In the PTE Academic’s Speaking and Writing section, Summarize Written Text (SWT) is an essential challenge. The task requires test takers to read a passage of up to 300 words and produce one single sentence summary of the text. This article delivers high-quality, practice-oriented samples of SWT questions, focusing on the massively important topic of Renewable Energy Storage Advancements. Renewable energy storage is garnering attention as it plays a crucial role in the future of sustainable power systems, especially concerning renewable energy integration into public infrastructure.
Summarize Written Text Sample Question: Renewable Energy Storage Advancements
The topic of renewable energy storage has been suggested multiple times in PTE exams, given its growing relevance in society. A likely test prompt might focus on advancements in this field, the challenges associated, and the benefits of innovative energy solutions.
Question Prompt:
Renewable energy storage refers to various technologies that store electricity generated from renewable sources like solar and wind power, enabling electricity providers to deliver stable energy supply regardless of intermittent power generation. Recent advancements in battery technologies, such as the development of lithium-ion and solid-state batteries, have drastically increased the efficiency, capacity, and lifespan of renewable energy storage systems. However, significant challenges remain, such as the high cost of manufacturing and limitations in material availability, which slow down scalability on a global level. Governments and institutions are addressing these challenges by investing in research and incentivizing the adoption of new storage technologies, thus paving the way for a future where renewable energy can be reliably integrated into national grids.
Your task: Summarize the text in one sentence using 5-75 words.
Sample Answers Based on Different Band Scores
Band 79+ Answer (High Score):
Recent advancements in renewable energy storage, particularly in lithium-ion and solid-state batteries, have improved efficiency and capacity, but challenges like high costs and limited materials hinder global scalability, prompting governments to incentivize further developments for grid integration.
Evaluation:
- Content: Excellent—covers key ideas including advancements, challenges, and government support.
- Form: Correct—one sentence, 55 words.
- Grammar: Excellent—perfect use of complex structures without errors.
- Vocabulary: Advanced—usage of “efficiency,” “capacity,” “scalability.”
- Spelling: Flawless.
Battery technologies improving renewable energy storage capacity
Band 65-78 Answer (Moderate Score):
Although lithium-ion and solid-state batteries have significantly improved renewable energy storage, global scalability is slowed by high costs and material shortages, motivating governments to support further research.
Evaluation:
- Content: Good—covers most major points but not in the same depth as the high-score answer.
- Form: Correct—one sentence, 40 words.
- Grammar: Strong—only slight simplifications in structures.
- Vocabulary: Good—adequate variety, but simpler choices than high-score sample.
- Spelling: Correct.
Band 50-64 Answer (Basic Score):
Renewable energy storage advancements are happening, but high costs and material problems are stopping global expansion, and governments are helping with research.
Evaluation:
- Content: Basic—lacks detail and complexity, omitting specifics like battery types.
- Form: Correct—one sentence, 25 words.
- Grammar: Satisfactory—more basic sentence structure.
- Vocabulary: Limited—“problems” and “helping” could be more academic.
- Spelling: No errors, but vocabulary is basic.
Vocabulary and Grammar Focus
Below are ten key vocabulary words from the passage, along with their phonetic spelling and example sentences:
-
Intermittent /ɪn.təˈmɪt.ənt/ (adjective): Occurring at irregular intervals.
Example: Solar energy is an intermittent power source, as it depends on sunlight. -
Efficiency /ɪˈfɪʃ.ən.si/ (noun): The ability to perform with maximum productivity using minimum resources.
Example: Improvements in battery efficiency have far-reaching impacts on renewable power viability. -
Scalability /ˌskeɪ.ləˈbɪl.ə.ti/ (noun): The capacity to be expanded to a larger scale.
Example: To meet future energy demands, renewable technologies need improved scalability. -
Lithium-ion /ˈlɪθ.iəm-aɪ.ən/ (noun): A type of rechargeable battery commonly used in energy storage.
Example: Lithium-ion batteries are known for their high energy density and durability. -
Solid-state /ˈsɒl.ɪd-steɪt/ (adjective): Referring to devices that use solid material instead of liquid or gas in their operation.
Example: Solid-state batteries are safer and more efficient compared to conventional types. -
Advancements /ədˈvɑːns.mənts/ (noun): Developments or improvements in a field.
Example: Major advancements in storage technology have enhanced the reliability of renewable power. -
Grid /ɡrɪd/ (noun): A network for distributing electricity.
Example: The integration of renewable sources into the grid has challenges due to fluctuating output. -
Material availability /məˈtɪə.ri.əl əˌveɪ.ləˈbɪl.ɪ.ti/ (noun): The availability of raw materials necessary for production.
Example: Material availability is a significant issue in scaling up battery technologies. -
Incentivize /ɪnˈsɛn.tɪ.vaɪz/ (verb): To encourage or motivate someone to do something.
Example: Governments are incentivizing developments in renewable energy storage. -
Integration /ˌɪn.tɪˈɡreɪ.ʃən/ (noun): The process of combining different parts into a whole.
Example: The integration of renewable energy into national power grids is becoming increasingly feasible.
Conclusion
In the Summarize Written Text question for PTE, being concise yet comprehensive is key to a high score. Renewable energy storage is an increasingly frequent topic, reflecting its crucial role in the future of renewable energy grids and sustainable development. Use the samples provided here to familiarize yourself with how to effectively summarize passages on this important issue, and don’t forget to practice frequently to optimize your performance. For further study, consider looking into trends in long-term energy storage solutions for renewable power for a deeper understanding of the field.
Feel free to leave a comment for more practice questions or feedback!