Describe a piece of technology you use daily

Sample answer (estimated band 7.5)

The piece of technology I use every day is my smartphone, an Orion V12. I bought it about eighteen months ago after my previous phone stopped working while I was on a short trip to the town of Sorenbridge. It has a five-and-a-half-inch screen, a durable case I chose that’s matt navy, and quite a good battery life for my needs. I tend to wake up and check messages, emails and the weather before I even get out of bed. During the day the phone keeps me organised — I use calendar alerts, to-do lists and a notes app to manage freelance tasks. For travelling around the city, the map app is indispensable; I often use it to find buses or the quickest walking routes. In the evenings I use the camera to take photos and the video-calling app to speak to family overseas. It also serves as my wallet, since I use contactless payments and a banking app. Admittedly, there are a few privacy concerns with some social media and location services, and the battery sometimes drains fast if I’m using navigation all day. Even so, it’s a reliable companion that helps me stay connected and handle daily life far more efficiently than I could without it.

Part 3 discussion questions

1. How has everyday technology changed the way people communicate?
2. What are the social benefits and drawbacks of relying on personal devices?
3. Should governments regulate technology companies more strictly?
4. How do you think daily technology will change work-life balance in the next decade?
5. What responsibilities do manufacturers have regarding device longevity and repairability?

Part 1 questions: Daily gadgets

1. What gadgets do you use every day?
2. Which gadget do you find most useful at home?
3. Do you prefer new gadgets or simple ones? Why?
4. How often do you replace your gadgets?
5. Who usually helps you choose a new gadget?