The Summarize Written Text task is a crucial part of the PTE Speaking & Writing sections where test-takers are required to condense a longer passage into a single sentence of around 5-75 words. In this article, you’re going to practice this important skill using the timely and relevant topic of electric vehicles (EVs) and their role in helping us meet relevant climate goals.
Electric vehicles have become central to discussions on sustainability, making this topic particularly suitable for practicing the Summarize Written Text task. Below, we have created sample prompts, responses for different band scores, and vocabulary explanations to help you prepare thoroughly for this question type.
Sample Summarize Written Text Prompts on Electric Vehicles and Climate Goals
Prompt 1: The Rise of Electric Vehicles and Their Role in Reducing Emissions
Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining significant momentum as environmental regulations become stricter, and technologies improve. EVs directly contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gases (GHG) by replacing petrol and diesel vehicles, which emit carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas. Governments worldwide have acknowledged the potential of EVs in achieving their climate goals, as they are considered vital tools in reducing the global carbon footprint. By encouraging the adoption of green transportation solutions through subsidies and infrastructure development, many nations aim to create a society committed to zero-emission transport.
Task: Summarize the text in one sentence.
70-79 Band Answer
Many governments support the adoption of electric vehicles due to their ability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which plays a significant role in meeting climate goals, as part of broader efforts toward developing zero-emission transportation infrastructure.
- Content: The answer accurately reflects the main points and conveys the essence of the text.
- Form: Well within the required word limit and grammatically correct.
- Grammar: Correct sentence structure, no grammatical errors.
- Vocabulary: Effective use of terms like “greenhouse gas emissions” and “zero-emission transportation.”
- Spelling: No spelling mistakes.
65-69 Band Answer
Governments are promoting electric vehicles because they can help reduce emissions and meet climate targets by producing fewer greenhouse gases.
- Content: Fairly comprehensive, though not as detailed as the higher band.
- Form: Within the word limit.
- Grammar: The grammar is accurate, but the complexity of the sentence could be higher.
- Vocabulary: Good but lacks the specificity of the higher band answer.
- Spelling: No errors here.
50-64 Band Answer
Electric vehicles are important for reducing carbon and help countries meet climate goals.
- Content: The answer covers the main idea but lacks detail and complexity.
- Form: Under the word limit, though acceptable.
- Grammar: Simple sentence structure, reflects basic understanding but could improve.
- Vocabulary: Very basic with no technical terms used.
- Spelling: No spelling errors.
Prompt 2: Electric Vehicles and Long-Term Sustainability
In light of the growing concern over global warming, electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a potential solution to sustainability issues. Unlike traditional vehicles powered by fossil fuels, EVs rely on electricity, which can be derived from renewable energy sources like wind and solar. This shift can dramatically reduce harmful emissions like carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides. While the initial cost of EV ownership remains a challenge, numerous benefits make them a key player in transitioning to a more sustainable format of transportation.
Task: Summarize the text in one sentence.
70-79 Band Answer
By utilizing renewable energy sources and reducing harmful emissions, electric vehicles address sustainability challenges and provide a key solution in mitigating global warming, although initial ownership costs remain a barrier.
- Content: Captures all essential elements—renewable energy, emissions reduction, and the challenge of high costs.
- Form: Well-structured and within the word limit.
- Grammar: Excellent grammar and complex sentence structure.
- Vocabulary: Good use of formal terms like “sustainability challenges” and “mitigating global warming.”
- Spelling: No errors.
65-69 Band Answer
Electric vehicles can help fight global warming by using renewable energy sources and creating fewer emissions, though they still face challenges due to high costs.
- Content: Generally accurate but missing finer points like “nitrogen oxides” and “sustainability issues.”
- Form: Satisfactory word count and structure.
- Grammar: Correct grammar, but simpler than higher band answer.
- Vocabulary: Adequate use of terms, but less variety.
- Spelling: No errors detected.
50-64 Band Answer
Electric vehicles help the environment by using renewable energy and reducing emissions but are expensive.
- Content: Only the very basic idea is captured.
- Form: Short and simplistic, but follows the format.
- Grammar: Basic sentence structure, lacks complexity.
- Vocabulary: Limited and lacks technical terms.
- Spelling: No spelling mistakes.
Vocabulary and Grammar Insights
Here are some key vocabulary items from the provided text that may improve your understanding and performance on similar reading tasks.
| Word | IPA | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greenhouse Gas (GHG) | /ˌɡriːn.haʊs ˈɡæs/ | Gases like CO2 and methane that trap heat and contribute to climate change | Electric vehicles help reduce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. |
| Sustainability | /səˌsteɪ.nəˈbɪl.ə.ti/ | The ability to maintain or support an activity without negative environmental impacts | The shift to sustainability is essential for future generations. |
| Fossil Fuels | /ˈfɒsɪl fjuːəlz/ | Natural fuels such as coal or gas formed from the remains of living organisms | Fossil fuels contribute significantly to global warming. |
| Renewable Energy | /rɪˈnjuːə.bl̩ ˈen.ə.dʒi/ | Energy sourced from natural processes that are continuously replenished | Solar power is a form of renewable energy. |
| Emission | /ɪˈmɪʃən/ | The production and discharge of pollutants into the environment | Reducing emissions is crucial for climate action. |
| Transition | /trænˈzɪʃ.ən/ | The process of changing from one state to another | The transition to electric vehicles requires substantial infrastructure investment. |
| Infrastructure | /ˈɪn.frəˌstrʌk.tʃər/ | The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for a society to operate | Charging stations are part of the infrastructure for electric vehicles. |
| Mitigate | /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ | To make less severe, serious, or painful | Electric vehicles mitigate the effects of pollution on the environment. |
| Zero-emission | /ˈzɪərəʊ ɪˈmɪʃən/ | A state or activity that does not produce any harmful pollutants | Electric cars are a key part of zero-emission transport solutions. |
| Incentive | /ɪnˈsentɪv/ | Something, often monetary, that motivates or encourages someone to take action | Government subsidies are an incentive for people to buy electric vehicles. |
For more insights into the broader themes of climate action, check out our article on the Environmental benefits of electric vehicles.
Conclusion
The Summarize Written Text task tests your ability to condense essential information while adhering to a strict word limit. As electric vehicles are increasingly discussed in relation to global climate goals, practicing with this topic offers a balanced way to improve your PTE summarization skills. Make time to practice regularly by summarizing both long and short texts, and feel free to explore additional sustainable transportation themes like Public transportation’s role in climate action. Don’t hesitate to share your attempts in the comments!
