Summarize Written Text for PTE – Eco-friendly Innovations in Construction

The Summarize Written Text task in PTE requires test-takers to read a passage and summarize it in one sentence, focusing on the key information presented. This task tests not only your ability to grasp the essence of written content but also assesses your grammar and vocabulary. In this post, we provide sample questions related to “Eco-friendly Innovations In Construction” and offer model answers to guide you through.

Popularity of Topics on Eco-friendly Construction in PTE

With growing awareness of environmental protection and sustainable development, eco-friendly innovations in construction have become a frequent topic in the Summarize Written Text section of PTE. Such passages are likely to explore various sustainable construction methods, green-building materials, and energy-efficient technologies. In this post, we will dive into some realistic, practice-worthy summaries related to “Eco-friendly innovations in construction.”

Sample Summarize Written Text Questions on Eco-friendly Innovations in Construction

Sample Question 1

Eco-friendly construction practices have gained popularity over the past decade, driven by increasing environmental concerns and the need to reduce carbon footprints. These practices include the use of sustainable building materials, energy-efficient systems, and waste-reduction techniques throughout the lifecycle of a building. Materials such as recycled steel, bamboo, and sustainable wood are now being used to replace traditional, non-renewable materials like concrete. Construction companies are employing renewable energy solutions like solar panels, wind turbines, and smart insulation to optimize energy efficiency. Furthermore, efficient waste management practices during construction, such as recycling debris, contribute to reduced environmental impact.

Task: Summarize the text in one sentence.

Model Answer Analysis

Band 90
Eco-friendly construction practices emphasize sustainable materials, renewable energy sources, and waste-reduction techniques to minimize environmental impact and promote energy efficiency.
Content: The sentence captures the essential points, such as sustainable materials, energy efficiency, and waste reduction.
Grammar and Spelling: The sentence uses proper punctuation and correct grammar.
Vocabulary: The vocabulary level is sufficiently academic and precise.
Form: The sentence is within the word limit.

Band 65
Construction companies are using sustainable materials and renewable energy to reduce environmental impact.
Content: The essential idea is covered, but it lacks the depth and variety of techniques mentioned in the passage.
Grammar and Spelling: Correct usage but basic.
Vocabulary: The vocabulary is appropriate but simpler.
Form: The sentence adheres to the word limit.

Band 50
Eco-friendly construction is about using renewable energy and sustainable materials.
Content: The sentence covers the topic vaguely and misses critical details like waste-reduction techniques.
Grammar and Spelling: Basic sentence structure; no errors but lacks complexity.
Vocabulary: Limited vocabulary.
Form: Within the word limit but too simplified.

Sample Question 2

Modern construction methods are evolving rapidly with a strong focus on sustainability. One key trend is the development of green buildings, which aim to reduce energy consumption and environmental degradation. By incorporating technologies like green roofs, water recycling systems, and natural lighting designs, modern constructions are optimized for environmental and energy efficiency. Another significant step forward is the use of biodegradable and recyclable materials which help cut down on landfill waste. These advancements not only benefit the environment, but they also offer cost-saving advantages for building owners due to reduced utility consumption.

Task: Summarize the text in one sentence.

Model Answer Analysis

Band 90
Green buildings use energy-efficient technologies and sustainable materials to minimize environmental impact and reduce costs for owners.
Content: The sentence succinctly includes both environmental and cost-saving benefits, as well as key innovations like energy efficiency and sustainable materials.
Grammar and Spelling: Grammatically flawless.
Vocabulary: Strong vocabulary choice like “minimize” and “sustainable materials.”
Form: The sentence fits within the word requirement.

Band 65
Using green technology in construction helps reduce energy consumption and environmental harm.
Content: The main idea is present but slightly underdeveloped as it skips the cost-saving factor and specific innovations.
Grammar and Spelling: Simple but correct sentence formation.
Vocabulary: Basic, suitable vocabulary.
Form: Meets the word requirement but lacks elaboration.

Band 50
Green construction helps the environment by reducing energy use.
Content: Too general with missing information about specific technologies and materials.
Grammar and Spelling: No major errors but overly simple.
Vocabulary: Basic vocabulary.
Form: Within the word limit but lacks depth.

Vocabulary and Grammar

Here are 10 advanced vocabulary words from the passages, along with their meanings and usage examples:

1. Sustainability /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪlɪti/: The practice of maintaining processes without depleting natural resources.

   • Example: Sustainability is crucial in modern construction methods.

2. Biodegradable /ˌbaɪoʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbl/: Capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms.

   • Example: Using biodegradable materials helps in reducing landfill waste.

3. Renewable /rɪˈnjuːəbl/: A resource that can be replenished naturally.

   • Example: Solar panels harness renewable energy from the sun.

4. Carbon footprint /ˈkɑːrbən ˈfʊtˌprɪnt/: The total amount of greenhouse gases produced directly or indirectly by human activities.

   • Example: Construction companies aim to reduce their carbon footprint.

5. Energy-efficient /ˈɛnərʤi-ɪˈfɪʃnt/: Using less energy to provide the same service.

   • Example: Energy-efficient appliances are used to reduce electricity consumption in these constructions.

6. Degradation /ˌdɛɡrəˈdeɪʃən/: The process by which something becomes worse or is reduced in quality.

   • Example: Environmental degradation can be mitigated through innovative construction practices.

7. Insulation /ˌɪnsəˈleɪʃən/: Material used to prevent loss of heat or sound.

   • Example: Smart insulation helps in reducing heating costs.

8. Recycle /ˌriːˈsaɪkl/: Convert waste into reusable material.

   • Example: The debris from construction sites is often recycled to prevent environmental harm.

9. Efficient /ɪˈfɪʃnt/: Achieving maximum productivity with minimum wasted effort.

   • Example: Efficient waste management in construction has become a major focus.

10. Optimize /ˈɒptɪmaɪz/: To make the best or most effective use of a resource.

    • Example: The use of natural light is optimized in eco-friendly building designs.

Conclusion

Summarizing written texts, especially on topics like eco-friendly innovations in construction, is a critical skill in the PTE exam. Understanding recent advancements such as sustainable materials and energy-efficient practices will not only help you answer these questions but also prepare you for real-world applications. Consistently practicing summaries will sharpen your ability to condense complex passages into precise answers. Don’t hesitate to leave a comment below if you have questions or additional insights!