PTE Speaking Changes New Template 2024

visionlanguage

08 Nov, 2024

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With Pearson’s recent updates to PTE format, many test-takers are searching for effective strategies to adapt, especially for PTE speaking section. Pearson has announced that old templates for the “Describe Image” and “Retell Lecture” tasks may no longer work effectively, as they now require a more dynamic approach. Human examiners will also be assessing content, which adds a new level of scrutiny to the scoring process.

Why Templates Have Changed for PTE Speaking?

Pearson’s changes are significant because they now expect a higher level of analysis and content relevance, especially in and retell lecture responses. Rather than relying on rigid templates with repetitive phrases, candidates are now required to demonstrate an understanding of trends, comparisons, and phrases related to the main topic.

In other words, Pearson aims to ensure that each response reflects genuine comprehension of the image or lecture, and it now prioritizes structured, trend-based analysis. This is why the new template guides students to focus on key trends, comparisons, and relevant vocabulary.

Updated Template for Describe Image

In the Describe Image task, you will encounter various visual prompts, such as bar graphs, line charts, pie charts, and flow diagrams. Here is an updated template structure to maximize your performance under Pearson’s new standards.

Step-by-Step Guide to Describe Image Template

Identify the Main Topic

Start by summarizing the main topic of the image.

Describe Key Elements (Left and Right Sides)

Note the keywords on the left and right sides of the image. This might include units, categories, or other data labels.

Highlight Specific Trends (Highest and Lowest)

Describe any standout trends by identifying the highest and lowest values.

Select a Segment for Deeper Analysis

Choose a specific period, category, or data point for more detailed comparison.

Conclude Description

Summarize the image with a conclusive phrase.

Adapting This Template to Different Image Types

For Bar Graphs and Line Charts: Always describe at least one trend and a specific comparison.

For Pie Charts: Identify the largest and smallest segments with corresponding values.
Images with Minimal Content: Describe key elements in sequence.

Key Tips for Describe Image

• Focus on trends and comparisons to show that you can analyze the image meaningfully.
• Use varied vocabulary, such as “highest,” “lowest,” “maximum,” and “minimum.”
• Avoid overly complex language and keep the flow natural.

Updated Template for Retell Lecture

Pearson now emphasizes phrase-based note-taking rather than single keywords for the Retell Lecture task. This shift requires students to understand and articulate the main topic and key supporting details effectively. Here is how the new template can help you organize your response.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Retell Lecture Template

Identify Main Topic and Take Notes in Phrases

• Listen carefully to identify the lecture’s main topic, which is often repeated or emphasized.
• Write down phrases instead of individual keywords.

Using the Template for Your Response

• Start with a statement about the lecture’s main topic.
• Follow with structured sentences that highlight key details.

Concluding Statement

• Wrap up with a summary or final point about the main idea.

Retell Lecture Tips

• Phrase-Based Notes: Phrases should relate directly to the main idea for better coherence and relevance.
• Fluency is Key: Pearson’s scoring for fluency and pronunciation still relies on AI, so minimize pauses and fillers.
• Vary Vocabulary: Use synonyms like “mentioned,” “discussed,” and “emphasized” to add depth to your response.

General Tips for Success in PTE Speaking Tasks

• Practice Identifying Trends: For the Describe Image task, practice quickly spotting trends in data.
• Build Phrase-Based Note-Taking Skills: Avoid single keywords in Retell Lecture; focus on main ideas and key details.
• Maintain Fluency and Avoid Pauses: AI will penalize excessive pauses or fumbles, so practice speaking smoothly.
• Don’t Panic on Minor Errors: Stay calm if you miss a detail—fluency and flow are more critical than perfection.

Use Varied Vocabulary: Avoid using the same template language repeatedly; Pearson now expects some variety in phrasing.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Vishal Kapoor

(PTE & NAATI Expert)

Vishal Kapoor is having 6+ years of expertise in instructing PTE and NAATI, both in Australia and internationally, with an impressive 100% success rate among students. As a certified expert by Pearson in PTE and NAATI, Vishal Kapoor has developed a comprehensive teaching approach derived from extensive research and a wealth of teaching experience. Tailoring coaching techniques to individual skill levels and target scores, Vishal's guidance has proven instrumental in helping numerous aspirants attain their desired scores. With a commitment to personalized tips and solutions, Vishal Kapoor is dedicated to facilitating the success of those preparing for PTE and NAATI examinations.

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