Archives August 2023

Speaking in front of AI in the Pearson Test of English (PTE) and speaking in front of an invigilator in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

Let us explore these distinctions:

Format:

PTE: The speaking component of the PTE frequently involves speaking into a microphone while engaging with a computer-based system. The aspirants must respond orally to the prompts which are displayed on the computer screen within the given time.

IELTS: A face-to-face interaction with a human invigilator will take place during the IELTS speaking test. IELTS speaking can feel like a natural interaction, similar to real-life encounters.

Interaction Style:

PTE: The engagement with the AI is more organized and prompt-driven. You listen to recorded instructions or questions and answer them straight into the microphone.

IELTS: Interacting with an invigilator in IELTS seems more like a natural discussion. The invigilator may ask follow-up questions depending on your replies, allowing for a more dynamic dialogue.

Prompt Delivery:

PTE: Prompts are pre-recorded and played by the computer. You may hear a beep or a tone indicating when you should begin speaking.

IELTS: The invigilator offers the cues and questions more naturally. They can provide clarifications and rephrases if you don’t understand a question.

Evaluation Process:

PTE: Artificial intelligence systems evaluate your verbal answers. To assess a score, they assess characteristics like pronunciation, fluency, vocabulary, and content.

IELTS: Human invigilators assess your speaking ability. They account a wide range of variables, including clarity, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range, pronunciation, and the capacity to converse.

Real-time Feedback:

PTE: After finishing the speaking segment, some computer-based language competency exams, including PTE, give instant results and feedback.

IELTS: In IELTS, the aspirants do not get a feedback during the test. The scores are received later, typically within a few days of completing the test.

Emotional Connection:

PTE: AI lacks emotional intelligence and empathy, which can have an influence on the whole experience and the sense of being understood.

IELTS: Interacting with a real invigilator gives a more authentic conversational experience and emotional connection.

In conclusion, speaking in front of AI in the PTE and an invigilator in the IELTS provide diverse experiences.

While PTE’s AI-powered technology offers organized and prompt-driven interactions with immediate feedback, IELTS always emphasizes natural communication, emotional connection, and a comprehensive evaluation procedure.

Both formats assess your language skills, but your preference might depend on the level of human interaction you desire and the evaluation method you find more reliable.

The IELTS Academic Reading test might be difficult, but you can enhance your score with the appropriate tactics and practice.Here are some tips and tricks to help you excel in the IELTS Reading section:

Understand the Format:

Familiarize yourself with the different types of reading tasks in the IELTS test, including multiple-choice, matching headings, sentence completion, and more.

Understand the specific requirements of each task.

Skim and Scan:

Before you dive into the details of the passage, quickly skim the text to get a general idea of the topic, structure, and main ideas. Use scanning to locate specific information in the passage, such as keywords related to the questions.

Read the Instructions Carefully:

Pay close attention to the instructions for each task. Different tasks might require you to identify main ideas, match information, complete sentences, or locate specific details. Following instructions accurately is crucial.

Time Management:

The IELTS Reading section has a time limit. Aim to spend about 20 minutes on each passage and its associated questions. If you find a particular question challenging, move on and come back to it later if you have time.

Predict Answers:

Before you look at the options or answer choices, try to predict what the answer might be based on your understanding of the passage. This can help you stay focused and identify the correct answer more easily.

Keyword Identification:

Identify keywords or phrases in both the questions and the passage. These keywords can guide you to the relevant information in the text. Synonyms and paraphrases are common, so be on the lookout for those as well.

Read Carefully:

While scanning is useful for finding specific information, reading carefully is essential to fully understand the context and nuances of the passage. This will help you answer questions that require a deeper comprehension of the text.

Guessing Strategies:

If you’re unsure about an answer, eliminate obviously incorrect options and make an educated guess based on the information you have. There’s no penalty for incorrect answers, so guessing is better than leaving a question blank.

Pay Attention to True/False/Not Given:

These types of questions can be tricky. Remember that “True” means the information matches the passage, “False” means it contradicts the passage, and “Not Given” means the information is not mentioned in the passage.

