Stephen Covey was on to something when he said, "Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply." As educators we sometimes find ourselves presenting information to students who are only listening for answers without pondering the deep and wonderful ideas we really want them to consider. In many ways, Covey's assessment of attitudes toward listening prove quite relevant when it comes to communication in 21st Century America, both professionally and academically. That being said, Mr. Covey wants us to teach ideas! So now is the time to listen! This session will facilitate discussion on Missouri's newest ELA EOC feature: assessment items written to address listening expectations. Participants will also review a sophomore ELA curriculum with listening instruction woven throughout and practice listening strategies that will improve students’ understanding and deepen their analysis of multiple forms of text and media.