PTE Core Speaking Templates: Respond to a Situation:
Below, you will find sample PTE Core Speaking Templates that show you various situations and examples specifically targeting the “respond to a situation” section in the exam. Explore a wide variety of question types and options to really understand how you can ace this test!
PTE Core Speaking Question 1:
You’re training a new employee at your workplace, but they keep making the same mistakes despite your instructions. This is starting to affect productivity.
What would you do to help them improve while maintaining a supportive and professional environment?
Template:
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Acknowledge the difficulty.
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Express empathy and responsibility as a trainer.
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Explain steps (e.g., giving examples, extra practice, feedback).
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End with a positive tone and focus on growth.
Sample Answer:
I understand they’re struggling, and I want to help. I’d review the task again with simple examples and ask where they’re confused. I’d also observe them closely and give immediate feedback. Maybe a checklist could help them avoid repeating errors. I’d stay patient and encouraging, because everyone learns at a different pace, and support makes a big difference.
General Template: Helping Someone Who’s Struggling
I recognize that [name/person] is facing some difficulties, and I want to support them. First, I’d [review/explain/go over] the task again using examples and ask questions to understand where the confusion lies. I’d also [monitor/watch/observe] their progress and provide [instant/timely/on-the-spot] feedback. If needed, I could create a [checklist/guide/step-by-step breakdown] to help them avoid repeated mistakes. Throughout the process, I’d remain [patient/supportive/encouraging], because everyone has their own [learning curve/pace/timeline], and a little guidance can make a big difference.
Word/Phrase Alternatives for Each Key Idea
1. “I understand they’re struggling”
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I realize they’re having trouble
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I acknowledge they’re facing difficulties
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I see they’re experiencing challenges
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It’s clear they’re not coping well with the task
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They seem to be falling behind
2. “I want to help”
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I’m committed to assisting them
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I’d like to offer support
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I’m willing to step in and guide them
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I believe I can help them get back on track
3. “I’d review the task again”
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I’d go over the task once more
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I’d walk them through the process again
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I’d re-explain the instructions clearly
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I’d break the task into smaller parts
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I’d simplify the concept with practical examples
4. “Simple examples”
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Real-life examples
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Clear illustrations
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Easy-to-follow models
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Step-by-step visuals
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Concrete demonstrations
5. “Ask where they’re confused”
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Ask which part they’re unsure about
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Encourage them to voice their questions
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Invite them to share what’s unclear
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Get clarity on their specific difficulties
6. “Observe them closely”
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Monitor their work
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Keep an eye on their progress
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Watch how they approach the task
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Track their performance
7. “Immediate feedback”
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Instant input
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On-the-spot corrections
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Prompt advice
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Timely support
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Constructive feedback right away
8. “Checklist could help”
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A written guide might assist
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A structured outline may be beneficial
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A step-by-step reference could improve accuracy
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A task tracker might reduce mistakes
9. “Stay patient and encouraging”
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Remain calm and supportive
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Show empathy and persistence
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Maintain a positive attitude
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Be motivating and understanding
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Offer reassurance and constructive feedback
10. “Everyone learns at a different pace”
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Everyone has a unique learning curve
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Not all people grasp things the same way
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Each person progresses differently
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Some need more time to master new skills
PTE Core Speaking Question 2:
You’re at a restaurant, and the server brings you the wrong order. The restaurant is busy, and the server looks stressed.
What would you do in this situation to handle it politely and effectively?
Template:
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Acknowledge the mistake calmly.
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Show understanding of the situation.
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Make a polite request or suggestion.
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End with a positive or appreciative note.
Sample Answer:
I’d politely let the server know there was a mistake with my order. Since they look stressed, I’d speak calmly and kindly, saying I understand it’s a busy time. I’d ask if it’s possible to get the correct dish. If the wait is long, I might even accept the current order. Being respectful makes the situation better for everyone.
General Template: Addressing a Mistake in a Respectful Way
I’d politely inform [the staff/server/employee] that there seems to be a mistake. I’d speak [calmly/gently] and show that I understand they might be [busy/under pressure]. I’d kindly ask if it’s possible to get the correct [item/order/service]. If it takes time, I might consider accepting the current option. Staying [respectful/understanding] helps keep things pleasant for everyone.
