Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on the Impact of Automation on Job Stability

The Impact Of Automation On Job Stability is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, reflecting its relevance in today’s rapidly evolving job market. This topic has appeared in various forms in past IELTS exams and is likely to continue being a significant subject in future tests. Given its importance, let’s examine a common question format and provide sample essays for different band scores.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Essays

Analyzing the Question

Let’s consider the following question:

Some people think that in the future, machines will do most of the work currently done by humans. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?

This question asks for your opinion on the future impact of automation on employment. It requires you to:

1. Clearly state your position (agree, disagree, or partially agree)
2. Provide reasons and examples to support your view
3. Consider potential counterarguments
4. Draw a conclusion that reinforces your main point

Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Technological advancement has led many to believe that machines will eventually replace human workers in most fields. While I agree that automation will significantly transform the job market, I do not think it will entirely supplant human labor in the foreseeable future.

Undoubtedly, machines are increasingly capable of performing tasks once exclusive to humans. In manufacturing, robotic assembly lines have already replaced many manual laborers, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs. Similarly, in the service sector, self-checkout kiosks and automated customer service systems are becoming ubiquitous, diminishing the need for human cashiers and call center operators. These trends suggest a future where machines handle a substantial portion of current human jobs.

However, the complete dominance of machines in the workplace is unlikely for several reasons. Firstly, human creativity and emotional intelligence remain unmatched by artificial intelligence. Jobs requiring innovative thinking, such as art, design, and strategic planning, will continue to rely on human ingenuity. Secondly, many professions, like healthcare and education, necessitate human empathy and interpersonal skills that machines cannot replicate. Lastly, as technology evolves, new job categories emerge. For instance, the rise of social media has created entirely new career paths unimaginable a few decades ago.

Moreover, the transition to an automated workforce is not without challenges. Ethical considerations, such as the societal impact of mass unemployment, and practical issues, like the need for extensive retraining programs, will likely slow the pace of automation. Governments and businesses must carefully manage this transition to prevent social unrest and ensure economic stability.

In conclusion, while machines will undoubtedly play an increasingly significant role in the workforce, they are unlikely to completely replace human workers. The future job market will likely see a symbiosis between human skills and machine capabilities, rather than the total dominance of one over the other. It is crucial for society to adapt to these changes by fostering skills that complement, rather than compete with, machine capabilities.

(Word count: 309)

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:

1. Task Response: The essay directly addresses the question, presenting a clear position with a nuanced view of partial agreement.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas flow logically, with each paragraph developing a specific point. Linking words and phrases (e.g., “Undoubtedly,” “However,” “Moreover”) enhance coherence.

3. Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “ubiquitous,” “symbiosis,” “societal impact”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: It employs a variety of complex structures correctly, with minimal errors.

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-elaborated with relevant examples and explanations.

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Many people believe that in the future, machines will do most of the work that humans do now. I partially agree with this view because while machines will take over many jobs, there are still many things that only humans can do.

It’s true that machines are becoming more advanced and can do many jobs better than humans. For example, in factories, robots can work faster and more accurately than human workers. Also, in offices, computers can process data much quicker than people. This means that many jobs in manufacturing and office work might be done by machines in the future.

However, there are some jobs that machines cannot do easily. Jobs that need creativity, like artists or writers, are hard for machines to do. Also, jobs that need human interaction, like teachers or counselors, are better done by people. Machines don’t have emotions or understanding like humans do.

Another point is that as technology improves, new types of jobs are created. For example, we now have jobs like social media managers or app developers that didn’t exist before. So while some jobs disappear, new ones are created.

In conclusion, I think that machines will do more work in the future, but they won’t replace humans completely. There will always be a need for human skills and creativity in the workplace.

(Word count: 228)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates good control of language with some areas for improvement:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses the question and presents a clear position of partial agreement.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but could use more sophisticated linking devices.

3. Lexical Resource: It uses a fair range of vocabulary, but lacks the precision and sophistication of higher band scores.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported, but could be more fully developed with specific examples.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Automation (noun) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/ – the use of machines and computers to do work that was previously done by people
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) (noun) /ˌɑːtɪfɪʃl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/ – the development of computer systems able to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence
3. Obsolescence (noun) /ˌɒbsəˈlesns/ – the process of becoming outdated and no longer used
4. Workforce (noun) /ˈwɜːkfɔːs/ – the people engaged in or available for work
5. Technological advancement (noun phrase) /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkl ədˈvɑːnsmənt/ – progress in science and technology
6. Job displacement (noun phrase) /dʒɒb dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ – the loss of jobs due to changes in technology or economic conditions
7. Upskilling (noun) /ˈʌpˌskɪlɪŋ/ – the process of learning new skills or teaching workers new skills
8. Human-machine collaboration (noun phrase) /ˈhjuːmən məˈʃiːn kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃn/ – the process of humans and machines working together to achieve goals
9. Labor market (noun phrase) /ˈleɪbə ˈmɑːkɪt/ – the availability of employment and labor in an economy
10. Disruptive technology (noun phrase) /dɪsˈrʌptɪv tekˈnɒlədʒi/ – an innovation that significantly alters the way that consumers, industries, or businesses operate

Conclusion

The impact of automation on job stability is a complex and evolving topic that is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future questions might explore specific industries affected by automation, the role of government in managing technological transitions, or the psychological impact of job displacement due to automation.

To prepare for such questions, practice writing essays on related topics such as:

1. The benefits and drawbacks of artificial intelligence in the workplace
2. The importance of lifelong learning in an era of rapid technological change
3. The role of education in preparing students for an automated future

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about memorizing sample essays, but understanding how to structure your arguments, use appropriate vocabulary, and develop your ideas coherently. Practice writing your own essays on this topic and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.