Day 1

PTE Academic Preparation Course – Day 1

Achieve Your Perfect Score of 90 in PTE Academic

Welcome to Day 1 of your comprehensive PTE Academic preparation journey. This course is designed to help you, a non-native English speaker from India, particularly Hyderabad, achieve a perfect score of 90 in the PTE Academic test. Today’s focus is on building foundational skills in Speaking, with an emphasis on pronunciation, fluency, and confidence.

Objectives

  • Understand the PTE Academic Test Structure
  • Familiarize Yourself with the Speaking Section
  • Improve Pronunciation and Oral Fluency
  • Practice “Read Aloud” and “Repeat Sentence” Tasks
  • Expand Vocabulary with New Words and Usage

Estimated Time: 2 Hours

Materials Needed

  • Device: Computer or smartphone with internet access
  • Headphones and Microphone
  • Notebook and Pen
  • Recording Device or Software (e.g., Smartphone, Audacity)
  • Access to Google Translate

Schedule and Activities

1. Understanding the PTE Academic Test (30 Minutes)

a. Test Structure Overview

  • Speaking & Writing: 77–93 minutes
  • Reading: 32–41 minutes
  • Listening: 45–57 minutes

Action: In your notebook, create a table outlining each section, the time allocated, and the types of tasks included.

b. Watch Introductory Video

Action: While watching, note down key points about the test format and scoring.

c. Read About Test Format

Action: Summarize the main features of each section in your own words.

2. Deep Dive into the Speaking Section (20 Minutes)

a. Components of Speaking Section

  • Personal Introduction (Unscored)
  • Read Aloud
  • Repeat Sentence
  • Describe Image
  • Re-tell Lecture
  • Answer Short Question

Action: Write a brief description of what each task entails.

b. Watch Detailed Video on Speaking Section

Action: Note down tips and strategies for each speaking task.

3. Pronunciation and Fluency Practice (30 Minutes)

a. Warm-Up Exercises

Objective: Prepare your vocal cords and articulators for speaking in English.

  • Breathing Exercises (2 Minutes):
  • Inhale deeply through your nose for 4 counts.
  • Hold for 4 counts.
  • Exhale slowly through your mouth for 6 counts.
  • Repeat 3 times.

b. Tongue Twisters (10 Minutes)

Objective: Improve articulation and pronunciation of difficult sounds.

Instructions:

  • Stand in front of a mirror.
  • Repeat each tongue twister slowly, focusing on clarity.
  • Gradually increase your speed while maintaining accuracy.
  • Record yourself to monitor progress.

Tongue Twisters:

  1. “She sells seashells by the seashore.”
  2. “Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.”
  3. “Red lorry, yellow lorry.”
  4. “How can a clam cram in a clean cream can?”
  5. “I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream.”
  6. “Six sleek swans swam swiftly southwards.”
  7. “The sixth sick sheik’s sixth sheep’s sick.”
  8. “Betty Botter bought some butter, but she said the butter’s bitter.”
  9. “Fuzzy Wuzzy was a bear. Fuzzy Wuzzy had no hair. Fuzzy Wuzzy wasn’t fuzzy, was he?”
  10. “Lesser leather never weathered wetter weather better.”

c. Phonetics Practice (18 Minutes)

Objective: Master common English sounds that are often challenging for non-native speakers.

Instructions:

  1. Identify Problematic Sounds (3 Minutes):
  • Th Sounds: /θ/ as in “think”, /ð/ as in “this”.
  • V and W Sounds: /v/ as in “vine”, /w/ as in “wine”.
  • R and L Sounds: /r/ as in “red”, /l/ as in “led”.
  • Short and Long Vowels: /ɪ/ as in “sit”, /i:/ as in “seat”.
  1. Practice Exercises (15 Minutes):
  • Th Sounds:
    • Words: “Think”, “Thank”, “Thumb”, “This”, “That”, “They”.
    • Sentences:
    • “I think that this is the right path.”
    • “They thanked them for the thoughtful gift.”
    • Action: Emphasize the placement of your tongue between your teeth for /θ/ and touching the back of your teeth for /ð/.
  • V and W Sounds:
    • Minimal Pairs: “Vest” vs. “West”, “Vine” vs. “Wine”, “Vet” vs. “Wet”.
    • Sentences:
    • “She wore a vest to the west coast.”
    • “He drank wine by the vine.”
    • Action: For /v/, touch your top teeth to your bottom lip; for /w/, round your lips without touching teeth.
  • R and L Sounds:
    • Minimal Pairs: “Right” vs. “Light”, “Pray” vs. “Play”, “Arrive” vs. “Alive”.
    • Sentences:
    • “Turn right at the light.”
    • “They will play and pray together.”
    • Action: For /r/, curl your tongue slightly back; for /l/, touch the tip of your tongue to the ridge behind your top teeth.
  • Short and Long Vowels:
    • Words: “Ship” vs. “Sheep”, “Bit” vs. “Beat”, “Live” vs. “Leave”.
    • Sentences:
    • “The ship is carrying sheep.”
    • “I live to leave an impact.”
    • Action: For short vowels, keep the sound brief; for long vowels, extend the sound.

