computer internet ielts speaking part 3 cue card

Computer/ internet is a follow-up speaking topic that often comes up in the IELTS speaking part 3. Below you will find a list of some exam questions and answers that you could encounter during part 3 of the IELTS Speaking test.

The questions below are based on the real IELTS speaking exam. They serve as a great IELTS Speaking part 3 prediction questions to help you prepare better before your test.

Computer/ internet Speaking Part 3 – Discussion 1

  1. The weather in each country is different. Houses in different countries look very different because of this. Is there a reason they might not be the same?com
    1. Yes, I think houses have been designed intelligently especially by our ancestors who had infinite wisdom. Take the igloos in Antarctica for instance. They are constructed from blocks of ice but protect whoever is inside from chilly winds and biting cold. The same goes with houses in the southern plains of Nepal, they are built on stilts so that the monsoons don’t play havoc with villagers.
  2. What types of houses do people reside in in your city?
    Most people in Kathmandu live in two-storey houses where the house owner lives on the ground floor, and tenants live on the first floor. It is rare to have a garden but most buildings have terraces which are incredibly useful during winter. We all enjoy a sunbath in the morning.
  3. Nowadays, technology is advancing at a breakneck speed. What impact do you think technology will have on future homes?
    Honestly, I’m not sure as I haven’t read up too much on this subject. I wish that governments would harness solar energy and people could power their household appliances through solar power. That would be so cool but the oil and petrol mafia might block any attempt to move towards green housing.
  4. Do you believe that only positive changes will occur and that no negative changes will occur?
    This is a tough question. The world has been in a state of flux since the past couple of years due to COVID-19, and businesses have suffered huge losses. In countries with honest leadership, positive changes might take place as governments strive to pass legislation that benefits the people, instead of large corporations. Honestly, things could go either way.

Computer/ internet Vocabulary Speaking Part 3 – Discussion 1

  • Stilt – Stilt houses are houses built on elevated platforms. They can be built in a variety of locations, but are commonly found in tropical climate countries. Stilt houses are usually constructed above water, but they may also be built on sand or dry land.
  • Harness – control and make use of (natural resources), especially to produce energy
  • State of flux – If something is in a state of flux, it is constantly changing

Discussion 2

  1. What other forms of media are used today?
    Social media is the main way of spreading the word I think. Some people still watch TV and listen to the radio or even read newspapers but I think the younger generations will change that. The generation born with social media expect it to be their main source of information. However, young people do often update their preferences. For example, switching from an established platform like Facebook to another form, like Snapchat.
  2. How will we use social media in the future?
    I think social media will be connected to more parts of our lives. Already, we can see adverts and news that is targeted at people. The tech corporations will know more about us and artificial intelligence will be used more. I think that the platforms will be more competitive and new social networks will come and go depending on trends.

Vocabulary for Discussion 2

  • spread the word – communicate news

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Discussion 3

  1. What are the benefits and drawbacks of constant communication via mobile phones?
    The advantage is that you can always keep in touch with friends and family easily and therefore you can keep them up to date with what you are doing by sharing photos. On the contrary, it can be a constant distraction when you are working or studying and it has resulted in less face to face communication.
  2. What do people mainly use mobile phones for?
    I think the primary use is to message other people because it is instant and free. Also, apps are becoming more and more popular as you can do everything online, for instance online banking, supermarket shopping and using maps on your phone. We are all glued to our phones nowadays.
  3. Are there any differences between younger and older people using mobile phones?
    I think there are some major differences in my experience. Young people were brought up with the new technology so as they grow up naturally use phones for all their day to day tasks. Whereas elderly people will only use a mobile phone for basic tasks like calls and messages and struggle to master the more complicated applications.

