The Economic Impact of Renewable Energy Subsidies: PTE Summarize Written Text Practice

In the PTE exam’s Speaking & Writing section, the Summarize Written Text task is critical as it measures various skills such as vocabulary, grammar, and coherence. One of the most frequent topics in this section relates to contemporary global issues, and renewable energy is a popular subject due to its growing significance.

In this piece, we present sample Summarize Written Text questions focusing on the economic impact of renewable energy subsidies. Practice this challenging topic to improve your performance on your PTE test, and take this opportunity to fine-tune your exam strategies.

Example Summarize Written Text Question 1:

The implementation of renewable energy subsidies by governments worldwide has had a transformative effect on the economy. These incentives have reduced the cost of green technologies like solar and wind energy, making them more accessible for both consumers and businesses. Subsidies have also encouraged more entrepreneurs to invest in renewable energy, which has led to increased job creation and further economic growth. However, there are critics who argue that subsidies can distort the energy market and may disproportionately benefit large corporations over small businesses, limiting the development of a truly competitive market.

Summarize the text in one sentence.

Sample Responses:

Band 90 Response:
Government subsidies for renewable energy have significantly boosted the economy by reducing the cost of green technologies, promoting job creation, and encouraging investments, although some critics argue these subsidies distort the energy market and primarily benefit large corporations.

• Content: The response successfully captures key points from the text, including economic impacts, job creation, and the critics’ concerns.
• Form: The sentence is well-structured, within the word limit.
• Grammar: Grammar is completely accurate.
• Vocabulary: Good use of advanced vocabulary.
• Spelling: No spelling errors.

Band 80 Response:
Renewable energy subsidies have lowered costs, created jobs, and stimulated investments but may disrupt the market and favor large corporations according to critics.

• Content: Key ideas are presented, though the explanation of “economic growth” is somewhat compressed.
• Form: The sentence is concise and within the word limit.
• Grammar: Grammar is mostly accurate with a couple of mild ambiguities.
• Vocabulary: Good use of common vocabulary, limited advanced terms.
• Spelling: No errors.

Band 70 Response:
Subsidies for renewable energy help reduce prices, create jobs, but might ruin competition and benefit big companies.

• Content: Important points are mentioned, but the sentence lacks depth.
• Form: The sentence is simple and within the word limit.
• Grammar: Some minor problems with conjunction usage.
• Vocabulary: Basic vocabulary, lacks variety.
• Spelling: No errors.

Example Summarize Written Text Question 2:

In recent years, the global shift towards sustainable energy solutions has led to the adoption of renewable energy subsidies by many nations. These subsidies have played a vital role in reducing the initial investment costs for renewable energy projects, accelerating the transition from fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources. As a result, countries that have implemented these subsidies report considerable economic benefits, such as increased employment in the renewable energy sector and reduced dependence on imported fossil fuels, which strengthens national energy security.

Summarize the text in one sentence.

Sample Responses:

Band 90 Response:
Renewable energy subsidies have facilitated lower investment costs for clean energy projects, boosting employment in the sector and reducing dependence on fossil fuels, while enhancing national energy security in countries adopting these measures.

• Content: Captures all key elements from the passage, including economic benefits and energy security improvements.
• Form: Clearly structured within the word limit.
• Grammar: Grammar is flawless.
• Vocabulary: Appropriate advanced terms used.
• Spelling: No errors.

Band 80 Response:
Countries that adopt renewable energy subsidies experience lower project costs, more jobs, and enhanced energy security through reduced reliance on fossil fuel imports.

• Content: Almost all key information is conveyed effectively.
• Form: Well within the word requirements.
• Grammar: Minor issues with sentence structure.
• Vocabulary: Good vocabulary selection.
• Spelling: No spelling issues.

Band 70 Response:
Renewable energy subsidies help reduce costs, increase energy security, and add jobs by promoting clean energy projects.

• Content: Covers the essential points but lacks depth.
• Form: Clear and concise.
• Grammar: Some grammatical issues with clarity.
• Vocabulary: Very basic vocabulary.
• Spelling: Correct.

Vocabulary and Grammar Focus

Here are 10 challenging words from the text above, along with their definitions and examples in context:

1. Subsidies /ˈsʌbsɪdiːz/ (n.)—Financial aid provided by the government to support an industry.
   Example: Renewable energy subsidies have made solar technology more affordable.

2. Distort /dɪˈstɔːrt/ (v.)—To twist or alter the meaning or perception.
   Example: Unregulated subsidies may distort the energy market.

3. Entrepreneurs /ˌɒntrəprəˈnɜːrz/ (n.)—Individuals who create, organize, and manage businesses.
   Example: Entrepreneurs in renewable energy are driving innovation and change.

4. Fossil Fuels /ˈfɒsɪl fəʊlz/ (n.)—Natural fuels like coal and oil, formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals.
   Example: The transition away from fossil fuels to renewable energy is critical for sustainability.

5. Accessible /əkˈsɛsəbl̩/ (adj.)—Easy to obtain or use.
   Example: Renewable energy is becoming more accessible thanks to technological advances.

6. Competitive /kəmˈpɛtɪtɪv/ (adj.)—Involving strong competition or capable of competing.
   Example: Critics argue that subsidies might stifle competitive markets.

7. Economic Growth /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ɡrəʊθ/ (n.)—An increase in the economic output of a country.
   Example: Renewable energy policies have contributed to considerable economic growth.

8. Dependence /dɪˈpɛndəns/ (n.)—The state of relying on someone or something.
   Example: Subsidies have reduced countries’ dependence on fossil fuels.

9. Sustainable /səˈsteɪnəbl̩/ (adj.)—Able to be maintained or continued over the long term.
   Example: Sustainable energy policies are necessary for long-term environmental protection.

10. Job Creation /dʒɒb kriːˈeɪʃən/ (n.)—The process of creating new employment opportunities.
    Example: Renewable energy sectors contribute significantly to job creation.

Renewable energy subsidies promote job creation globally

Conclusion

Practicing the Summarize Written Text tasks with a focus on “Renewable energy subsidies’ economic impact” is highly beneficial for your PTE preparation. It’s a core subject in many test iterations due to its relevance and complexity. Ensure you analyze both content and form for the best outcomes and improve your grammar and vocabulary consistently. For more insightful discussions on how renewable energy transforms the economy, explore topics such as Renewable energy and job creation, and Renewable energy costs and benefits.

Feel free to leave comments below, or share your summarized responses for feedback!