The Summarize Written Text task is an integral part of the PTE Academic Speaking & Writing sections. It requires candidates to condense a lengthy text into a one-sentence summary within 10-75 words. In this specific exercise, we will focus on the critical topic of The Ethics Of Human Genetic Modification, a subject likely to appear across various PTE test formats due to its growing relevance in today’s world.
This article will provide a practice question, multiple sample responses, and an in-depth analysis to refine your skills for this part of the PTE exam.
Summarize Written Text Practice: The Ethics of Human Genetic Modification
Practice Task Example 1: Human Genetic Modification and Its Ethical Challenges
Ethical concerns regarding genetic modification of humans have intensified as modern technologies such as CRISPR allow for precise modification of the human genome. While some advocate for genetic advancements to eliminate debilitating diseases and prevent hereditary conditions, others argue that human genetic manipulation could lead to unforeseen risks, exacerbating social inequality, and even result in irreversible damages to human genetics through eugenics-like practices. There is fear that human genetic modification could disrupt natural evolution and result in new forms of discrimination based on genetic traits. Policymakers, scientists, and ethicists are in continuous debate about the moral implications of editing the human genome, while regulatory frameworks lag behind scientific progress. Continual dialogue is crucial to ensure these technologies are used responsibly, preventing ethical violations while harnessing the benefits for global health.
Task: Summarize the passage in one sentence.
Sample Responses and Analysis
Band 90 Response:
Human genetic modification raises important ethical questions due to its potential to cure genetic diseases but also risks exacerbating societal inequality, discrimination, and unforeseen consequences, which require regulatory frameworks to oversee these advancements.
Content: Full and accurate coverage of key points including both the benefits and risks of genetic modification.
Form: Correct word count below 75, single sentence.
Grammar: Flawless.
Vocabulary: Sophisticated use of words such as “exacerbating”, “discrimination”, “foreseen consequences”.
Spelling: No mistakes.
Band 75 Response:
Genetic modification offers solutions for genetic diseases but also poses ethical risks like social inequalities and potential harms, calling for proper regulations.
Content: Covers the main ideas, though lacks depth in discussing the scientific and policy debates.
Form: Single sentence with accurate length.
Grammar: No noticeable errors.
Vocabulary: Appropriate use, though simpler compared to the Band 90 response.
Spelling: No mistakes.
Band 60 Response:
Modifying human genes is a controversial topic with both positive potential and risks related to ethical issues and social problems.
Content: Key themes are addressed but with limited details.
Form: Sentence length is acceptable and complete, though lacks specificity.
Grammar: No significant errors, but sentence structure is simple.
Vocabulary: Basic, lacks complexity.
Spelling: No mistakes.
Vocabulary Focus for Summarize Written Text
Here are 10 advanced vocabulary words from the original passage about human genetic modification, along with their phonetic transcriptions and meanings:
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CRISPR /ˈkrɪspər/ – A technology that can be used to edit genes.
- Example: CRISPR technology has revolutionized the field of genetic engineering.
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Deleterious /ˌdɛlɪˈtɪərɪəs/ – Harmful or damaging.
- Example: Some argue that gene editing could lead to deleterious effects on human health.
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Hereditary /həˈrɛdɪtəri/ – Passed down from parents to their offspring through genes.
- Example: Scientists hope to eradicate hereditary diseases through genetic modifications.
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Eugenics /juːˈdʒɛnɪks/ – The practice of improving the human race by controlled breeding.
- Example: Critics fear that genetic modification might parallel unethical eugenics practices.
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Exacerbate /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ – To make a problem or situation worse.
- Example: Political instability could exacerbate social inequality further.
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Evolution /ˌiːvəlˈuːʃən/ – The process by which organisms change over generations.
- Example: Human intervention in genetics might disrupt the course of natural evolution.
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Regulatory /ˈrɛɡjʊlətəri/ – Related to control or governance by rules or laws.
- Example: The regulatory landscape for genetic modification is still in flux.
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Discrimination /dɪˌskrɪmɪˈneɪʃən/ – Unjust treatment based on different categories such as race, age, gender.
- Example: Genetic modification might lead to new forms of genetic discrimination.
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Ethicists /ˈɛθɪsɪsts/ – Individuals who study or practice ethics.
- Example: Ethicists debate whether gene editing violates fundamental moral principles.
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Irreversible /ˌɪrɪˈvɜːsɪbəl/ – Something that cannot be undone.
- Example: Changes made to the human genome may have irreversible consequences.
Conclusion
Summarizing written texts in the PTE exam, particularly on a complex topic like the ethics of human genetic modification, challenges test-takers to synthesize diverse ideas concisely and coherently. As shown in the practice examples, success in this task hinges on carefully distilling both the risks and benefits mentioned in the passage while maintaining grammatical accuracy and varied vocabulary. Given that genetic engineering ethics in medicine is a heavily debated and multifaceted topic, it is highly likely to appear in some form in future PTE exams, making it essential to continually practice summarizing content like this.
Lastly, remember to leave comments or share your progress for feedback as you continue practicing similar summarization tasks.
