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IELTSTM CUE CARD

Describe An Invention That Is Useful In Daily Life

Updated on Oct 08, 2024, 14:45

Overview

In this IELTS speaking practice test, we will discover the topic ‘Describe An Invention That Is Useful In Daily Life’ and learn how to answer it with detailed explanations and practical examples. 

 

It is one of the most common topics asked in ‘Part 2: Individual long turn’ of the IELTS speaking test. Here, the examiner will evaluate your ability to express your thoughts clearly, provide detailed explanations, and use various vocabulary and grammatical structures. 
 

The IELTS speaking test consists of three main parts in which your speaking skills will be evaluated. These parts are the introduction, the individual long turn, and the two-way discussion.

 

Cue Card/Topic: Describe An Invention That Is Useful In Daily Life

You should say

  • What is the invention?
  • What can it do?
  • How popular is it?
  • Is it difficult or easy to use?
  • And explain why it is useful.
Sample Answer 1

Introduction:

 

  • Introducing an innovative invention, the smart water bottle combines hydration with technology to effortlessly integrate into daily routines.
     

What is the invention?
 

  • The smart water bottle is an innovative hydration tool that utilises advanced technology, such as sensors and connectivity features, to monitor water consumption and encourage proper hydration.
     

What can it do?
 

  • The intelligent water bottle monitors water consumption, reminds users to stay hydrated, and suggests optimal hydration levels based on individual needs and activity levels, all with the help of its sensors and companion mobile app.
     

How popular is it?
 

  • The smart water bottle is a relatively new invention. 
  • Still, it has attracted the attention of fitness enthusiasts, health-conscious individuals, and tech aficionados who are looking for ways to enhance and optimise their hydration routines.
     

Is it difficult or easy to use?
 

  • Staying hydrated with a smart water bottle is simple. 
  • The sensors automatically monitor water consumption, and the companion app provides real-time reminders and feedback to help users stay hydrated throughout the day.

 

And explain why it is useful:

 

  • The smart water bottle's personalised insights and reminders revolutionise hydration, enabling users to maintain optimal hydration levels for improved health, focus, and performance.

 

Conclusion: 
 

  • The intelligent water bottle blends technology and wellness, providing a modern solution to hydration and paving the way for a healthier and more connected future.
Sample Answer 2

Introduction:
 

  • The smart thermostat is a highly innovative invention revolutionising home climate control. 
  • This invention provides unmatched convenience, energy efficiency, and comfort, making it a game-changer in the industry.
     

What is the invention?
 

  • The smart thermostat is an advanced gadget that allows individuals to manage and automate their home's heating and cooling systems from their smartphones or through voice commands.
     

What can it do?
 

  • The smart thermostat is designed with high-tech sensors and advanced algorithms that enable it to learn users' preferences, automatically adjust temperature settings based on occupancy and weather conditions, and optimise energy usage for maximum efficiency.

 

How popular is it?
 

  • The smart thermostat has gained immense popularity among homeowners and businesses because it enhances comfort while reducing energy costs. 
  • Its widespread adoption in residential and commercial settings is a testament to its appeal and effectiveness.
     

Is it difficult or easy to use?
 

  • The smart thermostat is designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, with installation requiring minimal technical expertise. 
  • With the accompanying mobile app or voice assistant interface, controlling temperature settings is effortless and convenient, making it a hassle-free experience for users.
     

And explain why it is useful:
 

  • The intelligent thermostat empowers users to manage their home's temperature, providing comfort and convenience while saving energy and money. 
  • Its advanced heating and cooling management system enhances comfort and fosters environmental sustainability.
     

Conclusion: 
 

  • The smart thermostat is a significant advancement in home automation and energy management, offering practical benefits for homeowners and the environment. 
  • As technology evolves, inventions like the smart thermostat pave the way for more thoughtful, efficient homes and a greener future.
Sample Answer 3

Introduction:
 

  • The wearable fitness tracker is a groundbreaking invention that has revolutionised how individuals monitor and achieve their health and fitness objectives.
     

What is the invention?
 

  • The wearable fitness tracker is a portable gadget with built-in sensors that track physical activities, sleep patterns, heart rate, and other vital health metrics. 
  • This device gives users valuable insights into their overall health and fitness levels.
     

What can it do?
 

  • The wearable fitness tracker has sensors and connectivity features that track physical activity, sleep patterns, and other health metrics. 
  • It helps users make informed decisions about their lifestyle and exercise routines.
     

How popular is it?
 

  • The wearable fitness tracker has gained popularity among fitness enthusiasts, health-conscious individuals, and medical professionals. 
  • It has become a ubiquitous accessory, with millions worldwide relying on its capabilities to monitor and improve their well-being.
     

Is it difficult or easy to use?
 

