This IELTS Speaking blog contains a cue card for the question "Describe an invention that is useful in daily life" The IELTS Speaking test is divided into three parts: the introduction, the cue card round (Part 2), and the follow-up discussion round (Part 3). The examiner will give you 11 to 14 minutes to demonstrate your communication skills. For this IELTS Speaking cue card, we’ve included four model responses and follow-up questions to help you practice effectively and brainstorm ideas.

Describe an Invention That Is Useful in Daily Life - IELTS Speaking Part 2: Cue Card

In IELTS Speaking Part 2, the examiner will give you a cue card with the topic “Describe an invention that is useful in daily life” along with guiding sub-questions. You will have 1 minute to prepare and then speak for 2 minutes. The examiner will stop you once you’ve covered the questions. Below is a breakdown of how to approach this topic, along with sample answers and Part 3 follow-up questions for practice.

You should say:

• What the invention is?
• What it can do?
• How popular is it?
• Explain why is it useful?

What the invention is?

One of the most useful inventions in daily life today is the robotic vacuum mop. This innovative device has quickly become a household favorite, revolutionizing the way we clean our homes. The robotic vacuum mop is essentially a small, automated machine that combines the functions of both sweeping and mopping.

What it can do?

It moves around the house, navigating through every room and cleaning dust, dirt, and debris from every corner. It also mops the floor, leaving the surface spotless without any need for human intervention. The only thing you have to do is refill the water tank, and the machine does the rest of the work. It’s a marvel of modern science and technology, designed to make cleaning as effortless as possible.

How popular is it?

This invention has become extremely popular and can find it in many homes. It’s especially favoured by people who have busy lives, as it reduces the time and effort needed to keep the house clean. Additionally, it's great for individuals with back pain or mobility issues because they no longer need to bend down or do heavy lifting to clean the floors. The convenience of the robotic vacuum mop makes it a must-have item in many homes and it’s increasingly becoming a common sight in modern households.

Explain why is it useful?

While it makes cleaning so much easier and more comfortable, it is very useful for disabled people and also for senior citizens as it reduces there physical harassment. Overall, the robotic vacuum mop is a fantastic innovation that significantly boosts convenience and efficiency in everyday life, making it easier for people to maintain a clean and tidy home.

Follow ups

What qualities do inventors have?

Inventors are driven by a deep curiosity and a strong determination to solve problems. They have a natural ability to approach challenges from unique angles, often coming up with creative solutions that others might miss. When faced with setbacks, their resilience keeps them going, always seeking new ways to overcome obstacles. Their ability to imagine possibilities others might not see helps them stand out, and their communication skills are vital for sharing their ideas and getting others on board. They also know how to make the most of available resources and think creatively to bring their ideas to fruition.

Do you think only scientists can invent new things?

No, I do not believe that only scientists can invent new things. While scientists certainly play a crucial role in driving technological and medical progress, countless inventions have originated from individuals outside the scientific realm. Artists, engineers, hobbyists, and even everyday individuals with sharp insights and original ideas have made significant contributions to innovation. Creativity and ingenuity are not restricted to any particular profession or field of expertise. The adage "necessity is the mother of invention" highlights how the need for solutions often sparks new ideas. Many students, too, demonstrate remarkable vision and capability in creating impressive projects.

What inventions do you think should be improved?

Many inventions could benefit from advancements, but one of the most prominent is battery technology. While significant progress has been made, batteries still face challenges related to longevity, environmental impact, and charging speed. Improving battery performance and sustainability could transform various sectors, from personal electronics to renewable energy storage, enhancing the reliability of devices and reducing our environmental footprint. Similarly, issues surrounding security, privacy, safety, cybercrime, and fraud continue to demand attention and innovation.

Do all inventions bring benefits to our world?

No, all inventions come without their drawbacks. While many innovations are designed to enhance life or address critical challenges, they can sometimes lead to unintended consequences. For example, although plastics revolutionized packaging and lowered costs, they have also contributed to severe environmental problems. Likewise, while social media fosters connections, it can also spread misinformation and negatively impact mental health. It's essential to carefully consider the benefits of an invention alongside its potential downsides. Some inventions, for instance, can contribute to physical health issues by encouraging sedentary lifestyles and over-reliance on machines, reducing the need for physical activity.

Who should support and sponsor inventors, governments, or private companies?

Both governments and private companies play important roles in supporting inventors. Governments can help drive innovation by offering grants, educational initiatives, and research facilities, making sure new discoveries benefit society as a whole. On the other hand, private companies, motivated by market needs, can speed up the development of products and get inventions into the hands of consumers more quickly. When public and private resources work together, it often leads to the most meaningful and impactful out.

Check out other IELTS speaking cue card topics

Describe a character from a movie

Describe a crowded place you have been to

Describe a product you bought, but returned

Describe a successful businessperson you know

Describe a successful business person you admire

Describe a time when you were stuck in a traffic