While Listening: Signal Word Hunt

Worked classroom example

Science

Worked example

Listen for because, but and for example in a spoken explanation of results.

Use this example to make the language move visible. Select subject content appropriate to the class’s age and prior knowledge.

Teaching sequence

1. Choose a short input containing several clear signposts.
2. Give listeners four symbols for cause, contrast, example and sequence.
3. After listening, compare tallies and connect each signal to the idea that followed.

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Prepare

Use a short explanation with clear signposting. Choose a second example that checks the same language move without repeating the original answer.

Classroom task

Learners tally contrast, cause, example and sequence signals while listening.

Check independent transfer

After listening, compare tallies and connect each signal to the idea that followed.

Collect a response on fresh content. Note what was achieved without the model, partner or teacher prompt, then choose one next teaching step.

Teacher language

Teacher language

What kind of idea followed that signal?

Respond to the learner

Identify one successful meaning or language choice. Ask about one gap, allow thinking time, then invite a revision. Check the revised move again on a fresh example.

Adjust support and challenge

Offer a brief model, useful vocabulary and partner rehearsal where needed. Keep the subject goal; reduce one prompt on fresh content and record what was independent.

Teaching this skill → · Age and language support →

More support

Use shorter chunks, purposeful replay and keyword notes. Retain captions, transcripts or other required access arrangements. Allow familiar-language notes or another response mode when checking subject understanding.

Greater independence

Change the content, evidence or audience. Remove the completed model and ask learners to explain a choice. Increase subject complexity only when it fits the curriculum and prior knowledge.

Choose the next step

If subject meaning is insecure, reteach the concept. If the concept is understood but the English is unclear, model one useful language relationship and invite a fresh response.