Work in triads (i.e., speaker, listener, and observer). The speaker talks freely for approximately 3 minutes. The observer rates the listener on attending skills and provides feedback. Each member of the group participates in each of the three roles. Observers should provide the listener with positive feedback and areas for improvement.

Variation on activity 2: Observe a talk show(s) on television. Pay attention to the attending behaviors of the talk show host. Use the attending skills handout for guidance in evaluating the effectiveness of the attending behaviors.

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