The Summarize Written Text section in the PTE Speaking & Writing module is known for testing a candidate’s ability to condense detailed information into a single, coherent sentence. One of the increasingly relevant topics making multiple appearances in PTE exams is Universal Basic Services (UBS), and given its rising importance, it’s a topic worth familiarizing yourself with. Let’s dive into some model tasks that will help you work on this critical topic.
Overview of Summarize Written Text
In the Summarize Written Text section, candidates have ten minutes to read a passage of 150-400 words and summarize it in one sentence of no more than 75 words. Mastering this section involves three key skills: comprehension of long texts, the ability to extract key ideas, and proficiency in writing grammatically accurate and concise sentences.
Subjects like The Future Of Universal Basic Services have appeared frequently due to their relevance both in politics and economics, making this a perfect theme for practical exam practice.
PTE Model Task 1: Summarizing a Passage on “The Future of Universal Basic Services”
Task Prompt
The passage below discusses the growing conversation around universal basic services, an alternative approach to universal basic income, focusing on the provision of essential public services to meet the basic needs of citizens.
Read the passage and summarize it in one sentence. Your response must be between 5 and 75 words.
In recent years, Universal Basic Services (UBS) has attracted growing attention as a strategy to address inequality and improve living standards. UBS entails providing universal access to essential public services — such as healthcare, education, and housing — rather than offering cash payments like Universal Basic Income (UBI). Advocates argue that UBS ensures everyone has access to these critical services, reducing the need for income redistribution and enhancing social equity. Conversely, critics warn that UBS could lead to inefficient service delivery and increased government debt. In an ideal future, proponents envision a fully functioning UBS system where essential services are universally available, free of charge at the point of use, funded by progressive taxation, ensuring that everyone can meet their basic needs without relying on market prices.
Illustration of Universal Basic Services compared to Universal Basic Income
Model Answer 1: Band 90
Universal Basic Services (UBS) proposes providing essential public services such as healthcare and education, which proponents argue can reduce inequality and increase social equity, but critics fear inefficiencies and financial strain.
Analysis:
- Content: All key areas of the passage were covered succinctly.
- Form: Correct sentence structure, 39 words, aligns with the word limit.
- Grammar: Good use of linking words and transitions.
- Vocabulary: Expressive yet concise words such as “proponents,” “equity,” and “inefficiencies.”
- Spelling: No errors detected.
Model Answer 2: Band 79
Universal Basic Services are seen as a means to provide healthcare and education to all citizens, though some express concerns about its economic feasibility and service inefficiencies.
Analysis:
- Content: Key ideas were included, though the sentence could emphasize more on social equity benefits.
- Form: Sentence is correctly structured at 29 words.
- Grammar: Correct but lacks complexity.
- Vocabulary: Simpler vocabulary choice, e.g., “economic feasibility.”
- Spelling: Accurate with no mistakes.
Model Answer 3: Band 65
Universal Basic Services plan to offer free public services to everyone, although it might cause problems with government spending and service quality.
Analysis:
- Content: Omits details on equity and the broader implications of UBS.
- Form: 23 words, correct but could be more comprehensive.
- Grammar: Simple but grammatically correct.
- Vocabulary: Basic and misses strong academic tone, using “cause problems” instead of “create inefficiencies.”
- Spelling: No issues.
Vocabulary & Grammar Focus
Here are 10 essential words you should know from the sample passage with examples:
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Inequality (ɪnɪˈkwɒlɪti) – The condition of not being equal, especially in status and opportunities.
- Example: Education reforms aim to reduce inequality.
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Advocate (ˈædvəkət) – Someone who publicly supports or suggests an idea.
- Example: She is a strong advocate of Universal Basic Services.
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Redistribution (ˌriːdɪstrɪˈbjuːʃən) – The distribution of wealth or resources in different amounts, especially to achieve social equality.
- Example: The government’s plan includes redistribution of resources to poorer communities.
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Equity (ˈɛkwɪti) – Fairness or justice in the way people are treated.
- Example: The campaign focused on achieving equity in healthcare access.
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Critics (ˈkrɪtɪks) – People who express their opinions about something, often in a negative way.
- Example: Critics of the system argue it will be unsustainable financially.
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Strain (streɪn) – Pressure or tension.
- Example: The economic strain of implementing UBS could be substantial.
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Proponents (prəˈpəʊnənts) – People who argue in favor of something.
- Example: Proponents maintain that universal services are essential for social justice.
Illustration of progressive taxation system impact on UBS
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Feasibility (ˌfiːzəˈbɪlɪti) – The state or degree of being easily or conveniently done.
- Example: The feasibility of the system depends on adequate funding.
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Inefficiencies (ˌɪnɪˈfɪʃənsiz) – Lack of efficiency or effectiveness.
- Example: Critics worry about the inefficiencies in public service delivery.
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Progressive taxation (prəˈgresɪv tæksˈeɪʃən) – A tax system in which the rate increases as the amount subject to taxation increases.
- Example: UBS would be funded primarily through progressive taxation.
Conclusion
The Summarize Written Text is a critical section of the PTE exam, and mastering topics like the future of Universal Basic Services (UBS) can significantly boost your performance. This timeless topic reflects growing socio-political relevance, making it a probable candidate for future exams. The analytic breakdown of sample answers provided above can guide you through different performance levels and help you refine your approach.
Student preparing model answer for PTE exam
Remember, regularly practicing these types of exercises and critically analyzing your drafts is key to success.
