In the PTE exam, preparation for the Summarize Written Text task is crucial, especially when dealing with relevant topics like Ethical Consumerism And Market Trends. In this practice section, we’ll provide sample questions and answers, guiding candidates in achieving their desired scores.
Sample Test #1: Ethical Consumerism and Market Forces
Prompt:
Ethical consumerism refers to the practice of purchasing products that are manufactured in ways that do not harm the environment or people. In recent years, it has gained significant attention, as more consumers choose brands that align with their moral and ethical values. Consumers are increasingly aware of the environmental and societal impacts of their purchasing decisions, pushing businesses to adopt responsible practices. Notably, many corporations have started green initiatives, such as minimizing waste, reducing carbon footprints, and supporting fair trade. However, some critics argue that not all businesses are genuine about their sustainability efforts, accusing them of “greenwashing,” where companies market themselves as more environmentally friendly than they truly are. Despite these concerns, ethical consumerism continues to drive significant changes in market trends, supporting the growth of conscious brands and creating more accountability within industries.
Task Requirement:
The text describes the impact of ethical consumerism on business practices and market trends. Write a one-sentence summary of the text.
Responses by Band Score
Band Score 90:
Ethical consumerism is influencing the market by encouraging businesses to adopt environmentally responsible practices, although some critics suggest that not all initiatives are genuine, accusing companies of intentional “greenwashing.”
- Content: Fully captures key points about the impact of ethical consumerism, business practices, and mentions the skepticism of green initiatives.
- Form: Correct single-sentence structure.
- Grammar: Precisely structured, with appropriate use of complex clauses.
- Vocabulary: Accurate usage of terms like “ethical consumerism” and “greenwashing.”
- Spelling: No errors.
Band Score 75:
Many corporations are adopting green initiatives due to the rise of ethical consumerism, but critics worry about the authenticity of some efforts, labeling them as greenwashing.
- Content: Covers the main points but is less detailed than a perfect answer.
- Form: Correct single sentence.
- Grammar: Properly structured but slightly less sophisticated.
- Vocabulary: Good, though less variety in word use.
- Spelling: No errors.
Band Score 60:
Ethical consumerism has led to businesses adopting ethical practices, but some companies are accused of greenwashing their products.
- Content: Captures the essential message but with less nuance and fewer details.
- Form: Correct single sentence.
- Grammar: Simple clauses used correctly.
- Vocabulary: Less complex, but meaningful.
- Spelling: No errors.
Band Score 50:
Businesses are influenced by ethical consumerism but are sometimes accused of being fake about their environmental claims.
- Content: Misses specific terminology such as “greenwashing” and lacks depth regarding the market impact.
- Form: Under 5-75 words.
- Grammar: Basic sentence structure, no complex grammar used.
- Vocabulary: Missing specialized vocab (greenwashing, sustainability).
- Spelling: Correct.
Vocabulary and Grammar Practice
Here are ten useful words from the passage, along with their pronunciation, meaning, and usage examples.
-
Ethical /ˈɛθɪkəl/
Meaning: Relating to moral principles.
Example: Consumers are drawn to products that follow ethical manufacturing standards. -
Consumerism /kənˈsuːmərɪzəm/
Meaning: The protection or promotion of the interests of consumers.
Example: Modern consumerism focuses heavily on environmental sustainability. -
Sustainability /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪlɪti/
Meaning: The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level, especially without depleting natural resources.
Example: The company prides itself on its sustainability initiatives. -
Greenwashing /ˈɡriːnwɒʃɪŋ/
Meaning: The process of conveying misinformation to consumers to make a company appear more environmentally friendly than it is.
Example: Customers are increasingly skeptical of brands accused of greenwashing. -
Conscious /ˈkɒnʃəs/
Meaning: Aware and responsive to one’s environment or social issues.
Example: Conscious consumers prefer companies that prioritize ethical practices. -
Carbon Footprint /ˈkɑːrbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/
Meaning: The total amount of greenhouse gases produced directly and indirectly by human activities.
Example: Reducing the carbon footprint is a key goal for many eco-conscious firms. -
Initiative /ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/
Meaning: A plan or strategy aimed at solving a problem or improving a situation.
Example: The company launched a new initiative focused on reducing plastic waste. -
Accountability /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪlɪti/
Meaning: The fact or condition of being responsible for one’s actions and decisions.
Example: There’s increasing demand for corporate accountability in business practices. -
Critic /ˈkrɪtɪk/
Meaning: A person who expresses disapproval or finds fault with something.
Example: Critics of ethical consumerism argue that it is often a marketing ploy. -
Fair Trade /ˈfɛər treɪd/
Meaning: Trade between companies in developed countries and producers in developing countries with fair prices paid to the producers.
Example: Fair trade products are becoming more popular in mainstream supermarkets.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ethical Consumerism and Market Trends regularly feature in the Summarize Written Text section of the PTE exam, reflecting a global shift towards sustainability and social responsibility. While not all companies embrace these trends sincerely, the discussion of ethical consumerism remains critical. Practicing with the provided tasks above can significantly improve your writing performance and help you familiarize yourself with common real-world topics encountered in the exam. Feel free to share your thoughts and questions in the comments.
