🔶 Part 1 — Tutorial

How to Answer “Re-tell Lecture” (Step-by-Step Tutorial)

The PTE Academic Re-tell Lecture task measures how well you can listen, take notes, and then produce a fluent spoken summary of the lecture. Success requires clear structure, good time management, and precise use of language. Below is a step-by-step guide that will help you master this task.

Step 1 — Listen Actively and Take Notes

When the lecture starts, focus fully on the main ideas, not every single detail. Write down keywords, numbers, and names. Use abbreviations and symbols to save time. Active listening is essential because you will have to speak almost immediately after the lecture ends.

Example: Instead of writing “The Industrial Revolution began in Britain in the late 18th century,” you could write “IR–Britain–18c.”

Step 2 — Identify the Lecture Structure

Every lecture has a logical order. Usually, it begins with an introduction, followed by key points, and ends with a conclusion. Identify these parts quickly while listening. This will allow you to re-tell in a clear and coherent way without missing the logical flow.

Example: Intro → Causes → Effects → Conclusion.

Step 3 — Use a Universal Speaking Template

To save time and reduce stress, always use a fixed template. This ensures fluency, coherence, and grammar accuracy. You simply insert the key points from your notes into this ready-made structure. Using a consistent template also helps maintain fluency under exam pressure.

Universal “Fill-in-the-Gap” Template:

• The lecture was mainly about [topic].

• The speaker first mentioned [key point 1].

• Then, the lecture discussed [key point 2].

• In addition, the speaker highlighted [key point 3].

• Finally, the lecture concluded by emphasizing [conclusion/overall idea].

• Overall, the lecture provided valuable information about [topic].

Step 4 — Manage Time Effectively

You will only have 10 seconds to prepare and 40 seconds to speak. Use the 10 seconds to glance at your notes and quickly map out your sentences. During the 40 seconds, speak clearly and calmly without long pauses. Do not attempt to cover everything—focus on 3–5 main points.

Step 5 — Speak Fluently and Confidently

Your score depends heavily on fluency and pronunciation. Avoid hesitations like “umm” or “ahh.” Use linking words such as “firstly,” “in addition,” and “finally” to make your speech smooth. Keep your tone steady and avoid rushing. Even if you miss details, fluency will earn you more marks than broken speech.

Example Linking Words: “Firstly,” “Moreover,” “As a result,” “Finally.”

Step 6 — Review and Practice Regularly

Practice with many lectures from different academic topics. The more you practice note-taking, structuring, and speaking with the template, the easier this task becomes. Over time, you will learn to summarize lectures naturally and fluently within the time limit.

🔷 Part 2 — Task

🎧 New Re-tell Lecture Task

Listen to the lecture and then re-tell it in your own words within 40 seconds. You will have 10 seconds to prepare after the lecture ends.

Audio:

Show/Hide Transcript of the Lecture

Throughout history, urban planning has played a crucial role in shaping human societies. Ancient cities like Mohenjo-Daro and Rome were among the first to implement structured layouts with roads, drainage systems, and public squares. The lecture highlighted how these early designs aimed to improve sanitation, transportation, and civic life.

Moving forward to the 19th and 20th centuries, industrialization brought rapid urban growth, often resulting in overcrowded neighborhoods and poor living conditions. To address these problems, urban reformers introduced zoning laws, public parks, and mass transit systems, which significantly improved city life.

In the modern era, sustainability has become the guiding principle. Urban planners now focus on eco-friendly infrastructure, renewable energy, and smart technologies to make cities more livable and environmentally responsible. The speaker emphasized the importance of designing inclusive spaces that balance economic growth, environmental protection, and social well-being.

In conclusion, urban planning has evolved from ancient drainage systems to advanced smart cities. It continues to be vital for managing resources, supporting populations, and ensuring a high quality of life.

⏳ Countdown Timers

Standard Timer: 10s preparation + 40s speaking

Custom Timer Option:

🎤 Recording Tool

You will have 10 seconds preparation and 40 seconds recording. The recorder includes progress bar, playback, and download options.