Practice Regularly:

The more you practice IELTS academic reading different types of passages and answering questions, the more comfortable you’ll become with the format and the types of questions asked.

Vocabulary Enhancement:

Improve your vocabulary by reading a variety of materials in English. This will not only help you understand passages better but also allow you to grasp subtler meanings and nuances.

Time-Saving Techniques:

For tasks that involve matching headings or sentence completion, consider IELTS academic reading the headings or partial sentences first before delving into the passage. This can help you quickly locate relevant information. Remember that consistent practice and exposure to a wide range of reading materials in English will significantly contribute to your success in the IELTS Academic Reading section.

IELTS vs PTE

IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System and it has two versions: Academic and General Training. The Academic version is for those who want to pursue higher education or professional registration in an English-speaking country, while the General Training version is for those who want to migrate, work or study at a secondary level in an English-speaking country. Both versions have four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. The Listening and Reading sections have 40 questions each, the Writing section has two tasks and the Speaking section is a face-to-face interview with an examiner. The total test time is 2 hours and 45 minutes.

PTE stands for Pearson Test of English and it has only one version: Academic. This version is for those who want to study or immigrate to an English-speaking country. It also has four sections: Speaking and Writing (combined), Reading, and Listening. The Speaking section includes a personal introduction, read aloud, repeats the sentence, describes the image, re-tells the lecture, and answers short questions. The Writing section includes summarizing written text and writing essays. The Reading section includes multiple-choice, re-order paragraphs, fill in the blanks, and read & write fill in the blanks. The Listening section includes summarizing spoken text, multiple-choice, filling in the blanks, highlighting correct summary, selecting missing words, highlighting incorrect words, and writing from dictation. The total test time is 3 hours.

Scoring

IELTS uses a band score system from 0 to 9 for each section and for the overall score. The scores are reported in half or whole bands. For example, you can get a band score of 6.5 or 7.0, but not 6.7 or 7.3. The scores are based on the performance criteria such as fluency, coherence, vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, etc.

PTE uses a numerical score system from 10 to 90 for each section and for the overall score. The scores are reported in whole numbers only. For example, you can get a score of 65 or 66, but not 65.5 or 66.5. The scores are based on enabling skills such as oral fluency, written discourse, spelling, grammar, etc.

Price

The price of both tests varies depending on the country and the test center where you take the test. However, generally speaking, IELTS is slightly more expensive than PTE. For example, in India, IELTS costs INR 16,250 while PTE costs INR 15, 900. However, PTE charges an extra fee of INR 2,000 if you book your test within 48 hours of your test date.

Availability

Both tests are widely available across the world in many countries and cities. However, IELTS has more test centers than PTE as it is older and more established. For example, in India, IELTS has over 80 test centres while PTE has over 50 test centres (as of August 2023). However, PTE has more test dates than IELTS as it is computer-based and can be scheduled anytime throughout the year.

Acceptance

Both tests are globally accepted by many universities, colleges, employers, and immigration authorities in English-speaking countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, and the USA. However, IELTS has a wider acceptance than PTE as it is more recognized and trusted by many institutions and organizations. For example, in Australia, IELTS is accepted by all universities while PTE is accepted by most but not all universities (as of August 2023).

In conclusion, there is no definitive answer to which test is better or easier as it depends on your personal preference, purpose, and goal. However, some general factors that you can consider are:

– If you prefer a paper-based test with a human examiner for speaking, you might prefer IELTS.
– If you prefer a computer-based test with automated scoring for speaking, you might prefer PTE.
– If you need a higher score to be equivalent to IELTS (from IELTS Band 7.0 to IELTS Band 9.0), you might prefer IELTS.
– If you need a lower score to be equivalent to IELTS (from IELTS Band 4.0 to IELTS Band 6.5), you might prefer PTE.
– If you want to save some money and book your test at short notice, you might prefer PTE.
– If you want to have more test center options and wider acceptance, you might prefer IELTS.

