Media and News (Follow-up Questions): IELTS Speaking Topic Part 3

When preparing for the IELTS Speaking test, it’s important to get comfortable with common topics that often appear in Part 3. One such topic is media and news. This area covers how we receive information, how reliable it is, and how it shapes the way we see the world. In Part 3, you’ll be asked more detailed and opinion-based questions, so it helps to practise thoughtful answers. In this blog, we will go through some useful Media and News (Follow-up Questions) that often come up in the IELTS Speaking Topic Part 3. Along with each question, you’ll find sample answers that are clear, natural, and easy to remember. These examples will help you improve your fluency, build your confidence, and get ready for the speaking test in a smart way.

Media and News (Follow-up Questions): Sample 1

Explores how habits of people around consuming media and news have changed with the shift from traditional to digital platforms for the IELTS Speaking Topic Part 3:

1. How do you think people will get their news in the future? Ans. Technology, in my opinion, will alter how we receive and disseminate news in the coming years. The majority of people will turn to their Internet-connected mobile devices as their main news and information source. On the other hand, due to the delay between news events and the time it takes for readers to read or watch them, traditional publications and television channels will lose readers in the future. Mobile phones will be an effective way to acquire news updates because they can provide fast updates. 2. Do you believe everything you read in the newspapers? Ans. No, I’m afraid I have to disagree with all that the media reports to the public. I read mainstream publications because they have a lot of authority and credibility. Therefore, I refrain from reading the majority of made-up and false news, typically printed in newspapers that lack credibility. I also take caution when my friends or their connections publish news stories on social media sites that are politically slanted and lack sources. Even mainstream publications occasionally publish inaccurate material as a result of hasty and careless news gathering. In these situations, I check the news with other reputable sources. In actuality, we are surrounded by fake and invented news, and unless we are vigilant and knowledgeable, we are unable to detect lies that are obvious. 3. How has TV changed people’s lives? Ans. In my country, television is a must in every household. For many, it serves as a source of learning, knowledge, and pleasure. Viewers watch TV to unwind, learn about other cultures, obtain news and weather alerts, and get data that assists them in planning their days ahead. They are entertained by TV shows, which also keep them gathered in the living room and end the loneliness of many seniors. TV celebrities have influenced fashion, TV ads have altered consumer behaviour, and quiz programs have increased the curiosity of many youngsters. There is, however, a negative aspect to this technology as well. Political propaganda is frequently broadcast on state-run television, and those who watch too much television are more likely to develop life-threatening conditions. 4. What do you think of children watching TV? Ans. In my opinion, children can learn from watching amusing, educational, and imaginative TV shows. Nevertheless, their parents should keep an eye on what and how much TV their kids are watching. Children can benefit from watching TV in some ways since it promotes relaxation and curiosity. Additionally, kids might learn essential academic information from several TV shows. However, if kids watch TV all day, it might be detrimental to their physical and mental health. These kids lose interest in outside play and develop Television and video game addictions instead. 5. How has social media changed the way we get and share the news? Ans. Undoubtedly, social media is a great tool for bringing people together and allowing us to exchange information, news, and updates with the individuals we are concerned about. It has provided the opportunity for us to express our concerns and voice our voice in addition to reading the news. As a result, it has created a common forum for regular individuals to voice their views on the world. Obtaining and disseminating intriguing news is now simpler than ever. Chaos has also resulted from people’s propensity to spread rumours without confirming their veracity. For instance, 50% of the news on these social media platforms is made up or fraudulent.

Media and News (Follow-up Questions): Sample 2

Let us discuss in another set the pros and cons of getting news from social media, especially for younger audiences for IELTS Speaking Topic:

1. How has the way people consume news changed in recent years? Answer: In recent years, more people have started using smartphones and social media to get news. Earlier, they used to watch TV or read newspapers. Now, they prefer quick updates through apps, websites, and social media platforms. It’s faster and easier. 2. Do you think people trust the news more now or less than in the past? Why? Answer: I think people trust the news less now. There is too much fake news and misinformation online. Many sources are not reliable, and it’s hard to know what’s true and what’s not. In the past, people mostly trusted newspapers or national TV, which were more controlled. 3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of getting news from social media? Answer: The main advantage is speed. Social media gives news updates quickly. It also allows people to share and discuss news. But the disadvantage is that not all news is true. Fake news spreads very fast, and it can mislead people. 4. Why do some people prefer watching the news on TV instead of reading newspapers or online articles? Answer: Some people find TV more engaging. It combines video, sound, and live reporting, which feels more real. It is also easier for older people who may not be comfortable with smartphones or the internet. 5. Do you think children should be encouraged to follow the news? Why or why not? Answer: Yes, children should follow the news, but in a simple and age-appropriate way. It helps them understand the world around them and improves their thinking. However, they should not be exposed to violent or negative stories too often.

Media and News (Follow-up Questions): Sample 3

In this section, we will find how young people benefit from or are affected by getting their news from social media, an important point to consider for IELTS Speaking Part 3.

1. Do you think children should be encouraged to follow the news? Why or why not? Answer: Yes, children should follow the news, but in a simple and age-appropriate way. It helps them understand the world around them and improves their thinking. However, they should not be exposed to violent or negative stories too often. 2. How can we know if a piece of news is reliable or not? Answer: We can check if the news is from a trusted source, like a known news channel or website. It’s also good to compare it with other sources. If only one place is reporting it, it might not be true. Checking the date and author also helps. 3. What role does the media play in shaping public opinion? Answer: The Media has a strong role. It decides what people talk about by choosing which stories to show. It can highlight certain issues and ignore others. This shapes how people think and feel about events and topics. 4. Do you think news should be free for everyone or should people pay for it? Answer: I believe basic news should be free so that everyone can stay informed. But for in-depth or special reports, people can pay. This helps support journalists and maintain quality. 5. Why do some news channels or papers show more negative news than positive? Answer: Negative news gets more attention. People are curious about crime, disasters, or political problems. It increases views and sales. That’s why some channels focus more on bad news, even though it can make people feel stressed.

Media and News play a huge role in shaping opinions and providing information. For IELTS Speaking Part 3, being prepared to talk about how we consume news, its effects, and the shift from traditional to digital platforms can help you respond more confidently. By practising follow-up questions and understanding common themes, you can express your thoughts more clearly and improve your overall speaking performance. Remember, the key is to stay calm, speak naturally, and back up your answers with simple examples and ideas.

FAQs

Successfully preparing for the IELTS Speaking Section, particularly the cue card and follow-up questions in Part 2, requires consistent practice, a clear strategy, and the right resources. By linking your responses between IELTS Speaking Part 2 and IELTS Speaking Part 3, you can showcase your ability to elaborate on topics and provide insightful answers. 

If you’re finding it challenging to prepare, consider taking an IELTS Mock Test to evaluate your progress or join our offline or online IELTS classes at Leverage Edu to enhance your skills and boost your confidence, ensuring you are fully prepared for your IELTS Speaking Test and one step closer to achieving your study abroad aspirations.