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URGENT PTE ALERT | ARE TEMPLATES BANNED? | Describe image and retell lecture changes

Education

Introduction

Starting November 4th, the PTE (Pearson Test of English) exam will undergo significant changes as it moves towards integrating human evaluations alongside its usual AI-based scoring system. This update aims to address the overuse of template-based responses in the "Describe Image" and "Retell Lecture" sections. Let's dive into the updates, their implications, and how students can adapt their preparation strategies.

Key Updates

New Scoring Method

Pearson has recognized that many students rely too heavily on memorized templates when responding to the describe image and retell lecture tasks. As a result, beginning on November 4th, human evaluators will review and verify the automated scores provided by AI for these tasks. This implies that while AI will still conduct the initial evaluation, a human will assess the content to ensure it diverges from scripts or generic responses.

Impact of Templates

Templates have been effectively banned in these sections. The use of generic phrases like "I see a beautiful image in front of me" now risks receiving a score of zero for content, which automatically brings down fluency and pronunciation scores. Students must avoid the trap of standard phrases recognized as templates and instead focus on providing original, thoughtful responses.

What to Expect

  1. Scoring Breakdown: The new scoring for describe image and retell lecture will consider content (5 marks), pronunciation (5 marks), and fluency (5 marks).

  2. Detection of Templates: If AI detects suspicious patterns indicative of template responses, the audio will be flagged for human review, which can impact final scores.

  3. Preparation Tips:

    • Avoid memorizing generic phrases.
    • Develop a unique way to describe images and retell lectures that allows for personal expression while following fundamental structures.
    • For Describe Image tasks, consider using phrases like "The image illustrates..." rather than starting with templates.

  4. Testing Format: Importantly, while the scoring criteria are changing, the overall test format will not undergo any alterations, ensuring familiarity for assessors and test-takers.

  5. Response Timing: Despite the addition of human evaluators, Pearson assures that students will receive their results within the usual time frame without delays.

Preparing for Describe Image and Retell Lecture

Here are specific strategies for each task:

Describe Image Templates:

  • Pie Chart: "The chart illustrates that the largest section is dedicated to... In comparison, the smallest section includes... Overall, it is clear that..."

  • Bar Graph: "The bar graph shows... The x-axis lists... It is evident that... Conversely, another interesting point is... In summary, the graph indicates..."

  • Table: "The table represents a comparison between... The highest value is found in... In contrast, the lowest figure appears in... In conclusion, the table emphasizes..."

Retell Lecture Approach:

Update the strategy for retell lecture by using concise phrases:

  • "The lecture discusses... In the beginning, the speaker explained... Later, the speaker mentioned the importance of... In conclusion, the lecture effectively summarized..."

These phrases allow for seamless transitions while avoiding blatant template usage.

Keyword

Extracted Keywords: PTE exam, November 4th updates, human evaluation, AI scoring, template ban, describe image, retell lecture, content scoring, fluency, pronunciation, preparation strategies.

FAQ

1. What are the key changes to the PTE exam starting November 4th?

The exam will now involve human evaluators checking scores, particularly for the "Describe Image" and "Retell Lecture" tasks to combat the use of template responses.

2. Are templates completely banned?

Yes, the use of generic templates in responses is banned. Students should focus on creating original content rather than relying on memorized phrases.

3. How will the scoring be affected if I use generic templates?

Using generic templates can lead to a score of zero for the content, which will subsequently lower the scores for fluency and pronunciation.

4. Will the test format change?

No, the overall test format remains the same.

5. Will results take longer to receive due to human evaluations?

Pearson states that results will still be provided within the usual timeframe, despite the new human review process.

6. What should I focus on while preparing for these tasks?

Focus on providing original, personal content when describing images and retelling lectures, avoiding standard phrases and memorized templates.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the recent changes to the PTE exam. As the implementation date approaches, students are advised to adapt their study techniques to align with the new requirements to achieve their desired scores.