Ultimately, the best way to decide is to do some research on the requirements and expectations of your target institution, organization, or country and to take some practice tests to see which one suits you better.

The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) test can provide various advantages, particularly for non-native English speakers who wish to study, work, or immigrate to English-speaking nations.

Here are some of the main advantages of taking the IELTS test:

Global Acceptance

IELTS is one of the most generally recognized and acknowledged English language competency assessments in the world. Approximately 10,000 organizations, including universities, businesses, immigration agencies, and professional groups, accept an IELTS score.

Study Abroad Opportunities

Many universities and institutions in English-speaking countries demand IELTS scores as part of the admissions process for overseas students. A strong IELTS score might help you get into the school of your choice.

Work Opportunities

Some employers and industries, especially those that require strong communication skills in English, may require candidates to provide IELTS scores as part of their job application. A good IELTS score can demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively in English.

Immigration and Visa Requirements

For those seeking to immigrate to English-speaking countries, various visa categories require an IELTS score. Different countries have specific language proficiency requirements for immigration, and achieving the required IELTS score can be crucial in the application process.

Language Proficiency Assessment

IELTS assesses your language skills in four key areas: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Taking the test can give you a comprehensive overview of your English language abilities and the areas that need improvement.

Different Versions for Different Goals: 

IELTS has two primary test versions: Academic and General Training.

Students applying to colleges for higher education often choose academic IELTS, while the General Training version solves immigration and employment-related purposes.

IELTS scores are valid for two years after the exam date, which means that you may utilize your exam scores for numerous purposes throughout this time frame without having to repeat the test.

Personal and professional development

Preparing for the IELTS test will help you enhance your English language skills, such as hearing, reading, writing, and speaking. These can improve your general communication abilities with confidence in utilizing English in different settings.

IELTS scores give a standardized means of measuring your English language skills against a worldwide benchmark and can provide you with a precise picture of your language talents. Real-life Situation Preparation: The IELTS test imitates real-life communication events. Preparing for the exam can provide you with the skills you need to communicate successfully in academic, professional, and social settings. It is crucial to note that the benefits of taking the IELTS exam may vary depending on your own objectives and circumstances. Consider your aims and explore the specific requirements of the institutions or organizations you’re interested in before opting for the test.

As an international student, studying in Latvia may be a wonderful experience. Latvia has a variety of academic courses, a rich cultural milieu, and tuition prices that are comparatively low in comparison to other European nations.

For international students, here is a general overview of studying in Latvia:

Programs and Universities:

Latvia offers a number of prominent institutions that offer a variety of English-taught programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees. Latvian universities include the University of Latvia, Riga Technical University, and Riga Stradins University. They provide programs in areas such as business, engineering, social sciences, medicine, and others.

Language Requirements:

While many programs are available in English, you should check the particular language requirements of the program you’re interested in. Some universities may need you to demonstrate your English language abilities through exams such as IELTS or TOEFL.

Application Process:

International students frequently submit an online application, as well as required papers such as academic transcripts, certificates, a CV, a motivation letter, and, in certain circumstances, letters of recommendation. Check each university’s official website for application deadlines and processes.

Tuition and Scholarships:

Tuition in Latvia is often lower than in many Western European nations, however, it varies based on the university and program. Scholarships may be available for overseas students, therefore it’s a good idea to look into scholarship options given by the Latvian government, colleges, and other organizations.

Cost of Living:

In comparison to many Western European nations, the cost of living in Latvia is very low. Budgeting for housing, food, transportation, and other personal needs is still necessary. The capital city, Riga, has slightly higher living costs than the rest of the country.

Student accommodation:

Most institutions provide lodging for overseas students, either on-campus or via agreements with private housing providers. You might also look into renting a flat or a room on the private market.

Work Opportunities:

In Latvia, international students are often permitted to work part-time while studying. However, it is important to be informed of the Latvian government’s particular restrictions and constraints regulating working hours and conditions for overseas students.

Health Insurance:

All students in Latvia are required to get health insurance. For the course of their studies, international students are normally obliged to obtain proper health insurance coverage.

