The Influence Of Mass Media On Society is a common and significant theme in various sections of the PTE exam, particularly in the Summarize Written Text task. Understanding this topic and practicing frequently can help test-takers increase their chances of success in the PTE Writing and Speaking sections. In this article, we will present realistic practice summarization prompts that closely mimic the actual PTE exam based on the theme “Influence of Mass Media on Society.” We’ll also provide model answers and scoring breakdowns to help you understand how to improve your writing.
Sample Prompt 1: Influence of Mass Media on Social Behavior
Mass media has emerged as a powerful force in shaping the behavior and opinions of individuals. Traditional media channels like television, radio, and newspapers have long played a role in informing the public, but the advent of digital media—including social media—has dramatically changed the landscape. People now spend more time consuming digitally produced content, which allows for broader and more immediate distribution of information. On the one hand, this easy access to information can help raise awareness about important issues like mental health, environmental concerns, and political rights, but it also allows for the spread of misinformation, fake news, and manipulation. As a result, while mass media can work as a positive tool for societal benefit, it also has its drawbacks when unchecked or unregulated.
Summarize the text in one sentence.
Model Answers:
Scoring Band 80-90:
Mass media, through both traditional and digital platforms, has significantly impacted society by raising awareness on crucial topics but also contributing to the spread of misinformation when unregulated.
Content: All key ideas are included, demonstrating a well-rounded understanding.
Form: Perfect length, adhering to the word limit.
Grammar: Flawlessly structured.
Vocabulary: Effective use of advanced vocabulary.
Spelling: No errors.
Scoring Band 65-79:
Mass media has influenced society positively by sharing important issues and negatively by spreading misinformation.
Content: Major points covered, though somewhat simplified.
Form: Follows the word limit.
Grammar: Grammatically acceptable.
Vocabulary: Acceptable but could be more varied.
Spelling: No errors.
Scoring Band 50-64:
Mass media shapes social views by spreading information, including both important and false ones.
Content: Misses nuances concerning regulation and the balance of pros and cons.
Form: Follows the word limit.
Grammar: Simple grammar used effectively.
Vocabulary: Basic vocabulary.
Spelling: No errors.
Sample Prompt 2: The Role of Media in Political Campaigns
The involvement of media in political campaigns has been growing, particularly with the rise of digital platforms. Television and radio have historically served as key stages for candidates to present their ideas, but now social media is leading the charge. The ability to publish targeted ads, reach specific demographics, and even engage in real-time dialogues has transformed modern political strategies. However, this development comes with concerns about privacy, the transparency of political messaging, and whether citizens are sufficiently informed or merely manipulated through emotional and sensational content.
Summarize the text in one sentence.
Model Answers:
Scoring Band 80-90:
The influence of media on political campaigns has evolved from television to social media, enhancing candidate reach but raising concerns about transparency and manipulation.
Content: Thorough summary covering both evolution and issues.
Form: Follows the word limit perfectly.
Grammar: Flawless.
Vocabulary: Advanced vocabulary applicable to the topic.
Spelling: Correct.
Scoring Band 65-79:
Media’s role in political campaigns has shifted with the rise of social media, but concerns about manipulation persist.
Content: Covers most key points.
Form: Follows word limit.
Grammar: Correct but could use more complex structures.
Vocabulary: Acceptable but could be more varied.
Spelling: No errors.
Scoring Band 50-64:
Media helps in political campaigns but can also manipulate people.
Content: Simplified and lacks depth.
Form: Follows the word limit.
Grammar: Acceptable.
Vocabulary: Basic vocabulary.
Spelling: No errors.
The role of media in political campaigns in modern society
Vocabulary and Grammar Insights
Here are 10 challenging words from the sample texts, along with their pronunciation, meanings, and usage examples to help you grow your vocabulary:
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Demographic /dɪˌmɒɡrəˈfɪk/ – related to the statistical characteristics of human populations
Example: The political campaign targeted younger demographics on social media. -
Transparency /trænˈspærənsi/ – the quality or state of being open and honest
Example: Ensuring transparency in media coverage is critical for maintaining trust. -
Manipulate /məˈnɪpjʊleɪt/ – to control or influence someone or something cleverly, or unscrupulously
Example: Media platforms can sometimes manipulate viewers by presenting biased information. -
Misinformation /ˌmɪsɪnfəˈmeɪʃən/ – false or inaccurate information, especially intended to deceive
Example: The rapid spread of misinformation on social media is alarming. -
Sensational /sɛnˈseɪʃənəl/ – presenting information in a way that provokes public interest and excitement
Example: Sensational news stories often exaggerate reality to attract more viewers. -
Unregulated /ˌʌnˈrɛgjʊleɪtɪd/ – not controlled or supervised by regulations
_Example: Fake news has spread widely due to the unregulated nature of many online platforms.* -
Engage /ɪnˈgeɪdʒ/ – to participate or become involved in
Example: Social media allows candidates to engage directly with voters. -
Targeted ad /ˈtɑːrgɪtid æd/ – an advertisement directed toward a specific audience
_Example: Political parties often use targeted ads to spread their message effectively.* -
Broad reach /brɒːd riːʧ/ – the ability to connect with many people over a wide area
_Example: Mass media platforms have a broad reach and can influence millions at once.* -
Citizens /ˈsɪtɪzənz/ – the inhabitants of a city or a nation, with the expected rights and responsibilities
_Example: The media should empower citizens by providing accurate and reliable information.*
Conclusion
The topic “Influence of Mass Media on Society” is broad-ranging, appearing frequently in the Summarize Written Text section of the PTE exam. Whether it’s shaping social behaviors or influencing political campaigns, mass media plays a crucial role in modern society—both positively and negatively. Practicing this sort of content and evaluating sample answers can tremendously improve your language skills. Don’t forget to explore more on related topics like the The influence of pop culture on identity to ensure a well-rounded preparation for your exam.
