Example Task for Summarize Written Text: Economic Benefits of Space Exploration
Summarizing complex topics such as the economic outcomes of space exploration is not only relevant for academic purposes but also appears quite frequently on the PTE exam. Below is a sample question to help you prepare:
Task
Read the passage and summarize it in one sentence. Your response must be between 5 and 75 words.
The exploration of space has led to unprecedented advancements in technology and innovation, which have significantly contributed to economic growth on Earth. Satellite technology, for instance, has transformed communications, weather forecasting, and global navigation, while further advancements such as space tourism and asteroid mining promise to bring more significant commercial opportunities. The investment in space missions also generates thousands of jobs, promoting employment in both the aerospace and technology sectors.
Summarize the text in one sentence.
Sample Responses and Band Score Analysis
Now, let’s analyze and provide sample answers to the task above at different band levels, as evaluated in an actual PTE exam setting.
8.0-9.0 Band Response
Space exploration fosters economic growth through technological advancements, job creation, and emerging industries like space tourism, while satellite technology revolutionizes communication, navigation, and weather forecasting.
Content: Complete coverage of key points (space exploration’s economic benefits, job creation, and industries like tourism and asteroid mining).
Form: The sentence is under 75 words and properly constructed.
Grammar: Structures are complex and precise.
Vocabulary: Effective use of varied and advanced vocabulary (e.g., “revolutionizes,” “emerging industries”).
Spelling: Perfect spelling throughout.
6.0-7.0 Band Response
The space industry creates jobs and leads to new technologies like satellite systems, which help with communications and weather forecasting, while space tourism could be profitable.
Content: Most key points are covered, though the mention of asteroid mining is omitted.
Form: Proper structure and within required length.
Grammar: Simple but correct use of grammar.
Vocabulary: Adequate and clear, though less advanced (“profitable” instead of more specific terms like “commercial opportunities”).
Spelling: No spelling issues.
5.0-6.0 Band Response
Space exploration increases technology, like satellites for communication, and it makes jobs and maybe tourism too.
Content: The response is highly simplified, skipping major points such as weather forecasting and economic perspectives related to asteroid mining.
Form: Fits word limit, but the sentence structure is weaker.
Grammar: Basic grammatical structures are correct, but overly simple constructions.
Vocabulary: Limited vocabulary and somewhat informal tone (“maybe tourism”).
Spelling: Spelling is acceptable but plain.
Vocabulary and Grammar
In addition to summarization skills, it is essential to expand your vocabulary and understand key thematic phrases. Below are difficult words from the passage with definitions and examples:
| Word | Phonetic | Definition | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unprecedented | /ʌnˈprɛsɪdɛntɪd/ | Never done or known before | The space exploration program has had unprecedented success in creating new industries. |
| Satellite | /ˈsatəlʌɪt/ | An artificial body placed in orbit around the earth | Satellite technology has revolutionized modern communication. |
| Revolutionize | /rɛvəlˈuːʃɪnʌɪz/ | Drastically change or innovate something | Satellites have revolutionized global navigation and tracking systems. |
| Forecasting | /ˈfɔːkɑːstɪŋ/ | Predicting future events, especially in weather | Meteorological forecasting depends heavily on satellite technology. |
| Aerospace | /ˈɛərəʊspeɪs/ | The branch of technology and industry related to flight and space | The aerospace industry benefits significantly from space exploration investments. |
| Tourism | /ˈtʊərɪzəm/ | The practice of traveling for pleasure | Space tourism is a growing sector anticipated to drive economic growth. |
| Commercial | /kəˈməːʃ(ə)l/ | Related to or used for buying and selling goods or services | Asteroid mining presents vast commercial opportunities for the space industry. |
| Employment | /ɛmˈplɔɪmənt/ | The state of having a paid job | The space program boosts local employment through job creation in technology. |
| Innovation | /ˌɪnəʊˈveɪʃən/ | The process of introducing new ideas, methods, or devices | Many innovations in technology originate from space exploration needs. |
| Asteroid | /ˈastərɔɪd/ | A small rocky body orbiting the sun | Asteroid mining has the potential to provide valuable resources to support global economies. |
Conclusion
The Summarize Written Text task on the PTE exam tests your ability to condense information effectively. This example around the economic benefits of space exploration demonstrates how a complex topic often seen in exams can be tackled in one concise sentence. Mastering this skill can help you score higher in the Speaking & Writing section, as this format frequently occurs in PTE exams.
You can also explore interesting related topics such as Space colonization and ethical issues.
We encourage regular practice and recommend leaving comments below if you face any difficulties while summarizing.
