Speaking and Listening Skills Quiz

Grade 6 · English · Quiz

Test your knowledge of effective communication, active listening, and formal discussion norms.

Questions

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of active listening?
1. Making eye contact
2. Asking follow-up questions
3. Planning your response while the speaker is talking
4. Summarizing what you heard
Show answer
Answer: Planning your response while the speaker is talking
Planning your response while the speaker is talking means you're not actually listening — you're waiting. Active listening requires full focus on the speaker.
Speaking at an appropriate volume and pace helps your audience follow your message.
Show answer
Answer: True
Volume ensures you can be heard; pacing gives listeners time to process. Both are essential mechanics of effective delivery.
A response that challenges another speaker's position with reasoning is called a ___.
Show answer
Answer: counterclaim
A counterclaim respectfully challenges a position. It should always include reasoning, not just disagreement.
What is the best thing to do when you disagree with someone in a class discussion?
1. Interrupt them to correct the mistake
2. Stay silent to avoid conflict
3. Say 'I see it differently because...' and explain your reasoning
4. Tell the class the other person is wrong
Show answer
Answer: Say 'I see it differently because...' and explain your reasoning
Framing your disagreement as a perspective difference ('I see it differently') and backing it with reasoning is the formal discussion norm.
Pausing silently to think is better than filling the pause with 'um' or 'uh.'
Show answer
Answer: True
A deliberate, confident pause signals you are thinking — it's far more effective than filler words that signal nervousness.
Using phrases like 'According to the text...' in a discussion is a way to support your claim with ___.
Show answer
Answer: evidence
Grounding your claims in textual evidence makes arguments more credible and harder to dismiss.
Which phrase is the best way to BUILD on another student's comment?
1. 'That's wrong because...'
2. 'I agree with what Jordan said, and I would add...'
3. 'My point is completely different...'
4. 'Never mind what they said, here's my idea...'
Show answer
Answer: 'I agree with what Jordan said, and I would add...'
Building on a peer's comment ('I agree...and I would add') keeps the discussion collaborative and shows you were listening.
What does good posture during a presentation communicate to an audience?
1. Boredom
2. Nervousness
3. Confidence and preparation
4. Indifference
Show answer
Answer: Confidence and preparation
Upright posture signals confidence and readiness — slouching or avoiding eye contact undermines even a well-prepared speech.
In a formal discussion, it is acceptable to interrupt another speaker if you have a great point.
Show answer
Answer: False
Interrupting is a discussion norm violation — it disrespects the speaker and disrupts the flow of ideas. Wait for a natural pause.
Looking directly at your audience during a presentation is called maintaining ___ contact.
Show answer
Answer: eye
Eye contact engages the audience and builds trust. Speakers who look at the floor or only at their notes lose the audience quickly.

Get a personalized course on Speaking and Listening Skills built around your child.