Summarize Written Text PTE: Sustainable Architecture in Urban Planning

The Summarize Written Text (SWT) section of the PTE exam presents test-takers with a passage of 150 to 400 words, commonly on topics of academic nature. Your task is to condense the main idea from the given text into a single sentence. Urban sustainability, especially when it comes to Sustainable Architecture In Urban Planning, is a frequently covered topic in this section. In this article, you’ll find sample Summarize Written Text prompts designed for practice, alongside example responses and analysis based on PTE scoring criteria.

The Role of Sustainable Architecture in Modern Cities

Sustainable architecture has played an increasingly crucial role in addressing environmental challenges, particularly within the space of urban planning. Recent trends demonstrate that cities need to be built and managed in ways that reduce their negative impact on the environment. This is achieved by integrating energy-efficient designs, using renewable materials, and maximizing green spaces. One of the most important aspects of sustainable urban design is reducing carbon footprints, which not only helps in mitigating global climate change but also improves the quality of life for the residents.

For an in-depth examination of how environmental sustainability manifests in urban spaces, you can refer to Environmental sustainability in urban design, which discusses practical applications of these ideas.

Sample Summarize Written Text Prompt

Text:

Urban areas face the pressing challenge of reducing their environmental impact due to their contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable architecture, which seeks to minimize energy consumption, resource use, and emissions, is essential in this regard. By incorporating features such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient buildings, architects are helping cities become more livable while addressing climate change. Urban forestry is also gaining traction as it provides a dual benefit—absorbing CO2 while creating green public spaces for inhabitants. The incorporation of pedestrian-friendly designs and public transportation encourages a more eco-conscious lifestyle, further reducing carbon footprints. Overall, sustainable urban planning prioritizes not only environmental viability but also social and economic sustainability, ensuring that cities grow in a way that meets the needs of current and future residents.

Task: Write a one-sentence summary of this passage. Your response must be between 5 and 75 words.

Sample Responses and Band Scores

Band 90 (High-scoring response):

The passage discusses how sustainable architecture and urban planning integrate energy-efficient buildings, public transportation, and green spaces to reduce environmental impacts and enhance livability in cities.

Analysis:

• Content: Fully captures the key themes of sustainable architecture, energy efficiency, and urban planning focused on environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
• Form: 31 words, adhering to the word limit.
• Grammar: Correct sentence structure with no errors in tense or agreement.
• Vocabulary: Appropriate use of relevant terms like “energy-efficient buildings,” “urban planning,” and “green spaces.”
• Spelling: No errors.

Band 75 (Mid-scoring response):

Sustainable urban planning includes designing energy-efficient buildings, eco-friendly transportation, and green spaces to reduce emissions and improve quality of life.

Analysis:

• Content: Covers the main points but slightly omits the broader scope of social and economic sustainability.
• Form: 22 words, within the word limit.
• Grammar: Grammatically correct, but the sentence could be more developed.
• Vocabulary: Adequate but could be more precise, especially in describing sustainable architecture.
• Spelling: No errors.

Band 50 (Low-scoring response):

Sustainable architecture in cities helps reduce pollution and improve living conditions.

Analysis:

• Content: Lacks detail, only touching on general concepts without mentioning key aspects such as energy efficiency or urban forestation.
• Form: Only 11 words, far from the recommended length.
• Grammar: Simple sentence with correct grammar but no complexity.
• Vocabulary: Basic and lacks specificity.
• Spelling: No errors.

Sustainable architecture examples with solar panels and green technology

Vocabulary & Grammar

Here are ten advanced words and phrases from the passage that can enhance your academic vocabulary for the PTE exam:

1. Mitigate /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ (v.): To reduce or lessen the severity, impact, or intensity of something.

   • Example: Sustainable design is critical in mitigating the effects of urbanization on the environment.

2. Carbon footprint /ˈkɑːrbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ (n.): The amount of carbon dioxide emissions for which an individual, organization, or location is responsible.

   • Example: Urban planners aim to reduce the carbon footprint of cities through better transportation systems.

3. Emissions /ɪˈmɪʃənz/ (n.): Pollutants, typically in the form of gas, released into the atmosphere.

   • Example: Cities are working to cut back on greenhouse gas emissions by adopting eco-friendly designs.

4. Renewable resources /rɪˈnjuːəbəl rɪˈsɔːrsɪz/ (n.): Natural resources that can be replenished or replaced naturally over time.

   • Example: Using solar energy and other renewable resources reduces the strain on fossil fuels.

5. Absorb /əbˈsɔːrb/ (v.): To take in or soak up a substance from the surroundings.

   • Example: Trees in urban forests can absorb carbon dioxide, reducing the overall air pollution.

6. Eco-conscious /ˈiːkoʊ ˈkɒnʃəs/ (adj.): Aware of and concerned with environmental protection.

   • Example: Cities are promoting eco-conscious living by encouraging the use of bicycles and electric vehicles.

7. Pedestrian-friendly /pəˈdɛstriən ˈfrɛndlɪ/ (adj.): Designed to be safe or convenient for people walking, often in urban settings.

   • Example: Pedestrian-friendly streets make it easier for residents to reduce their reliance on personal cars.

8. Energy-efficient /ˈɛnərʤi ɪˈfɪʃnt/ (adj.): Using less energy to perform the same function or produce the same output.

   • Example: Building energy-efficient homes is a key strategy in lowering urban energy consumption.

9. Rainwater harvesting /ˈreɪnˌwɔːtə ˈhɑːvɪstɪŋ/ (n.): The practice of collecting and storing rainwater for reuse, typically in urban areas.

   • Example: Rainwater harvesting systems help urban residents conserve water.

10. Urbanization /ˌɜːrbənaɪˈzeɪʃən/ (n.): The process of making an area more urban or city-like.

    • Example: Urbanization often leads to environmental degradation unless it follows sustainable principles.

Conclusion

Sustainable architecture and urban planning are pivotal topics in Summarize Written Text for PTE because of their relevance to modern society. Preparing for this section not only hones your summarization skills but also familiarizes you with important themes that may come up in your actual exam. As seen in the sample responses, focusing on accurately capturing the essence of the text while adhering to word limits is key.

For additional learning, check out Environmental sustainability in urban design. Make sure to practice regularly with similar prompts and aim for concise, well-structured responses!