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🟣 Part 3 — Sample Answers

📝 Model Sample Answer

Sample Answer Audio:

Written Model Response:

The lecture was mainly about the development of urban planning throughout history. The speaker first mentioned how ancient cities such as Mohenjo-Daro and Rome introduced structured layouts with roads and sanitation systems. Then, the lecture discussed how the Industrial Revolution caused rapid urban growth, which led to overcrowding and poor living conditions. In addition, the speaker highlighted reforms like zoning laws, public parks, and transport systems that improved life in cities. Finally, the lecture concluded by emphasizing that modern planning now focuses on sustainability, smart technologies, and inclusive spaces. Overall, the lecture provided valuable information about the evolution of urban planning from ancient times to modern smart cities.

💡 Why this is a good answer:

1. The answer begins with a clear opening sentence, “The lecture was mainly about…” which sets the topic immediately. This shows examiners that the student can identify the central theme confidently.

2. The response follows a logical sequence, mentioning ancient cities first, industrialization next, and modern planning last. This mirrors the lecture structure, which is crucial for coherence and content marks.

3. Key details such as “Mohenjo-Daro,” “Rome,” “Industrial Revolution,” “zoning laws,” and “sustainability” are included. These demonstrate accurate note-taking and selection of main points, not unnecessary details.

4. The student used linking phrases like “then,” “in addition,” and “finally.” These connectors improve fluency and show clear transitions, which is rewarded in fluency and discourse structure scoring.

5. Sentences are short and grammatically correct. The response avoids complex structures that may lead to mistakes, which improves accuracy and overall clarity.

6. The conclusion sentence “Overall, the lecture provided valuable information…” neatly wraps up the answer. Conclusions help demonstrate comprehension and give closure to the response.

7. The delivery time of the answer is around 35–40 seconds, which fits perfectly within the allowed recording time, showing good pacing and time management.

8. The vocabulary is academic but not overly complex. Terms like “sustainability” and “infrastructure” show strong academic English, while common connectors keep the speech fluent and natural.

9. The response avoids hesitation markers such as “um” or “uh,” which are penalized in fluency scoring. Instead, the speaker maintains a steady pace with smooth intonation.

10. The student balances accuracy and fluency: even if some minor details are missing, the overall logical structure and clarity of speech ensure a strong score.

11. Using a template sentence structure ensures confidence under exam pressure. This method reduces hesitation and guarantees that the student covers all main points consistently.

12. The model answer also demonstrates correct pronunciation of academic words like “industrialization” and “sustainability,” which is crucial for the pronunciation scoring criterion.

🟢 Part 4 — Vocabularies

📘 Key Vocabulary from the Lecture

1. Urban /ˈɜː.bən/ (BrE), /ˈɝː.bən/ (AmE)

Adjective — pattern: urban + noun

Definition: Relating to towns or cities rather than the countryside.

Example: "Urban areas often face problems like traffic congestion and pollution." (Meaning: Cities have challenges with transport and environment.)

Synonyms: city, metropolitan

Common Mistake: Learners sometimes say “urbans” (incorrect plural). The word is usually used as an adjective, not as a plural noun.

2. Infrastructure /ˈɪn.frəˌstrʌk.tʃə/ (BrE), /ˈɪn.frəˌstrʌk.tʃɚ/ (AmE)

Noun — pattern: infrastructure of/for + noun

Definition: The basic systems and services, such as transport, power, and water supply, that a country or city uses to function.

Example: "Modern cities need strong infrastructure to support growing populations." (Meaning: Good systems are required to sustain people.)

Synonyms: framework, foundation

Common Mistake: Learners sometimes confuse it with “construction.” Infrastructure is broader and includes systems, not just buildings.

3. Sanitation /ˌsæn.ɪˈteɪ.ʃən/ (BrE), /ˌsæn.əˈteɪ.ʃən/ (AmE)

Noun — pattern: sanitation system / public sanitation

Definition: The systems that protect people’s health by removing waste and providing clean water.

Example: "Ancient Rome had advanced sanitation systems including aqueducts and sewers." (Meaning: They managed water and waste efficiently.)

Synonyms: hygiene, cleanliness

Common Mistake: Learners may confuse with “sanity.” They are unrelated words.

4. Industrialization /ɪnˌdʌs.tri.ə.laɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/ (BrE), /ɪnˌdʌs.tri.ə.ləˈzeɪ.ʃən/ (AmE)

Noun — pattern: industrialization of + country/sector

Definition: The process of developing industries in a region or country on a large scale.

Example: "Industrialization transformed cities by increasing factory jobs." (Meaning: Growth of industries changed urban life.)

