In the PTE exam’s Speaking & Writing section, Summarize Written Text is a task where candidates are required to condense a passage into a single sentence of 5 to 75 words. One of the frequent topics candidates may encounter is bioethics, particularly in the rising practice of biohacking. Let’s explore this through sample practice tasks and responses while discussing how to approach this crucial task more effectively.
Sample PTE Summarize Written Text Task on “The Ethics of Biohacking”
Biohacking, which refers to the practice of modifying one’s body using various technological methods, has aroused significant ethical debates. While enthusiasts argue for the potential benefits such as health optimization and life extension, critics have raised concerns regarding safety, consent, and the potential for widening social inequality. For instance, one core ethical issue stems from the idea that biohacking might be available only to the wealthy, thus enhancing social divides. Furthermore, unregulated biohacking could lead to unintended health consequences since the long-term effects of such modifications are not always well understood. Overall, the ethical implications point to the need for more strict regulations in this rapidly evolving field.
Task: Summarize the text in one sentence using 5 to 75 words.
Model Answers by Band Scores
High-Scoring Response (Band 79+):
Biohacking presents ethical dilemmas, including concerns about safety, social inequality, and the need for regulation, as unregulated body modifications could pose health risks and widen social divides.
Analysis:
- Content: The summary captures the main ideas of the text focusing on safety concerns, inequality, and regulation.
- Form: The summary is concise (31 words) and well within the required word count.
- Grammar: The sentence is grammatically flawless, with clear relationships between ideas.
- Vocabulary: The use of precise terms like “ethical dilemmas,” “social inequality,” and “regulation” demonstrates adept language skills.
Ethical dilemmas in biohacking require regulations to mitigate risks
Mid-Scoring Response (Band 65-78):
Biohacking raises safety concerns and might deepen social inequality, leading to calls for stricter regulations.
Analysis:
- Content: The central points (safety, inequality, regulation) are mentioned, but a few supporting details, such as the impact on health, are not.
- Form: This sentence is shorter (21 words), but still meets the form requirement.
- Grammar: The sentence structure is correct, although slightly simpler than the high-scoring response.
- Vocabulary: Basic vocabulary is used but terms like “stricter regulations” show awareness of appropriate word choices.
Low-Scoring Response (Band below 50):
Biohacking is not fully safe and is causing inequality issues.
Analysis:
- Content: This summary misses key information regarding the need for regulations and does not clearly outline the main ethical challenges.
- Form: The response is over-simplified, with only 9 words, reducing its effectiveness.
- Grammar: Although there are no glaring errors, the sentence lacks complexity.
- Vocabulary: Vocabulary is very basic, making the response less nuanced.
Key Vocabulary for “The Ethics of Biohacking”
To achieve a higher score in the Summarize Written Text task, understanding some of the key terms in the source text is crucial. Here are ten challenging words from the sample passage:
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Biohacking (ˈbaɪ.oʊ ˌhæk.ɪŋ)
- Definition: The practice of using science and technology to alter or improve human biology.
- Example: The rise of biohacking has prompted policymakers to consider ethical guidelines.
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Ethical (ˈɛθɪkəl)
- Definition: Relating to moral principles or the branch of knowledge dealing with these.
- Example: Ethical concerns surround the practice of gene editing.
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Optimization (ˌɑːptɪməˈzeɪʃən)
- Definition: The process of making something as effective or functional as possible.
- Example: Biohackers often seek health optimization through diet and supplements.
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Unregulated (ʌnˈrɛɡjʊˌleɪtɪd)
- Definition: Not controlled by laws or rules.
- Example: The unregulated nature of biohacking poses significant safety risks.
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Inequality (ˌɪnɪˈkwɒlɪti)
- Definition: The unfair difference in circumstances, particularly in social status and wealth.
- Example: There is growing inequality in access to high-tech medical treatments.
Key terms in biohacking ethics concern safety and inequality
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Consent (kənˈsɛnt)
- Definition: Permission for something to happen or agreement to do something.
- Example: Ethical biohacking practices must ensure informed consent.
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Consequences (ˈkɒnsɪkwənsɪz)
- Definition: A result or effect often unwelcome or significant.
- Example: The long-term consequences of biohacking on human health are still unknown.
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Technological (ˌtɛknəˈlɒdʒɪkl)
- Definition: Relating to or using technology.
- Example: The technological advances in biohacking have opened up new possibilities in human augmentation.
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Strict (strɪkt)
- Definition: Demanding exact obedience, especially to rules and regulations.
- Example: Governments must enforce strict controls over biohacking procedures.
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Modifications (ˌmɒdɪfɪˈkeɪʃənz)
- Definition: Changes made to improve or tailor something.
- Example: Biohacking often involves genetic or physical modifications to the body.
Conclusion
The task of Summarizing Written Text in the PTE exam requires candidates to understand the core ideas presented and convey them accurately and concisely. As seen in the sample task above about “The Ethics Of Biohacking,” understanding the topic thoroughly, employing proper grammar, selecting appropriate vocabulary, and meeting word count requirements are essential to achieving a high score. As this topic is highly relevant in today’s world, it’s likely a candidate could encounter something related to technological advancements in the actual exam.
Practical experience is key to success, so we encourage you to create your own summaries based on similar topics or share your responses in the comments section for feedback!
