Repeat Sentences and Re-tell Lecture are two essential tasks in the Speaking Module of PTE-A, and because of the similar nature of the tasks, aspirants often get confused with them. Through this blog, we attempt to break down the two tasks, offer tips and strategies for high score in both, and spell out the correct approach for the task practice.
The tasks contribute to scoring towards Listening and Speaking modules in the test. Let’s look at them one by one. First, Repeat Sentences.
Repeat Sentences Basics
In Repeat Sentences, you can’t add or omit anything. You can’t rephrase either. You have to repeat the sentence that is given to you. After listening to a recording of the sentence, you have to repeat the sentence. The skills assessed are Listening and Speaking. The length of the prompt for the task is between 3 to 9 seconds. And you will get 15 seconds to answer.
The audio plays automatically, and after it finishes, the mic is open. When this happens, the recording status box shows the status of ‘recording.’ Speak into the mic immediately (don’t expect a short tone here). Repeat the sentence that you hear.
When speaking, do so clearly, and don’t rush. Once the timer reaches the end, the status ‘recording’ changes to ‘completed.’ You will not be able to replay the audio or record your response once again.
Correct Approach
Write down the initials of every word. The sentence usually has three phrases, with each phrase having separate marks. Most aspirants generally have problems remembering the first phrase of the sentence. The second and third phrases are fresher in the minds of the aspirants.
But, you could try to analyze which phrase you are forgetting. This can be achieved by bulk practice. Bulk practice improves both timing and accuracy. Those targeting 79+ have to repeat more than half of the entire sentences. Start practicing by writing initials, and in the correct order. Do not fumble or unnecessary pauses. To get Repeat Sentences right, you have to speak at a moderate pace, neither too fast, nor too slow. One good approach is to write the initials for the first six/seven words and try to memorize the rest.
Re-tell Lecture Basics
In Re-tell Lecture, you have to listen or watch a lecture, and then re-tell the Lecture in your own words. The skills assessed are Listening and Speaking. The length of the prompt is up to 90 seconds. You will be allowed 40 seconds to answer one re-tell lecture question. Re-tell Lecture does not demand that you respond with a summary. You need to re-tell the Lecture in your own words. In this task, the audio starts to play automatically.
The aspirants may also see an image related to the audio. When the audio finishes, you have 10 seconds to prepare before the mic opens. Before the mic opens, there will be a short tone. When you hear the tone, you should start speaking immediately. You have to complete your speaking before the progress bar reaches to the very end, and you can see that status ‘recording’ changes to ‘completed.’ You are allowed to notes on erasable notebooks provided to you.
Now, let’s get into the detail. You may encounter three types of questions in this task: Simple audio, audio with image, or a video. In case you get the second type of question, do not rely on the image. Take notes from the audio nevertheless. Contrary to expectations, the information in the image may not be accurate, and the images may be aimed at confusing you.
Correct Approach
Now, you have to understand that the software will review your Re-tell Lecture task. So be sure to use essential words from the Lecture or keywords when you re-tell the Lecture. The software is pre-fed with a pool of keywords. While correct grammar is appreciable while re-telling, make sure that you use the proper keywords, speak fluently, and use the right intonation. Templates are handy.
The following is the example of a good template for Re-tell Lecture:
Like with Repeat Sentences, there are no shortcuts. Even to apply the tips shared in this blog, you will have to get adequate bulk practice.
If you need expert help in Repeat Sentences or Re-tell Lecture, you can get a free consultation with our experts, and then decide on the mode of coaching that is the most suitable for you: classroom or online coaching. If you are up for self-study, you can download the PTE Tutorials Mobile App on your Android or iOS device, and get enough bulk practice for both the tasks and also others.
