Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Early Childhood Practice Exam

What strategy is most effective for improving students' listening skills during circle time?

1. Incorporating active listening activities

2. Reminding students to use their "good listening ears"

3. Presenting challenging concepts to promote attention

4. Giving verbal reminders to listen and take turns

The correct answer is: Incorporating active listening activities

Incorporating active listening activities is the most effective strategy for improving students' listening skills during circle time because it engages students in a hands-on and interactive manner. Active listening activities encourage children to not only hear the words being spoken but also to process, respond, and engage with the content. This form of engagement helps reinforce their understanding and retention of information, as they are required to listen attentively and often participate through discussions, feedback, or related tasks. Active listening activities can include role-playing, retelling stories, or using visual aids to support oral communication. Such strategies help cultivate an environment where listening becomes a dynamic process rather than a passive task, which enhances children’s ability to listen actively and thoughtfully. This approach stands in contrast to merely reminding students to use their "good listening ears," which may not provide the same level of engagement or skill development. While presenting challenging concepts promotes attention, it may not specifically target listening skills if students are unable to grasp the content due to listening barriers. Similarly, giving verbal reminders may not effectively foster sustained listening habits if they do not involve active participation in the listening process.