/to listen/ has already also an implied meaning of /to pay attention/. You could say: a. I am listening with {great,special} attention b. I am carefully listening If you want to emphasize the fact. Remember that /to hear/ and /to listen/ in many contexts (but not in all) have different meaning; for the whole story (hear vs. listen) : 1. http://www.italki.com/answers/question/103926.htm 2. http://www.italki.com/answers/question/68191.htm

You can be listening to background music, or the radio, while you're working or doing something else. But if someone is speaking, or you are really focused, listening for something or for information, you are actively listening, and really paying attention.