Cultural Experience:

Latvia is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant cities. Exploring Latvian culture, traditions, and local events can be an enriching aspect of your study abroad experience.

Before making a choice, it is advised that you conduct extensive research, compare programmes and universities, and contact the relevant institutions for more detailed and up-to-date information on studying in Latvia as an international student.

To excel in the PTE (Pearson Test of English) Listening section, you must focus on improving your listening skills and practicing test-specific strategies. Here are some suggestions to help you improve your performance:

1. Recognize the Test Format: Learn the format of the PTE Listening portion. It usually includes portions like summarizing spoken material, multiple-choice questions, marking incorrect words, filling in the gaps, and so on. Understand the requirements and directions for each sort of inquiry.
2. Regular practice: Consistent practice is key for improving your listening skills. Use the PTE website or reliable test preparation sites for official PTE practice resources and example questions, routine listening practice time in your study routine.
3. Improve Your Listening Skills: Regularly practice active listening. Watch English-language films, TV shows, podcasts, newscasts, and radio shows. Pay attention to different accents, speeds, and situations. Take notes while listening to identify important ideas, keywords, and supporting information.
4. Vocabulary Development: Build a good vocabulary since it will help you grasp what is said to you. Learn new words and phrases and use them to construct sentences. This will also assist you in comprehending the context and nuances during the listening process.
5. Taking notes Techniques: Effective note-taking is crucial for summarizing spoken content and filling in the blanks. Create a shorthand approach for noting key ideas, major themes, and supporting data while you listen. Practice taking notes on a regular basis.
6. Predicting Content: Before listening to a paragraph, read the question prompts quickly. This might help you anticipate the type of information you’ll need to focus on while listening. Predicting content can assist you in capturing more vital information.
7. Pay Attention to Major Ideas: Pay attention to the major ideas and essential features while listening. Don’t get too caught up in comprehending every single word. Your goal is to grasp the broad idea and extract vital information.
8. Time Management: Keep an eye on the timer while practicing to ensure you have adequate time for each question. Pace yourself, and if you get stuck on a question, move on and come back to it later if time allows.
9. Review and Analyze: After practicing, check your answers and search for any mistakes. Understand why you gave an inaccurate response and learn from it. Recognize patterns in your errors and focus on improving those areas.
10. Simulate Test Conditions: Take timed practice tests when you’re confident in your abilities. This will help you adjust to the testing environment and manage your time more effectively.
11. Remain cool and Confident: On exam day, remain cool and confident. Your ability to listen may be impaired if you are nervous. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing might help you stay focused and composed.
12. Seek Professional Assistance: If you’re experiencing difficulty, consider attending a PTE preparation course or working with a PTE preparation coach. They can provide customized guidance and recommendations. Keep in mind that consistent practice, good strategies, and attention can help you excel in the PTE Listening section.

Here are some common types of listening questions you might encounter in the PTE Academic Listening section:

1. Summarize Spoken Text: You will listen to a short audio clip (usually a lecture or a presentation) and then write a summary of what you heard. This assesses your ability to comprehend main ideas and key points.
2. Multiple-Choice, Choose Single Answer: You’ll listen to a recording and then select the most appropriate answer from the options given. This tests your ability to identify specific details.
3. Multiple-Choice, Choose Multiple Answers: Similar to the above, but you need to select all the correct answers from the options provided.
4. Fill in the Blanks: You will hear a recording with some words or phrases missing. You need to fill in the blanks based on what you heard.
5. Highlight Correct Summary: After listening to a recording, you’ll choose the summary that best captures the main ideas or key points of the audio.
6. Multiple-Choice, Choose Word from Drop-Down: You’ll listen to a sentence with a missing word and select the correct word from a dropdown list.
7. Highlight Incorrect Words: You will hear a sentence, and you need to identify the words in the transcription that are different from what you heard.
8. Write from Dictation: You’ll listen to a sentence and then write it down exactly as you heard it. This assesses your ability to accurately reproduce spoken language.
9. Summarize Spoken Text (Long Response): Similar to the first task, but you’ll have a longer audio clip to summarize.
10. Select Missing Word: You’ll hear a recording, and a word will be replaced with a beep sound. You need to select the correct missing word from a list.

