The ability to discuss technology and its challenges is a crucial skill for the IELTS Speaking test. This topic has been a recurring theme in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to effectively tackle questions about difficult-to-use technology, providing you with the tools to excel in your IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about technology. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Q: How often do you use technology in your daily life?
A: I use technology constantly throughout the day. From the moment I wake up and check my smartphone for messages and news, to using my laptop for work and studies, technology is an integral part of my routine. I’d say I interact with various forms of technology at least a dozen times daily, if not more.
Describe an interesting conversation you had with an old person can also be a great way to discuss how technology has changed over time, providing a unique perspective on technological advancements.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a piece of technology that you find difficult to use
You should say:
- What the technology is
- When you first used it
- Why you find it difficult to use
And explain how you feel about using this technology
Sample Answer (Band 6-7)
The piece of technology I find challenging to use is a 3D printer. I first encountered this device about two years ago when my university acquired one for the engineering department.
The main reason I find it difficult to use is its complexity. There are many settings to adjust, from the temperature of the printing bed to the speed and density of the filament extrusion. It’s not as straightforward as a regular printer where you just click ‘print’.
Moreover, creating 3D models to print requires specialized software skills that I’m still developing. Often, my designs don’t turn out as expected due to miscalculations or software limitations.
I feel both frustrated and fascinated by this technology. While it’s challenging, I’m amazed by its potential to create complex objects from digital designs. Despite the difficulties, I’m determined to master it as I believe it’s a valuable skill for the future.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
The piece of technology that I find particularly challenging to use is a state-of-the-art 3D printer. I was first introduced to this cutting-edge device approximately two years ago when our university’s engineering department acquired one for research purposes.
The primary reason for my difficulty stems from the intricate nature of its operation. Unlike conventional printers, 3D printers require a meticulous adjustment of numerous parameters. These include the precise calibration of the printing bed temperature, the extrusion speed, and the density of the filament. It’s a far cry from the simplicity of traditional printing where a single click suffices.
Furthermore, the process of designing 3D models for printing demands a high level of proficiency in specialized software. This aspect has proven to be a significant hurdle for me. Often, my designs fail to materialize as envisioned due to subtle miscalculations or the inherent limitations of the software.
My feelings towards using this technology are a mix of frustration and awe. While the learning curve is undeniably steep, I’m utterly captivated by its potential to revolutionize manufacturing and bring digital designs into the physical realm. Despite the challenges, I’m deeply committed to mastering this technology, as I firmly believe it represents a crucial skill set for the future of engineering and design.
Complex settings of a 3D printer
Follow-up Questions
Q: How do you think 3D printing technology will impact various industries in the future?
A: (Band 6-7) I believe 3D printing will have a significant impact on many industries. In manufacturing, it could reduce costs and allow for more customization. In medicine, we might see 3D-printed organs or prosthetics. It could also revolutionize construction, allowing for quicker and cheaper building of houses.
A: (Band 8-9) The potential impact of 3D printing technology on various industries is likely to be profound and far-reaching. In the manufacturing sector, we can anticipate a paradigm shift towards mass customization, where products can be tailored to individual specifications without significantly increasing production costs. The medical field stands to benefit enormously, with the possibility of bioprinting organs for transplants and creating bespoke prosthetics that perfectly fit each patient. In construction, 3D printing could dramatically accelerate the building process and reduce material waste, potentially offering a solution to housing crises in many parts of the world. Moreover, the aerospace industry could leverage this technology to produce lighter, more efficient components, leading to more economical and environmentally friendly air travel.
Q: What are some potential drawbacks or ethical concerns associated with 3D printing technology?
A: (Band 6-7) Some potential drawbacks of 3D printing include the high initial costs of the machines and materials. There are also concerns about intellectual property rights when people can easily replicate products. Ethically, there are worries about the possibility of printing weapons or other dangerous items.
A: (Band 8-9) While 3D printing offers immense possibilities, it also presents several potential drawbacks and ethical dilemmas. One significant concern is the potential for intellectual property infringement, as the technology enables easy replication of patented designs. This could have serious implications for industries reliant on proprietary products. Ethically, the ability to print functional firearms or other dangerous items raises substantial security concerns and challenges existing regulatory frameworks. Moreover, the environmental impact of widespread 3D printing is yet to be fully understood, particularly regarding the disposal of non-biodegradable printing materials. In the medical field, while bioprinting holds promise, it also raises complex ethical questions about the limits of recreating human tissues. Additionally, as with many advanced technologies, there’s a risk of exacerbating economic disparities, potentially creating a divide between those who can access and utilize 3D printing and those who cannot.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: How do you think technology has changed the way we communicate?
