I think words and math are important because you use words everyday and if you don't have a very good vocabulary you wont be able to talk to people. Math is also important because you need to know how to count or you wont be able to get a decent job and it also comes in handy when cooking or telling time.
True, because, even if it's a coinsidence, and you are listining though your preferences effectively, everyone can use the same listening strategies to become more effective listeners.