Which strategy can effectively prepare a candidate for the Listening section?

Practicing active listening and taking notes is an effective strategy for preparing for the Listening section because it closely mirrors the skills required during the exam. Active listening involves fully engaging with the audio material, which enhances comprehension and retention of information. By taking notes, candidates reinforce their understanding and can better recall key details during the test. This practice helps develop the ability to identify main ideas, supporting details, and important nuances in spoken English, which are critical for success in the Listening section.

Other strategies, while beneficial in different aspects of language learning, do not target the specific skills needed for listening comprehension as effectively. For example, reading widely in various subjects may improve vocabulary and general knowledge but does not directly enhance listening skills. Summarizing texts after reading is useful for improving reading comprehension and writing skills, but it does not focus on the auditory processing component crucial for listening. Listening to music in a foreign language can be enjoyable and may introduce candidates to new vocabulary and pronunciation, yet it does not contribute to the structured understanding of conversations, discussions, or lectures as practiced listening exercises do.