Synonyms: mechanization, modernization

Common Mistake: Learners often mispronounce the long word; stress is on “-laɪ-.”

5. Overcrowding /ˌəʊ.vəˈkraʊ.dɪŋ/ (BrE), /ˌoʊ.vɚˈkraʊ.dɪŋ/ (AmE)

Noun — pattern: overcrowding in + place

Definition: A situation when too many people live in or use a particular space.

Example: "Overcrowding in cities often leads to health and housing problems." (Meaning: Too many people cause urban issues.)

Synonyms: congestion, jam-packed conditions

Common Mistake: Learners sometimes confuse with “crowd” (noun). Overcrowding is the state, not the group of people.

6. Zoning /ˈzəʊ.nɪŋ/ (BrE), /ˈzoʊ.nɪŋ/ (AmE)

Noun — pattern: zoning laws/regulations

Definition: Rules that decide how land in an area can be used, such as for homes, businesses, or factories.

Example: "Zoning laws prevent factories from being built in residential areas." (Meaning: Regulations separate land use.)

Synonyms: land-use regulation, planning

Common Mistake: Learners may confuse with “zone” (a place). Zoning refers to the system of laws, not the physical area itself.

7. Sustainability /səˌsteɪ.nəˈbɪl.ə.ti/ (BrE), /səˌsteɪ.nəˈbɪl.ə.t̬i/ (AmE)

Noun — pattern: sustainability of + system

Definition: The ability to maintain processes or systems over time without harming the environment or society.

Example: "Modern urban planning focuses on sustainability and green energy." (Meaning: Cities are designed to be eco-friendly.)

Synonyms: durability, eco-friendliness

Common Mistake: Learners often say “sustainablety.” Correct form is “sustainability.”

8. Inclusive /ɪnˈkluː.sɪv/ (BrE), /ɪnˈkluː.sɪv/ (AmE)

Adjective — pattern: inclusive of + group

Definition: Designed to include people of all backgrounds, abilities, and circumstances.

Example: "Inclusive city design considers the needs of disabled people." (Meaning: Urban planning for everyone.)

Synonyms: open, comprehensive

Common Mistake: Learners sometimes confuse with “exclusive” (opposite meaning).

9. Civic /ˈsɪv.ɪk/ (BrE), /ˈsɪv.ɪk/ (AmE)

Adjective — pattern: civic + responsibility/duty

Definition: Relating to a city or the duties and responsibilities of citizens.

Example: "Public squares were important for civic life in ancient cities." (Meaning: They were places for community and responsibility.)

Synonyms: municipal, community-related

Common Mistake: Learners often confuse with “civil” (general behavior). “Civic” is specific to cities and citizenship.

10. Livable /ˈlɪv.ə.bəl/ (BrE), /ˈlɪv.ə.bəl/ (AmE)

Adjective — pattern: livable city/environment

Definition: Pleasant and suitable for people to live in.

Example: "Smart technologies make modern cities more livable." (Meaning: They improve quality of life.)

Synonyms: habitable, suitable

Common Mistake: Learners sometimes spell it as “liveble.” Correct spelling is “livable.”

🟠 Part 5 — Phrases & Expressions

💬 Key Phrases & Expressions from the Lecture

1. Play a crucial role /pleɪ ə ˈkruː.ʃəl rəʊl/ (BrE), /pleɪ ə ˈkruː.ʃəl roʊl/ (AmE)

Verb phrase — pattern: play a crucial role in + noun/gerund

Definition: To have a very important effect on something.

Example: "Urban planning plays a crucial role in improving quality of life." (Meaning: It is very important for people’s lives.)

Synonyms: be essential to, be vital for

Common Mistake: Learners often drop “a” and say “play crucial role” (incorrect).

2. Public squares /ˈpʌb.lɪk skweəz/ (BrE), /ˈpʌb.lɪk skwerz/ (AmE)

Noun phrase — pattern: public squares in + city/place

Definition: Open spaces in a city where people gather for civic or social purposes.

Example: "Ancient Rome built public squares for markets and discussions." (Meaning: Open places for community life.)

Synonyms: plazas, open squares

Common Mistake: Learners sometimes confuse with “square” as in shape. Here it means an open city space.

