If you miss the basic point, it's hard to understand the detail. A second important thing about listening is that you can get a sense during class discussions of how other students think. This is useful but can help you think about what you yourself say as well. A third skill is writing . No matter how good your ideas are, they are meaningless if you cannot convey them in writing.
Good writing is clear and concise.
It makes points obviously and early in every essay. It integrates your own words and the arguments and data of others with skill. It takes very hard work for most of us. Good writing is absolutely crucial in almost any career. This is why this class requires you to do some individual writing.