Summarize Written Text in PTE: Internet Governance and Digital Rights

The Summarize Written Text task in the PTE Academic Writing and Speaking sections requires test takers to read a passage of 150-300 words and summarize it in one sentence containing 5 to 75 words. This task assesses the ability to communicate the main ideas of complex texts concisely and clearly.

In this article, we dive into the frequently tested topic of Internet Governance And Digital Rights in Summarize Written Text tasks. We provide sample questions, model answers, as well as important vocabulary and grammatical considerations.

Sample Summarize Written Text Questions on Internet Governance and Digital Rights

Question 1: Internet Governance and the Role of Governments (Word count: 197)

The term “Internet governance” refers to the set of rules, standards, and practices that determine how the internet is managed. Governments around the world hold varying degrees of control over internet access and infrastructure in their countries. In theory, with the goal of creating a safer online environment, some governments choose to impose censorship and regulation, limiting access to certain websites or online platforms. On the other hand, there has been a growing movement advocating for a multi-stakeholder approach, where non-governmental actors, such as businesses and non-profits, play a significant role in shaping internet policies.

This concept aims to ensure that the internet remains an open, secure, and inclusive space for all users. However, critics argue that governmental interference often leads to online surveillance, censorship, and the restriction of individual digital rights. Striking the right balance between regulation and ensuring freedom of expression online is a challenge for many nations today.

Write a summary of the passage in one sentence.

Example Responses:

Band 90+ (High level response)
Internet governance entails balancing government regulation to ensure online security and protect citizens, while simultaneously upholding individual digital rights and encouraging non-governmental stakeholders to contribute to policy-making.

• Content: Fully addresses the balance between government control and digital rights.
• Form: The summary is within the required word count of 5 to 75 words.
• Grammar: Demonstrates high control of complex sentence structures.
• Vocabulary: Employs academic vocabulary, such as “entails,” “balancing,” and “stakeholders.”
• Spelling: No spelling errors.

Band 70-79 (Proficient)
Internet governance involves government regulation and the participation of non-governmental organizations while being mindful of balancing security and digital rights.

• Content: Captures the essence but lacks slight detail in describing the challenges.
• Form: Correct length and concise.
• Grammar: Clear sentence, though less complex.
• Vocabulary: Appropriate, though less varied than the higher band.
• Spelling: No spelling errors.

Band 60-69 (Competent)
Internet governance is when governments and other organizations make rules for the internet, but digital rights can be affected.

• Content: Covers the topic generally but misses key details about the multi-stakeholder approach.
• Form: Correct format.
• Grammar: Effective but somewhat simplistic.
• Vocabulary: Basic vocabulary with limited range.
• Spelling: No errors.

Question 2: Digital Rights in the Age of Globalization (Word count: 220)

As the internet has expanded, so too has the conversation surrounding digital rights, especially in the context of globalization. The internet has enabled unprecedented levels of communication and access to information, contributing significantly to economic growth and innovation. However, this growth has also brought challenges to protecting privacy and individual freedoms online.

A key issue in the digital age is ensuring that individuals’ personal data remain secure, as data breaches and cyber-attacks become more frequent. Global institutions, such as the United Nations, have started to outline frameworks that protect digital rights, but enforcement has proven problematic due to differing national policies on privacy and security. Meanwhile, the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is lauded as a standard for safeguarding online privacy, influencing laws internationally.

Write a summary of the passage in one sentence.

Example Responses:

Band 90+ (High level response)
With the rise of globalization, digital rights related to privacy and data protection have become pressing issues that require cohesive international regulations, as demonstrated by frameworks like the GDPR.

• Content: Comprehensive summary focusing on both the impact of globalization and frameworks like GDPR.
• Form: One concise and coherent sentence.
• Grammar: Exceptionally well-constructed sentence using complex structures.
• Vocabulary: Advanced use, including “pressing issues,” “cohesive,” and “frameworks.”
• Spelling: No spelling issues.

Band 70-79 (Proficient)
Digital rights, including data protection, have become important concerns in the globalized world, and frameworks like GDPR help address these issues but face enforcement challenges.

• Content: Well-captured, though lacks detail on institutional involvement.
• Form: Correct form and clear wording.
• Grammar: Good complex sentence structure.
• Vocabulary: Effective use of academic terms, such as “enforcement.”
• Spelling: No errors.

Band 60-69 (Competent)
Digital rights, like data privacy, are becoming more important, but it is difficult to enforce laws like GDPR worldwide.

• Content: Basic ideas are conveyed but lacks depth, particularly regarding globalization and international institutions.
• Form: Adequate form, although appears somewhat simplistic.
• Grammar: Simple and clear.
• Vocabulary: Basic use of “important” and “difficult,” showing limited range.
• Spelling: No spelling problems.

Vocabulary and Grammar Insights

To succeed in Summarize Written Text, it’s essential to incorporate precise language and advanced vocabulary. Here are some key vocabulary terms relevant to the topic of internet governance and digital rights:

1. Censorship /ˈsɛnsəʃɪp/ – the suppression of speech, public communication, or other information, commonly by governments.

   • Example: Online censorship limits access to critical digital resources.

2. Surveillance /səˈveɪləns/ – close monitoring of people or activities, especially by governments.

   • Example: Government surveillance has become a concern for internet users protecting their privacy.

3. Framework /ˈfreɪmˌwɜːrk/ – a set of rules or ideas designed to structure something.

   • Example: The GDPR is an essential framework for ensuring digital rights in Europe.

4. Multistakeholder /ˌmʌltiˈsteɪkhəʊldə(r)/ – involving various organizations or groups, particularly in decision-making processes.

   • Example: Internet governance involves a multistakeholder approach to ensure fairness.

5. Enforcement /ɪnˈfɔːsmənt/ – the act of ensuring compliance with laws or regulations.

   • Example: Enforcement of digital rights laws differs greatly between countries.

6. Breach /briːtʃ/ – an act of breaking into or violating security protocols.

   • Example: Data breaches have become a rising concern for global businesses.

7. Inclusive /ɪnˈkluːsɪv/ – catering to everyone or making participation available to all.

   • Example: Internet policies must be inclusive to avoid marginalization.

8. Globalization /ˌɡləʊbəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – the process by which businesses and other organizations develop international influence.

   • Example: Globalization has affected how digital rights are viewed on a worldwide scale.

9. Regulation /ˌrɛɡjʊˈleɪʃən/ – rules established by authorities to control or govern conduct.

   • Example: Many criticize government regulation of the internet for infringing on privacy.

10. Innovation /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – the creation of new ideas or methods.

    • Example: Innovation in digital technologies continues to push the boundaries of internet governance.

Conclusion

Implementing Summarize Written Text strategies effectively can significantly improve your PTE Writing and Speaking scores. The topic of internet governance and digital rights is increasingly relevant due to the expansion of the digital space. By practicing sample questions and focusing on the vocabulary and grammar discussed, you can efficiently summarize even the most challenging texts. Don’t forget to review, practice regularly, and share your experiences in the comments below!