Today we’ll explore how to effectively answer questions about inventions that have transformed our world, a topic frequently tested in IELTS Speaking examinations.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions examiners ask:
- Do you think technology makes our lives easier?
- What’s your favorite technological device?
- How has technology changed education?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Technology has revolutionized our daily lives in countless ways. Particularly in education, I’d say digital tools have transformed how we learn. For instance, online platforms enable us to access vast knowledge repositories instantly, which was unimaginable just decades ago.”
IELTS candidate discussing technology impact on education
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe an invention that has changed the world
You should say:
- What the invention is
- When it was invented
- How it has changed people’s lives
- And explain why you think it is important
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about the Internet, arguably the most transformative invention of the modern era. While its development was gradual, the World Wide Web was created by Tim Berners-Lee in 1989, marking a pivotal moment in human history.
The impact of this invention has been profound and far-reaching. First and foremost, it has revolutionized communication, enabling instant connectivity across the globe. Moreover, it has fundamentally altered how we work, learn, and socialize. For instance, remote work has become mainstream, transforming traditional office culture.
What makes the Internet particularly significant is its role in democratizing information. It has effectively broken down geographical barriers to knowledge, enabling people in remote areas to access world-class education. Furthermore, it has spawned countless innovations, from e-commerce to social media, creating entirely new industries and job opportunities.
In my view, the Internet’s importance cannot be overstated as it continues to drive innovation and shape the future of human civilization. It serves as a testament to human ingenuity and our ability to create tools that fundamentally transform society.”
The Internet's global impact on communication and society
Follow-up Questions:
Q: How has this invention affected different generations differently?
A: Research indicates that while younger generations are digital natives, older generations have had to adapt and acquire new skills. This digital divide has created both challenges and opportunities for intergenerational learning.
Part 3: Discussion
Q: What role do you think inventors will play in solving future global challenges?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I firmly believe that inventors will be instrumental in addressing major global challenges. Take climate change, for example – we’re already seeing innovative solutions like carbon capture technology and advanced renewable energy systems. What’s particularly fascinating is how inventors are increasingly collaborating across borders to tackle these issues.
Furthermore, the pace of innovation is accelerating exponentially, thanks to advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning. This synergy between human creativity and technological capabilities will undoubtedly lead to breakthrough solutions for challenges we can’t even anticipate yet.”
[For those interested in future innovations, you might want to check out how to describe an invention you would like to see in the future.]
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Revolutionary (adj.) /ˌrevəˈluːʃəneri/ – involving complete change
- Paradigm shift (n.) /ˈpærədaɪm ʃɪft/ – fundamental change in approach
- Breakthrough (n.) /ˈbreɪkθruː/ – important discovery
- Transformative (adj.) /trænsˈfɔːmətɪv/ – causing dramatic change
- Innovative (adj.) /ˈɪnəveɪtɪv/ – featuring new methods or ideas
Similar to how technology changes our daily routines, mastering these expressions will significantly improve your speaking performance.
Examiner’s Tips
- Practice describing various inventions using specific examples
- Structure your response with clear introduction, body, and conclusion
- Use a mix of simple and complex sentences
- Include personal opinions and experiences
- Support main points with relevant examples
If you’re interested in exploring related topics, consider how to describe a skill you think will be useful in the future.
