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Technology is a frequent IELTS Speaking theme and appears in other parts of the exam as well. Some candidates find this topic challenging, but with strong vocabulary and grammar, it becomes much easier to present clear ideas and boost your score.

1. IELTS Speaking Overview

The Speaking test lasts 11–14 minutes and accounts for 25% of your overall IELTS score. It includes three parts: Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3.

  • Part 1: 4–5 minutes of general questions about yourself, your daily life, work, hobbies, or studies.

  • Part 2: You receive a cue card, have one minute to prepare, then speak for two minutes. The examiner may ask follow-up questions.

  • Part 3: A deeper discussion building on Part 2, with more complex and analytical questions.

2. Technology – Sample Answers for Part 1

Question: What technology do you often use: computers or cell phones?

My laptop is absolutely indispensable because it makes my work and study much easier. I use it for word processing, taking online courses, and posting photos on social media.

Vocabulary highlights:

  • indispensable item

  • facilitate

  • word processing

Question: What electronic devices have you bought lately?

I haven’t bought any new gadgets recently because I’m not really a tech junkie. But I am considering buying a new smartphone since my current one feels outdated.

Vocabulary highlights:

  • pick up

  • tech junkie

  • bat around the idea

Question: Is there any technology you don’t like?

Not really. I believe that most technological breakthroughs simplify life. For instance, inventions like washing machines and vacuum cleaners greatly reduce the burden of daily chores.

Vocabulary highlights:

  • technological breakthroughs

  • burden of household chores

3. Technology – Sample Answers for Part 2

Cue Card: Describe a device that helps you concentrate

I’d like to talk about a state-of-the-art headphone—it helps me focus on study and work. After I passed the entrance exam to Language University with flying colors, my mother gifted me this headphone. She chose the latest model in white and pink with a long cord to connect to my phone or laptop. It is portable and easy to carry.

I still use it regularly. With music or English listening sessions, my concentration remains unbroken—especially in noisy places like cafés. This habit has also improved my English listening skills since I now spend more time practicing.

Vocabulary highlights:

  • pass the exam with flying colors

  • state-of-the-art

  • congratulation gift

  • latest model

  • portable

  • break the concentration

  • pay full attention

  • enhance

Cue Card: Describe a piece of technology you find useful

If I had to choose one, it would be my mobile phone. I communicate with family using apps like FaceTime and social media regardless of geographic barriers. I also play “Plants vs Zombies” for entertainment after a long day. Additionally, I rely on news and information apps for current affairs since my job requires frequent updates.

Vocabulary highlights:

  • cutting-edge inventions

  • means of communication

  • keep in touch

  • distant relatives

  • innovative applications

  • regardless of geographic barriers

  • form of entertainment

  • huge fan

  • strategic

  • current affairs

4. Sample essay on Technology - Speaking part 3

Question: Will technology affect the workplace in the future—do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

Technological advancements offer both pros and cons. On the positive side, new tools can significantly boost labour productivity and create professional environments with robots and automation. However, widespread use of technology can lead to unemployment as machines replace blue-collar workers, potentially harming societal prosperity.

Vocabulary highlights:

  • boost labour productivity

  • state-of-the-art facilities

  • technological gadgets

Question: Will technology replace teachers in classrooms—do the pros outweigh the cons?

Technology can enhance student learning by broadening horizons and increasing interest. Yet I believe teachers remain irreplaceable, as direct interaction fosters deeper understanding. No technology can fully replicate the nuance and adaptability of human teaching.

Vocabulary highlights:

  • broaden horizons

  • arouse interest

  • irreplaceable

  • gain deeper understanding

  • cutting-edge technology

  • be capable of

5. Topic Vocabulary – Technology in IELTS Speaking

Electronic Devices & Computing

  • appliance

  • turntable

  • microprocessor

  • selfie stick

  • wireless headphones

  • router

  • cloud storage

  • high-spec laptop

  • USB

Robotics & Artificial Intelligence

  • artificial intelligence

  • augmented reality

  • virtual reality

  • humanoid

  • gadget

  • labor-intensive

  • personality trait

Digital Space & Networks

  • operating system

  • streaming video

  • cybercriminal

  • e-commerce

  • intranet

  • algorithm

  • wearable technology

  • blockchain

6. Collocations & Expressions – Technology Topic

Positive Phrases

  • bookmark a webpage

  • navigate a website

  • all the rage

  • customized to their liking

  • digitalize everything

  • allow people to connect regardless of distance

  • mass automation & mass production

  • reduce commuting costs with virtual meetings

  • facilitate learning with access to information

Negative Phrases

  • grow dependence on technology

  • minimize human abilities

  • weaken family bonds

  • addiction to video games

  • loss of face-to-face communication skills

  • cause obesity and heart disease

  • risk of personal data theft

  • exposure to inappropriate content

  • risk of losing important digital data

Score High on Technology Topics with IDP

Strong vocabulary and structured ideas for the Technology topic can significantly impact your IELTS Speaking performance. Start practicing today with IDP’s IELTS Prepare. Access expert webinars, online courses, and preparation strategies designed by professionals. When you’re ready, register for IELTS with IDP and move closer to achieving your target score.

About this Article

Published on 29 June, 2023

About this Author

One Skill Retake - IELTS Australia
Quynh Khanh

Tôi là Quỳnh Khanh - Content Writer có hơn 5 năm kinh nghiệm về lĩnh vực giáo dục