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IELTS Speaking Sample Test: Topic 11 - Technology and Gadgets

Posted on 03-10-2024 by theylem | 20 views

Part 1 (Introduction)

1. What technology do you use daily?
"I use several gadgets daily, including my smartphone, laptop, and smartwatch. My smartphone is indispensable for keeping in touch with family, checking emails, and browsing social media, while my laptop is essential for work and study. The smartwatch helps me track my fitness and health."

2. How has technology made your life easier?
"Technology has made my life much more convenient. For instance, I can access all the information I need online, stay connected with people regardless of location, and use apps to manage my finances or fitness goals. It's like having a whole world of possibilities at your fingertips."

3. Are there any gadgets you can’t live without?
"I would say my smartphone is the one gadget I can't live without. It keeps me connected, entertained, and informed. I rely on it for almost everything, from communication to navigation and even banking."

4. Do you prefer to buy new technology as soon as it’s released?
"Not really. I usually wait until I need a new gadget or until the price drops. I also like to read reviews and make sure that the technology is reliable before making a purchase. I think it’s important to weigh the cost-effectiveness before jumping on the latest trends."

5. How has technology changed the way people communicate?
"Technology has revolutionized communication. Nowadays, people can instantly send messages, make video calls, and share media with anyone around the globe. Social media platforms also allow people to connect and share moments of their lives in real time. While it’s convenient, it has made communication more fast-paced and sometimes less personal."


Part 2 (Long Turn)

Describe a piece of technology you find useful. You should say:

  • What it is
  • When you got it
  • How you use it And explain why you find it useful.

Response:

"A piece of technology that I find incredibly useful is my tablet. I got it about a year ago, mainly for work purposes, but it has since become an essential tool for both productivity and entertainment.

I use my tablet for a variety of tasks. During the day, it serves as a portable workstation where I can take notes, attend virtual meetings, and access work documents. In the evenings, I use it to watch shows, read e-books, and browse the internet. It’s lightweight and fits easily in my bag, making it much more convenient than carrying around a laptop.

What I love most about my tablet is its versatility. Whether I need to multitask during work or relax with some entertainment, it can do it all. It’s like having a computer, TV, and book all in one compact device, and I find that it adds a lot of value to my daily life."


Part 3 (Discussion)

1. Do you think technology has made people’s lives better?
"Yes, technology has definitely improved people's lives in many ways. It has made information more accessible, improved healthcare through medical devices, and facilitated communication. However, it’s also important to note that technology can have downsides, like making people more sedentary and sometimes even leading to addiction. It's all about finding the right balance."

2. How do you think technology will change in the future?
"I think technology will become even more integrated into our lives. Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation will likely play a bigger role, not only in workplaces but also in everyday tasks like cooking or cleaning. Gadgets will become more advanced, portable, and energy-efficient. We might also see more emphasis on sustainable tech, focusing on reducing environmental impact."

3. What are some disadvantages of modern technology?
"While technology has its advantages, there are also drawbacks. It can sometimes make people overly dependent, reducing face-to-face interactions and potentially impacting social skills. There’s also the issue of privacy, as personal data is often shared online without full control. Additionally, excessive use of technology can lead to health issues like eye strain, poor posture, and reduced physical activity."


Key Vocabulary and Pronunciation

Vocabulary Pronunciation (IPA) Meaning Example Sentence
Indispensable /ˌɪndɪˈspɛnsəbl/ Absolutely necessary; essential "My phone is indispensable for my daily routine."
Revolutionize /ˌrɛvəˈluːʃənaɪz/ To change something radically or fundamentally "Technology has revolutionized the way we work."
Fast-paced /ˌfæstˈpeɪst/ Moving or changing quickly "The fast-paced world of technology can be overwhelming."
Multitask /ˈmʌltɪˌtæsk/ To perform multiple tasks at the same time "My tablet allows me to multitask efficiently."
Cost-effectiveness /ˈkɔst ɪˈfɛktɪvnɪs/ The balance between the cost and the benefit or value of something "Before buying a new gadget, consider its cost-effectiveness."
Sedentary /ˈsɛdntəri/ Spending a lot of time seated; inactive "Technology can lead to a more sedentary lifestyle."
Versatility /ˌvɜrsəˈtɪlɪti/ The ability to adapt to different functions or activities "The versatility of my tablet makes it useful for work and leisure."
Artificial Intelligence (AI) /ˌɑːr.tɪˈfɪʃ.əl ɪnˈtɛlɪdʒəns/ The development of computer systems that can perform tasks usually requiring human intelligence "AI is changing the future of work."
Portable /ˈpɔːrtəbl/ Able to be easily carried or moved "My portable speaker is perfect for trips."
Energy-efficient /ˈɛnərʤi ɪˈfɪʃənt/ Using less energy to perform the same task "This laptop is very energy-efficient."
Addiction /əˈdɪkʃən/ Compulsive need for and use of something, often leading to harmful consequences "Many people suffer from smartphone addiction."
Privacy /ˈpraɪvəsi/ The state of being free from public attention or intrusion "I'm concerned about my privacy on social media."
Eye strain /aɪ streɪn/ Discomfort or fatigue of the eyes, often caused by prolonged use of screens "Prolonged use of computers can lead to eye strain."
Automation /ˌɔtəˈmeɪʃən/ The use of technology to perform tasks without human intervention "Automation is transforming manufacturing."
Smartwatch /ˈsmɑːrtˌwɑʧ/ A wearable device that connects to your smartphone and tracks various functions "My smartwatch helps me monitor my fitness levels."
Navigation /ˌnævɪˈɡeɪʃən/ The process of planning and following a route "I use my phone for GPS navigation."
Gadget /ˈɡæʤɪt/ A small device or tool with a specific function "My kitchen is full of handy gadgets."
Finances /ˈfaɪnænsɪz/ The management of money and financial activities "I use an app to keep track of my finances."
Health tracking /hɛlθ ˈtrækɪŋ/ Monitoring physical health metrics such as steps, heart rate, and sleep patterns "My smartwatch is great for health tracking."
Virtual meetings /ˈvɜrʧʊəl ˈmiːtɪŋz/ Online meetings conducted via digital platforms like Zoom or Teams "I attend virtual meetings for work daily."