The Summarize Written Text section in the Speaking & Writing module of the PTE Academic tests a candidate’s ability to grasp the essence of a given text and condense it into a single, concise sentence. Among various popular topics, renewable energy and the global energy transition has emerged as a frequently covered theme in the exam. This topic touches on key areas such as sustainability, alternative resources, and the role of policies in promoting green energy. In this article, we provide you with sample questions based on the latest trends and strategies in the PTE exam.
This practice will help you better understand how to approach topics like Alternative energy sources and sustainability or how renewable energy impacts global economies and grid stability.
Common Questions in Summarize Written Text
Below you will find sample PTE Summarize Written Text questions related to Renewable Energy and the Global Energy Transition. Practice each question as if you’re in an exam setting, trying to condense the key points into a grammatically correct and concise sentence. Make sure to focus on understanding the content, form, and vocabulary to maximize your score.
Summarize Written Text Sample Question 1: Renewable Energy Policies
Renewable energy is increasingly seen as a critical solution to global energy issues, offering countries the opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while securing energy independence. Governments worldwide are enacting policies that promote the use of clean energy technologies. For instance, the European Union has committed to reducing its carbon emissions by 55% by 2030. Similarly, China aims to have 25% of its electricity generated from non-fossil fuels by the same timeframe. These efforts are complemented by various incentives and subsidies that make renewable energy adoption more financially viable for industries and citizens alike.
Task: Summarize the given text in one sentence.
Model Answer (Band 90):
Governments globally are implementing policies and providing incentives to promote renewable energy, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and achieve energy independence.
Evaluation:
- Content: Successfully captures the key idea of government policies, global trends, and the implications for carbon reduction.
- Form: Ideal length with no unnecessary details.
- Grammar: Free from errors, uses complex structures appropriately.
- Vocabulary: Sophisticated yet understandable word choice, e.g., “implementing” and “incentives.”
- Spelling: Error-free.
Model Answer (Band 65):
Countries are introducing renewable energy policies to reduce emissions and help industries adopt clean energy.
Evaluation:
- Content: Covers the essential point but omits specific global examples.
- Form: Adequate, though slightly below optimal length.
- Grammar: Correct, but simpler sentence structure.
- Vocabulary: Basic, lacks variety compared to higher-band answers.
- Spelling: Correct.
Renewable energy policies across countries
Summarize Written Text Sample Question 2: Global Transition to Clean Energy
The global transition to renewable energy is seen as essential for achieving sustainability and mitigating climate change. Fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas currently dominate the energy market, contributing significantly to global carbon emissions. However, recent technological advancements in renewable resources, especially solar and wind power, have made clean energy more accessible. Some regions, especially those with abundant natural resources, have experienced a significant reduction in costs, leading to the further adoption of renewable energy technologies.
Task: Summarize the given text in one sentence.
Model Answer (Band 90):
The global shift towards renewable energy is crucial for sustainability, with advancements in solar and wind power making clean energy more accessible and cost-effective.
Evaluation:
- Content: Comprehensive, includes key aspects like costs, technology, and sustainability.
- Form: Well-structured and concise.
- Grammar: Excellent, both in complexity and accuracy.
- Vocabulary: Strong vocabulary usage, such as “advancements” and “accessible.”
- Spelling: Correct, no issues.
Model Answer (Band 70):
The progress in solar and wind technologies is making renewable energy affordable and helping reduce carbon emissions.
Evaluation:
- Content: Addresses main points but misses the global importance of the shift.
- Form: Reasonable length.
- Grammar: Good sentence structure, though simpler than in higher bands.
- Vocabulary: Correct but less varied.
- Spelling: Correct.
Vocabulary and Grammar
Understanding and utilizing critical vocabulary is crucial for performing well in the PTE Summarize Written Text section. Here are 10 essential vocabulary words from the sample questions:
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Incentives /ɪnˈsɛntɪv/ (noun) – Something that motivates or encourages someone to do something.
- Example: The government offers financial incentives to businesses that adopt clean energy.
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Carbon Emissions /ˈkɑːrbən ɪˈmɪʃənz/ (noun) – The release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
- Example: Reducing carbon emissions is critical for combating climate change.
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Sustainability /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪlɪti/ (noun) – The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
- Example: Renewable energy is vital for sustainability in energy production.
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Mitigate /ˈmɪtɪˌɡeɪt/ (verb) – To make less severe or serious, often referring to environmental impacts.
- Example: Renewable energy helps mitigate the negative effects of fossil fuels.
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Technological Advancements /ˌtɛknəˈlɒʤɪkəl ədˈvɑːnsmənts/ (noun) – The progress in technology making processes or systems more efficient.
- Example: Technological advancements have driven down the cost of solar panels.
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Viable /ˈvaɪəbəl/ (adjective) – Capable of working successfully.
- Example: Renewable energy has become a viable alternative to fossil fuels.
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Energy Transition /ˈɛnərʤi trænsɪˈʃən/ (noun) – The process of shifting from fossil fuels to renewable energy.
- Example: The energy transition is necessary to meet global climate goals.
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Subsidies /ˈsʌbsɪdiz/ (noun) – Financial support provided by governments to reduce the cost of goods or services.
- Example: Many countries offer subsidies for the installation of solar panels.
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Grid Stability /ɡrɪd stəˈbɪlɪti/ (noun) – The reliability and steadiness of an electrical grid.
- Example: Integrating wind energy with traditional sources can improve grid stability.
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Non-fossil Fuels /nɒn ˈfɒsəl fjuːəlz/ (noun) – Energy resources that do not come from fossil deposits, such as solar or hydro.
- Example: China plans to have 25% of its electricity from non-fossil fuels.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Renewable Energy And Global Energy Transition is an increasingly common topic in PTE exams due to its global relevance. As you practice Summarize Written Text, focus on the structure of your responses, paying attention to content, grammar, and vocabulary. To further deepen your knowledge, explore related topics such as Renewable energy and grid stability and Renewable energy policies worldwide. Regular exposure to such themes will also increase your awareness of renewable energy topics beyond the exam.
