Which activity is most likely to improve a learner's spontaneous speaking ability?

Participating in discussions is the most effective activity for improving a learner's spontaneous speaking ability because it provides an interactive environment where learners must think quickly and articulate their thoughts on the spot. Engaging in discussions encourages learners to express their opinions, ask questions, and respond to others, all of which require immediate language use and the ability to organize thoughts rapidly. This form of verbal communication helps to develop fluency, confidence, and the skill to navigate conversations, which are essential for spontaneous speaking.

In contrast, while reading silently, writing essays, and listening to podcasts can contribute to language development, they do not directly engage the learner in speaking. Reading and writing primarily focus on comprehension and structure, whereas listening enhances understanding but does not require active verbal communication. Thus, these activities may help in vocabulary acquisition and knowledge of language but do not provide the same level of practice in spontaneous speaking as participating in discussions.