PTE - Summarize Spoken Text

The first task in the listening section of the Pearson Test of English (PTE) is “Summarize Spoken Text”. The listening segment begins with this question, which requires test takers to listen intently. It asks participants to listen to an audio sample and write a summary of it, which helps with both writing and listening scores. The nature of the summarize spoken text task, its scoring guidelines, and a thorough approach with methods to succeed in this portion will all be covered in this blog.

What is Complicated at First with Summarizing a Spoken Text?

This exam combines listening, as well as writing skills. You will be asked to:

• Instantly understand a high level of lecture. To write a short
• Summary of words mostly consisting of at least 50-70 words.

The primary objective is to thoroughly comprehend the audio file and compose an outline utilizing intricate vocabulary terms, being cautious not to make any grammatical mistakes as this will result in lower marks.

What Should You Expect on Exam Day?

• To listen to the recording that lasts 1 minute or so
• 10 minutes maximum to complete the task
• However, the recording time is also included in this timeframe leaving you almost 8 minutes to write your summary.

Scoring Criteria:

There are five marking criteria for the summarise spoken text question type. Each element has a weightage of two marks. It is critical to evaluate all of these in order to receive full marks on the question.

1. Form
If you write between 50 and 70 words, you will receive two marks for using the correct form. You should not write more than 75 words; doing so will result in zero points. Similarly, writing less than 50 words will have an impact on the form’s marks.

2. Content
The content implies to clearly expose the primary content of audio. In the end of the summary, you need to ask yourself:

• Did I mention all the lecture’s main points?
• Did I manage to convey the right interpretation?

3. Grammar
Use good grammar, keeping in mind that grammar errors result in lower results. Take care of the grammar range, too. The larger the range, the more masks you’ll get.

4. Vocabulary
Use words that are appropriate for the topic at hand. Using good and distinctive terms will help you get higher marks. However, ensure that your spelling is correct.

5. Spelling
Spellings, like the other four marking criteria, are worth two points, and you should pay close attention to them. If more than two spellings are incorrect, you will not receive any marks in spelling. As a result, scheduling time for proofreading in the end becomes mandatory.

Summarize Spoken Text Tips and Strategy:

These strategies will be divided into three sections which would guide you for the action items for the pre, post & during task strategies. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Before the Audio Begins:

Before the Summarize Spoken Text audio commences, you are allotted 12 seconds for preparation. This brief period is crucial for setting the groundwork for a successful response.
Here’s how to make the most of this time:

Grab Your Tools
Ensure your pen and erasable notepad are in hand and ready for use. This ensures you’re well-prepared to jot down key points during the audio.

Mental Preparation
Take advantage of the brief pause to mentally prepare yourself for focused listening. Deep breathing can help you find composure and enhance concentration.

Focus on the Task
Use this time solely for preparatory actions. Avoid attempting to anticipate the topic or formulating your response during this period, as it may lead to distraction.

By efficiently utilizing these 12 seconds, you position yourself to approach the Summarize Spoken Text task with the necessary tools and a focused mindset, setting the stage for a more successful response.

Step 2:While the Audio is Playing:

In this crucial phase of the PTE Summarize Spoken Text task, active listening is essential. Follow these guidelines to make the most of the 60 to 90 seconds of audio:

Attentive Listening
Listen carefully to the entire audio recording, maintaining a high level of concentration throughout.

Keyword Identification
Instead of attempting to note down every detail, focus on identifying keywords and phrases that stand out. Emphasized or stressed words by the speaker are particularly important.

Recognize Emphasis
Pay attention to words that are emphasized or repeated by the speaker. These emphasized words are likely to be central to the main ideas of the spoken text.

Adjectives, Verbs, and Nouns
Note down key adjectives, verbs, and nouns. These are fundamental in conveying the meaning and tone of the spoken content.

Target 5 to 7 Keywords/Phrases
Aim to jot down between 5 to 7 crucial keywords or key phrases. These will serve as the foundation for your summary.

Step 3:After Audio Finishes

The next phase in PTE Summarise Spoken Text is to organize your notes into a good response of 50 to 70 words. First, consider the central or major topic of the audio you’ve just heard. Use your notes and memory to think about the major point that was presented in the lecture; this will provide you with your central thought, which is critical.

Initial Minutes
Begin by reflecting on the main idea extracted from the keywords identified during the listening phase. Devote time to considering the structure of your response, including the introduction, body, and conclusion. Plan the keywords to incorporate in each section of your summary.

Response Typing
Commence typing your response using the provided template. This structure will help organize your thoughts logically. Concentrate on conveying the primary ideas succinctly and accurately.

Last Few Minutes - Editing and Refining
Allocate the final minutes to review and refine your response. Pay close attention to grammar, punctuation, and spelling, ensuring a polished presentation. Verify that your word count adheres to the specified requirements.

Time Management Note
If you complete your response ahead of the 10-minute mark, be aware that the saved time won’t carry over to subsequent tasks. Utilize any extra time to enhance the quality of your summary.

Conclusion:

By implementing the various tips and tricks discussed in the blog would necessitate a substantial amount of practice. Consistent practice allows individuals to familiarize themselves with different accents, speech patterns, and content structures encountered in the test.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How can I improve my listening skills to better understand the spoken content in Summarize Spoken Text?
Improving your listening skills for Summarize Spoken Text involves regular practice. Engage in activities such as listening to podcasts, watching documentaries, or participating in English conversations.

Is there a recommended structure for summarizing spoken text, and how can I ensure my response is concise yet comprehensive?
Yes, a recommended structure involves identifying the main idea and supporting points. Start by understanding the central theme and key details of the spoken text. Then, organize your response by introducing the main idea first, followed by supporting points in a logical order.

How can I manage my time effectively during the Summarize Spoken Text task to ensure I cover all essential elements in my response?
Time management is crucial for Summarize Spoken Text. Allocate a few seconds at the beginning to grasp the main idea during the initial listening phase. As you listen, take brief notes on key points. Use these notes to structure your response efficiently.