In the IELTS Speaking test, candidates are often asked to describe everyday objects or experiences. One common topic is discussing mobile applications. This article will guide you through answering questions about an app you frequently use on your phone, helping you achieve a high band score in your IELTS Speaking exam.
Describe a scenic drive you took recently can be another interesting topic in IELTS Speaking. However, let’s focus on describing a frequently used app, as it’s a more common subject in today’s digital age.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about mobile apps. Here are some possible questions with sample answers:
- Do you use many apps on your phone?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I do. I have quite a collection of apps on my smartphone, ranging from social media and productivity tools to entertainment and fitness apps. I find them incredibly useful for managing various aspects of my daily life.”
- What kind of apps do you use most often?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I tend to gravitate towards productivity and communication apps. I’m particularly fond of task management tools that help me stay on top of my commitments. Additionally, I frequently use messaging apps to keep in touch with friends and family, as well as professional networking platforms to stay connected with colleagues in my industry.”
- Are there any apps you don’t like?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“While I appreciate the convenience of most apps, I’m not particularly keen on those that bombard users with excessive advertisements or notifications. I find them rather intrusive and they often detract from the user experience. I also tend to avoid apps that require too many permissions without a clear reason, as I’m conscious of my digital privacy.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Now, let’s move on to Part 2, where you’ll be given a cue card to speak about for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to our topic:
Describe an app you use frequently on your phone
You should say:
- What the app is
- What you use it for
- How often you use it
- And explain why you find it usefulSample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about Duolingo, a language learning app that I’ve been using religiously for the past six months. This innovative app offers courses in numerous languages and employs gamification techniques to make the learning process engaging and enjoyable.
I primarily use Duolingo to enhance my Spanish language skills. As someone who’s always been fascinated by languages and cultures, I find this app incredibly valuable for my personal growth. It allows me to learn new vocabulary, practice grammar, and improve my pronunciation through a variety of interactive exercises.
I make it a point to use the app daily, typically spending about 20-30 minutes on it. I’ve integrated it into my morning routine, often practicing while having my breakfast or during my commute to work. This consistent practice has become second nature to me, and I look forward to my daily language learning sessions.
What makes Duolingo particularly useful is its user-friendly interface and adaptive learning algorithm. The app tailors the difficulty level to my progress, ensuring that I’m always challenged but not overwhelmed. Moreover, the bite-sized lessons make it easy to fit language learning into my busy schedule. The gamification elements, such as streak counts and leaderboards, provide an extra layer of motivation and make the learning process more enjoyable.
Another aspect I appreciate is the app’s ability to sync across devices, allowing me to seamlessly continue my lessons whether I’m on my phone, tablet, or computer. This flexibility has been instrumental in helping me maintain consistency in my language learning journey.
In conclusion, Duolingo has revolutionized the way I approach language learning. Its combination of accessibility, engaging content, and effective teaching methods has made it an indispensable tool in my quest to become fluent in Spanish.”
Describe a time when you forgot or missed an appointment might seem unrelated, but it’s worth noting that many people use apps to manage their schedules and avoid such situations.
Follow-up Questions:
- Do you think apps can replace traditional learning methods?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“While apps like Duolingo are incredibly effective supplements, I don’t believe they can entirely replace traditional learning methods. They excel at providing consistent practice and immediate feedback, which are crucial for language acquisition. However, the depth of understanding and nuanced cultural context that come from immersive experiences or interactions with native speakers are still invaluable. Ideally, a combination of app-based learning and traditional methods would yield the best results, allowing learners to leverage the strengths of both approaches.”
- How do you think language learning apps will evolve in the future?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe language learning apps will continue to advance significantly in the coming years. We might see more sophisticated AI integration, allowing for more personalized learning experiences and more accurate speech recognition. Virtual reality could also play a role, offering immersive environments for practicing languages in simulated real-world scenarios. Additionally, I expect to see greater emphasis on cultural education alongside language skills, helping learners understand not just the words, but the context in which they’re used.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions with sample answers:
- How have mobile apps changed the way we learn new skills?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Mobile apps have fundamentally transformed the landscape of skill acquisition. They’ve democratized access to knowledge, making it possible for anyone with a smartphone to learn virtually anything, anywhere, at any time. This unprecedented accessibility has broken down traditional barriers to education, such as geographic limitations or financial constraints.
Moreover, apps have revolutionized the learning process itself. Through gamification and microlearning, they’ve made skill acquisition more engaging and manageable. The bite-sized lessons and instant feedback provided by many educational apps cater to our increasingly fast-paced lifestyles and shorter attention spans.
However, it’s worth noting that this shift isn’t without its challenges. The abundance of information can sometimes lead to information overload, and the quick-fix nature of app-based learning might not always foster deep understanding. Nevertheless, when used judiciously, mobile apps have the potential to significantly accelerate and enhance our learning capabilities.”
- Do you think people rely too much on apps in their daily lives?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“This is a nuanced issue that doesn’t have a straightforward answer. On one hand, apps have undeniably made our lives more convenient and efficient. They help us navigate unfamiliar cities, manage our finances, stay connected with loved ones, and even monitor our health. In many ways, they’ve become indispensable tools for modern living.
However, there’s a valid concern about over-reliance on technology. When we depend too heavily on apps, we might lose certain skills or become less self-reliant. For instance, excessive use of navigation apps might impair our natural sense of direction. There’s also the risk of becoming distracted by constant notifications or spending too much time on our devices.
Ultimately, I believe the key lies in striking a balance. Apps should be used as tools to enhance our capabilities, not replace them entirely. It’s important to maintain a critical perspective and consciously decide when to use apps and when to rely on our own skills and judgment.”
Describe a decision that had a big impact on your life could be related to choosing to learn a new language or skill using an app, showing how technology can influence our personal development.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
-
Innovative /ˈɪnəvətɪv/ (adjective): New and creative in thinking
Example: “This innovative app offers a fresh approach to language learning.” -
Integrate /ˈɪntɪɡreɪt/ (verb): To combine one thing with another to form a whole
Example: “I’ve integrated the app into my daily routine.” -
Indispensable /ˌɪndɪˈspensəbl/ (adjective): Absolutely necessary
Example: “The app has become an indispensable tool in my language learning journey.” -
Revolutionize /ˌrevəˈluːʃənaɪz/ (verb): To change something radically or fundamentally
Example: “Mobile apps have revolutionized the way we acquire new skills.” -
Nuanced /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ (adjective): Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
Example: “The impact of apps on our lives is a nuanced issue.”
Describe a memorable day you spent with family might seem unrelated, but you could mention how apps help in planning and documenting such special occasions.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing an app you frequently use:
- Prepare a range of vocabulary related to technology, apps, and their specific functions.
- Practice explaining the app’s features and benefits clearly and concisely.
- Use a variety of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and conditional statements.
- Show your ability to discuss abstract ideas related to technology’s impact on society.
- Maintain fluency by speaking at a natural pace and using appropriate linking words.
- Demonstrate critical thinking by discussing both advantages and potential drawbacks of app usage.
- Provide specific examples from your personal experience to support your points.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Practice regularly, record yourself, and seek feedback to improve your performance.
Describe a time when you received helpful feedback could be relevant when discussing how language learning apps provide immediate feedback on your progress.