PTE mock test 3

Listen, then repeat the sentence exactly.

The library will be closed on Monday because of the public holiday.

Listen, then repeat the sentence exactly.

You can find the reading list for this unit on the course website.

Describe the image in detail. You have 25 seconds to prepare and 40 seconds to speak.

The pie chart shows how international students spend their money each month. Rent is by far the largest expense, accounting for 38 per cent of spending. Food is the second biggest category at 21 per cent, followed by transport at 12 per cent and study costs at 11 per cent. Utilities and phone, and other expenses, each make up 9 per cent. Overall, housing and food together take almost 60 per cent of students' budgets.

Listen to the lecture, then retell it in your own words. You have 10 seconds to prepare and 40 seconds to speak.

The lecture explained why cities build cycleways. Research shows that safe, separated bike lanes encourage more people, particularly women and older riders, to cycle. This reduces traffic and pollution and improves health. However, cycleways take space from roads and parking, which can lead to opposition from some businesses.

Listen to the question and answer with one or a few words.

A conductor.

Listen to the question and answer with one or a few words.

Wednesday.

Listen to the discussion, then summarise it. You have 10 seconds to prepare and 2 minutes to speak.

The students discussed a proposal to stop selling bottled water on campus to reduce plastic waste. The second student supported the idea but warned that without enough refill stations, people might buy soft drinks instead. The third student added that refill stations must be cleaned regularly. The first student suggested installing more stations this semester and stopping bottle sales next year, and the others agreed this was sensible.

Listen to and read the situation. Then say what you would say. You have 10 seconds to prepare and 40 seconds to speak.

Hi, I have a booking for Saturday night at seven under the name Sandeep, for six people. Unfortunately two of our guests can't make it now, so could I please change the booking to four people? It's for a friend's birthday, so if it's possible to keep a table near the window that would be lovely. Thanks very much for your help.

Summarise the text in ONE sentence of 5–75 words.

Because house prices have outpaced wages, young people are buying homes later and renting or living with parents longer, and although governments offer first-home buyer schemes, critics argue these may raise prices and that building more well-located homes is the real solution.

Some people think that governments should spend more money on public transport, while others believe building new roads is more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

As cities grow, governments must decide how to invest in transport. Some believe that new roads are the priority, while others argue that public transport deserves more funding. In my view, public transport should receive the greater share of investment.

Supporters of road building argue that most people still travel by car, especially in suburbs and regional areas with few train or bus services. New roads and highways can reduce travel times, support freight and make it easier for businesses to move goods. For many families, a car is simply the most practical way to get around.

However, the case for public transport is stronger in the long term. New roads often fill with traffic within a few years, a pattern known as induced demand. In contrast, an efficient train or bus network can move far more people using less space, while reducing pollution and emissions. Good public transport also helps people who cannot drive, including students, older people and those on low incomes, to access jobs and services.

In conclusion, while some road investment is necessary, particularly for freight and regional areas, governments should prioritise public transport. It offers a more efficient, sustainable and fair solution to the challenges of growing cities.

Listen, then write a summary of 50–70 words.

The speaker explains that microplastics, plastic pieces under five millimetres, come from larger plastics breaking down and from synthetic clothing fibres released in washing. They have been found in oceans, soil, water and air, and their health effects are still being studied. Suggested responses include using fewer single-use plastics, fibre-catching washing bags and better water filtration.