Summarize Written Text in PTE | Practice with the Internet of Things in Homes

The Summarize Written Text task is an integral part of the PTE Academic test, testing your ability to comprehend, analyze, and summarize information from a written passage. In this exercise, the focus is on how the Internet Of Things In Homes is both reshaping everyday life and becoming a prominent topic within the PTE test.

Summarizing written text is vital, as it highlights your grasp of reading comprehension and summarization skills. Below, we will provide a detailed example based on the Internet of Things in homes – a topic increasingly common in today’s technology-driven world.

Sample Task: Summarize Written Text Practice on The Internet of Things in Homes

Task Prompt:

The concept of the Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the network of connected devices, from everyday home appliances to sophisticated technology, communicating with each other via the internet. In the sphere of smart homes, the widespread integration of IoT devices allows users to control various systems such as lighting, security, and heating remotely, often through smartphone applications. This technology enhances convenience, enhances energy efficiency, and improves home security. However, concerns have been raised about privacy and the vulnerability of IoT devices to cyber-attacks. Critics are particularly concerned with unauthorized data collection and potential exploitation by hackers. Developers argue that security measures are constantly evolving to counter these risks. Still, the debate on the balance between innovation and privacy continues to grow, especially as IoT devices become more ubiquitous in homes across the globe.

Instruction: Summarize the text in one sentence within 75 words.

Model Answers for Summarize Written Text: Different Band Scores

Answer for a full score (79+ PTE Score):

The Internet of Things in homes, which allows for remote control of various systems such as lighting and security, enhances convenience and energy efficiency, but also raises concerns about privacy and cyber-attacks, despite developers continuously improving security measures.

• Content: The answer covers all important points: smart home systems, benefits (convenience, energy efficiency), and security/privacy drawbacks.
• Form: The sentence is concise and within the word limit (45 words).
• Grammar: The grammar is flawless, presenting accurate use of conjunctions and clauses.
• Vocabulary: Clear, varied vocabulary is used effectively.
• Spelling: All words are spelled correctly.

Answer for a strong score (65-78 PTE Score):

The Internet of Things improves convenience and energy efficiency in homes by allowing remote control of various systems, but it also brings privacy concerns regarding the vulnerability of devices to cyber-attacks.

• Content: This answer includes the essential aspects (convenience, energy efficiency, privacy concerns) but omits details on evolving security.
• Form: The response is well within the word limit (33 words).
• Grammar: Generally accurate, but lacks a bit of complexity in structure.
• Vocabulary: It uses relatively plain vocabulary.
• Spelling: All words are spelled correctly.

Answer for a moderate score (50-64 PTE Score):

IoT allows for better control of home things like lighting and heating, but at the same time it might face security challenges.

• Content: This answer misses important details like privacy concerns and energy efficiency, and does not mention cyber-attack risks.
• Form: The sentence is too brief (22 words), making it unrealistic for a higher score.
• Grammar: Some inaccuracy; “control of home things” should be “control of home systems” or similar.
• Vocabulary: Vocabulary is too limited for a high band score.
• Spelling: Spelled correctly but overly simple.

Answer for a low score (30-49 PTE Score):

Internet of Things is good for smart homes but may be hacked.

• Content: A very basic response with missing key points, such as convenience and energy efficiency, plus lack of context regarding the risks.
• Form: Extremely short (11 words), unable to capture the complexity of the original text.
• Grammar: The sentence structure is overly simple, without proper conjunctions.
• Vocabulary: Simple language without enough range.
• Spelling: Spelling is correct, but again basic.

Vocabulary & Grammar to Boost Your Performance

To excel in the Summarize Written Text task, building a robust vocabulary and using diverse grammatical structures is essential. Below are 10 key vocabulary items from the passage, along with their transcriptions, meanings, and example sentences:

1. Ubiquitous /juːˈbɪkwɪtəs/ (adjective): Existing or being everywhere at the same time.

   • Example: IoT devices are becoming ubiquitous in modern homes.

2. Enhance /ɪnˈhɑːns/ (verb): To improve the quality or value of something.

   • Example: IoT technology enhances home security by allowing for remote monitoring.

3. Vulnerability /ˌvʌlnəˈbɪlɪti/ (noun): The quality of being exposed to the risk of harm or attack.

   • Example: One main concern is the vulnerability of IoT systems to cyber threats.

4. Remote /rɪˈməʊt/ (adjective): Located far away; controlled from a distance.

   • Example: With IoT, users can control their home remotely using their phones.

5. Sophisticated /səˈfɪstɪkeɪtɪd/ (adjective): Highly developed or complex.

   • Example: New IoT home systems are highly sophisticated and multifunctional.

6. Cyber-attack /ˈsaɪbər əˌtæk/ (noun): An attempt to damage or disrupt computer systems.

   • Example: IoT systems can be vulnerable to cyber-attacks when not securely configured.

7. Integration /ˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃn/ (noun): The process of combining things to work together.

   • Example: The integration of IoT devices in homes enhances their functionality.

8. Efficiency /ɪˈfɪʃnsi/ (noun): The ability to achieve maximum productivity with minimum wasted effort.

   • Example: IoT increases the energy efficiency of home systems like heating and lighting.

9. Privacy /ˈpraɪvəsi/ (noun): The right of individuals not to have personal information or activities shared or exposed.

   • Example: Privacy is a growing issue with the increasing implementation of connected devices.

10. Unauthorized /ʌnˈɔːθəraɪzd/ (adjective): Without official permission.

    • Example: Unauthorized data collection through IoT raises significant privacy concerns.

Conclusion

The topic of Internet of Things in homes is emerging as a frequent discussion point within the PTE Academic test, particularly within the Summarize Written Text task. Its balancing act between convenience and security makes it a suitable topic for practice, as this reflects real-world challenges. Practice often by working through varied texts and exploring different model answers to enhance your summarization accuracy. Leave any questions or comments below if you need personalized tips.