Hey Larry. I'm doing Italian Units 1&2 this year, so I somewhat understand what you're going through. Unfortunately there aren't many students on the forum studying this language so help can be a bit sparse.
To answer your questions:
1. Your textbook should have a CD at the back, or have some computer supplement. Generally there are some listening exercises on them. If not, talk to your Italian teacher and she might be able to provide you with some extra resources.
2. I'd recommend swinging by Co.As.It. in Carlton if you ever have the time. Co.As.It a major Italian resource centre and there's a lot of people there that can help you out too. My teachers have used their resources in class and the material is quite good.
3. Practice, practice, practice!!! Once the grammar has been mastered, writing in Italian is very simple. Also try to speak the language as much as possible, because this helps you in both speaking and listening Italian.
Sometimes, a member here called tisaraiscool and myself practice speaking in Italian over the site's IRC chat. If you ever see me online, feel free to start up a conversation and we can practice together. My Italian is pretty good for a Year 11 student, if I may say so myself.