  • The wearable fitness tracker is easy to use and intuitive. 
  • Users can seamlessly sync it with their smartphones or computers to access detailed activity data and insights. 
  • Its user-friendly interface and customisable features make it accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels.
     

And explain why it is useful:

 

  • The wearable fitness tracker has transformed personal health monitoring by providing real-time feedback and motivation to stay active and maintain healthy habits. 
  • It tracks various metrics and analyses trends, allowing users to set achievable fitness goals and track their progress over time, improving overall well-being.
     

Conclusion: 
 

  • The wearable fitness tracker offers unprecedented insights into physical activity and lifestyle habits, enabling individuals to make positive changes for a healthier future with advancing technology.

For instance, let's take an example of the cue card for the topic 'Describe an invention that is useful in daily life'.


We will now explore how to prepare for the 'Describe a valuable invention in daily life ' practice test. 

 

Introduction
 

  • Start with a concise introduction of the invention and its importance to daily life.
  • Keep the introduction brief yet captivating to make it more attractive for the listener. 
“Imagine a device designed to simplify one of the most commonly performed kitchen tasks: cooking rice. Enter the electric rice cooker, a staple appliance in many households that offers convenience and precision in meal preparation.”

What is the invention?
 

  • Describe the invention and its purpose.
  • Talk about its function or primary use in simple terms.
  • Avoid technical jargon to ensure clarity and accessibility.
“The electric rice cooker is an appliance specifically designed to automate the cooking process of rice. Its primary function is to offer a set-it-and-forget-it solution, making it effortless for users to cook rice.”

What can it do?
 

  • Describe the functionalities and capabilities of the invention.
  • Highlight the key features that make it useful in daily life.
  • Provide examples or scenarios to give its practical applications.
“Using an electric rice cooker, you can precisely cook various rice types. The device offers preset options for different rice varieties and precise temperature control, ensuring that the grains are perfectly cooked every time.”

How popular is it?
 

  • Mention the growing popularity of the invention.
  • Provide evidence or statistics to support its growing strength. 
  • Mention its acceptance across different cultures or demographics.
“The electric rice cooker has become an essential kitchen appliance in households across cultures, reflecting its universal appeal. It has gained widespread popularity globally, with millions of units sold annually.”

Is it difficult or easy to use?
 

  • Explain how user-friendly the invention is in nature. 
  • Describe the process required to operate the invention. 
  • Highlight any intuitive features or design elements that enhance usability.
“It is a good option to cook rice with an electric rice cooker. The appliance provides clear instructions and intuitive controls, making it easy for anyone to operate. This makes it an excellent choice for busy individuals or those who lack confidence in the kitchen.”

And explain why it is useful: 

 

  • Elaborate on the key benefits and advantages of the invention.
  • Describe how it addresses common challenges or improves daily routines.
  • Emphasise its impact on efficiency, convenience, or quality of life.
“The electric rice cooker saves time and consistently delivers perfectly cooked rice, making it a valuable tool for those seeking convenience in their daily routines.”

Conclusion 

 

  • Summarise the significance and impact of the invention.
  • Explain its importance in daily life and its role in enhancing routines.
  • End with a thought-provoking statement to leave a lasting impression.
“Introducing electric rice cookers has transformed how we cook rice. These cookers have made cooking rice more convenient and precise, saving us a lot of time. Unsurprisingly, they have become a staple in modern kitchens, simplifying our daily routines and making our lives easier.”

 

Also Read: IELTS Speaking Practice Test With Sample Answers

Follow-Up Questions

Part 3 of the IELTS speaking section is the two-way discussion round. The examiner will ask you related questions to the topic given to you in individual long-turn tasks.

 

We have covered 3 samples for the topic ‘Describe an invention useful in daily life.’ Let us now see the expected sample questions for the given topic, which the examiner might ask you. 
 

This is the third part of the IELTS speaking test (a two-way discussion round) and lasts 4-5 minutes.

Q1. How has technology made our lives easier?

Answer 1: Technology has simplified our lives in many ways, such as instant access to information and communication through smartphones and faster, more convenient transportation.
 

Answer 2: Technology has revolutionised our lives, making tasks more accessible and convenient. For instance, online banking and e-commerce have simplified managing finances and shopping, saving time and effort.

Q2. Which invention do you think is most useful at home?

Answer 1: The dishwasher is a top contender for the most useful home invention. It saves time and effort, conserves water compared to handwashing dishes, and allows for more efficient household management, freeing up time for other activities or relaxation.
 

Answer 2: The microwave oven is the most useful invention for home use. It makes meal preparation quick and efficient for busy individuals and families. With advanced features like defrosting and preset cooking programs, it has revolutionised the way we cook.

Q3. Is it more difficult for old people to accept new technologies?

Answer 1: Older individuals may find it challenging to adapt to new technologies due to unfamiliarity, fear of the unknown, and changes in cognitive abilities or physical dexterity.