It’s important to practice each of these question types to become familiar with the format and improve your listening skills. Additionally, make sure to pay attention to time limits and use effective time management strategies during the exam.

The PTE (Pearson Test of English) Speaking part evaluates your ability to communicate effectively in spoken English. It comprises multiple activities that assess various parts of your speaking abilities. The challenges are intended to assess your pronunciation, fluency, vocabulary, and ability to clearly explain information. You will exhibit your speaking talents in this part by responding to prompts such as reading a text aloud, repeating words, describing imagery, recounting lectures, answering brief questions, and summarizing written texts.

The Speaking section aims to evaluate:

• Pronunciation: The capacity to pronounce sounds appropriately and clearly in order to ensure successful communication.
• Fluency: the ease with which you talk, without any hesitations or pauses.
• Vocabulary: Your range of words and phrases, and how well you can express yourself using a diverse vocabulary.
• Content: Your ability to convey the main points and key details of a given topic or text.
• Oral Fluency: Your overall ability to engage in spontaneous conversations and convey information coherently.

The Speaking section of the PTE consists of several different tasks that evaluate different aspects of your speaking skills. Here’s a general guide to help you prepare:

• Read Aloud:
  • You will see text on the screen.
  • You have 30-40 seconds to prepare.
  • Read the text aloud as naturally and clearly as possible.
• Repeat Sentence:
  • You will hear a sentence.
  •Repeat the sentence exactly as you hear it.
  •Focus on pronunciation and intonation.
• Describe Image:
  • You will see an image or a graph.
  • You have 25 seconds to prepare.
  •Describe the image in detail, highlighting key points and trends.
• Re-tell Lecture:
  • You will hear a short lecture or talk.
  •You have 10 seconds to prepare.
  •Re-tell the lecture in your own words, focusing on the main points.
• Answer Short Question:
  • You will hear a question.
  • Provide a brief and concise answer.
  • Answer within the time limit (around 10 seconds).

• Summarize Written Text:
  

  • You will read a passage.
  • Summarize the passage in one sentence (5-75 words).
  • Focus on the main idea and key points.

• Essay:
  • This is not in the Speaking section but is related to writing.
  • Write an essay on a given topic.
  • Express your ideas clearly, use proper grammar, and follow a structured format.

  

Tips for Success:

• Practice Regularly: The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll become with the format and tasks.
• Pronunciation and Fluency: Focus on clear pronunciation, proper intonation, and maintaining a natural flow of speech.
• Time Management: Pay attention to the time limits for each task. Practice speaking within the allocated time to improve pacing.
• Vocabulary: Work on expanding your vocabulary to express yourself more effectively.
• Listening Skills: Effective speaking often starts with good listening. Improve your listening skills to better understand the instructions and tasks.
• Practice Variety: Practice speaking on a wide range of topics to improve your ability to discuss different subjects.
• Record yourself: Use a recorder to listen to your responses. This can help you identify areas for improvement.
• Stay Calm: Nervousness can affect your speaking. Practice relaxation techniques to stay calm and focused during the test. Remember, consistent practice and gradual improvement are key.

To succeed in the Speaking section, it’s important to practice regularly, pay attention to time limits, work on your pronunciation, and focus on speaking naturally. Remember that practice and familiarity with the different tasks will help you feel more confident on test day.

As you prepare for the PTE exam, make use of official PTE practice materials and resources to gain a better understanding of the tasks and the expected level of performance. This will help you build your skills and improve your chances of achieving a strong score in the PTE exam.

Team Crosslink wishes you All the best for your future!

The Academic writing module of the PTE (Pearson Test of English) examines your ability to communicate effectively in written English. It is divided into two parts: Summaries Written Text and Write Essay. This blog will give you a rundown of each task but before that you need to keep a few things in mind.

