PTE King

PTEListen to and read a description of a situation. You will have 10 seconds to think about your answer. Then you will hear a beep. You will have 40 seconds to answer the question. Please answer as completely as you can.

You ’ re at a salon and you want to get a haircut, but you realize that you left your wallet in your taxi. You don ’ t have the taxi number and you don ’ t have any other payment methods with you. What will you tell the stylist in order to resolve this situation?

PTE#159 - Lost Wallet

Question 159 of

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    PTE Respond to a Situation

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    PTE Respond to a Situation Scoring Criteria

    The Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic has introduced the Respond to a Situation question as part of its evolving assessment methods. This new task is designed to measure interactive speaking skills, focusing on a candidate’s ability to communicate naturally and appropriately in real-life contexts.

    Time allowed: 30-35 seconds

    Number of items: 3-4

    Communicative skills scored: Speaking (interactive)

    Content: You will hear or read a short scenario describing a social or workplace situation. Respond naturally, addressing the key points and demonstrating cultural appropriateness.

    Pronunciation: 5 Native-like 4 Advanced 3 Good 2 Intermediate 1 Intrusive 0 Non-English

    Oral fluency: 5 Native-like 4 Advanced 3 Good 2 Intermediate 1 Limited 0 Disfluent

    PTE Respond to a Situation: Navigating the Latest Speaking Question

    The Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic has introduced the Respond to a Situation question as part of its evolving assessment methods. This new task is designed to measure interactive speaking skills, focusing on a candidate’s ability to communicate naturally and appropriately in real-life contexts.

    Understanding Respond to a Situation: Key Components

    In this task, exam takers are provided with a scenario reflecting a common social or professional moment. The aim is to respond in a way that demonstrates clear understanding of context, appropriate language use, and cultural awareness in spoken English.

    PTE Respond to a Situation Scoring Criteria

    Scores for this task are evaluated based on:

    • Content: Does the answer address all elements in the scenario?
    • Oral Fluency: Is the speech smooth, natural, and rapid when appropriate?
    • Pronunciation: Are words articulated accurately?
    • Appropriateness: Is the register and tone suitable for the situation?

    Proven Strategies for Responding Effectively

    1. Understand the Scenario: Take quick mental notes of main details before answering
    2. Stay on Topic: Address the specific question—avoid generic responses
    3. Use Natural Language: Speak as you would in the given setting (formal or informal)
    4. Express Emotion and Courtesy: Include phrases showing empathy or politeness
    5. Monitor Timing: Complete your response within the allowed seconds

    Common Mistakes in Respond to a Situation

    • Ignoring scenario details: Respond precisely to the prompt
    • Speaking too slowly or pausing excessively: Aim for fluid speech
    • Sounding robotic: Use appropriate intonation and expression
    • Using irrelevant phrases: Keep your response focused and purposeful
    • Over- or under-reacting: Match your reaction to context

    Preparation Tips for the New PTE Situation Task

    Practice Methods for Scenario-Based Questions

    1. Listen to and analyze real-life scenarios in English
    2. Join role-play speaking groups or online forums
    3. Record responses and self-assess clarity, fluency, and appropriateness
    4. Use official PTE practice materials when available
    5. Solicit peer feedback to improve context handling

    Conclusion: Succeeding with Respond to a Situation

    With the addition of “Respond to a Situation” to the PTE Academic, exam candidates need to embrace interactive, real-world speaking skills. Practicing authentic responses and mastering timing, tone, and accuracy will help ensure success in this innovative new task.