Summarize Spoken Text
Notes during the lecture, 50–70 words after it.
15 minutes · A free lesson from Listening
You hear a lecture of about 60–90 seconds and have 10 minutes to write a summary of 50 to 70 words. It scores listening and writing, including spelling.
The lecture argued that although children learn pronunciation more easily, adults have advantages when learning a language, such as understanding grammar quickly and using learning strategies. Learning a language in later life also brings wider benefits, including better attention and memory, and possibly a delay in the symptoms of dementia. The speaker concluded that it is never too late to start, though an accent may remain.
Lesson quiz
Check what you have learned. Choose an answer to see whether it is right, and why.
Quick check: How long must your summary be?
- 50 to 70 words
- 5 to 75 words
- 200 to 300 words
Show the answer
A: 50 to 70 words — Count your words: under 50 or over 70 loses marks for form.
Quick check: What should you note while you listen?
- Every word
- Nothing: just listen
- The topic, and three or four key points as single words
Show the answer
C: The topic, and three or four key points as single words — Then write: The lecture discussed… The speaker explained that…
Quick check: Which two skills does it score?
- Speaking and reading
- Listening and writing
- Reading and writing
Show the answer
B: Listening and writing — Spelling counts too.
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