It has been suggested that L2 listeners are among the least researched group of language learners, at least in terms of the four macro language skills, according to some researchers (for example, see Harding, Anderson & Brunfaut, 2015; Yeldham, 2017). This dilemma is further exacerbated by test-orientated approaches taken by teachers which, by-and-large, are more interested in assessing learners’ level of comprehension (or lack of) rather than offering them specific strategies to develop their listening skills (Graham, Santos & Vanderplank, 2011; Siegel & Siegel, 2015). With all of the above in mind, the presenters embarked on an action research project which began with giving listening greater prominence in their teaching. They have begun with developing original teaching materials to address bottom-up listening skills, which research has shown to be a more appropriate focus for developing lower-level learners’ listening skills (e.g., Siegel & Siegel, 2015). This talk aims to introduce three ELF-specific listening materials that are continually being adapted and revised based on their success in the classroom and student feedback.
