Summarize Written Text Practice for the PTE Speaking & Writing Section: Gender Identity in the Modern Workplace

The Summarize Written Text (SWT) task in the PTE Speaking & Writing section tests your ability to condense written texts into clear, concise summaries. One widely discussed topic in modern society is “gender identity in the workplace”, which has become more common in PTE assessments. In this guide, we will provide instances of SWT tasks based on the topic of gender identity. You will also find sample answers graded at different PTE band scores, enabling you to evaluate your performance.

What is Summarize Written Text in PTE?

In the Summarize Written Text section, you’re given 10 minutes to summarize a passage of 150-400 words into one sentence, not exceeding 75 words. The summary must cover essential points clearly and concisely.

Practice Essay on Gender Identity in the Workplace

Below is a sample question based on Gender Identity In The Modern Workplace that simulates those found in actual PTE exams. Follow this by providing your own answers or study our provided responses to improve your exam-ready skills.

PTE Summarize Written Text Practice:

Read the passage below and summarize it in one sentence in no more than 75 words.

In modern workplaces, the concept of gender identity is receiving increased attention. The term ‘gender identity’ refers to an individual’s personal conception of themselves as male, female, both, neither, or somewhere in between, which can differ from the sex assigned at birth. Today, progressive workplaces foster an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered regardless of their gender identity. However, challenges remain, particularly in terms of policy implementation and overcoming discrimination, which can inhibit an individual’s work performance. Companies that support diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts often see increased employee satisfaction, retention, and overall productivity. Ensuring that gender identity is respected at the workplace is fundamental to promoting a positive and productive work environment.

Sample Answers for Different PTE Bands

Band Score 90 (High Proficiency)

In today’s workplaces, fostering inclusive environments that respect gender identity is crucial to employee satisfaction and productivity, although challenges such as discrimination and policy implementation persist.

Analysis:

• Content: The summary includes all key points: inclusive environments, gender identity, challenges in policy, and productivity.
• Form: One sentence, under 75 words.
• Grammar: Flawless sentence structure.
• Vocabulary: Appropriate and accurate use of words such as “fostering,” “inclusive,” and “discrimination.”
• Spelling: All words are spelled correctly.

Band Score 75 (Competent Proficiency)

Inclusivity and respect for gender identity at workplaces are vital for improving employee performance, but issues such as workplace discrimination and policy enforcement remain obstacles.

Analysis:

• Content: Most main points are covered, but slight lack of detail on how inclusivity affects productivity may detract.
• Form: One sentence, within the word limit.
• Grammar: A bit simplistic but grammatically correct.
• Vocabulary: Clear but lacks certain sophistication (e.g., “enforcement” instead of “implementation”).
• Spelling: No spelling errors.

Band Score 60 (Moderate Proficiency)

Respect for gender identity in workplaces is important for happiness and work output, but there are problems like discrimination and poor policies.

Analysis:

• Content: The key points are vague; “poor policies” is an oversimplification.
• Form: Complies with the word and sentence limit, but somewhat lacks clarity.
• Grammar: Adequate, though the structure is slightly less sophisticated.
• Vocabulary: Basic and somewhat limited in precision (“happiness” could be better expressed as “satisfaction”).
• Spelling: No errors.

Band Score 50 (Limited Proficiency)

Gender identity should be respected in the workplace, but some places still have policy problems and discrimination.

Analysis:

• Content: Misses many important details, such as how inclusivity benefits performance and retention.
• Form: One sentence, under 75 words.
• Grammar: Simple sentence structure, lacks complexity, “some places still have” is too informal.
• Vocabulary: Limited range with vague expressions; lacks precision.
• Spelling: All correct, no errors.

Vocabulary and Grammar Breakdown

Here are 10 advanced vocabulary words or phrases used in the passage or responses with an explanation of their meanings.

1. Gender Identity /ˈdʒɛndər aɪˈdɛntɪti/:

   • The personal sense of one’s gender, which may differ from the sex assigned at birth.
   • Example: The company has a strong policy supporting employees’ gender identity.

2. Inclusivity /ɪnˌkluːˈsɪvɪti/:

   • The practice of including people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized.
   • Example: Inclusivity is crucial to creating a positive workplace culture.

3. Discrimination /dɪˌskrɪmɪˈneɪʃən/:

   • Unjust treatment of people based on characteristics such as race or gender.
   • Example: Workplace discrimination against gender identity remains an issue in some companies.

4. Retention /rɪˈtɛnʃən/:

   • The ability of an organization to keep its employees from leaving.
   • Example: A focus on gender identity inclusivity can improve employee retention.

5. Policy Implementation /ˈpɒləsi ɪmplɪmɛnˈteɪʃən/:

   • The process of putting official laws or guidelines into action.
   • Example: Challenges arise in the policy implementation of gender rights measures.

6. Fostering /ˈfɒstərɪŋ/:

   • Encouraging the development of something.
   • Example: Fostering inclusivity at work helps improve overall productivity.

7. Productivity /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvɪti/:

   • The effectiveness of production in relation to effort and time spent.
   • Example: Gender-inclusive policies can greatly boost company productivity.

8. Equity /ˈɛkwɪti/:

   • Fairness and impartiality within an organization.
   • Example: Gender equity is a key factor in promoting a fair work environment.

9. Empowered /ɪmˈpaʊəd/:

   • Given the power or authority to do something.
   • Example: Employees feel empowered when their gender identity is respected.

10. Obstacle /ˈɒbstək(ə)l/:

    • Something that blocks one’s way or hinders progress.
    • Example: Gender identity discrimination in workplaces remains a significant obstacle to inclusivity.

Conclusion

Incorporating gender identity into modern workplace dynamics is not just a matter of inclusion but a necessary element for a productive and balanced work culture. With this practice example on Summarize Written Text, you now have the tools to prepare effectively for the PTE exam. By thoroughly examining these responses and reviewing vocabulary, you can improve both your understanding and performance in this task.

Feel free to practice further and leave any comments or feedback below to share your thoughts!