 

Answer 2: Older people may find it challenging to adopt new technologies due to their lack of exposure to and understanding of modern devices and platforms and the rapid pace of technological advancements.

Q4. What can be done to help old people learn to use new technologies?

Answer 1: Tailored technology education and support programs can help seniors learn to use smartphones, tablets, and computers. Workshops and tutorials designed for seniors can provide practical experience and step-by-step guidance.
 

Answer 2: Patient and individualised assistance is crucial to help seniors become more comfortable with new technologies. Encouraging peer mentorship and fostering a supportive learning environment can help alleviate anxiety and boost confidence.

Q5. Will our lives be better if we live without technology?

Answer 1: Although technology has many benefits, it also has challenges and drawbacks. Over-reliance on technology can decrease face-to-face interaction and interpersonal skills, which are crucial for building meaningful relationships and fostering community.
 

Answer 2: Technology is everywhere, and it's hard to live without it. But we must use it wisely to enhance our lives without harming our well-being and relationships. Managing technology usage can help us achieve a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.

FAQs

Q. How should I manage my time during the Cue Card task?

Ans. To manage your time effectively during the Cue Card task, quickly brainstorm key points upon receiving the topic (1-2 minutes). Spend 2-3 minutes organising your ideas into a structured form. Speak for 2-3 minutes on each point, ensuring clarity and detail. Conclude your response in the remaining time, ensuring complete topic coverage.

Q. Can I change the topic for speaking in IELTS?

Ans. Changing the topic during the IELTS Speaking test is not allowed. Once the examiner assigns you a topic, you must speak about that specific subject. Asking to change the topic is against the rules and could affect your score. It's essential to showcase your ability to communicate effectively on various topics, even challenging ones.

Q. Is there a specific structure I should follow when responding to speaking test topics?

Ans. There's a suggested structure for speaking test responses: introduction, body, and conclusion. Introduce the topic briefly, delve into detailed explanations and examples in the body, and conclude by summarising key points. This method aids in organising thoughts and delivering a coherent response.

Q. What can I do if I don’t understand the cue card topic?

Ans. Ask the examiner if you need clarification on the cue card topic. They'll provide additional information to aid your understanding. It's crucial to grasp the topic before answering to ensure accuracy and coherence. Also, if you're unsure about specific vocabulary, don't hesitate to ask for clarification from the examiner.

Q. Can I use informal language during my cue card task?

Ans. During the test, it's essential to maintain a formal communication style. However, you can incorporate some informal language if needed. Remember to use it sparingly, as relying heavily on an informal style might present poorly. Aim for a balance between formal and informal language when speaking.

Q. How do I frame my answer in 1 minute?

Ans.  To answer in one minute, read the cue card carefully, understand the topic, brainstorm ideas, and organise them logically. Cover all points on the card, give relevant examples, and speak fluently with varied vocabulary. Avoid technical jargon. Practice will help you deliver confidently.

Q. Can we clear IELTS on the first attempt?

Ans. You can pass the IELTS exam on your first try with proper preparation. Your success depends on factors like your language skills, understanding of the exam format, and how much effort you put in. Make sure to practice regularly, understand the exam pattern, and seek guidance to increase your chances of passing on your first attempt.

Q. How many hours is the IELTS speaking test?

Ans. The IELTS speaking test consists of three parts and usually takes 12-14 minutes to complete. Part 1, the introduction round, and Part 2, the individual long turn, take 4-5 minutes each. Part 3, the two-way discussion round, which is a follow-up to Part 2, takes about 2-3 minutes.

Q. Can I exceed the time limit during the speaking test?

Ans. During the IELTS speaking test, you must stick to the time limits set for each part. The examiner strictly adheres to these limits, and reviewing them can hurt your score, suggesting poor time management. Practice speaking within the allotted time to ensure you complete your responses on time.

Q. How can I improve my performance in the IELTS Speaking test?

Ans. To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, follow these tips: actively practice speaking with a native or experienced trainer, expand your vocabulary, use varied grammatical structures, familiarise yourself with the exam format through mock tests, focus on fluency coherence and pronunciation, incorporate relevant examples, seek feedback, and actively manage your time during the test.

Q. Do IELTS cue cards repeat?

Ans. While IELTS cue cards may repeat occasionally, there's no assurance you'll encounter the same topic in your test. Examiners draw from a pool of cards, frequently updating them to maintain fairness. Hence, preparing for various topics and practising speaking on different cue cards is crucial to enhance your chances of success.

Q. How do you make notes for cue card IELTS?

Ans. To prepare notes for the IELTS cue card, follow these steps: carefully read the card, identify critical points in bullet points, organise them logically, use abbreviations and symbols for quick notes, include keywords as memory triggers, avoid complete sentences, and practice note-making for diverse topics to improve skills. This systematic approach ensures efficient preparation and confidence during the speaking test.

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