Introduction
The Summarize Written Text task is one of the crucial components in the Speaking & Writing section of the PTE (Pearson Test of English). It requires test-takers to compress a passage’s primary idea into a single sentence ranging from 5–75 words. A topic that has gained significant attention in this section is mental health in competitive sports. With the rise of discussions surrounding athletes’ well-being, this theme has become increasingly popular.
In this article, we will provide sample exercises on this pressing issue to assist you in practicing for your examination, alongside sample answers and detailed feedback.
Mental Health in Competitive Sports – Sample Summarize Written Text Exercises
Task 1: Summarize the following text in one sentence.
The pressure to perform at peak levels in competitive sports can take a significant toll on a player’s mental health. Athletes often face immense expectations from coaches, fans, and media, compelling them to push their physical and mental limits in pursuit of success. This pressure, combined with the physical toll of sports injuries and the isolated nature of a professional athletic career, often leads to anxiety, depression, or burnout. While the recognition of athletes’ mental health challenges has increased in recent years, many still hesitate to seek help due to stigma, fear of career repercussions, or a lack of support from their organizations. Prominent athletes, however, have helped elevate the conversation on mental health, urging leagues and supporting bodies to prioritize mental wellness alongside physical fitness.
Task: Write a one-sentence summary of the passage.
Sample Answers:
Band 90 – The immense pressure of competitive sports on athletes can cause mental health challenges like anxiety and depression, often exacerbated by stigma and career concerns, though advocates are beginning to encourage mental wellness support systems.
Content: Excellent coverage of key ideas, including mental health challenges, stigma, and advocacy.
Form: 47 words.
Grammar: Complex sentence structures used correctly.
Vocabulary: Varied and appropriate.
Spelling: No errors.
Mental health pressure in competitive sports, highlighting athlete challenges
Band 79 – The pressure to perform in competitive sports can result in mental health problems such as anxiety or burnout, with some athletes hesitant to seek help due to stigma and concerns over their careers.
Content: Covers most key points but omits issues like injury and isolation.
Form: 33 words.
Grammar: Accurate use of sentence structure.
Vocabulary: Good use of relevant terms.
Spelling: No errors.
Band 65 – Athletes in competitive sports suffer from mental health issues, and many are afraid to seek help due to stigma or fear of losing their careers.
Content: Addresses basic points but lacks comprehensive details about pressure sources, injuries, and advocacy.
Form: 25 words.
Grammar: Simple structures, no errors.
Vocabulary: Basic but appropriate.
Spelling: No errors.
Band 50 – Sports pressure harms athletes’ mental health, and some players are scared to get help.
Content: Key message understood, but highly generalized.
Form: 15 words.
Grammar: Simple but correct.
Vocabulary: Low range of vocabulary.
Spelling: No errors.
Vocabulary and Grammar Insights
Here are some essential words and phrases from the passage, with their meanings and examples:
-
Toll /təʊl/ (noun) – A negative impact or cost.
Example: The toll of constant stress eventually affected his performance. -
Anxiety /æŋˈzaɪəti/ (noun) – A feeling of worry or nervousness.
Example: Athletes often experience anxiety before major competitions. -
Burnout /ˈbɜːnaʊt/ (noun) – A state of physical or mental collapse caused by overwork or stress.
Example: Many athletes face burnout after long seasons without adequate rest. -
Stigma /ˈstɪɡmə/ (noun) – A negative stereotype or societal disapproval.
Example: The stigma around mental health often prevents athletes from seeking help. -
Isolation /ˌaɪsəˈleɪʃən/ (noun) – Being separated from others.
Example: Professional athletes sometimes feel isolation when traveling long distances for competitions. -
Advocacy /ˈædvəkəsi/ (noun) – Public support for a cause.
Example: Athletes’ advocacy for mental health has gained more attention recently. -
Repercussion /ˌrɪpəˈkʌʃən/ (noun) – An unintended, often negative consequence.
Example: The possible repercussion of speaking out on mental health could be career setbacks. -
Exacerbate /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ (verb) – To make a problem worse.
Example: Anxiety can sometimes exacerbate physical injuries in athletes. -
Wellness /ˈwɛlnəs/ (noun) – The state of being in good health.
Example: Promoting mental wellness is now a priority in sports organizations. -
Elite /ɪˈliːt/ (adjective) – Representing the best or most skilled.
Example: Even elite athletes can fall prey to mental health challenges.
Vocabulary related to mental health and pressure in sports
Conclusion
Summarizing written texts related to mental health in competitive sports is essential for success in the PTE Speaking & Writing section. This exercise not only challenges your ability to condense information but also brings awareness to a critical issue in today’s sporting world. The key to mastering this task is practice and understanding how to identify the core ideas of each passage.
What do you think about these exercises? Try them for yourself and leave a comment if you need further tips or practice suggestions.
