Auditory/Following Directions

Title: Small Groups

Idea:

Before putting students into groups you should make sure that they are all listening and have their eyes on you. Once you are done giving directions you can then tell them that they can split up into their groups. By giving them directions before group work the students are more apt to listen rather than trying to find their partners and moving around the room.

Expressive Directions

Read outlines and concepts aloud, explaining that you raise the volume or pitch of your voice for main ideas, and softer for supporting ideas. Insist students do also.

Title: Rhyme Time

Idea: This activity works best when reading stories that have rhyming words.  Instruct students to face the front of the room and look at you.  Give students the following directions.  "I am going to read a sentence from the story.  Try to think of words that rhyme with the last word in the sentence.  As I read the next sentence, choose the rhyming word that you think best fits.  Raise your hand when you think you have the answer.  There should be no talking."  You can call on one student or have the whole class shout out the answer.  If there are some wrong answers, stop reading and discuss why those words aren't the best choice for the sentence.  
Resource: Adapted from Nursery Rhymes Activity from Strategies to Improve Listening Comprehension: http://education.uncc.edu/lujordan/Listening%20Comprehension%20Handout.htm

Title: Can you hear me now?

Idea: When working with students that learn/follow directions best, based on auditory learning you need to slow down and clarify what it is you as the teacher are looking for.  It is important the that students are engaged in the conversations so they are actively listening to what you have to say.  So, get their attention before you give those important directions.  Then only give a small number of directions at a time.  It can be difficult for students of all ages to remember multiple step directions when they are given verbally.  Make sure to use simple words that students can understand while giving directions and make sure to repeat yourself.  Repetition will help students remember those important details and a summary will recap exactly what they need to do.  At the end don't forget to ask the students if they have any questions.     

Resource: This website was very helpful when dealing with auditory directions for all ages:

http://www.ehow.com/how_2108584_give-verbal-instructions.html