A: (Band 6-7) Technology has dramatically changed our communication. We now have instant messaging and video calls that allow us to connect with people worldwide. Social media has made it easier to stay in touch with friends and family. However, it has also led to less face-to-face interaction in some cases.
A: (Band 8-9) The impact of technology on communication has been truly revolutionary. We’ve witnessed a paradigm shift from traditional modes of correspondence to instantaneous, multimedia-rich exchanges. Platforms like video conferencing and social media have obliterated geographical barriers, enabling real-time communication across the globe. This has not only transformed personal relationships but has also reshaped business dynamics, allowing for remote work and international collaborations on an unprecedented scale. However, this digital revolution is not without its drawbacks. The ease and immediacy of digital communication have, in some instances, led to a decline in the depth and quality of our interactions. There’s a growing concern about the erosion of interpersonal skills and the potential for miscommunication in text-based exchanges. Moreover, the constant connectivity facilitated by technology has blurred the lines between personal and professional life, raising questions about work-life balance and digital well-being.
Describe a piece of good news you heard about someone you know well could be an interesting way to discuss how technology has changed the way we share and receive information.
Q: In what ways do you think technology might change education in the future?
A: (Band 6-7) I think technology will make education more accessible and personalized. We might see more online courses and virtual classrooms. Artificial intelligence could help create customized learning plans for students. However, there might be challenges in ensuring equal access to technology for all students.
A: (Band 8-9) The future of education is likely to be profoundly shaped by technological advancements. We can anticipate a shift towards more immersive and interactive learning experiences, potentially through virtual and augmented reality technologies. These could transform abstract concepts into tangible, visual representations, enhancing understanding and retention. Artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms could revolutionize personalized learning, adapting in real-time to each student’s pace, preferences, and learning style. This could lead to a more efficient and effective educational model, catering to individual needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Furthermore, the boundaries of the traditional classroom may become increasingly blurred. Blended learning models, combining online and face-to-face instruction, could become the norm, offering greater flexibility and accessibility. This could particularly benefit lifelong learning and professional development, allowing individuals to upskill or reskill at their own convenience.
However, this technological revolution in education also presents significant challenges. Ensuring equitable access to these technologies across different socio-economic groups will be crucial to prevent widening the educational divide. Additionally, there’s a need to balance technological integration with the development of crucial interpersonal skills and critical thinking abilities that are often honed through face-to-face interactions. The role of educators will likely evolve, shifting from mere information providers to facilitators of learning experiences and mentors in navigating the digital landscape.
Virtual reality classroom of the future
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
Cutting-edge /ˈkʌtɪŋ edʒ/ (adjective): The most advanced stage of development; innovative or pioneering.
Example: The university’s lab is equipped with cutting-edge 3D printing technology.Intricate /ˈɪntrɪkət/ (adjective): Very complicated or detailed.
Example: The intricate details of operating a 3D printer can be overwhelming for beginners.Meticulous /məˈtɪkjələs/ (adjective): Showing great attention to detail; very careful and precise.
Example: 3D printing requires meticulous adjustment of various parameters for optimal results.Paradigm shift /ˈpærədaɪm ʃɪft/ (noun): A fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions.
Example: 3D printing represents a paradigm shift in manufacturing processes.Revolutionize /ˌrevəˈluːʃənaɪz/ (verb): To change something radically or fundamentally.
Example: This technology has the potential to revolutionize multiple industries.Bespoke /bɪˈspoʊk/ (adjective): Custom-made; made to order.
Example: 3D printing allows for the creation of bespoke medical implants tailored to each patient.
Describe a room in your house where you feel comfortable could be an interesting way to discuss how technology has changed our living spaces and comfort levels at home.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing technology:
- Expand your vocabulary: Learn and use technology-related terms accurately.
- Practice describing processes: Be able to explain how technologies work step-by-step.
- Develop critical thinking: Form and express opinions about the impacts of technology.
- Stay informed: Keep up with current technological trends and debates.
- Use personal experiences: Relate your answers to your own interactions with technology.
- Balance pros and cons: Show your ability to consider multiple perspectives on technological issues.
Remember, the key to a high score is not just about knowing the technology, but being able to discuss it fluently, critically, and in detail.
Describe an item you found difficult to use initially offers another opportunity to practice discussing challenging technology in the IELTS Speaking test.