In the PTE exam, the Summarize Written Text section in the Speaking & Writing module requires candidates to read a passage and summarize it effectively in one sentence. One of the prominent topics that have gained attention recently is drone delivery services, a subject of ongoing innovation and development. This article introduces a sample task related to this topic, along with possible model responses and analysis.
The rise of drone technology has introduced a new era in logistics and delivery systems, changing the way goods are transported. Candidates should be able to process relevant information on such trending topics effectively. Let’s dive into the exercise.
Summarize Written Text: Sample Task on “The Future of Drone Delivery Services”
Prompt:
The development of drones for delivery purposes has captured the imagination of large corporations, governments, and tech enthusiasts alike. Companies like Amazon and Google have initiated programs to explore how drones can enhance last-mile delivery, reduce transportation costs, and improve delivery time. Not only are drones expected to handle small packages, but they are also being tested for larger shipments, including medical supplies to remote areas. However, regulatory issues, safety concerns, and limited flight ranges are among the challenges that need to be addressed before these services can become widespread. In many places, air traffic control systems will need to adapt to accommodate an influx of autonomous drones in the skies, while new laws to govern drone activities must be drafted. Despite obstacles, many see drone delivery services as the future of logistics—offering faster, cheaper, and more efficient ways to deliver goods.
Drone delivery preparing for last-mile and big packages
Task: Summarize the text in one sentence.
Answer Samples and Scoring
Sample Answer (Band 90+)
The future of drone delivery services looks promising with major corporations like Amazon and Google developing them to enhance delivery speed and efficiency, although challenges such as regulatory issues, safety concerns, and limited technology still obstruct widespread implementation.
Content: Full content coverage, showing understanding of the main idea about both the potential and challenges of drone delivery services.
Form: Meets requirement of 5-75 words.
Grammar: Error-free sentence with proper punctuation.
Vocabulary: Strong academic word choices such as “implementation,” “regulatory,” and “promising.”
Spelling: No errors.
Sample Answer (Band 80-89)
Drone delivery services are being explored by companies like Amazon and Google to improve logistics, yet there are challenges to overcome, including regulations and safety concerns.
Content: Summarizes most key points but omits specific details about last-mile delivery and medical supplies.
Form: Correct length.
Grammar: More straightforward sentence structure with no grammatical errors.
Vocabulary: Correct but slightly less advanced; uses “challenges to overcome” instead of more sophisticated alternatives.
Spelling: No errors.
Sample Answer (Band 70-79)
Companies are developing drones for delivery services, although there are many problems that still need to be solved like safety concerns and regulations.
Content: Misses some elements like company names and specific benefits such as speed or efficiency.
Form: Within the word limit.
Grammar: Generally good, though “that still need to be solved” could be stronger as “that remain unresolved.”
Vocabulary: Fairly simple word choices, uses “problems” instead of “challenges” or “obstacles.”
Spelling: No errors.
Challenges for widespread drone usage due to regulations and safety
Sample Answer (Band 60-69)
Delivery drones are being worked on but face many issues like safety and rules.
Content: Very basic summary, omitting key details like companies, benefits, or specific obstacles.
Form: Word count is sufficient.
Grammar: The phrase “being worked on” is informal, and “rules” should be replaced with “regulations.”
Vocabulary: Simple and repetitive, lacks academic tone.
Spelling: No errors but lacks sophistication.
Vocabulary and Grammar Spotlight
Here are 10 useful words and phrases from the text, along with their meanings and examples:
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Logistics /ləˈdʒɪstɪks/ (noun) — The process of managing the flow of goods or services.
- Example: Efficient logistics will be crucial for large-scale drone deliveries.
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Regulatory /ˈrɛɡjʊlətɔːri/ (adjective) — Relating to the control or supervision of something by rules or laws.
- Example: Regulatory frameworks will need to adapt to the rise of commercial drones.
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Autonomous /ɔːˈtɒnəməs/ (adjective) — Operating independently without human intervention.
- Example: Autonomous drones may soon become a common sight in urban areas.
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Obstacles /ˈɒbstəkəlz/ (noun) — Things that hinder or prevent progress.
- Example: Regulatory and technological obstacles must be overcome for drone delivery to flourish.
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Implementation /ˌɪmplɪmɛnˈteɪʃən/ (noun) — The process of putting a decision or plan into effect.
- Example: Full implementation of drone delivery services requires further advancements in safety protocols.
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Safety Concerns /ˈseɪfti kənˈsɜːn/ (noun phrase) — Worries or issues related to the safety of an operation.
- Example: Safety concerns around mid-air collisions need to be addressed before large-scale rollouts.
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Enhance /ɪnˈhɑːns/ (verb) — To improve or augment something.
- Example: Drones are expected to greatly enhance delivery speed and reliability.
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Widespread /ˈwaɪdsprɛd/ (adjective) — Found or distributed over a large area or among many people.
- Example: Widespread acceptance of drone deliveries depends on public trust and clear regulations.
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Incorporate /ɪnˈkɔːpəreɪt/ (verb) — To include something as part of a whole.
- Example: Drones may be incorporated into existing logistics systems for specific deliveries.
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Remote Areas /rɪˈməʊt ˈɛərɪəz/ (noun phrase) — Places far away from urban centers or difficult to access.
- Example: Delivery drones could provide essential services such as delivering medical supplies to remote areas.
Drone delivering medical supplies to a remote area
Conclusion
The sample task on The Future Of Drone Delivery Services reflects the growing relevance of drones in logistics, a topic that could be common in PTE exams. By practicing with these types of summaries, candidates can effectively prepare themselves for the Summarize Written Text section. Remember, summarizing accurately and concisely while covering all key details is crucial to success in this part of the exam. If you want to practice more, feel free to leave a comment below!
