In the PTE Academic exam, the Summarize Written Text section is essential as it tests your ability to condense complex ideas into a single sentence. One of the trending topics in this exam is the relationship between electric vehicles and renewable energy, known as their “synergy.” Let’s explore this topic through practice questions and answers.
Summarize Written Text Practice Question: Electric Vehicles and Renewable Energy Synergy
Instructions: Write a one-sentence summary of the text in bold. Your response should be between 5 and 75 words.
Electric vehicles (EVs) have become increasingly important as the world transitions away from fossil fuels to mitigate environmental impact. The synergy between EVs and renewable energy sources lies in their mutual ability to reduce carbon emissions. As electricity generation moves towards renewables like solar and wind, EVs provide a means of consumption that utilizes this greener energy. Furthermore, EVs can serve as storage solutions for intermittent renewable energy, enhancing grid stability. Governments and industries worldwide are investing heavily in both sectors to create a sustainable and less polluted future.
Answer Samples by Band Scores:
Sample Answer (Band 90):
The synergy between electric vehicles and renewable energy lies in their combined ability to reduce carbon emissions, with EVs offering consumption from renewable power sources and aiding grid stability through energy storage, making them vital for a sustainable future.
Analysis:
- Content: Fully covers all key points – synergy, reduction in carbon emissions, renewable consumption, grid stability, and future importance.
- Form: Correct single sentence, within 75-word limit (49 words).
- Grammar: Flawless construction with complex sentence usage.
- Vocabulary: Advanced vocabulary (“synergy,” “aiding grid stability”).
- Spelling: No errors.
Sample Answer (Band 65):
Electric vehicles and renewable energy work together to reduce emissions, with EVs benefiting from cleaner energy and helping storage needs for future sustainability.
Analysis:
- Content: Covers primary points but lacks detail on grid stability and global investment.
- Form: Single sentence, appropriately concise (23 words).
- Grammar: Correct but simpler sentence structure.
- Vocabulary: Mid-level vocabulary, no specific mention of “synergy.”
- Spelling: No errors.
Sample Answer (Band 50):
Electric vehicles and renewable energy help reduce pollution, and they are important for a cleaner future.
Analysis:
- Content: Only basic points addressed (pollution reduction and future sustainability).
- Form: One sentence but overly simplistic (14 words).
- Grammar: Very simple sentence structure.
- Vocabulary: Basic vocabulary with no specific terms like “synergy” or “grid stability.”
- Spelling: No errors.
Vocabulary and Grammar from the Practice Text
-
Synergy /ˈsɪn.ə.dʒi/ (n) – the interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects.
Example: The synergy between companies helped them outcompete larger rivals. -
Mitigate /ˈmɪt.ɪ.ɡeɪt/ (v) – to make something less harmful or severe.
Example: Renewable energy aims to mitigate the environmental impacts of fossil fuels. -
Consumption /kənˈsʌmp.ʃən/ (n) – the use of something such as fuel, energy, or materials.
Example: Electric vehicles help reduce the total energy consumption of fossil fuels. -
Intermittent /ˌɪn·tərˈmɪt·ənt/ (adj) – occurring sporadically or irregularly.
Example: Solar energy is often intermittent, requiring complementary energy sources. -
Grid stability (phrase) – the ability of an electricity grid to maintain continuous reliable energy supply.
Example: EVs can support grid stability by storing unused renewable energy. -
Sustainable /səˈsteɪnəbl/ (adj) – capable of being maintained over the long term without depleting resources.
Example: A sustainable future relies heavily on the synergy between EVs and renewables. -
Carbon emissions (phrase) – the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, commonly associated with burning fossil fuels.
Example: Electric vehicles aim to reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional cars. -
Investment /ɪnˈvest·mənt/ (n) – the action or process of investing money for profit or material results.
Example: Governments are making significant investments in renewable energy projects. -
Storage solutions (phrase) – technologies or methods used to store energy, especially to balance supply and demand.
Example: EV batteries could be an effective storage solution for excess renewable energy. -
Fossil fuels (phrase) – natural fuels such as coal, oil, or gas, formed in the geological past from the remains of living organisms.
Example: The transition away from fossil fuels is crucial to combating climate change.
Conclusion
The synergy between electric vehicles and renewable energy is an increasingly common topic in the PTE exam’s Summarize Written Text section due to its importance in real-world sustainability efforts. Recognizing key points like emission reduction and storage solutions is crucial for scoring high. Practice with these model answers and use the provided vocabulary to improve your proficiency and achieve your desired score.
Ready to try more? Feel free to comment below for additional practice prompts or guidance!