Dictations for Discussion : An Intermediate to Advanced Listening/Speaking Text

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Dictations for Discussion is designed for intermediate-to-advanced English learners who want to build real-world communication skills while strengthening accuracy in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Drawing on a wide range of authentic materials―including news items, social issues, problem-solving scenarios, and decision-making tasks―the book immerses students in meaningful language that sparks genuine interaction.

Each unit begins with a brief introduction that frames the theme and activates background knowledge. Learners then complete a central dictation task, followed by guided pair or small-group discussions that encourage analysis, negotiation of meaning, and personal response. A follow-up activity extends the topic through writing, research, or additional speaking practice, providing a complete cycle of comprehension, reflection, and expression.

The book features five distinct dictation types―Partial/Cloze, Pair, Dictogloss, Prediction, and Note-Taking―allowing instructors to vary classroom routines and target different listening and processing skills. Units are fully modular, making it easy for teachers to select topics that match the needs, interests, and proficiency levels of their learners. Cooperative learning strategies appear throughout, providing rich opportunities for student interaction.

Modeled on the successful Basic Dictations series but designed for higher-level learners, this text offers a flexible and engaging approach to integrated-skill development.

• Free accompanying audio program, available to download from Pro Lingua Learning or stream on Pro Lingua Learning Audio.
• Intermediate-to-advanced dictations using authentic, high-interest content.
• Five types of dictation tasks for varied listening and language processing practice.
• Strong integration of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.
• Discussion-driven activities designed for pairs and small-group interaction.
• Follow-up tasks that extend learning through writing, research, and critical thinking.
• Modular units that allow teachers flexibility in topic selection.
• Cooperative learning activities embedded in every chapter.

• Basic Dictations
• Great Dictations
• Interactive Dictations

Catherine Sadow, co-author (along with Judy DeFilippo) of Interactive Dictations, taught at Northeastern University for 24 years has co--authored of 7 ESL books. Students from beginning to advanced levels often told her that "listening" was the most difficult problem for them in trying to speak English. With that challenge in mind, from 1987 ("Talk Radio") to 2013 ("Dictations for Discussion") Catherine created effective and interesting listening activities which resulted in books for all levels.

Catherine began her ESL career at Brookline, MA Adult Education while completing an MA in TESL at Boston University. Although officially retired, she continues to teach ESL classes as a volunteer in Brookline to adults studying English.