Important PTE Scoring Changes You Need to Keep In Mind!

As of November 4, 2024, Pearson is applying brand-new PTE scoring changes for the Describe Image and Retell Lecture tasks. With each PTE update, PTE Magic has seen candidates using phrases and responses that miss the scores for these tasks.

Let’s find out about these updates and how to keep your score high!

Key Takeaways

• Pearson is applying brand-new PTE scoring changes for the Describe Image and Retell Lecture tasks starting November 4, 2024.
• The update is the introduction of double scoring, meaning an automated score is now followed by a human check.
• When used right, PTE Magic templates can be your best tip to handle the PTE Speaking section.

Related:

• PTE exam preparation made simple

What Are The New PTE Scoring Changes?

Pearson is making some upgrades to the scoring process for two PTE Speaking tasks: “Describe Image” and “Retell Lecture.” 

The questions themselves haven’t changed on the content, difficulty, or scoring criteria. The real update is the introduction of double scoring, meaning an automated score is now followed by a human check. 

Additionally, human experts have always been involved in scoring the PTE tests. They routinely review responses to ensure scores hit the mark.

How Does Pearson Score The Tasks?

The speaking tasks “Describe Image” and “Retell Lecture” are always based on three criteria: Content, Oral Fluency, and Pronunciation—each scored from 0 to 5.

• Content: This assesses how you can cover all the big-picture details, from key actions to possible outcomes. A full, well-organised recount of main ideas will serve you best, whereas random, disjointed points will get you low scores.
• Oral Fluency: This is about keeping your rhythm and phrasing natural, flowing as if in a casual chat. The ideal response sounds confident, and smooth, with no hesitations or awkward pauses.
• Pronunciation: Clarity is key. Speech should be immediately understood by anyone familiar with the English language. You should make vowel sounds and stresses sounding as close to native as possible.

All three of these have been machine-scored so far, but from 4 November 2024, a human expert will also review your content for an extra layer of assurance.

Reasons Behind The PTE Scoring Updates In 2024

Blending AI with human oversight is probably the best way to ensure everyone taking the test gets a fair, accurate result. Human experts have been around all along – not just for training the AI but for monitoring live responses too. 

Now, Pearson is expanding their role so that when it comes to the content of these two speaking tasks, a real person will always review it.

So what will they be looking for? Mainly that what you say sounds like your own words and not something lifted from a template. 

While their scoring systems are already set to detect template use, the human examiner will now cross-check this information for these tasks. Therefore, only genuine, fresh responses will earn a valid score.

Adapt Your Preparation With PTE Magic Templates

As we’ve mentioned above, Pearson’s scoring system now can detect template-used answers. So how can we prepare our best for these two tasks?

Rest assured. When used right, a template can be your best tip to handle the PTE Speaking section. However, not all templates are created equal. The ones we’ve developed at PTE Magic are tried and tested. Each one is crafted to keep you sounding natural, well-prepared, and crucially credible.

Unfortunately, using templates too rigidly can backfire. Although templates provide structure, overdoing it will make it obvious you’re following a script, which is a quick way to lose points. 

PTE Magic suggests you think of them as a framework rather than a line-by-line readout. You want your responses to sound real, your ideas to flow, and your individuality to come through. With our templates, test-takers will enhance their natural speaking rhythm – not boxing them into one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will These Changes Affect The Test Format?

No. The format and duration of the test remain exactly the same.

What Details Can The Human Expert Actually Access?

They only see your response. No photo, no personal details – just the answer itself.

Does This Mean A Human Will Be Judging My Accent Now?

Absolutely not. The human examiner is there for content only. The other two aspects – Oral Fluency and Pronunciation – are still scored by AI, so your accent isn’t under human scrutiny.

Could This Delay My Test Results?

Not at all. PTE scores typically arrive within two days, and that’s staying the same.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, students are encouraged to remain calm with these updates. For further clarity or support in preparing for the ‘Describe Image’ and ‘Retell Lecture’ tasks, PTE Magic is here to provide expert guidance and help ensure your continued success.

Check out our platform and social media for more newly updated PTE information!

Last updated on 05/11/2024