PTE Summarize Written Text Task Sample 299

Read the passage below and summarize it using one sentence. Type your response in the box at the bottom of the screen. You have 10 minutes to finish this task. Your response will be judged on the quality of your writing and on how well your response presents the key points in the passage.

The Practice of Daylight Saving Time: Benefits and Controversies

Daylight Saving Time (DST) is a practice of advancing clocks during warmer months to extend daylight in the evenings, typically by one hour in the spring and reverting them back in the fall. This practice aims to make better use of daylight and conserve energy by reducing the need for artificial lighting.

One of the main purported benefits of DST is energy conservation. By aligning waking hours with natural daylight, less artificial lighting is required in the evenings, leading to reduced electricity consumption. Additionally, proponents argue that DST promotes outdoor activities, boosts retail sales, and enhances overall well-being by allowing people to enjoy longer evenings.

However, DST is not without controversy. Critics point to studies suggesting minimal energy savings and argue that any benefits are offset by increased energy consumption from heating and air conditioning during darker mornings. Moreover, the disruption of circadian rhythms caused by changing the clocks twice a year can negatively impact sleep patterns, leading to fatigue, decreased productivity, and even health risks such as heart attacks and strokes.

Furthermore, the implementation of DST varies worldwide, with some regions opting out or considering abolishing the practice altogether due to its perceived inconvenience and questionable benefits.

In conclusion, while Daylight Saving Time aims to optimize daylight hours and conserve energy, its effectiveness and implications remain subject to debate. As societies continue to evolve, policymakers must carefully weigh the costs and benefits of DST to determine whether the practice aligns with modern needs and priorities.

Summary:

The practice of Daylight Saving Time aims to conserve energy and extend daylight hours, with proponents citing benefits such as increased outdoor activities and reduced artificial lighting, while critics highlight controversies including minimal energy savings, disruptions to sleep patterns, and varying implementation worldwide, prompting ongoing debates over its effectiveness and implications for modern society.