Peer Dictation

Learners work in pairs with one reading a dictation text while the other writes, optionally as a speed competition between pairs.

Procedure

1. Give each pair a copy of the dictation text. One learner is the reader, the other is the writer.
2. The reader dictates the text to the writer at a pace the writer can manage.
3. The writer can ask the reader to repeat words and phrases, and to spell them aloud.
4. Optionally, turn it into a competition: as soon as one pair finishes, they say "Stop!" and the rest of the class must stop work.
5. Partners switch roles and do a new dictation.

Tips

• This is an example of superior-inferior group work where the reader has information the writer needs.
• The competition element increases engagement and adds time pressure.
• The reader gets useful pronunciation and reading practice while the writer practises listening and writing.
• Works well as a follow-up to teacher-led dictation.