Questions and sample answers
How has technology changed the way people communicate?
People can now contact each other instantly across the world, which keeps families connected. On the other hand, many conversations have become shorter and less personal, since people often send messages instead of meeting.
Do you think children should use tablets and smartphones?
In moderation, yes. Educational apps can help them learn, but too much screen time harms sleep and concentration, so parents should set clear limits and encourage outdoor play.
Will robots replace human workers?
In some jobs, such as factory work, they already have. However, jobs that need creativity and empathy, like teaching and nursing, are more difficult to automate, so I think humans will keep an important role.
What are the dangers of relying on technology?
If a system fails, daily life can stop, and people may lose basic skills such as navigating without a map. There are also privacy risks, because companies collect a lot of personal data.
Which invention has changed life the most?
The internet, I would say. It changed how we learn, work, shop and entertain ourselves, and almost every other modern technology depends on it.
Useful vocabulary
- automate — make a process work without people
- privacy — the right to keep personal information secret
- rely on — depend on
- instant communication — contact with no delay
- screen time — time spent using screens
- breakthrough — an important discovery
- digital skills — ability to use technology
Tips for this topic
- Balance benefits with risks in two sentences.
- Use “on the other hand” and “however” naturally.
- Give an example, such as a device or an app.
Study guides
How Is IELTS Scored in Speaking and Writing? Criteria, Weighting and Rounding
The short answer first, then the Speaking and Writing criteria tables, how Task 1 and Task 2 combine and how the overall band is rounded.
IELTS Speaking Band Descriptors Explained in Plain English
The IELTS Speaking test is marked on four criteria. Here is what each one means at bands 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, with short examples you can compare with your own answers.
IELTS Speaking Part 2: How Many Minutes to Speak (With a Practice Timer)
How long Part 2 lasts (1 minute to prepare, 1–2 minutes to speak), a practice timer, a four-step structure and a model answer.