dictation in the esl classroom

Dictation can be a deadly boring thing - but it's making a comeback.
It can be used in a stimulating and engaging way...

For example:

Dictogloss

Dictogloss is a classroom dictation activity where learners are required to reconstruct a short text by listening and noting down key words, which are then used as a base for reconstruction.

Example
Learners discuss the sea. The teacher then explains the task, and reads a short text on the sea to the class, who just listen. The teacher reads the text again, and the learners take notes. In groups, the learners then reconstruct the text.

In the classroom
Dictogloss is often regarded as a multiple skills and systems activity. Learners practise listening, writing and speaking (by working in groups) and use vocabulary, grammar and discourse systems in order to complete the task.

Dictogloss | TeachingEnglish | British Council | BBC

With some variations:
mELTing Activities, Lessons and Ideas: 5 fun ways to use a Dictogloss in the EFL class

Here's an academic study:
A Classroom Experiment: Using dictogloss | Chris Harwood - Academia.edu

Try 'running dictation':


13. Running Dictation - YouTube
ESL Cafe's Idea Cookbook - Nazo's Running Dictation

And here are some excellent pieces on 'why use dictation':
Methodology: using dictation in English language teaching | Onestopenglish
Using dictation | TeachingEnglish | British Council | BBC
ESL Lesson Plans: Dictation | TEFL.net
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