In this article, we will focus on the theme of “Genetic engineering in food production,” one of the most prominent topics in PTE. Along with the writing prompt, you’ll find detailed answer analyses for band scores, vocabulary breakdown, and model responses to help you improve every aspect of the test.
Let’s delve into the essential content.
Set 1: Genetic Engineering and Food Supply
Prompt
Food production has been revolutionized by genetic engineering, offering significantly greater yields and adaptability for crops in different environments. Genetically modified (GM) crops are engineered to be resistant to pests, withstand harsh weather conditions, and even provide higher nutritional content. Although many scientists champion the benefits of GM foods, citing their importance in addressing world hunger and improving food security, concerns remain regarding their long-term effects on human health and the environment. Critics argue that there is insufficient research on the ecological impacts and the potential for these organisms to crossbreed with natural species, potentially leading to unintended consequences.
Summarize the written text in one sentence.
Model Responses
Band 90:
Genetic engineering has transformed food production by creating crops with better yields and resistance to environmental challenges, but concerns about long-term health and ecological risks remain.
Analysis:
Content (5/5) – The response addresses all key points. It discusses the benefits of genetic engineering, such as yield improvement and resistance to environmental challenges, and acknowledges the concerns related to health and the environment.
Form (1/1) – The summary is exactly one sentence.
Grammar (2/2) – Perfect grammar with no mistakes.
Vocabulary (2/2) – Accurate choice of vocabulary, such as “transformed,” “resistance,” and “ecological risks.”
Spelling (2/2) – No spelling errors.
Band 75:
Genetic engineering has improved crop yields and resilience, yet its effect on human health and the natural environment is still a debated issue.
Analysis:
Content (4/5) – This summary correctly captures the advancements in crop yields but lacks some of the detailed points, such as specific references to GM foods providing higher nutritional content or crossbreeding concerns.
Form (1/1) – The response meets the one-sentence requirement.
Grammar (1.5/2) – There is one minor grammatical structure issue with “its effect” being debated, rather than “its effects.”
Vocabulary (1.5/2) – The word choice is appropriate but lacks some richness; for instance, “resilience” could have been more specific.
Spelling (2/2) – Accurate spelling.
Band 65:
Genetic engineering has made crops yield more but some believe there might be health and environmental problems.
Analysis:
Content (3/5) – The response lacks the complexity and detail required, especially around specific benefits like increased resistance to pests and environmental issues beyond the generic “environmental problems.”
Form (1/1) – The answer is one sentence.
Grammar (1.5/2) – Some minor grammatical issues exist, particularly with sentence structure, making the sentence sound simplistic.
Vocabulary (1.5/2) – “Health and environmental problems” is general and misses more precise jargon from the prompt.
Spelling (2/2) – No spelling mistakes.
Set 2: Safety Concerns in Genetic Modification
Prompt
The development of GM organisms has led to enhanced agricultural productivity, but concerns regarding their safety persist. Critics question the regulatory framework governing GMOs, arguing that the current standards for safety testing may not be comprehensive. Long-term studies on the consumption of GM foods and their potential for unexpected allergenicity or toxicity are limited. In addition, the environmental impact of releasing GM organisms into ecosystems has been raised as a crucial issue. Proponents, however, argue that GM technology is essential for ensuring food security in an era of climate change and population growth.
Summarize the written text in one sentence.
Model Responses
Band 90:
Although GM technology promises to enhance agricultural productivity and food security, concerns remain over inadequate safety testing, long-term health risks, and environmental impacts.
Band 75:
While GM technology boosts agricultural productivity, there are concerns about safety testing, health risks, and environmental effects.
Band 65:
GM technology helps agriculture but some people are concerned about safety.
For more detailed discussions around public perceptions of genetic modification, you can explore further on Public attitudes toward genetic engineering.
Vocabulary and Grammar Breakdown
Below is a list of key vocabulary from the sample tests, along with definitions and example usage:
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Genetic engineering /dʒəˌnetɪk en.dʒɪˈnɪərɪŋ/ – the deliberate modification of the characteristics of living organisms by manipulating their genetic material.
- Genetic engineering has led to the creation of crops resistant to pests.
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Ecological /ˌiː.kəˈlɒdʒɪ.kəl/ – relating to the relationships between living organisms and their environment.
- The ecological effects of GM foods are still under scrutiny.
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Resilience /rɪˈzɪl.jəns/ – the ability to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions.
- Resilience to climate change is a key advantage of genetically modified crops.
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Yield /jiːld/ – the full amount of an agricultural or industrial product.
- The yield of genetically modified wheat is higher than that of normal crops.
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Allergenicity /ˌæl.ə.dʒəˈnɪ.sə.ti/ – the ability of a substance to cause allergic reactions.
- There are ongoing studies to assess the allergenicity of GM foods.
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Toxicity /tɒkˈsɪsɪti/ – the degree to which a substance can damage an organism.
- The toxicity of certain GM crops needs further research.
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Food security /fuːd sɪˈkjʊərəti/ – the state of having reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable and nutritious food.
- GM crops are essential for achieving food security in developing regions.
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Regulatory framework /ˈrɛɡjʊlətəri ˈfreɪmwɜːk/ – a system of rules and guidelines that govern activities.
- The regulatory framework for GM foods may need updating to ensure safety.
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Crossbreed /ˈkrɒsbriːd/ – produce a hybrid by mating or breeding different species or varieties.
- The potential for GM organisms to crossbreed with natural species is a concern.
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Population growth /ˌpɒpjʊˈleɪʃən ɡrəʊθ/ – the increase in the number of individuals in a population.
- Population growth is one reason we need more efficient food production techniques.
For those interested in understanding the environmental implications, check out Effects of genetic engineering on agriculture.
Conclusion
The Summarize Written Text task in PTE requires a deep understanding of both the content and how to formulate an effective, concise summary. Practicing with prompts around genetic engineering in food production will not only improve your factual knowledge but also help refine your summarizing skills. Given its frequency in the PTE exam, this is an excellent topic to regularly practice with.
Feel free to leave a comment if you would like additional prompts or guidance as you prepare for your test!