Vocabulary for Discussion 3

  • keep somebody up to date – to inform somebody of recent events
  • glued to – unable to stop looking at something
  • struggle to master – unable to learn

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 Discussion 4

  1. Do you have a computer at home?
    Yes, I have a laptop which I use from home and carry with me to lectures at university. I bought it especially to come to university as it makes it easier to take notes and research subjects for essays. I also use it for watching films online in my free time.
  2. Why do people use computers?
    Probably, many of the same reasons that I use them. Some people use their computers for everything from their work, to playing computer games, to advertising their business. Most people nowadays use a computer, I´m not sure how you could get by without one.
  3. Do people face difficulties while using a computer?
    Yes, many people who haven’t been brought up using a computer still find it difficult. My grandparents for example, haven’t got a clue how to use the internet and need a lot of help to use their smartphones. I think lots of people are in the same boat.
  4. Despite these difficulties, why do people use a computer?
    I don´t think we really have a choice nowadays as more and more companies and processes have become online only. If you don’t use a computer you have to wait on the phone or go a long distance to pay or do something in person. Banking for example, many branches have closed down so the days of going into a branch are over.
  5. Have computers changed the way we do housework?
    Yes, I think especially in the last few years. Chores are becoming less strenuous because we can buy machines and robots to clean our houses. The modern appliances even use artificial intelligence to help clean the house. This can only be an advantage if it saves time and effort.
  6. Are computers addictive?
    Computers are addictive, especially for young people. We all rely on them so much more now so it is typical to be using a computer or phone throughout the day. The risk with younger people though is that they are getting addicted to computer games and this is becoming the norm rather than spending time outside or with friends.
  7. Should parents limit the time children spend on a computer? Why?
    I think this is a good idea as children need to play outside, exercise and learn things that are not just at the touch of a button. Parents should encourage children to get back in touch with nature and spend time with other children which is important for social development.

Vocabulary for Discussion 4

  • to get by – to survive, to cope
  • haven’t got a clue – no knowledge about something
  • branches – individual shops, a bank for example
  • chores – domestic tasks
  • becoming the norm – becoming the normal way of life
  • in touch with nature – to appreciate living things and the environment

Discussion 5

  1. What topics do young people in your country talk about?
    Young people might talk about school, computer games, YouTube videos and other kids at their school. In my experience, my niece and nephew talk more about technology than I did at school and less about sports for example. This generation are more likely to chat online than face to face nowadays.
  2. How can you tell if people are not interested in the conversation?
    I think you can tell by the body language of the person, they might give some obvious signs like yawning or rolling their eyes. More subtle signs would be moving from foot to foot, less eye contact and making an excuse to get away, then you can tell they are bored to tears.
  3. How has technology changed our communication?
    In the last 10-15 years, technology has changed communication almost beyond recognition. Now, we spend time sending instant messaging or video calling rather than emailing and phone calls. The impact has been that we are able to constantly communicate and keep in touch with people over a long distance. On the other hand, people are constantly connected to their jobs now which can add extra stress.

Vocabulary for Discussion 5

  • bored to tears – very bored
  • beyond recognition – cannot be recognised as the original

Discussion 6

  1. How is the internet useful to you?
    Like most people, I use the internet for almost everything. I use apps to message friends, I use search engines to find information, check the weather, reply to emails, watch videos and so on. I would be lost without my phone or tablet, I run most of my life online, even paying for things and banking.
  2. What are the positives and negatives of relying on the internet?
    The main advantage is the convenience, we can do everything more quickly. Also, we can touch base with people very easily. On the other hand, using the internet can be addictive and when you lose connection it can feel frustrating and even scary. In addition, websites collect a lot of data about us which leads to a lack of privacy.

Vocabulary for Discussion 6

  • and so on – continuing in the same way
  • touch base with somebody – contact somebody

Discussion 7

  1. Do you spend much time online?
    Yes, I study online and spend a lot of time on YouTube and on social networks. I know I spend about 2-3 hours a day online because my phone gives me a summary at the end of the week. It is inevitable in this day and age with everything being online that we are going to be online a lot and I have become quite dependent on it.
  2. How is the internet useful?
    The internet is useful in so many ways. We can stay connected with people on the other side of the world, send things to each other instantly and save a lot of time. We have applications for everything; getting directions, online banking and shopping. It saves a lot of time and energy and I would probably have a melt down if I lost my internet connection.
  3. Can you trust what you read online?
    I don´t think you should trust everything 100%. The problem with the internet is that anyone can publish information and it is very difficult to verify if that information is factual and correct. If it is a reliable website, I think you can depend on it but social forums are biased.
  4. Which websites do you trust?
    I trust websites such as national health information or government guidance on travel or the law. These websites are fact checked and verified and you cannot contribute towards them. A website like Wikipedia is not trustworthy as everyone can contribute information so you have to take it with a pinch of salt.

