In the PTE Speaking & Writing section, the Summarize Written Text task can be quite challenging. It typically presents a passage of 150-400 words which you need to condense into a single sentence of no more than 75 words. One common topic that has appeared frequently in various PTE exams is Nuclear energy versus renewable alternatives. This topic tests not only your summarization ability but also your understanding of key vocabulary and grammar.
Below, you will find sample Summarize Written Text tasks based on the theme of nuclear energy versus renewable energy. These tasks follow the PTE test standards, giving you a realistic example to practice and improve your skills.
Sample Summarize Written Text Task
Task 1: Nuclear Energy vs. Renewable Alternatives
Passage:
Nuclear energy has been considered a vital component in the global energy mix for decades, offering a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels. However, concerns over safety, the potential for catastrophic accidents, and the disposal of nuclear waste have reignited debates. In contrast, renewable alternatives like wind, solar, and hydropower propose greener solutions to the energy crisis. These sources are not only sustainable but also more acceptable to the public due to their lower environmental impact and technological advancement. Although renewable sources have their challenges, such as weather dependency and initial setup costs, the potential benefits make them some of the most viable energy solutions for the future.
Instruction: Summarize the passage in one sentence.
Nuclear energy versus renewable energy comparison
Model Answers and Band Scores
Band 90 response:
Nuclear energy offers a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels, but it faces criticism over safety and waste disposal, while renewable sources, which are sustainable and environmentally friendly, have their own challenges, yet they are increasingly viable energy solutions for the future.
- Content: Full coverage of the main points.
- Form: Proper length of the sentence.
- Grammar: Flawless grammar.
- Vocabulary: Superior use of paraphrasing and appropriate vocabulary.
- Spelling: All spellings correct.
Band 80 response:
Nuclear energy and renewable alternatives both have advantages and disadvantages, but as renewable energy becomes more sustainable, it is seen as a better option for the future.
- Content: Covers main ideas but lacks a bit of depth in detail.
- Form: Correct sentence length.
- Grammar: Minor grammatical errors.
- Vocabulary: More basic vocabulary, sufficient paraphrasing.
- Spelling: Correct.
Band 70 response:
Renewable energy and nuclear energy are alternative low-carbon sources, but nuclear energy poses safety risks, while renewables may be better in the long run.
- Content: Somewhat accurate but lacks key information.
- Form: Sentence is within the word limit.
- Grammar: A few grammar and coherence issues.
- Vocabulary: Limited vocabulary and little paraphrasing.
- Spelling: All spellings correct.
Band 60 response:
Nuclear and renewable energy both have pros and cons, but renewable energy might be better for the future.
- Content: Key points are too vague.
- Form: Short but acceptable.
- Grammar: Multiple errors in structure.
- Vocabulary: Very simple language.
- Spelling: All spellings correct.
Task 2: Future of Global Energy Production
Passage:
The global demand for energy continues to rise, and as a result, countries are exploring various options to ensure sustainability. Nuclear energy, once regarded as the primary solution to the world’s energy needs, faces safety concerns and the immense costs associated with managing radioactive materials. In contrast, renewable energy sources, particularly those like solar and wind that rely on natural processes, provide endless supplies of energy with minimal environmental impact. Despite initial investment challenges, these options are being adopted by more nations due to their potential to meet long-term energy needs more safely and sustainably.
Instruction: Summarize the passage in one sentence.
Global energy alternatives for sustainability
Model Answers and Band Scores
Band 90 response:
While global energy demand rises, nuclear power, though efficient, poses safety challenges, leading many nations to turn to renewable sources like solar and wind, which are safer and more sustainable, despite initial costs.
- Content: Full coverage of all primary points.
- Form: Sentence length is within the word limit.
- Grammar: Perfect sentence structure and highly coherent.
- Vocabulary: Excellent and varied paraphrasing.
- Spelling: All spellings correct.
Band 80 response:
Nuclear energy is efficient but risky, and for this reason, many nations are considering renewable energy like wind and solar for safer future energy needs.
- Content: All of the key arguments are included but lacks detail.
- Form: Correct length.
- Grammar: Some minor issues.
- Vocabulary: Limited paraphrasing, but accurate.
- Spelling: Correct.
Band 70 response:
Nuclear energy is good, but nations prefer safe renewable sources like wind and solar energy despite higher costs.
- Content: Partially accurate, missed a few ideas.
- Form: Accurate length.
- Grammar: Some issues with active/passive voice.
- Vocabulary: Basic vocabulary and fewer examples of paraphrasing.
- Spelling: Accurate.
Band 60 response:
Countries are turning to wind and solar power instead of nuclear energy.
- Content: Lacks a large amount of significant information.
- Form: Acceptable.
- Grammar: Sentence comes off awkward.
- Vocabulary: Too simple and general.
- Spelling: Correct.
Vocabulary Focus: Key Terms
Here are some valuable vocabulary words from the passages that will enhance your understanding and improve your performance in the Summarize Written Text task:
-
Sustainability /səˌsteɪ.nəˈbɪl.ə.ti/: The ability to maintain a process over time without draining resources.
Example: Renewable energy is praised for its sustainability. -
Radioactive /ˌreɪ.di.oʊˈæk.tɪv/: Emitting radiation or particles through nuclear decay.
Example: Nuclear energy is efficient, but managing radioactive materials is costly. -
Dependency /dɪˈpen.dən.si/: Relying on something else for support or survival.
Example: One challenge of renewable energy is its dependency on weather conditions. -
Viable /ˈvaɪ.ə.bəl/: Capable of working successfully or feasible.
Example: Wind energy is seen as a viable source of future energy. -
Fossil Fuels /ˈfɒs.əl fjuːlz/: Natural fuels such as coal or gas formed in the earth.
Example: We need to shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy to reduce carbon emissions. -
Safety Concerns /ˈseɪf.ti kənˌsɜrnz/: Worries about potential danger to health or life.
Example: Nuclear energy often faces heavy criticism due to serious safety concerns. -
Investment /ɪnˈvest.mənt/: The action of spending money with the expectation of achieving a profit or material result.
Example: Initial setup in renewable energy may require significant investment. -
Hydropower /ˈhaɪ.droʊˌpaʊər/: Power derived from the energy of moving water.
Example: Hydropower is one of the oldest renewable energy sources. -
Technological Advancement /tek.nəˈlɑː.dʒi.kl ədˈvæns mənt/: The progress in technology and its application.
Example: Technological advancements have made renewable energy more efficient. -
Catastrophic /ˌkæt.əˈstrɒf.ɪk/: Involving sudden great damage.
Example: A catastrophic nuclear accident can result in widespread environmental damage.
Conclusion
Summarize Written Text is an important aspect of the PTE exam and frequently deals with global issues like Nuclear Energy vs Renewable Sources, as seen in the practice tasks above. By familiarizing yourself with common topics like this one and practicing regularly, you’ll increase your ability to summarize accurately and concisely, with a focus on key ideas and relevant vocabulary.
PTE example tasks on energy sources
Let us know how useful these practice tasks were, and don’t hesitate to share your own summaries in the comments below!
