In the PTE exam, Summarize Written Text is an essential part of the Speaking & Writing section. A popular topic that has appeared in recent years focuses on the impact of blockchain technology on supply chain management. This provides candidates with a valuable context for practicing content summarization. One key to success lies in your ability to identify the main ideas and condense them into a single sentence without losing important information. Below is a well-structured sample task based on the example of blockchain’s influence on supply chain management.
Practice Task for Summarize Written Text (PTE Writing)
Read the following passage and summarize it in one sentence within 10 minutes. Your response must be between 5 and 75 words:
Blockchain is transforming the way supply chains function by offering increased transparency, security, and efficiency. Traditionally, supply chain processes were hindered by manual interventions, delays, and lack of real-time visibility. Blockchain technology allows for automated tracking of goods from production to delivery, thanks to its decentralized ledger, which facilitates secure and immutable records. This innovation enables companies to increase trust among suppliers and customers, as well as streamline operations by eliminating middlemen and reducing errors and fraud. Ultimately, blockchain’s influence on supply chain management helps businesses improve collaboration across different stages while ensuring more accurate and timely data sharing.
Band Score Sample Responses:
Band 90 Answer:
Blockchain brings innovation to supply chain management by improving transparency, security, and efficiency with a decentralized ledger that automates tracking and enhances collaboration, reducing fraud and manual errors.
Content: All main ideas from the original text are appropriately summarized.
Form: Correct word count, sentence is concise and coherent.
Grammar: Flawless, grammatically sound.
Vocabulary: Effective use of vocabulary such as “decentralized ledger” and “collaboration”.
Spelling: No errors.
Band 80 Answer:
Blockchain improves supply chains by providing secure, reliable tracking, enhancing operations, and reducing fraud through transparent and real-time record keeping.
Content: Covers main ideas but may omit some nuances like collaboration benefits.
Form: Within word count and coherent.
Grammar: Strong grammar with no mistakes.
Vocabulary: Appropriate, but some complex phrases are simplified.
Spelling: Correct.
Band 70 Answer:
Blockchain improves product tracking and visibility in supply chains, reducing errors and fraud by offering secure and transparent records.
Content: The main point of supply chain improvement is covered, but some detail is missing.
Form: Well-structured, correct word count.
Grammar: No grammatical issues.
Vocabulary: Some key terms like “automates” and “collaboration” are missing.
Spelling: Accurate.
Band 60 Answer:
Blockchain improves supply chains through transparency and reduces fraud and delays.
Content: Simplified summary of the text. Key details like automation and security are omitted.
Form: Fits within the word limit.
Grammar: No errors but lacks complexity.
Vocabulary: Basic vocabulary, missing key terms from the original text.
Spelling: No spelling mistakes.
Vocabulary & Grammar for Summarize Written Text Task
Here are 10 essential vocabulary words from the passage, alongside their meanings and example usage:
-
Blockchain /ˈblɒkˌtʃeɪn/: A distributed, decentralized ledger technology.
Example: Blockchain is often used to ensure secure transactions across multiple parties. -
Decentralized Ledger /diːˈsɛntrəlaɪz lɛʤə/: A digital record distributed across many computers.
Example: A decentralized ledger minimizes errors in the tracking process. -
Immutable /ɪˈmjuːtəbl/: Unchanging over time or unable to be altered.
Example: Blockchain technology creates immutable records that cannot be tampered with. -
Transparency /trænˈspærənsi/: The characteristic of being clear and easy to understand.
Example: Blockchain provides transparency in every stage of the supply chain. -
Automation /ɔːtəˈmeɪʃən/: The use of machines or technology to operate without human intervention.
Example: Automation reduces human errors in processes. -
Trust /trʌst/: Belief in the reliability, truth, or ability of something.
Example: Blockchain helps build trust between businesses and their customers. -
Collaboration /kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃən/: Working together toward a common goal.
Example: Blockchain facilitates better collaboration between all stakeholders in the supply chain. -
Fraud /frɔːd/: Wrongful or criminal deception for financial gain.
Example: Blockchain helps reduce fraud in supply chain transactions. -
Middleman /ˈmɪdlmæn/: A person or company that buys goods from producers and sells them to retailers or consumers.
Example: Blockchain can eliminate the need for middlemen by directly connecting suppliers and buyers. -
Real-time /ˈrɪəl-taɪm/: Data or processing that is available without delay.
Example: Blockchain allows for real-time tracking of goods across stages of the supply chain.
Conclusion
Summarize Written Text tasks in the PTE exam foster skills in understanding key details and condensing them into clear, concise responses. In the case of the prompt example regarding blockchain’s influence on supply chain management, candidates should focus on synthesizing the passage’s main ideas regarding transparency, efficiency, and security enhancements. Constant practice using varied prompts like this one will help improve your time management, vocabulary usage, and content accuracy in the exam. Be sure to leave a comment below if you have any questions or experiences to share!