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Word/Phrase Alternatives for Key Parts
1. “Politely let the server know”
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Gently point out the mistake
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Bring the issue to their attention respectfully
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Inform the server with courtesy
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Kindly mention the error
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Address the mix-up in a considerate tone
2. “There was a mistake with my order”
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The wrong dish was brought
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This isn’t what I ordered
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There seems to be a mix-up
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My order appears to be incorrect
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I believe there may have been an error
3. “They look stressed”
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They seem overwhelmed
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They appear to be under pressure
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I can tell it’s a hectic time
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They’re clearly managing a lot
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It looks like a very busy moment
4. “Speak calmly and kindly”
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Use a gentle tone
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Stay composed and considerate
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Speak with patience and warmth
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Respond in a soft and non-demanding way
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Maintain a polite and understanding attitude
5. “I understand it’s a busy time”
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I know things are hectic
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I realize you’re swamped
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I can see it’s a rush hour
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I get that you’re doing your best
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I completely understand how busy it is
6. “Ask if it’s possible to get the correct dish”
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See if the correct item can be brought
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Ask whether they can switch it
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Request a replacement if it’s manageable
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Inquire if a correction is possible
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Ask nicely for the proper order
7. “If the wait is long, I might accept the current order”
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I’d be willing to keep what I have
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I might just go ahead with this dish
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I’d understand if it’s not possible to change
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I’d adapt to the situation if needed
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I could settle for the current meal if necessary
8. “Being respectful makes the situation better for everyone”
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Courtesy improves the experience
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Respect defuses tension
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A kind approach keeps things smooth
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Politeness helps everyone involved
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Understanding goes a long way in such moments
PTE Core Speaking Question 3:
You’ve booked a flight for an important event, but it just got canceled at the last minute. There’s a long line at the airline counter, and you’re worried about missing the event.
What would you do to handle the situation efficiently?
Template:
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State the urgency of the situation.
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Describe your immediate action (e.g., contact airline, search alternatives).
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Mention backup plans.
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Keep a calm and problem-solving tone.
Sample Answer (60 words):
Since the flight is crucial, I’d immediately call the airline while standing in line to save time. I’d ask about the next available flight or any alternatives nearby. If flying isn’t an option, I’d look into trains or renting a car. I’d stay calm and focused, knowing that stressing out won’t help solve the issue faster.
General Template: Responding to Urgent Travel Issues Calmly
Since the situation is urgent, I’d act right away. While [waiting/in line], I’d call the [airline/company] to check for [alternative solutions/next steps]. If that option isn’t available, I’d quickly explore other ways to continue, like [taking a train/renting a car]. I’d stay [calm/composed] and focus on solving the problem instead of stressing.
Alternatives for Key Phrases
1. “Since the flight is crucial”
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Because this trip is important
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Given how essential the flight is
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Since missing this flight would cause major issues
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Because this journey can’t be delayed
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As this travel is time-sensitive
2. “I’d immediately call the airline”
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I’d contact the airline right away
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I’d get on the phone with customer service
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I’d dial the airline to explain the situation
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I’d reach out instantly to the airline
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I’d try to speak with a representative as soon as possible
3. “While standing in line to save time”
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While waiting at the desk
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As I queue up to speak with someone
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To avoid delays, I’d multitask while in line
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While holding my place, I’d use the time wisely
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I’d try to act quickly instead of just waiting
4. “Ask about the next available flight or any alternatives nearby”
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Inquire about rescheduling options or other nearby departures
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See if there are open seats on later flights
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Check if another route or airport could work
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Look into standby flights or rerouting possibilities
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Ask for any possible solution to keep the trip going
5. “If flying isn’t an option”
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If there are no flights available
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If the airline can’t help
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If air travel is completely off the table
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If the flight can’t be salvaged
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If that plan falls through
6. “I’d look into trains or renting a car”
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I’d check rail or bus options
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I’d consider driving if it gets me there on time
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I’d search for other modes of transportation
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I’d try booking a rental car or a nearby service
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I’d explore ground travel alternatives
7. “Stay calm and focused”
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Remain composed and solution-oriented
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Keep my cool and think clearly
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Avoid panicking so I can act wisely
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Focus on problem-solving instead of frustration
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Maintain a level head and think strategically
8. “Stressing out won’t help solve the issue faster”
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Worrying won’t fix anything
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Panic only wastes energy
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Stress won’t speed things up
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Being anxious won’t lead to results
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A calm approach is more effective in crises
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