3. Rapid urban growth /ˈræp.ɪd ˈɜː.bən ɡrəʊθ/ (BrE), /ˈræp.ɪd ˈɝː.bən ɡroʊθ/ (AmE)

Noun phrase — pattern: rapid urban growth in + region

Definition: A fast increase in the size and population of cities.

Example: "Rapid urban growth created housing shortages in the 19th century." (Meaning: Cities grew too quickly for housing supply.)

Synonyms: fast city expansion, quick urbanization

Common Mistake: Learners may incorrectly say “fast urban grow.” Correct form is “growth.”

4. Living conditions /ˈlɪv.ɪŋ kənˌdɪʃ.ənz/ (BrE & AmE)

Noun phrase — pattern: poor/good living conditions

Definition: The circumstances of how people live, including housing, health, and comfort.

Example: "Industrial workers suffered from poor living conditions." (Meaning: They had unhealthy and uncomfortable lives.)

Synonyms: lifestyle quality, housing situation

Common Mistake: Learners sometimes say “life conditions,” which is non-standard.

5. Mass transit systems /mæs ˈtræn.zɪt ˌsɪs.təmz/ (BrE & AmE)

Noun phrase — pattern: develop/build mass transit systems

Definition: Large-scale public transportation systems such as buses, trains, or subways.

Example: "Mass transit systems reduce traffic in big cities." (Meaning: Public transport helps avoid congestion.)

Synonyms: public transport networks, commuter systems

Common Mistake: Learners confuse with “transportation system” (broader). Mass transit is specifically for large numbers of people.

6. Guiding principle /ˈɡaɪ.dɪŋ ˈprɪn.sə.pəl/ (BrE & AmE)

Noun phrase — pattern: guiding principle of + policy/action

Definition: A main idea or belief that influences decisions or actions.

Example: "Sustainability is the guiding principle of modern planning." (Meaning: It is the main value in planning.)

Synonyms: core idea, main belief

Common Mistake: Learners may use “principle” and “principal” interchangeably. They are different words.

7. Smart technologies /smɑːt tekˈnɒl.ə.dʒiz/ (BrE), /smɑːrt tekˈnɑː.lə.dʒiz/ (AmE)

Noun phrase — pattern: use/apply smart technologies

Definition: Advanced digital technologies that improve efficiency and quality of life in cities.

Example: "Smart technologies monitor traffic and save energy in modern cities." (Meaning: Tech makes cities efficient.)

Synonyms: intelligent systems, digital innovations

Common Mistake: Learners sometimes confuse with “clever technology.” The correct phrase is “smart technologies.”

8. Environmental protection /ɪnˌvaɪ.rənˈmen.təl prəˈtek.ʃən/ (BrE), /ɪnˌvaɪ.rənˈmen.t̬əl prəˈtek.ʃən/ (AmE)

Noun phrase — pattern: environmental protection policies/laws

Definition: Actions taken to preserve and defend the natural environment.

Example: "Urban design now includes environmental protection measures." (Meaning: Cities protect nature.)

Synonyms: conservation, eco-preservation

Common Mistake: Learners often misspell “environmental” as “enviromental.”

9. Social well-being /ˈsəʊ.ʃəl ˌwelˈbiː.ɪŋ/ (BrE), /ˈsoʊ.ʃəl ˌwelˈbiː.ɪŋ/ (AmE)

Noun phrase — pattern: improve/promote social well-being

Definition: The overall happiness, health, and quality of life of people in society.

Example: "Planners design inclusive spaces to improve social well-being." (Meaning: Cities must improve people’s lives.)

Synonyms: social welfare, community health

Common Mistake: Learners sometimes separate “well being” as two words. Correct form is “well-being.”

10. High quality of life /haɪ ˈkwɒl.ɪ.ti əv laɪf/ (BrE), /haɪ ˈkwɑː.lə.t̬i əv laɪf/ (AmE)

Noun phrase — pattern: ensure/provide high quality of life

Definition: The standard of health, comfort, and happiness experienced by people.

Example: "Urban planning aims to provide a high quality of life." (Meaning: Cities should give people comfort and happiness.)

Synonyms: good standard of living, well-being

Common Mistake: Learners sometimes omit “of” and say “high quality life.” Correct: “high quality of life.”

🔺 Part 6 — Vocabulary & Expressions Review Quiz

🎯 Interactive Review Quiz

This quiz will randomly select 10 questions from a pool of 30 each time you attempt it. After each answer, you will see an explanation to help you understand better.