Tips:

  • Use Google Translate: Type the words or sentences into Google Translate and click the speaker icon to hear pronunciation.
  • Mirror Practice: Watch your mouth movements while practicing.
  • Record Yourself: Listen back to identify areas for improvement.

4. “Read Aloud” Task Practice (40 Minutes)

a. Understanding “Read Aloud”

  • Task: Read a written text aloud clearly and naturally.
  • Scoring Criteria: Content, Oral Fluency, Pronunciation.

b. Practice Passages

Instructions:

  • For each passage:
  • Preparation (2 Minutes):
    • Read silently.
    • Look up pronunciations using Google Translate.
  • Reading Aloud (2 Minutes):
    • Record yourself.
  • Self-Assessment (2 Minutes):
    • Listen to your recording.
    • Note areas for improvement.

Passages:

  1. Passage 1: “The rapid advancement of technology has significantly altered our daily lives. From smartphones to artificial intelligence, these innovations have reshaped the way we communicate and access information.”
  2. Passage 2: “Climate change poses a serious threat to our planet’s future. Rising temperatures and sea levels necessitate immediate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
  3. Passage 3: “Education is a fundamental human right, essential for personal and societal development. It empowers individuals to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society.”
  4. Passage 4: “Healthy eating habits are crucial for maintaining overall well-being. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can prevent chronic diseases.”
  5. Passage 5: “Cultural diversity enriches communities by fostering mutual respect and understanding. Embracing different traditions and perspectives leads to a more harmonious society.”
  6. Passage 6: “Economic growth is often measured by a country’s Gross Domestic Product. However, sustainable development requires balancing financial progress with environmental preservation.”
  7. Passage 7: “Advancements in medical research have led to breakthroughs in treating previously incurable diseases. Continuous investment in science is vital for future health innovations.”
  8. Passage 8: “The internet has revolutionized education, making information accessible to learners worldwide. Online courses and resources have democratized learning opportunities.”
  9. Passage 9: “Urbanization presents challenges such as overcrowding and pollution. City planners must implement sustainable solutions to improve living conditions.”
  10. Passage 10: “Art and music play a significant role in human culture, expressing emotions and ideas that transcend language barriers. They contribute to our understanding of the human experience.”

c. Tips for “Read Aloud”

  • Pronunciation: Ensure correct pronunciation of all words.
  • Pacing: Read at a natural pace—not too fast or slow.
  • Intonation: Use appropriate pitch and stress to convey meaning.
  • Pause for Punctuation: Observe commas and full stops.

5. “Repeat Sentence” Task Practice (30 Minutes)

a. Understanding “Repeat Sentence”

  • Task: Listen to a sentence and repeat it exactly as you heard.
  • Scoring Criteria: Content, Oral Fluency, Pronunciation.

b. Practice Sentences

Instructions:

  • Listen and Repeat:
  • Have a friend or family member read the sentences aloud, or use text-to-speech in Google Translate.
  • After hearing each sentence once, repeat it aloud.
  • Record your responses.

Sentences:

  1. “The library closes at 6 PM on weekdays.”
  2. “Scientists are studying the effects of climate change.”
  3. “She plans to attend the conference next month.”
  4. “Exercise is essential for maintaining good health.”
  5. “They discussed the project’s timeline in the meeting.”
  6. “Our company is launching a new product line.”
  7. “He received an award for his outstanding performance.”
  8. “The museum exhibits ancient artifacts from around the world.”
  9. “Understanding different cultures promotes global harmony.”
  10. “Education is the key to unlocking potential.”

c. Memory Techniques

Chunking:

  • Definition: Break the sentence into smaller, manageable units or phrases.
  • Example:
  • Sentence: “Understanding different cultures promotes global harmony.”
  • Chunks:
    • “Understanding different cultures”
    • “promotes global harmony”

Visualization:

  • Definition: Create a mental image of the sentence content to aid memory.
  • Example:
  • Imagine people from various cultures coming together, leading to world peace.

Repetition in Mind:

  • Action: Mentally repeat the sentence immediately after hearing it before speaking aloud.

Focus on Keywords:

  • Action: Identify and remember the main words that carry the meaning.

d. Self-Assessment

  • Listen to Your Recordings:
  • Check for accuracy of words.
  • Evaluate fluency and pronunciation.
  • Identify Areas for Improvement:
  • Note any words or phrases consistently missed.

