Summarize Written Text Practice: Genetic Modification in Food Production in PTE

In the PTE (Pearson Test of English), Summarize Written Text is a critical part of the Speaking and Writing section, challenging test-takers to comprehend complex passages and summarize them accurately in one sentence. One recurring theme in Summarize Written Text is Genetic Modification In Food Production, a relevant and significant topic in modern agricultural discussions. This article provides you with sample tests based on this theme and responses analyzed by band score for your effective preparation.

Genetic Modification in Food Production: Sample PTE Summarize Written Text Questions

Here are some practice questions centered around the topic of genetic modification in food production, which is highly relevant in the actual PTE exam. These passages give you a chance to improve your summarization skills while touching on a topic often discussed in the exam room.

Question 1: The Influence of Genetic Modification on Crop Yield

Genetic modification has been integral in modern agriculture to enhance both the quantity and quality of crops. Through modifying specific genes, scientists have been able to make plants more resistant to pests, adverse weather conditions, and other harmful factors such as viruses and bacteria. Furthermore, genetically modified crops have faster growth rates, leading to an increase in annual harvests and the reduction of agricultural shortages in various parts of the world. However, critics argue that not enough studies have been conducted on the potential long-term health impacts of consuming genetically altered foods, especially regarding unforeseen side effects such as allergenic reactions and resistance to antibiotics.

Your task: Summarize the passage in one sentence.

Question 2: The Role of Biotechnology in Sustainable Agriculture

Biotechnology in agriculture, particularly through genetic engineering, has enabled the development of sustainable farming practices. Farmers can now grow crops that require fewer chemical inputs, reducing the overall environmental impact. Moreover, certain genetically modified crops are engineered to withstand harsher climates, diminishing water use in drought-prone regions and yielding higher outputs even in adverse conditions. These breakthroughs are vital as they not only support sustainable farming but also support the global demand for food, especially when the world faces rapid population growth.

Your task: Summarize the passage in one sentence.

Model Answers and Band Score Analysis

Below are model answers to the provided questions analyzed by band scores, explaining the reasoning behind each score. This breakdown will help you better prepare for the Summarize Written Text task in PTE with clearer understanding of scoring criteria.

High Band Answer (79+):

Question 1 Answer:

Genetic modification has improved crop yields by making plants resistant to harsh conditions, but there are concerns regarding the health impacts of consuming genetically modified foods.

Analysis

• Content: Comprehensive coverage of all points: crop modification benefits and concerns.
• Form: One complete sentence, less than the word limit.
• Grammar: Grammatically accurate.
• Vocabulary: Appropriate and varied (e.g., “resistant,” “modification,” “health impacts”).
• Spelling: No errors.

Question 2 Answer:

Biotechnology enables sustainable agriculture by reducing the need for chemicals and helping crops thrive in difficult conditions, which supports food security.

Analysis

• Content: Captures the key ideas: sustainability, reduced environmental impact, crop resilience.
• Form: Concise one-sentence format.
• Grammar: Correct usage of complex sentence structures.
• Vocabulary: Consistent and well-applied (e.g., “sustainable agriculture,” “food security”).
• Spelling: Perfect.

Mid Band Answer (65-78):

Question 1 Answer:

Genetic modification has helped increase crop yields, but there are concerns about possible health issues.

Analysis

• Content: Adequate but misses details about specific benefits like pest resistance and unforeseen health side effects.
• Form: Stays within one sentence.
• Grammar: Simple but correct.
• Vocabulary: Basic but effective (e.g., “increase yields,” “health issues”).
• Spelling: Correct spelling throughout.

Question 2 Answer:

Biotechnology is helping agriculture become more sustainable by reducing chemical usage and allowing crops to grow in tough climates.

Analysis

• Content: Covers the key points but lacks depth or focus on food security.
• Form: Correct sentence format.
• Grammar: Correct but simpler grammatical structures.
• Vocabulary: Basic vocabulary used (e.g., “helping,” “reduce”).
• Spelling: Flawless.

Low Band Answer (50-64):

Question 1 Answer:

Genetic modified crops are increasing, but there are unknown effects.

Analysis

• Content: Misses important details about benefits and uses vague wording like “unknown effects.”
• Form: The sentence is incomplete and lacks connection between ideas.
• Grammar: Errors in verb tense (“genetic modified” instead of “genetically modified”).
• Vocabulary: Simplistic (e.g., “unknown effects”).
• Spelling: The word “genetic” should be “genetically.”

Question 2 Answer:

Biotechnology helps farmers grow more food.

Analysis

• Content: Too brief, omits vital information on sustainability and environmental benefits.
• Form: Correct sentence format but oversimplified.
• Grammar: Grammatically correct, but very basic.
• Vocabulary: Lacks complexity (e.g., “grow,” “more food”).
• Spelling: No errors.

Genetic modification of crops illustrated through laboratory testing

Advanced Vocabulary from the Passages

1. Modification /ˌmɒdɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/ (n): The act of making changes.

   • Example: Genetic modification is essential in today’s agricultural practices.

2. Genetically /dʒəˈnɛtɪkli/ (adv): Relating to genes or heredity.

   • Example: Genetically modified organisms are often more pest-resistant.

3. Resistant /rɪˈzɪstənt/ (adj): Able to withstand something.

   • Example: These crops are resistant to drought conditions.

4. Sustainability /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ (n): Ability to be maintained over the long term.

   • Example: Sustainable agriculture is vital for future food security.

5. Allergenic /ˌæləˈdʒenɪk/ (adj): Causing allergic reactions.

   • Example: Concerns about allergenic effects of GMOs remain controversial.

6. Biotechnology /ˌbaɪəʊtɛkˈnɒlədʒi/ (n): Technology that uses biological systems.

   • Example: Biotechnology in food production can enhance sustainability.

7. Harvests /ˈhɑːrvɪsts/ (n): The process or period of gathering crops.

   • Example: Multiple harvests can be achieved annually with the right genetic modifications.

8. Food security /fuːd səˈkjʊərɪti/ (n): Availability and access to sufficient food.

   • Example: Genetic engineering is crucial for improving global food security.

9. Allergic /əˈlɜːdʒɪk/ (adj): Having an abnormal reaction to substances.

   • Example: Some people may be allergic to specific GM crops.

10. Climate adaptation /ˈklaɪmət ædæpteɪʃən/ (n): Adjusting to changes in climate.

    • Example: Genetic modification aids in crop climate adaptation.

A farmer implementing sustainable agricultural practices on a genetically modified crop

Conclusion

Genetic modification in food production is a common topic in the PTE exam’s Summarize Written Text task. Understanding the pros and cons of biotechnology, including public perception and effects on sustainability, will provide valuable context for your answers. Practice summarizing complex passages into concise sentences, and focus on capturing the key points. For more information, check out our resources on Biotechnology in food production and Gene editing in agriculture for sustainability.

Feel free to share your practice answers or ask any questions related to PTE exam preparation in the comments below!