PTE Speaking And Writing Format
The PTE Academic exam is a computer-based English language proficiency test designed to evaluate your speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills. While all sections are important, the Speaking & Writing part plays a significant role in your overall score, as it accounts for 40% of your total test score. This section tests your ability to communicate effectively in both spoken and written English.
PTE SPEAKING & WRITING TEST FORMAT
The Speaking & Writing section is 77-93 minutes long and is divided into several tasks. Below are the main tasks you will encounter:
1. Read Aloud (Time: 30-40 seconds per item)
– Task: You will see a short text on the screen and will need to read it aloud into the microphone.
– Skills Tested: Pronunciation, fluency, and intonation.
PTE Speaking And Writing Format
2. Repeat Sentence (Time: 10-15 seconds per item)
– Task: A sentence will be spoken to you, and you must repeat it exactly as you hear it.
– Skills Tested: Listening and speaking accuracy, pronunciation, and fluency.
3. Describe Image (Time: 40 seconds per item)
– Task: You will see an image (chart, graph, map, or photograph) and must describe it in detail.
– Skills Tested: Speaking fluency, ability to describe visual information, and coherence.
4. Re-tell Lecture (Time: 40 seconds per item)
– Task: You will listen to a short lecture (usually 60-90 seconds long) and then summarize the lecture in your own words.
– Skills Tested: Listening, speaking, summarizing information, and coherence.
PTE Speaking And Writing Format
5. Answer Short Question (Time: 10-15 seconds per item)
– Task: You will hear a question and must provide a brief answer.
– Skills Tested: Quick thinking, fluency, and clarity of speech.
6. Summarize Written Text (Time: 10 minutes per item)
– Task: You will read a passage and summarize it in a single sentence.
– Skills Tested: Reading comprehension, writing ability, and summarizing skills.
7. Essay Writing (Time: 20 minutes per item)
– Task: You will be asked to write an essay (200-300 words) on a given topic.
– Skills Tested: Writing structure, grammar, vocabulary, and argumentation.
PTE Speaking And Writing Format
TIPS FOR CRACKING THE SPEAKING & WRITING SECTION
1. Improve Pronunciation and Fluency (Read Aloud & Repeat Sentence)
– Clear Pronunciation: Speak clearly and at a natural pace. Avoid rushing or speaking too slowly, as this could affect your fluency score. Focus on accurate pronunciation, particularly for difficult sounds.
– Practice with Native Speakers: If possible, practice speaking with native English speakers. This will help you improve your intonation and rhythm.
– Record Yourself: Use language apps or record your own speech to self-assess your pronunciation. Listen for areas that need improvement.
– Do Not Overthink: In tasks like “Repeat Sentence,” do not worry about getting every word perfect. The key is to accurately repeat the meaning of the sentence, not the exact words.
PTE Speaking And Writing Format
2. Practice Describing Images (Describe Image)
– Use Structure: When describing an image, organize your response into clear sections. Start by introducing the image, then describe key features, and conclude with a summary or observation.
– Be Concise but Detailed: You don’t need to describe every detail, but be sure to cover the most important aspects such as trends, comparisons, or changes in the image.
– Use Vocabulary: Practice using academic and descriptive vocabulary to enhance the richness of your descriptions. Words like “increase,” “decline,” “trend,” “comparison,” and “relationship” are useful.
3. Summarize Information Clearly (Re-tell Lecture)
– Focus on Key Ideas: In the “Re-tell Lecture” task, focus on the main points. Don’t try to memorize every detail. Instead, concentrate on summarizing the key concepts and ideas in a clear and logical sequence.
– Note-Taking: While listening, jot down key words or ideas. This will help you organize your thoughts before speaking.
– Use Simple Language: Avoid overly complicated words or phrases. Aim for clarity and coherence in your summary.
PTE Speaking And Writing Format
4. Develop Your Writing Skills (Summarize Written Text & Essay)
– Practice Summarizing: For the “Summarize Written Text” task, practice reading short passages and summarizing them in a single sentence. Focus on identifying the main ideas and eliminating unnecessary details.
– Essay Structure: For the essay writing task, follow a clear structure:
– Introduction: Introduce the topic and state your position or argument.
– Body: Provide supporting arguments or examples.
– Conclusion: Summarize your main points and restate your position.
– Plan Before Writing: Take a few seconds to plan your essay structure before you start writing. This will help you stay organized and coherent.
– Improve Vocabulary and Grammar: Work on using a variety of sentence structures, academic vocabulary, and proper grammar to express your ideas clearly and precisely.
5. Manage Your Time Effectively
– Speaking Tasks: Speaking tasks are time-limited, so practice completing them within the allotted time. Don’t rush, but aim to be concise and clear.
– Writing Tasks: In writing, you have limited time, especially for essays. Plan your writing, write your response quickly, and leave a few seconds to proofread for any errors.
PTE Speaking And Writing Format
6. Practice Regularly
– Mock Tests: Take practice tests under real exam conditions to get familiar with the format, manage your time better, and reduce anxiety.
– Use PTE Preparation Tools: There are many online resources, apps, and PTE preparation books available. Use them regularly to hone your skills.
The Speaking & Writing section of the PTE Academic test requires practice, strategy, and effective time management. By improving your pronunciation, fluency, writing structure, and summarization skills, you can boost your score and perform confidently on test day. Consistent practice, especially with PTE-style questions and tasks, will help you get familiar with the test format and reduce the pressure during the actual exam. Stay calm, stay focused, and give your best effort to each task.
PTE Speaking And Writing Format