The Summarize Written Text task in the PTE Speaking & Writing section is essential for assessing the test-taker’s ability to comprehend lengthy texts and summarize them into concise, meaningful sentences. One of the highly relevant and common topics in this task is Citizen Science In Environmental Monitoring, due to the increasing awareness of environmental issues and the role of citizen participation in scientific research. Let’s dive into a practice question and examine responses based on PTE scoring bands.
Practice Question: Citizen Science in Environmental Monitoring
READ THE PASSAGE AND SUMMARIZE IT IN ONE SENTENCE.
Citizen science is a term that describes the involvement of the general public in scientific research. This approach allows ordinary individuals to participate in data collection, analysis, and reporting on various topics, including environmental monitoring. Given the limitation of professional scientists in covering extensive areas, especially in remote regions, citizen science has proven to be a crucial tool for gathering large-scale environmental data. For example, volunteers can help track changes in climate, pollution levels, and biodiversity. Technology, such as mobile apps and online platforms, has greatly expanded the potential for citizen science by allowing people from all over the world to share their observations instantly. Although there might be concerns regarding the accuracy of data collected through such programs, many scientists have developed protocols to ensure that quality standards are met. This collaborative method not only helps to advance scientific research but also raises public awareness and engagement with issues related to environmental conservation.
Task: Summarize the passage in one sentence, and limit your response to 5-75 words.
Suggested Responses:
Band 90-79 (High Level):
Citizen science involves the public in environmental monitoring through data collection and technology, assisting professional scientists by covering large areas and advancing research, while protocols ensure data accuracy and raise awareness of environmental issues.
Analysis:
- Content: The response effectively covers all the main ideas of the passage: public participation, the use of technology, large-scale data collection, scientist collaboration, accuracy concerns, and awareness-raising.
- Form: Correct structure (one sentence, 34 words).
- Grammar: Demonstrates control in subordinate clauses and complex sentence structure.
- Vocabulary: Utilizes advanced vocabulary (“involves”, “assisting”, “advance”, “protocols”) in a concise manner.
- Spelling: No errors.
Citizen science in environmental monitoring and public collaboration with scientists
Band 78-65 (Competent Level):
Citizen science allows ordinary people to help collect environmental data using technology, ensuring coverage of large areas and collaboration with scientists to maintain data quality.
Analysis:
- Content: Most of the key ideas are covered; however, raising public awareness is missing.
- Form: One sentence (24 words), correct form.
- Grammar: Simple but appropriate sentence.
- Vocabulary: Good, but basic vocabulary (“ordinary people” instead of “the public”, “help collect””).
- Spelling: No errors.
Band 64-50 (Satisfactory Level):
Citizen science helps people collect environmental data in large areas with technology but sometimes data may not be accurate.
Analysis:
- Content: This response oversimplifies the main points, omitting scientist collaboration and public awareness.
- Form: One sentence (21 words), still within limits.
- Grammar: Basic sentence structure but makes the content somewhat imprecise.
- Vocabulary: Limited use of vocabulary with less variety (“sometimes”, “may not be accurate”).
- Spelling: No errors.
Volunteers using technology to monitor environmental changes and assist professional scientists
Band 49-30 (Limited Level):
Citizen science is a way people help collect data with technology.
Analysis:
- Content: Fails to include critical details about environmental monitoring, professional scientists’ involvement, or data accuracy.
- Form: One sentence (11 words), too brief, missing essential points.
- Grammar: Grammatically correct but too simplistic.
- Vocabulary: Very basic (“help”, “data”).
- Spelling: No errors.
Vocabulary and Grammar Insights
To better understand the passage and practice improving your overall performance, let’s explore some vocabulary and grammar details. Below are 10 key terms from the passage:
| Word | Phonetic | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Citizen science | /ˈsɪtɪzən ˈsaɪəns/ | Scientific research involving the public’s participation. | Citizen science helps to engage communities in scientific data collection and analysis. |
| Data collection | /ˈdeɪtə kəˈlɛkʃən/ | The process of gathering information for scientific purposes. | Data collection on air quality was carried out using mobile sensors. |
| Environmental monitoring | /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmɛntəl ˈmɒnɪtərɪŋ/ | Observing and tracking changes in environmental conditions. | Many citizens contribute valuable raw data for environmental monitoring in their neighborhoods. |
| Biodiversity | /ˌbaɪoʊdaɪˈvɜːrsɪti/ | The variety of life forms in a particular ecosystem. | Citizen scientists monitor the biodiversity in local parks to help track species populations. |
| Protocols | /ˈproʊtəˌkɑːlz/ | Established procedures or agreements in scientific practice. | Scientists use strict protocols for ensuring the accuracy of data collected by volunteers. |
| Conservation | /ˈkɒnsəˈveɪʃən/ | The protection and preservation of natural environments. | Citizen science projects raise awareness of the importance of conservation efforts. |
| Accuracy | /ˈækjurəsi/ | The degree to which data or information is correct and reliable. | Technological tools help improve the accuracy of data collected in citizen science projects. |
| Collaboration | /ˌkɒləbəˈreɪʃən/ | Working jointly with others to achieve a common goal. | Collaboration between citizen volunteers and scientists is critical for gathering meaningful data. |
| Remote regions | /rɪˈmoʊt ˈriːdʒənz/ | Areas far away from large population centers or cities. | Environmental data collection in remote regions can be facilitated by local citizens. |
| Awareness | /əˈwɛrnəs/ | Knowledge or perception of a situation or fact. | Citizen science helps to increase public awareness of environmental challenges. |
Biodiversity and environmental monitoring through citizen participation
Conclusion
The Summarize Written Text task on Citizen Science in Environmental Monitoring is a relevant and important practice for PTE exam-takers. By engaging with such topics, not only do you prepare for the actual exam, but you also stay informed about significant worldwide issues. It’s crucial to practice consistently, focusing on both content and structure. Leave a comment below with your own summaries or thoughts on this task, and let’s continue the learning journey together!