• Recognize the Task Types: Familiarize yourself with the various PTE writing activities, such as summarizing written content, composing an essay, and evaluating data from a graph or chart.
  Recognize the prerequisites and expectations for each work type.

• Time Management: Make good use of your time while writing. Set aside some time for preparing, composing, and editing your replies.
  Make certain that you have adequate time to finish all jobs within the time range specified.

• Clear framework: For your essay or summary, use a clear and logical framework.
  Use paragraphs to organize your ideas, and include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion in your response.
• Grammar and Vocabulary: Use proper grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary. To demonstrate your language competence, use a range of sentence forms and acceptable terminology. Take a few seconds before submitting your response to examine and proofread your work.

Check your response for spelling and grammatical issues, and make sure it is cohesive.

Task 1: Summarize written text

• Read Actively: Read the passage quickly to get its major concepts and essential elements. Consider the topic, arguments, and any supporting details.
  Highlight or make a mental note of the most relevant facts in the paragraph. Pay attention to the first and last sentences of each paragraph.

• Write a Concise Summary: Use your own words to write a summary that conveys the important concepts of the passage. Within the word limit (5-75 words), strive for a concise and short response.
• Maintain Coherence: Make sure your summary flows logically and is coherent. Avoid adding new ideas or facts that are not included in the original piece.
• Check Grammar and Vocabulary: While you don’t need to use complex vocabulary, ensure that your summary is grammatically correct and effectively conveys the essence of the original text.
• Practice Timed Summarization: Regularly practice summarizing passages within the allocated time to improve your efficiency and accuracy.

Task 2: Write Essay:

• Analyze the Prompt: Thoroughly understand the essay prompt, including the topic, question, and specific requirements. Identify any key terms or directives in the prompt.
• Plan your Essay: Take a few minutes to outline your essay. Decide on the main points you will discuss, the structure of your essay, and the examples you’ll use.
• Introduction: Start your essay with a clear and concise introduction. State your thesis or main argument, and provide a brief preview of the points you’ll address in the essay
• Body paragraphs: Each body paragraph should concentrate on one primary idea or argument. Begin with a subject sentence that presents the issue, then provide evidence and instances to back it up.
• Include Relevant Examples: Include particular examples, real-life incidents, or personal experiences to back up your claims. This gives your writing more depth and believability.
• Make a Smooth Transition: Use transitional phrases to link concepts and paragraphs. This promotes a seamless flow and improves your essay’s cohesion.
• Conclusion: Restate your thesis and summarise the important themes you’ve explored. In the end, avoid presenting new information.
• Grammar and Vocabulary: Make an effort to use correct grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary. To demonstrate your language competence, aim for a variety of sentence patterns.
• Time Management: Schedule time for planning, writing, and editing. Aim to leave a few minutes at the end to go through your essay.
• Proofreading: Check your essay for grammatical, spelling, and punctuation issues. Before submitting your submission, correct any errors you see. Remember that constant practise is critical for enhancing your writing abilities.

Practise summarising passages and writing essays on a variety of themes on a regular basis. To find areas for growth, seek feedback from teachers or peers. You may succeed in the PTE Writing module with hard work and practise. Best wishes!

What is SDS?

The “Student Direct Stream” (SDS) is a Canadian immigration program designed to expedite the study permit application process for certain international students. It aims to provide faster processing times for students from specific countries who demonstrate strong language skills and financial stability.

To be eligible for the Student Direct Stream, applicants generally need to meet certain criteria, including:

• Citizenship:

  Applicants must be citizens of certain countries, including India, China, the Philippines, and Vietnam.

• Language Proficiency:

  Applicants must demonstrate their language proficiency by taking an approved language test, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Test d’évaluation de français (TEF).

  

• Proof of Funds:

  Applicants need to provide proof of sufficient funds to cover their tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.

• Acceptance Letter:

  Applicants must have an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.

• Medical Exam and Police Clearance:

  Depending on the situation, applicants may need to undergo a medical exam and provide a police clearance certificate.

