Final answer:
Amy's poor listening is caused by a communication disconnect during the curriculum meeting, where the principal's focus on the selection process of the new reading curriculum does not meet Amy's need for practical application.
Step-by-step explanation:
Amy's frustration in the given scenario highlights how a mismatch between the speaker's content and the listener's expectations or needs can lead to poor listening. When the principal focuses on the selection process of the new reading curriculum rather than its function and implementation, this diverts attention from what Amy, as a teacher, deems necessary to understand. This communication disconnect often leads to a lack of attention and engagement from the audience, in this case, Amy, because the information presented does not align with her immediate practical needs.
Furthermore, the effectiveness of curriculum meetings can be diminished when the discussion does not directly address the concerns of teachers who are required to utilize these curriculums in their daily teaching efforts. These teachers might be more focused on effective teaching strategies, student engagement, and how the curriculum aids in achieving educational goals, rather than the selection process of the curricula.