. Therefore, giving sufficient attention to listening in the language learning process not only improves comprehension but also enhances learners’ ability to express their thoughts independently and confidently.