PTE Essay Writing 2

Question 1

A PTE Academic essay prompt says "Discuss both views and give your own opinion." Which essay structure is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Present both views with roughly equal coverage, then state your position in the conclusion

Answer

A "discuss both views" prompt requires balanced treatment of two perspectives before presenting your own reasoned opinion. Ignoring one view or failing to state a position will reduce the content and written discourse scores.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes a strong thesis statement for a PTE Academic essay?

Accepted Answer

A clear, arguable claim that states the writer's position: "Governments must implement carbon taxes to reduce emissions."

Answer

A strong thesis statement makes a clear, arguable claim that guides the essay. Vague statements, questions, and lists of topics do not constitute effective thesis statements and weaken the Written Discourse score.

Question 3

In PTE Academic essay writing, what is the function of the body paragraphs?

Accepted Answer

Develop and support the main argument with evidence and examples

Answer

Body paragraphs develop the essay's argument by presenting main points, supporting them with evidence or examples, and explaining their significance. Each body paragraph should focus on one main idea introduced by a topic sentence.

Question 4

Which sentence demonstrates the most appropriate academic register for a PTE essay?

Accepted Answer

A significant proportion of the population considers this approach beneficial.

Answer

"A significant proportion of the population considers this approach beneficial" uses formal academic vocabulary and an objective tone. Colloquial phrases ("lots of people," "everybody knows") and subjective superlatives ("obviously fantastic") lower the vocabulary and written discourse scores.

Question 5

What is the correct format for citing a number at the start of a PTE Academic essay sentence?

Accepted Answer

Forty-two percent of respondents agreed with the policy.

Answer

Academic style requires spelling out numbers (especially percentages) at the start of a sentence: "Forty-two percent..." Numbers should not begin a sentence in digit form. Mid-sentence, "42%" or "42 percent" would be acceptable.

PTE Practice Test

PTE Practice Test

PTE Essay Writing 2