Common Part 3 Questions About Technology
Technology topics require balanced arguments and nuanced views. Here are high-scoring examples.
Question 1: How has technology changed the way people communicate?
Sample Answer (Band 8.5):
"Technology has fundamentally transformed communication in both positive and negative ways. On the positive side, it has made communication instant and global - we can now connect with anyone, anywhere, at any time through various platforms like messaging apps, video calls, and social media. This has eliminated geographical barriers and made long-distance relationships more manageable.
However, this convenience has also brought challenges. Face-to-face interactions have decreased, which some argue has weakened interpersonal skills and emotional connections. There's also the issue of information overload and the pressure to be constantly available, which can be mentally exhausting.
Overall, while technology has made communication more efficient and accessible, it's important to maintain a balance and not lose the value of personal, direct communication."
Question 2: Do you think technology makes people more or less productive?
Sample Answer (Band 8):
"This is quite nuanced - technology can be both a productivity booster and a distraction. On one hand, tools like project management software, automation, and digital organization systems can significantly streamline work processes and eliminate time-consuming manual tasks. For instance, cloud computing allows teams to collaborate in real-time, reducing the need for lengthy meetings.
On the other hand, technology also presents numerous distractions. Social media notifications, endless email chains, and the temptation to multitask can actually decrease focus and productivity. Studies show that constant interruptions from digital devices can reduce overall efficiency.
Ultimately, it depends on how individuals use technology - those who use it intentionally and set boundaries tend to be more productive, while those who let it control them may find it counterproductive."
Question 3: What are the potential dangers of artificial intelligence?
Sample Answer (Band 8.5):
"Artificial intelligence presents several significant concerns that need careful consideration. Job displacement is a major issue - as AI becomes more capable, it could replace human workers in various sectors, leading to unemployment and economic disruption. This is particularly worrying for jobs that involve routine tasks or data processing.
Privacy is another critical concern. AI systems collect and analyze vast amounts of personal data, raising questions about surveillance and data security. There's also the risk of AI being used maliciously, such as in creating deepfakes or autonomous weapons systems.
Furthermore, the lack of transparency in AI decision-making processes - often called the "black box" problem - raises ethical questions, especially when AI makes important decisions about people's lives, like in healthcare or criminal justice.
However, I believe these dangers can be mitigated through proper regulation, ethical guidelines, and ensuring human oversight remains central to AI implementation."
Strategies for Part 3 Technology Topics
- Present balanced views (advantages and disadvantages)
- Use specific examples to support points
- Consider multiple perspectives
- Use conditional language when appropriate
- Show awareness of complexity
Useful Vocabulary
- Transformation: revolutionized, transformed, fundamentally changed
- Benefits: streamline, enhance, facilitate, boost
- Concerns: displacement, surveillance, ethical dilemmas, mitigate