Vocabulary for Discussion 7

  • A melt down – lose control of emotions, break down
  • biased – preferring one thing to another which is unfair
  • take it with a pinch of salt – don’t always believe what you read or hear

Discussion 8

  1. Why is it that some people believe in fake news?
    I think some people simply don’t take the time to question the news they hear, and just accept them. I believe it also comes down to education, or lack thereof. Some people believe such news because they do not know any better, or maybe because they find such stories thrilling.
  2. Are social media apps contributing to the spread of fake news?
    Intentionally or not, yes. Those apps are available to all, and people can post all kinds of news they find relevant. It seems there aren’t always enough tools that identify misinformation out there, and therefore those fake news may eventually make their way around the world, sometimes causing great havoc.
  3. Do you plan to use social media apps in the future?
    I am not on many social media platforms as it is, and I do not intend to join any more any time soon. They cause me a lot of stress and I find myself more at peace when I stay away from them.
  4. Why do you think the media spreads fake news?
    I think that, depending on their views, the media can be quite one-sided, and may decide to promote certain ideas to attract more eye balls and gain more followers. Sometimes it is necessary to bend the truth or invent stories to attract attention. It also helps bring a rival down.
  5. Are there times when fake news are dangerous or destructive?
    Absolutely. For instance, it can happen during electoral campaigns. Campaign leaders, the media and supporters may choose to bring up some fake news based on information taken out of context, and which may sway people from voting for the opposing candidate. This can cause verbal and physical animosity amongst people.

Vocabulary for Discussion 8

  • comes down to = (in this case) the cause is
  • make their way = travel to
  • havoc = chaos
  • promote = encourage
  • attract eye balls = attract attention
  • bend the truth = change or omit parts of the truth to fit someone’s needs
  • rival = opponent
  • sway from = (in this case) discourage someone from doing something
  • animosity = strong hostility

Discussion 9

  1. Where can people get information from?
    There are many sources of information out there. Some information can be obtained on TV or streaming services, and some is accessible on the internet. Libraries are also a reliable source of information, including when trying to gain access to documented information dating back many years.
  2. In your opinion, is there too much information online?
    While it is useful to have access to an abundance of information, I believe that there can certainly be information overload online. This can cause not only confusion, but also misinformation, which can lead to conflicts and misunderstandings amongst people.
  3. Do you think information available on TV is useful?
    I believe that it can be. It is good to stay up to date with the latest news, so long as they are presented in an accurate manner, meaning that the truth isn’t distorted, in order to influence people’s opinions and understanding of a given situation.
  4. Is there a difference between information in books and newspapers?
    I think there is. Books, in nature, require time, extensive editing and inspiration before being published. Newspapers on the other hands have the goal of selling like hotcakes, advertising newsflashes with sensational headlines that focus on current events, as they are designed to inform the public of the latest news.

Vocabulary for Discussion 9

  • sources = origins
  • abundance = over-sufficient quantity
  • information overload = when too much information causes confusion in people
  • distorted = changed to tweak or change the truth
  • selling like hotcakes = selling quickly
  • sensational = which catch the public’s attention or interests

Discussion 10

  1. Can you think of any cons to Artificial Intelligence?
    I believe that some downsides to AI could involve dependence on such products that could diminish people’s use of their own intellect. If pushed to an extreme, humans could lose a great sense of who they truly are. This could result in mental and physical health issues.
  2. Is Artificial Intelligence a good career choice? Why or why not?
    I believe it is a good career choice, in the sense that it is a big part of the future ahead of us. AI can be so helpful in so many fields, particularly science and medicine. If it can help in those areas, it could do a lot of good.
  3. Do you think AI movies are realistic predictions of the future?
    I believe that there could be truth in some messages or ideas that movies on AI try to convey. Often, such movies attempt to raise awareness of the need to have limitations in technology, which I believe are necessary for the development of a healthy future society.
  4. Do you think AI will ever replace humans?
    There is no telling that this will be the case. I believe that robots will be more prominent but won’t take over nor replace humans. I can see greater reliance on robots on humans’ behalf in the future, but no complete replacement.

Vocabulary for Discussion 10

  • diminish = reduce
  • convey = explain
  • there is no telling = it is impossible to say for sure

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