URGENT PTE ALERT | ARE TEMPLATES BANNED? | PTE Speaking Describe image and retell lecture changes
Education
Introduction
Starting November 4th, significant changes will be implemented in the PTE (Pearson Test of English) exam structure, specifically focused on the Speaking section's "Describe Image" and "Retell Lecture" tasks. The PTE exam will no longer rely solely on AI for scoring. Instead, human evaluators will now be involved in the scoring process, particularly for the content aspect of these tasks.
Key Updates
The recent official announcement from Pearson states that human experts will double-check the automated scores for "Describe Image" and "Retell Lecture." The involvement of human evaluators indicates a shift in the scoring process, which was previously handled entirely by AI. This move appears to be a response to the widespread use of template-based answers, which often resulted in generic responses that do not demonstrate genuine speaking ability.
Why the Change?
Pearson has recognized that many candidates have been using repetitive, memorized templates such as “I see a beautiful image in front of me” and other generic phrases. To combat this issue and improve the scoring accuracy, they are now integrating human oversight into the evaluation of these responses.
New Scoring Method
From November 4th, the scoring will encompass:
- Content (5 marks)
- Pronunciation (5 marks)
- Fluency (5 marks)
Initially, responses will be graded by AI. If the AI identifies potential issues, such as the use of generic templates, the recordings will then be forwarded for human evaluation. Therefore, it is crucial for candidates to provide authentic, insightful content in their responses.
Implications of Template Use
The new guidelines explicitly state that the use of generic templates will likely lead to a score of zero for content. Consequently, if content is rated zero, both pronunciation and fluency scores will also drop to zero.
For instance, terms like "The image I see is a beautiful one," are classified as templates and are discouraged. Candidates should focus on personalization and originality in their responses.
Other Tests and Format
This updated scoring method specifically applies to the PTE Academic and PTE UKVI exams. It does not currently extend to PTE Core. Furthermore, the overall test format will remain unchanged; candidates do not need to worry about any structural adjustments.
Additional Considerations
- Content Evaluation: Human experts will mainly evaluate content; AI will continue to manage pronunciation and fluency.
- Result Timeliness: Pearson assures candidates that results will not take longer than usual to process despite the introduction of human evaluators.
- Template Adjustments: Aside from the bans on generic templates, candidates can still use specific phrases that don’t fall under the template category but effectively convey meaning.
Suggested New Approach for Describe Image and Retell Lecture
To adapt to these changes, candidates are encouraged to employ creative and individualized responses. Here are some structured approaches for different types of images and lectures:
Describe Image (Pie Chart Example):
- "The chart illustrates that the largest section is dedicated to [topic], in comparison to the smallest section which includes [details]. Overall, it is clear that [summary]."
Retell Lecture:
- "The lecture discusses [main topic]. In the beginning, the speaker explained [details]. Later, the speaker highlighted [additional points]. In conclusion, the lecture effectively summarized [key points]."
By utilizing these tailored approaches, candidates can enhance their responses and avoid the pitfalls of using generic templates.
Keywords
PTE, templates, banned, describe image, retell lecture, human evaluators, AI scoring, content marking, fluency, pronunciation, scoring changes.
FAQ
1. What are the new changes to the PTE exam starting November 4th?
The PTE exam will now incorporate human evaluators to double-check the automated scores for "Describe Image" and "Retell Lecture" tasks, especially focusing on content evaluation.
2. Are templates banned from the PTE Speaking tasks?
Yes, generic templates are banned. Using them can result in receiving a score of zero for content, which will also affect fluency and pronunciation scores.
3. How will responses be evaluated after the changes?
Initially, AI will evaluate the responses for content, pronunciation, and fluency. If the AI identifies potential issues, it will forward the case to a human evaluator.
4. Will the test format change?
No, the overall test format will remain the same, and candidates do not need to adjust to any new formats.
5. Will result processing take longer due to these changes?
Pearson claims that results will not take longer to receive, despite the introduction of human evaluators in the scoring process.
