The Summarize Written Text task in the PTE Speaking & Writing section requires test-takers to condense complex passages into a single concise sentence that maintains the key ideas and meaning. A common theme in these tasks is Gender Roles In Modern Societies, a highly relevant and widely discussed topic in modern discourse. This article provides you with sample passages and expert-level insights to help you prepare for the PTE Summarize Written Text task.
Task Overview and Tips
In the Summarize Written Text task, you are presented with a passage between 150-250 words, generally discussing issues of cultural, social, or academic relevance. You are required to summarize the text in a single sentence, no more than 75 words long, with correct punctuation and grammatical accuracy. Topics like gender roles allow you to engage with the key ideas while demonstrating your ability to condense information effectively.
Sample Summarize Written Text Task
Instruction: Read the following passage and summarize it in one sentence within 10 minutes. Your summary should be no more than 75 words long.
Passage:
In recent decades, societies have witnessed considerable shifts in gender roles due to increasing awareness, education, and equality movements. Traditional roles where men were seen as breadwinners and women as homemakers are being questioned and redefined in modern societies. Governments and cultural institutions are now prioritizing gender equality, promoting policies that ensure equal opportunities in education, the workforce, and leadership positions. However, old stereotypes and unequal pay persist, showcasing the complexity of deconstructing long-standing societal norms. These ongoing changes aim to address disparities, but challenges remain in completely eradicating gender-based discrimination.
Instruction: Summarize the passage in one sentence.
Sample Answers by Band Score
High Band (75-90):
IT: As societies have become more aware of gender equality due to education and movements, traditional roles of men as breadwinners and women as homemakers are being transformed, leading to new opportunities in leadership, education, and work, although gender-based discrimination and unequal pay still present significant challenges.
Analysis:
- Content: Comprehensive coverage of all key ideas: societal shifts, transformation of gender roles, equality movements, and remaining challenges.
- Form: One clear sentence well within the 75-word limit.
- Grammar: Complex sentence structures used appropriately.
- Vocabulary: Uses academic vocabulary such as “transform”, “traditional roles”, and “gender-based discrimination”.
- Spelling: No errors.
Mid Band (50-74):
Society is changing gender roles, moving away from traditional expectations towards equality in education and work, although discrimination and pay gaps remain.
Analysis:
- Content: Covers most key points but omits specific details about the government’s or institutions’ role.
- Form: Follows the required format but is a rather simple sentence.
- Grammar: No grammatical errors, though sentence structure could be improved.
- Vocabulary: Adequate vocabulary but lacking in more formal terms like “deconstruct” or “stereotypes”.
- Spelling: No issues.
Low Band (30-49):
Traditional gender roles are changing, but inequality and stereotypes are still common in many areas of society.
Analysis:
- Content: Missing key portions such as the impact of movements and the role of institutions.
- Form: Sentence is significantly shorter than expected and lacks depth.
- Grammar: Basic sentence structure without issues.
- Vocabulary: Uses simple and conversational vocabulary.
- Spelling: No errors.
Vocabulary and Grammar Insights
To succeed in summarizing texts like the one above, having a strong grasp of relevant vocabulary is crucial. Below are 10 terms you should be familiar with to enhance your understanding and summaries.
| Vocabulary | Phonetic Spelling | Definition | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Disparities | /dɪˈspærɪtiz/ | Significant differences between groups | Gender disparities in the workplace remain a global issue. |
| Stereotypes | /ˈstɛriəˌtaɪps/ | Fixed and oversimplified ideas of particular groups | Gender stereotypes often unfairly limit individuals’ potential. |
| Equality | /iˈkwɒlɪtiː/ | The state of being equal, especially in status, rights, or opportunities | Achieving gender equality is a key goal for many social movements. |
| Breadwinner | /ˈbrɛdˌwɪnər/ | The primary income earner in a family | In traditional gender roles, men were often seen as breadwinners. |
| Homemaker | /ˈhoʊmˌmeɪkər/ | A person who manages the household, traditionally a woman | Throughout history, women were commonly assigned the role of homemaker. |
| Deconstruct | /ˌdiːkənˈstrʌkt/ | To dismantle or challenge an idea or concept | Efforts to deconstruct gender stereotypes have gained traction over the years. |
| Awareness | /əˈwɛrnəs/ | Knowledge or perception of a situation | Greater awareness of gender roles has led to significant societal shifts. |
| Persistent | /pərˈsɪstənt/ | Continuing to exist despite efforts to end it | Stereotypes have been persistent, even with modern efforts to promote equality. |
| Movements | /ˈmuvmənts/ | Organized activities or campaigns seeking changes in society | Equality movements have played a critical role in reshaping societal norms. |
| Leadership | /ˈliːdərˌʃɪp/ | The act of leading a group, organization, or country | Women’s leadership in businesses and politics is on the rise. |
Conclusion
Mastering the Summarize Written Text task in the PTE requires you to interpret key ideas, compress them into concise sentences, and utilize academic-level grammar and vocabulary. The topic of gender roles in modern societies is a highly relevant and thought-provoking subject that frequently appears in PTE exams, as it reflects current societal shifts and global discussions. We recommend practicing by regularly engaging with such sample prompts and reviewing expert answers across different band levels.
Feel free to ask questions or leave a comment below to discuss this topic or request new samples for the Summarize Written Text task. Consistent practice is your best strategy!
