The Summarize Written Text task in the PTE Speaking & Writing section is an essential component of the exam. It assesses how well a candidate can read a passage and summarize its key ideas in one sentence, keeping the response concise, coherent, and free of grammatical errors. Summarizing is a critical skill, especially when it comes to current, relevant topics such as Electric Vehicles In Rural Transport, a subject that often appears in academic and technical contexts.
In this post, we will delve into sample tasks centered on the Electric Vehicles (EVs) in Rural Transport topic. Let’s explore how this concept could show up in the PTE exam.
Sample PTE Summarize Written Text Task on “Electric Vehicles in Rural Transport”
Below is a practice task designed closely following the real format of the PTE Summarize Written Text section. Take a look at the passage, comprehend its main ideas, and summarize it.
Passage:
Electric vehicles (EVs) offer promising solutions to sustainability and environmental concerns, particularly in urban areas, where pollution and congestion are most prevalent. However, their potential in rural transportation has been largely overlooked. Rural transport systems, often characterized by limited public transportation options and longer travel distances, can benefit significantly from electric vehicles. With fewer options for refueling stations and infrastructure development in rural regions, the lower operational costs and home-charging possibilities of EVs can provide a practical alternative to traditional fossil fuel-powered vehicles. The integration of electric vehicles in rural areas could not only reduce transportation costs but also contribute to reducing carbon emissions, just as effectively as in cities. Furthermore, governments worldwide are offering incentives for EV adoption in rural regions, which can accelerate this transformational shift.
Task: In one sentence, summarize the main idea of the text.
Band-Based Model Answers with Analysis
Band Score 80+ (Content: Excellent, Form: Fully Correct)
Electric vehicles, while primarily adopted in urban areas, could revolutionize rural transportation by providing cost-effective, environmentally-friendly alternatives to traditional vehicles through their lower operating costs and government incentives, contributing to sustainability.
Content: The answer captures all critical aspects, including rural application of EVs, cost-effectiveness, environmental impact, and government incentives.
Form: The structure is appropriate, fitting within the one-sentence limit.
Grammar and Vocabulary: Correct use of advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structure.
Spelling: No errors.
Electric vehicles can benefit rural areas through cost-efficiency and sustainability.
Band Score 65-79 (Content: Good, Form: Correct)
Electric vehicles can help reduce costs and carbon emissions in rural transportation, although they are more often found in cities, with governments providing incentives to encourage EV use in rural areas.
Content: The response includes key ideas but lightly touches on government role and sustainability.
Form: The response is complete and within one sentence, although slightly less cohesive.
Grammar and Vocabulary: No major grammatical issues. Vocabulary variety is adequate.
Spelling: No errors.
Band Score 50-64 (Content: Adequate, Form: Mostly Correct)
Electric vehicles are better for the environment and cheaper for rural areas, as governments support their use outside of cities.
Content: The sentence mentions rural areas and cost but lacks depth on the environmental aspect and government incentives.
Form: The answer is a valid sentence but could be more comprehensive.
Grammar and Vocabulary: The vocabulary is simple. One or two minor structural issues.
Spelling: No errors.
Governments supporting electric vehicles for rural transport via incentives.
Band Score 40-49 (Content: Limited, Form: Partially Correct)
Electric vehicles are good for rural areas.
Content: This sentence is much too simple and doesn’t fully reflect the richness of the passage.
Form: It is a valid sentence but far too short and lacks detail.
Grammar and Vocabulary: Very basic and simplistic sentence construction.
Spelling: No errors.
Vocabulary and Grammar Insights
Here are 10 challenging words from the passage along with their pronunciation, definitions, and example usage:
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Sustainability (/səˌsteɪnəˈbɪlɪti/): The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level, especially regarding avoiding the depletion of natural resources.
- Example: The government is focusing on policies that promote sustainability through the use of renewable energy.
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Incentive (/ɪnˈsɛntɪv/): A thing that motivates or encourages someone to do something.
- Example: Tax incentives encourage people to invest in electric vehicles.
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Operational (/ˌɒpəˈreɪʃənl/): Relating to the routine functioning and working of something.
- Example: The operational costs of electric vehicles are generally lower than those powered by gasoline.
-
Alternative (/ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪv/): Available as another possibility or choice.
- Example: Electric cars are a clean alternative to traditional fossil-fuel-powered vehicles.
-
Prevalent (/ˈprɛvələnt/): Widespread in a particular place or over a particular time.
- Example: The use of electric vehicles in urban areas has become increasingly prevalent.
Electric vehicles to combat urban pollution and congestion.
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Infrastructure (/ˈɪnfrəstrʌkʧə/): Basic physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a society, such as transportation systems.
- Example: Developing the infrastructure for charging electric vehicles is a priority in rural regions.
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Fossil Fuel (/ˈfɒsɪl fjʊəl/): A natural fuel such as coal or gas formed from the remains of living organisms.
- Example: Replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy sources can reduce pollution.
-
Congestion (/kənˈʤɛsʧən/): Overcrowding; the excessive accumulation of vehicles causing delays.
- Example: Electric vehicles can help reduce urban congestion due to their smaller footprint.
-
Characterize (/ˈkærɪktəraɪz/): To describe the distinctive nature or features of something.
- Example: Rural transportation tends to be characterized by long travel distances and fewer public transport options.
-
Transformational (/trænsˌfɔːˈmeɪʃənl/): Related to a marked change in form, nature, or appearance.
- Example: The integration of electric vehicles can have a transformational effect on rural transport systems.
Conclusion
The Summarize Written Text task requires precise understanding and summarization skills, particularly when dealing with timely and complex topics like Electric Vehicles in Rural Transport. This article has provided a sample task and multiple graded responses to show how you can effectively summarize the information. These types of questions are common on the PTE test, so frequent practice is encouraged. Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions or would like more practice materials!
