Summarize Spoken Text(SST)
A short lecture plays — you summarize it in 50–70 words. Marks in Writing AND Listening. The template makes it mechanical.
The Format
- Audio
- 60–90 second lecture, plays ONCE
- Answer
- 50–70 words — sweet spot: 65
- Time
- 10 minutes including the audio time
The Scoring (12 marks)
Notes → Template → 65 Words
Main topic + 3 points + conclusion. Keywords only: nouns, verbs, numbers.
Sentence 1 is always '(Topic) was the main topic of the lecture.' Points start with Firstly, Furthermore, Moreover/However. Last sentence always starts 'To conclude, …'
Check the counter, then proofread spelling word by word: the 2-error rule applies.
The SST Template
One frame, five slots. Take notes during the audio, then drop them straight in.
Topic + 3 points + conclusion
(Topic) was the main topic of the lecture. Firstly, (point 1). Furthermore, (point 2). Moreover / However, (point 3). To conclude, (conclusion).
Structure complete in five sentences — everything else is your notes.
The SST Template + Model Answer
Prompt: “Lecture on urban green spaces”
Urban green spaces was the main topic of the lecture. Firstly, the speaker stated that parks improve residents' physical and mental health. Furthermore, he explained that green areas reduce city temperatures during summer. Moreover, he argued that parks encourage community interaction and physical activity. To conclude, he recommended that city planners prioritise green spaces in new residential developments.
The 5 SST Rules
The 4 Traps That Cost You the Task
40–49 or 71–100 = Form 1. Anything else = 0. Aim 65.
Same trap as SWT and Essay: 2+ errors = all spelling marks gone.
Grammar: 0 errors = 2, 1–2 minor = 1, 2+ = 0. Simple correct sentences win.
Vocabulary wants academic tone — no slang, no contractions.
Daily Drills
- →1–2 SST lectures daily: notes → SST template → 65 words.
- →Practice note-taking on any podcast: topic + 3 points + conclusion in keywords.
- →Type the template from memory until sentence 1 and 'To conclude' are automatic.