What vocabulary should I use for IELTS Speaking about technology & media?

Key vocabulary includes: staying in touch, keeping up with, scrolling, screen time, cut down on. Using topic-specific vocabulary demonstrates lexical resource, which is one of the four IELTS Speaking scoring criteria.

Social Media Usage | IELTS Speaking Part 1 (Interview)

Question

Do you use social media? How often do you use it?

Model Answer

Yes, I do use social media, probably more than I should, to be honest. I check platforms like Instagram and YouTube several times a day, mostly during breaks or before bed. I find it quite useful for staying in touch with friends and keeping up with the news, but I'm also aware that it can be quite addictive. The algorithms are designed to keep you scrolling, and before you know it, you've wasted an hour. I've been trying to set time limits on my phone recently to cut down on my screen time, which has actually helped quite a bit.

Key Vocabulary

staying in touch

Maintaining regular communication with someone

keeping up with

Staying informed about the latest news or developments

scrolling

Moving through content on a screen by swiping or using a mouse

screen time

The amount of time spent looking at a phone, computer, or other device

cut down on

To reduce the amount or frequency of something

Pronunciation Guide

algorithm /ˈælɡərɪðəm/

Three syllables: AL-guh-rith-um. Stress the first syllable. The 'th' is a soft sound as in 'the'.

addictive /əˈdɪktɪv/

Stress the second syllable: uh-DIK-tiv. Make the 'ct' sound crisp and clear.

platform /ˈplætfɔːm/

Two syllables: PLAT-form. Stress the first syllable. Keep the 'a' short as in 'cat'.

Speaking Tips

For questions about habits, be honest and show self-awareness. Mentioning both positives and negatives of a habit demonstrates critical thinking and gives you more to talk about.

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Social Media Usage