The Summarize Written Text task in the PTE Speaking & Writing section gauges your ability to distill the essential points of a written passage into a concise summary. One popular topic that often appears in this section is the rising significance of renewable energy, especially in the context of transport infrastructure. This article not only provides some Summarize Written Text samples for practicing but also gives valuable insights into how you can develop proficiency in tackling this topic.
Summarize Written Text Sample Question 1: The Shift to Renewable Energy in Transport
The transition to renewable energy in the transport sector has become a global focus amid the growing concerns about carbon emissions and climate change. Governments around the world are integrating more energy-efficient technologies to replace fossil fuels with renewable options like electric vehicles (EVs) powered by solar, wind, and hydroelectric sources. Public transportation systems such as buses, trams, and trains are also being electrified. In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, renewable energy adoption in the transport sector helps to lessen the dependence on volatile fossil fuels, provides long-term savings, and paves the path for a sustainable future. However, the deployment of this technology requires significant investment in infrastructure development, research, and regulations. Although challenges exist, the long-term benefits make renewable energy in transportation essential for achieving environmental sustainability.
Summarize the text in one sentence.
Sample Answer Based on Band Scores:
Band 90:
The global shift toward renewable energy in transport is driven by efforts to reduce carbon emissions through the adoption of electric vehicles and public transportation systems powered by renewable energy sources, despite requiring heavy investment in infrastructure and technology.
Content: The summary effectively includes the core points—shift to renewable energy, carbon emission reduction, public transport electrification, and the need for investment.
Form: The sentence length is within the required 5-75 word range.
Grammar: The sentence is grammatically accurate, with proper conjunction use.
Vocabulary: Appropriate and precise vocabulary like “adoption,” “renewable energy sources,” and “electrification” are used.
Spelling: No errors.
Band 75:
Renewable energy is replacing fossil fuels in the global transport sector to reduce carbon emissions and create a sustainable future, although infrastructure investments are needed.
Content: The content highlights renewable energy’s role in transport but omits details regarding public transportation and the extensive need for research and regulation.
Form: This response meets the length requirement.
Grammar: Generally accurate, but a bit simpler structure.
Vocabulary: Mostly appropriate though lacks the specificity of higher band answers.
Spelling: No errors.
Band 50:
Transport is switching to renewable energy, but this change is costly.
Content: Critical information is missing, notably the environmental motivations and the adoption of technologies in public transport.
Form: The word count is minimal, and the sentence could have been expanded.
Grammar: The sentence is simple but grammatically correct.
Vocabulary: Very basic vocabulary without expansion on key terms discussed in the passage.
Spelling: No errors.
Summarize Written Text Sample Question 2: Importance of Renewable Energy in Public Transport
To tackle urban air pollution and lower carbon footprints, many cities across the globe have been upgrading their public transportation systems to incorporate renewable energy sources. Metro systems now run on electricity generated from wind or solar power, and electric buses are being deployed to replace diesel-powered vehicles. Implementing these eco-friendly solutions has dramatically reduced local pollution levels. Additionally, by lowering dependency on oil, the use of renewables has contributed to energy security. However, the transition faces major obstacles, including high initial costs and the long time required for infrastructure development. The shift requires strong governmental policies and public-private partnerships to achieve success.
Summarize the text in one sentence.
Sample Answer Based on Band Scores:
Band 90:
Public transportation systems are increasingly powered by renewable energy, helping address urban air pollution and energy security issues, though the transition is costly and requires extensive infrastructure development and strong government support.
Content: Comprehensive and well-rounded, covering all major points in the text, including the benefits, challenges, and solutions related to renewable energy in public transport.
Form: The sentence is well-structured and falls within the word limit.
Grammar: Advanced grammatical structures are used effectively.
Vocabulary: Words like “powered by,” “infrastructure development,” and “support” offer variation and accuracy.
Spelling: No errors.
Band 75:
Cities are using renewable energy in public transport to cut pollution and ensure energy security, though the adaptation is expensive and needs significant time for development.
Content: The summary captures most of the ideas but excludes the role of government policies and partnerships.
Form: Well-crafted but could include a bit more on solutions.
Grammar: Generally sound with minor complexity.
Vocabulary: The vocabulary is suitable but slightly less diverse than a higher score would require.
Spelling: No errors.
Band 55:
Public transport is using renewable energy, but the change is expensive and slow to implement.
Content: The response lacks details about the contribution to pollution control and energy security, as well as the necessary government policies.
Form: The structure is minimally acceptable.
Grammar: Basic but no clear errors.
Vocabulary: Limited word usage, missing key terms like “air pollution,” “government support,” or “infrastructure.”
Spelling: No errors.
Electric vehicles powered by renewable energy in transport systems
Vocabulary and Grammar
Below are 10 challenging words from these sample passages along with their meanings:
-
Electrification /ɪˌlɛk.trɪ.fɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/: The process of powering by electricity, often replacing another form of energy.
Example: The electrification of public transport is essential for lowering city emissions. -
Sustainability /səˌsteɪ.nəˈbɪl.ɪ.ti/: The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level without exhausting resources.
Example: Renewable energy is key to energy sustainability. -
Decarbonization /diːˌkɑː.bə.naɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/: The reduction of carbon dioxide emissions in the atmosphere.
Example: Countries are working towards decarbonization by adopting renewable energy. -
Infrastructure /ˈɪn.frəˌstrʌk.tʃər/: The fundamental systems and structures needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
Example: Investment in renewable energy infrastructure is critical for reducing emissions. -
Renewable /rɪˈnjuː.ə.bəl/: Capable of being replenished naturally.
Example: Solar and wind are top examples of renewable energy sources. -
Regulations /ˌrɛɡjʊˈleɪʃənz/: Rules or directives made and maintained by an authority.
Example: Strict government regulations are needed to push for renewable energy adoption. -
Deployment /dɪˈplɔɪ.mənt/: The distribution of forces or equipment that are strategically positioned.
Example: The deployment of electric buses is essential for modern public transport systems. -
Carbon Footprint /ˈkɑː.bən ˈfʊt.prɪnt/: The total amount of greenhouse gases produced by human activities.
Example: Renewable energy in transport can lower a city’s carbon footprint. -
Partnership /ˈpɑːt.nə.ʃɪp/: An association of two or more entities collaborating on a venture.
Example: Public-private partnerships are vital for implementing renewable systems. -
Fossil Fuels /ˈfɑː.səl fjuːəlz/: Natural fuels such as coal, oil, or gas formed from past organic matter.
Example: Replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy in transport is gaining global momentum.
Conclusion
Mastering the Summarize Written Text section in the PTE exam requires practice and understanding of topics like Renewable Energy In Transport Infrastructure. As seen in the sample questions, renewable energy is a widely-discussed theme, and being well-versed in how to summarize information accurately is crucial. Remember, efficient studying and repetition are the keys!
For further reading, explore resources like Air pollution control measures in cities or Future of renewable energy in transport for a deeper understanding of these contemporary issues in transport infrastructure.