6. Vocabulary Building (20 Minutes)

a. Word List with Examples

  1. Empower (verb)
  • Definition: To give someone the authority or power to do something.
  • Sentence: “Education can empower individuals to make positive changes in society.”
  1. Revolutionize (verb)
  • Definition: To change something radically or fundamentally.
  • Sentence: “The invention of the internet revolutionized communication.”
  1. Connectivity (noun)
  • Definition: The state of being connected or interconnected.
  • Sentence: “Improved internet connectivity has enabled remote work opportunities.”
  1. Prosperity (noun)
  • Definition: The state of being prosperous; wealth or success.
  • Sentence: “Economic policies aim to achieve national prosperity.”
  1. Transformation (noun)
  • Definition: A thorough or dramatic change in form or appearance.
  • Sentence: “Urban development led to the transformation of the old town.”
  1. Innovation (noun)
  • Definition: The act of introducing something new.
  • Sentence: “Innovation drives progress in technology sectors.”
  1. Sustainability (noun)
  • Definition: The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
  • Sentence: “Sustainability is crucial for environmental conservation.”
  1. Collaboration (noun)
  • Definition: The action of working with someone to produce or create something.
  • Sentence: “International collaboration can solve global issues.”
  1. Adaptation (noun)
  • Definition: The process of adjusting to new conditions.
  • Sentence: “Adaptation is necessary in a rapidly changing world.”
  1. Diversity(noun)
    • Definition: The state of being diverse; variety.
    • Sentence: “Cultural diversity enriches communities.”

b. Activities

  1. Write Definitions in Your Own Words:
  • Paraphrase each definition to ensure understanding.
  1. Create Your Own Sentences:
  • Use each word in a sentence relevant to your life or interests.
  1. Flashcards:
  • On one side, write the word; on the other, write the definition and an example sentence.
  1. Quiz Yourself:
  • Test your recall of definitions and spellings.

7. Reflection and Goal Setting (15 Minutes)

a. Self-Reflection Questions

  • What were the most challenging aspects of today’s practice?
  • Example Answer: “Pronouncing certain words in the tongue twisters was difficult.”
  • Which exercises did you enjoy the most?
  • Example Answer: “I enjoyed the ‘Read Aloud’ passages as they helped me practice speaking naturally.”
  • How can you improve your performance in the ‘Repeat Sentence’ task?
  • Example Answer: “By practicing memory techniques like chunking and visualization.”

b. Goal Setting for Tomorrow

  • Goal 1: “I will practice the ‘th’ and ‘v’ sounds to improve pronunciation.”
  • Goal 2: “I will work on increasing my memory capacity for longer sentences.”

c. Journal Entry

  • Write about:
  • Your feelings about starting this course.
  • Any surprises or insights from today’s activities.
  • Commitment to achieving your PTE Academic goals.

8. Optional Extension Activity (25 Minutes)

a. Interactive Speaking Practice

Join a Language Exchange Platform:

Action:

  • Create a Profile:
  • Indicate your goal to practice speaking for the PTE Academic test.
  • Schedule a Session:
  • Find a language partner or tutor.
  • Set up a 15-25 minute conversation focusing on today’s topics (e.g., technology, education).

Tips:

  • Prepare Topics:
  • Use the vocabulary words from today.
  • Discuss the passages you read.
  • Ask for Feedback:
  • Request your partner to note areas for improvement.

Summary of Day 1

Today, you have:

  • Understood the PTE Academic Test Structure.
  • Explored the Speaking Section in Detail.
  • Improved Pronunciation and Fluency through Extensive Practice.
  • Practiced ‘Read Aloud’ with 10 Passages.
  • Enhanced Memory Techniques in ‘Repeat Sentence’ with 10 Sentences.
  • Expanded Vocabulary with 10 New Words and Usage.
  • Set Personal Goals for Continuous Improvement.

Additional Resources

  • Pronunciation Practice:
  • Rachel’s English:YouTube Channel
    • Offers in-depth pronunciation tutorials.
  • Memory Improvement Techniques:
  • Article: “7 Memory Tricks for Language Learning”
  • Link: FluentU Memory Tricks
  • PTE Practice Apps:
  • PTE Academic Official Practice App: Available on iOS and Android.

Tips for Success

  • Consistency is Key: Practice daily to build and retain skills.
  • Active Engagement: Participate fully in each exercise.
  • Positive Attitude: Stay motivated and confident in your progress.
  • Seek Feedback: Use resources and language partners to get constructive feedback.

Congratulations on Completing Day 1!

Your dedication today has set a strong foundation for the rest of the course. Continue to build on this momentum, and you will be well on your way to achieving a perfect score in the PTE Academic test.

Share Your Progress

We encourage you to share your experiences and progress with others:

  • Join Our Community Forum: Connect with fellow learners.
  • Feedback: Let us know how Day 1 went for you and any suggestions you have.

Remember: Persistence and practice are the keys to success. Keep pushing forward, and don’t hesitate to revisit any sections as needed.

Best of luck on your journey to mastering the PTE Academic!

Preparation for Day 2

Focus: Writing Skills – Summarizing Written Text

Action Items:

  • Read an Article:
  • Choose a topic of interest (e.g., technology, environment, health).
  • Sources:
  • Note Main Points:
  • Identify the main ideas and supporting details.

Are you prepared to move on to the second day of your educational adventure?

Day 2
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