It’s important to note that immigration programs and policies can change over time, and new developments might have occurred since my last update. Therefore, I recommend visiting the official website of the Government of Canada’s immigration department or contacting a qualified immigration professional for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the Student Direct Stream program.

To be qualified for the SDS, all test results must demonstrate a well-rounded command of one of Canada’s official languages (English or French), including competence in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

Students taking the English exam must acquire a total score of at least:

• 7 for CELPIP General Tests
• 6 for IELTS
• 60 for CAEL tests
• 60 for Pearson Academic tests
• 83 for TOEFL iBT tests.

Importantly, these assessments must be performed in person; online or remotely proctored tests will not be considered for SDS candidates.

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is implementing four newly authorized English language examinations for Student Direct Stream (SDS) applicants as of today, August 10, 2023.

The updated list of acceptable language exams includes the following:

• Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) General;
• Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL); and
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic;
• Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based test (TOEFL iBT).

The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is a computer-based English language proficiency exam that assesses the reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills of non-native English speakers. The test is designed to measure a test-takers ability to communicate effectively in real-life situations using the English language. PTE offers various modules to evaluate different language skills.

Here, we will be discussing the reading module that evaluates your reading comprehension skills. You will encounter various question types, such as multiple-choice, multiple-answer, re-order paragraphs, and fill-in-the-blanks based on the given text passages. There are several strategies to increase your chances of obtaining points in PTE Reading which will be discussed in this blog.

Practice boosting your reading speed and comprehension at the same time to increase your reading skills. As a result, your writing, grammar, and vocabulary will improve.

To do well in this section of the test, you must be able to read swiftly and effectively, as there is limited time to answer all questions.

• Speed reading exercises might help you enhance your reading speed. Every day, do speed reading and aim to read at least 220 words per minute.
• Reading brief articles of 300 words or less
• Reading often for short periods of time

You might also make this a challenge with your pals to help you stay motivated. Once you’re satisfied with your understanding and speed, shift your attention to chunks (groups of words) rather than individual words.

When your reading abilities have reached a satisfactory level, you will be more confident in answering the questions.

Multiple-choice, single-answer

Some test takers make the error of scanning the text and matching the words in the text to the words in the response when answering Multiple-Choice, Single response questions. Because the words in the text are generally not utilized in the right answer, it is critical to understand how to use synonyms and paraphrase, as they will be used in the test.

Multiple Choice, Multiple answers

You will require more time for this question type than for the Multiple-Choice, Choose Single Answer question type since you will need to read the stem (the portion before the options) as well as the options, then scan. Read the words on the screen until you discover the section that contains the information from the stem.

Read the options carefully and match the option’s meaning to the text. Do not match the words – this is an area where test takers may make mistakes.

You should also avoid selecting all of the alternatives because each erroneous pick costs you one point. You cannot, however, score less than zero.

Reorder paragraphs

To do well on the Re-order Paragraphs problems, you must grasp coherent devices and how they operate. You’ll also need to grasp how articles function, as well as how content is organised logically and chronologically.

In this question type, skim-read the material to generate thoughts about the topic. Following that, you should carefully read all of the phrases.

Fill in the blanks and reading & writing: fill in the blanks

In this question type, skim-read the material to generate thoughts about the topic. Following that, you should carefully read all of the phrases.

You will need to grasp a variety of vocabulary, collocations, syntax, pronouns, and cohesive devices, as well as be able to determine when plural nouns are required, for both Fill in the Blanks and Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks question types.

You must also be able to skim read to acquire a sense of the meaning of the text before reading attentively before and after each blank. If you are unsure, make an educated assumption based on the circumstances.

Make certain that no blank spots are left. You are not need to correctly fill in all blanks.

It’s important to note that PTE test formats and question types may change over time, so it’s recommended to visit the official PTE website or relevant resources for the most up-to-date information about the test modules and their specific requirements. Additionally, the test scoring is done by automated scoring systems, which evaluate your responses based on predetermined criteria.

Before taking the PTE exam, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and scoring criteria for each module to ensure you are well-prepared for the test.

Team Crosslink wishes you All the best!