In the PTE exam’s Speaking & Writing section, Summarize Written Text is one of the most evaluated parts. Test takers must read long passages and condense the given information into just one sentence and summarize it effectively within 10 minutes. One increasingly popular topic in this part of the test is renewable energy sources for transportation. In this article, we will provide sample Summarize Written Text tasks related to this subject for effective practice.
Overview of the Summarize Written Text Section
In the Summarize Written Text section of the PTE exam, candidates are presented with a text that ranges between 150 – 400 words. The task is to summarize the information in one sentence within a 5 – 75 word limit. The sentence should reflect the main ideas of the passage while maintaining appropriate grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation.
Tip: Test takers should focus on organizing their thoughts into a well-structured sentence with a proper flow and coherence.
One of the most frequently encountered topics in this section is sustainable energy and its applications, which aligns with the growing global movement toward reducing fossil fuel dependency. For instance, transportation powered by renewable energy such as solar, wind, or hydrogen fuel is a key topic given its relevance to environmental policies and initiatives like Renewable energy in transport infrastructure.
Sample Summarize Written Text: Renewable Energy for Transportation
Task 1: Sample Text
Transportation energy consumption accounts for a large portion of global emissions, which has prompted a global search for sustainable solutions. Renewable energy sources such as biofuels, electric vehicles powered by solar or wind energy, and hydrogen fuel cells are considered innovative ways to reduce the carbon impact of transportation. Biofuels like ethanol are made from organic matter and can be a carbon-neutral alternative, while electric vehicles offer zero-emission mobility when charged through renewable sources. Hydrogen fuel cells produce water as a byproduct, making them an eco-friendly option. However, issues such as high initial infrastructure costs and consumer hesitancy remain barriers to full-scale adoption.
Summarize the text in one sentence.
Band 90 Response
The shift towards renewable energy sources such as biofuels, electric vehicles powered by solar or wind, and hydrogen fuel cells offers promising solutions to reducing transportation’s carbon emissions, though significant challenges like infrastructure costs and consumer acceptance still exist.
- Content: This response precisely captures all key ideas of the text.
- Form: The sentence fits within the word count guideline and maintains a logical structure.
- Grammar: Proper use of grammar and sentence structure.
- Vocabulary: Advanced vocabulary such as “carbon emissions” and “infrastructure costs” demonstrates strong language skills.
- Spelling: No errors in spelling.
Band 70 Response
Renewable energy sources like biofuels, electric vehicles, and hydrogen fuel cells can reduce transportation emissions, but cost and consumer reluctance are challenges.
- Content: The main ideas are summarized, though some details (e.g., the role of solar and wind energy) are left out.
- Form: The sentence is correctly structured, though slightly simpler.
- Grammar: The grammar is correct, and the sentence sounds coherent.
- Vocabulary: Reasonable use of vocabulary, though not as varied as a higher band.
- Spelling: No spelling errors detected.
Band 60 Response
Renewable energy can help reduce emissions in transportation, but it is expensive.
- Content: Key details are missing, and the sentence is too general.
- Form: The word count is on the low side, and the sentence is too simplistic.
- Grammar: Grammar is acceptable but lacks complexity.
- Vocabulary: Very limited vocabulary.
- Spelling: No significant errors.
Analysis and Tips for Improvement
When crafting your summary, focus on including all the critical points of the text while eliminating unnecessary details. Ensure your sentence has a smooth flow and that you adhere to the 75-word limit. Using precise terms like “carbon emissions” shows a good command of the language, which can enhance your score.
If more information on Renewable energy transition challenges and their relevance to transportation is needed, candidates should explore further related topics, which may also arise during the exam.
Vocabulary & Grammar Analysis
Here are 10 challenging vocabulary words or phrases from the passage:
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Emissions: /ɪˈmɪʃənz/ – the release of gases, particularly harmful ones, into the atmosphere.
- Example: Reducing vehicle emissions is essential for mitigating climate change.
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Sustainable: /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – capable of being maintained over the long term without depleting resources.
- Example: Electric vehicles provide a sustainable alternative to gas-powered cars.
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Biofuels: /ˈbaɪoʊˌfjuːəlz/ – fuels derived from organic material.
- Example: Ethanol and biodiesel are common types of biofuels used in transport.
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Carbon-neutral: /ˈkɑːrbən ˈnjuːtrəl/ – a process that doesn’t contribute additional carbon into the atmosphere.
- Example: Using renewable fuels helps to create a carbon-neutral economy.
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Infrastructure: /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/ – the physical systems and structures necessary for transportation, communication, etc.
- Example: High infrastructure costs impede the rapid adoption of hydrogen-powered buses.
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Innovative: /ˈɪnəvətɪv/ – introducing new methods or ideas.
- Example: The innovative designs of solar-powered vehicles have transformed modern transportation.
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Reluctance: /rɪˈlʌktəns/ – unwillingness or hesitation.
- Example: Many consumers show reluctance to adopt electric vehicles due to range anxiety.
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Mobility: /moʊˈbɪlɪti/ – the ability to move freely and easily.
- Example: Electric vehicles offer improved mobility in urban areas with heavy traffic.
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Eco-friendly: /ˌikoʊˈfrɛndli/ – not harmful to the environment.
- Example: Hydrogen fuel cells are an eco-friendly energy source for the future of transportation.
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Adoption: /əˈdɒpʃən/ – the act of starting to use something new.
- Example: The adoption of renewable energy vehicles could drastically reduce pollution in cities.
Conclusion
The Summarize Written Text section in the PTE exam often covers pressing global issues such as renewable energy sources for transportation. Thorough practice with realistic passages can significantly elevate your score. Be succinct and focused when summarizing complex topics without omitting key details. For further reading and related topics, feel free to explore articles like Future of renewable energy in transport and analyze how sustainable solutions are shaping modern mobility. Happy practicing!
