The “Summarize Written Text” section in PTE Speaking & Writing evaluates a test-taker’s ability to comprehend written material and condense it into a single sentence that conveys the most essential information. Topics related to global issues, particularly those surrounding Global Cooperation For Climate Action, have become prevalent in recent exams. This article will provide practice prompts and analyses, helping you prepare for this demanding section of the test.
1. Sample Task: Global Cooperation for Climate Action
Below is a Summarize Written Text exercise about global cooperation in combating climate change—a recurring theme in the PTE exam. Read the passage carefully and summarize it in one sentence.
The urgency for global cooperation to address climate change has never been greater. With the acceleration of global warming, nations must come together to implement climate policies that limit greenhouse gas emissions and promote renewable energy. Through international agreements like the Paris Agreement, countries across the world have committed to reducing their ecological footprint and transitioning to sustainable economies. Financial and technological support for developing nations is crucial, as they often lack the resources to develop green technologies on their own. Additionally, climate action must be inclusive, taking into account marginalized communities that are disproportionately affected by environmental changes. Only through comprehensive cooperation, innovation, and commitment can we fight the adverse impacts of climate change and secure a future for coming generations.
Task: Summarize the text in one sentence.
Model Answers Based on PTE Band Scores
High Band (79-90)
Strong focus on overall content, concise expression, complete understanding of the context.
“Global cooperation, including international agreements and support for developing nations, is essential for combating climate change by reducing emissions, promoting renewable energy, and ensuring inclusivity.”
Content: The key aspects of the passage are well-captured—the need for global cooperation, reducing emissions, promoting renewables, and supporting developing nations.
Form: Adheres strictly to one sentence without exceeding the word limit.
Grammar: Grammatically flawless with proper conjunction.
Vocabulary: Terminology related to climate action—such as “international agreements”, “renewable energy”, and “developing nations”—shows accurate word use.
Spelling: No errors.
Mid Band (65-78)
Good understanding of content, but may lack some depth or completeness.
“Cooperation between nations is crucial for reducing emissions, implementing renewable energy, and securing support for developing countries to stop climate change.”
Content: Although the core message is present, some nuances—like inclusive climate action and innovation—are missing.
Form: The answer is still within the word count and follows the guidelines.
Grammar: Correct grammar, but a more complex sentence structure could communicate ideas more effectively.
Vocabulary: Satisfactory vocabulary; less complex than high-band answers.
Spelling: No errors.
Low Band (50-64)
Lacks completeness in conveying the main information.
“Countries should work together to reduce global warming and help poorer countries.”
Content: Though relevant, much essential information is omitted—important ideas like inclusivity, renewable energy, and international agreements are missing.
Form: Observes the sentence length but is overly simplistic.
Grammar: Grammatically correct but lacks complexity.
Vocabulary: Basic language; lacking specific terminology required for a high-scoring response.
Spelling: No errors.
2. Vocabulary Focus
Below are 10 challenging words from the paragraph about global cooperation for climate action, complete with their meanings, phonetic transcription, and examples of usage:
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Urgency /ˈɜːrdʒənsi/ (n): the need for swift action.
- E.g., There is an urgency to address the rising global temperatures.
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Commitment /kəˈmɪtmənt/ (n): a promise or firm decision to do something.
- E.g., Nations have made a strong commitment to reducing their carbon footprints.
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Ecological footprint /ˈɛkəˌlɒdʒɪkəl ˈfʊtprɪnt/ (n): the impact of human activities measured in terms of the area of biologically productive land and water.
- E.g., Many companies are striving to reduce their ecological footprint.
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Transitioning /trænˈzɪʃənɪŋ/ (v): the process of changing from one state or condition to another.
- E.g., Global economies are transitioning towards renewable energy sources.
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Renewable energy /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈɛnərdʒi/ (n): energy from sources that do not deplete, such as wind or solar power.
- E.g., Renewable energy is key to combating climate change.
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Inclusive /ɪnˈkluːsɪv/ (adj): aiming to include a wide range of different people or ideas.
- E.g., Climate action needs to be inclusive to support vulnerable communities.
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Disproportionately /ˌdɪsprəˈpɔːrʃənətli/ (adv): to an excessive or unfair degree.
- E.g., Low-income countries are disproportionately affected by climate change.
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Innovation /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ (n): the introduction of something new, especially new ideas or methods.
- E.g., Technological innovation will play a major role in reducing carbon emissions.
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Greenhouse gases /ˈɡriːnhaʊs ɡæsɪz/ (n): harmful gases such as carbon dioxide, which trap heat in the atmosphere.
- E.g., Policies are being enacted to reduce greenhouse gases.
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Marginalized /ˈmɑːdʒɪnəˌlaɪzd/ (adj): left out or having less importance.
- E.g., Marginalized communities face the greatest risks from climate change impacts.
3. Key Strategy for Summarize Written Text
As observed in the sample exercise, effective answers require a precise understanding of the passage and the ability to convey complex ideas succinctly. Developing this skill can significantly enhance performance in this part of the test and prepare you for topics such as Global water crisis and conservation efforts, which also frequently appear in the PTE exam.
For more complex environmental topics, understanding connections between Sustainable fisheries and marine ecosystems and broader environmental cooperation can help you practice summarizing these multifaceted ideas concisely. In addition, issues related to Oceanic research and resource management are prominent in both practice and real exams.
Conclusion
Summarizing is a skill that can only be mastered with consistent practice. The topic of global cooperation for climate action is both timely and challenging, making it necessary for PTE candidates to stay informed on environmental issues. Regularly engaging with such topics, and refining skills with practice prompts like the one shared here, ensures readiness for the PTE exam.
Comments, questions, and experiences with your own understanding of global cooperation for climate action in the Summarize Written Text task are encouraged—leave them below!
