In recent years, the topic of artificial intelligence (AI) in modern military technologies has gained significant attention in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This theme reflects the growing importance of AI in various aspects of our lives, including defense and security. Based on past exam trends and current global discussions, we can expect this topic to appear more frequently in future IELTS tests. Let’s explore a relevant question and analyze sample essays at different band levels.
AI in Military Conceptual
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that the development of AI for military purposes is necessary for national defense, while others believe it poses a threat to global security. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the benefits of AI in military technology for national defense
- Explore potential threats to global security
- Provide a personal opinion on the matter
Now, let’s examine sample essays at different band levels.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The integration of artificial intelligence into military technologies has sparked a heated debate regarding its implications for national defense and global security. While proponents argue that AI is essential for maintaining a strategic advantage, critics warn of potential risks to international stability. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
On one hand, advocates of military AI assert that it is crucial for enhancing national defense capabilities. Advanced AI systems can process vast amounts of data rapidly, enabling more accurate threat assessments and faster decision-making in critical situations. For instance, AI-powered surveillance drones can monitor borders more efficiently than human operators, potentially preventing unauthorized incursions. Moreover, AI can simulate complex battlefield scenarios, allowing military strategists to develop more effective defense plans. These technological advancements could ultimately save lives by reducing human error and improving overall military effectiveness.
Conversely, opponents argue that the proliferation of AI in military applications poses significant risks to global security. One primary concern is the potential for an AI arms race, where nations compete to develop increasingly sophisticated autonomous weapons systems. This could lead to heightened international tensions and a greater likelihood of conflicts escalating rapidly. Additionally, there are ethical concerns about the use of AI in warfare, particularly regarding the decision to use lethal force. Critics worry that removing human judgment from combat situations could result in unintended casualties and violate international humanitarian laws.
In my opinion, while the development of military AI presents both opportunities and challenges, its responsible implementation is inevitable and necessary in the modern world. The key lies in establishing robust international agreements and ethical guidelines to govern the use of AI in military contexts. By fostering transparency and cooperation among nations, we can harness the benefits of AI for defensive purposes while mitigating the risks to global security. Furthermore, investing in AI research for peaceful applications, such as disaster response and humanitarian aid, could help balance the military focus and contribute to global stability.
In conclusion, the debate surrounding AI in military technologies reflects the complex nature of technological progress in the 21st century. By acknowledging both the potential benefits and risks, we can work towards a future where AI enhances national defense without compromising global security.
(Word count: 367)
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of linking words (“On one hand”, “Conversely”, “In my opinion”).
Lexical Resource: The writer uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (“integration”, “proliferation”, “autonomous weapons systems”, “humanitarian laws”).
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly (“While proponents argue”, “could ultimately save lives by reducing”, “By fostering transparency and cooperation”).
Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The use of AI in military technology is a topic that many people have different opinions about. Some think it’s necessary for protecting countries, while others worry it could make the world less safe. In this essay, I will discuss both sides and give my own thoughts.
People who support using AI in the military say it’s important for national defense. They believe AI can help armies work better and keep countries safer. For example, AI can analyze a lot of information quickly, which can help soldiers make better decisions. It can also control things like drones, which can be used for spying or fighting without putting human lives at risk. These advantages could make a country’s military stronger and better able to protect its people.
On the other hand, there are people who think AI in the military is dangerous for world peace. They worry that if countries start using more AI weapons, it could lead to new conflicts. There’s also a concern that AI might make mistakes or be hacked, which could cause serious problems in a war. Some people also think it’s wrong to let machines make decisions about killing people, as this should be a human choice.
In my opinion, I think AI in the military is probably going to happen more in the future, but we need to be careful about how it’s used. Countries should work together to make rules about military AI to make sure it doesn’t get out of control. It’s important to use this technology responsibly and not just to make more dangerous weapons. Maybe AI could also be used for good things in the military, like helping in natural disasters or peacekeeping missions.
To sum up, AI in military technology has both good and bad sides. While it can help protect countries, it also brings new risks. The key is to find a balance and use AI in ways that make the world safer, not more dangerous.
(Word count: 329)
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates competence in several areas but with some limitations:
Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. Some use of cohesive devices is present, but it could be more sophisticated.
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, with some attempt at using less common words (“analyze”, “conflicts”, “peacekeeping missions”). However, there is some repetition and lack of precision.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are some errors, but they do not impede communication.
Development of Ideas: Main ideas are present and supported, but the level of detail and explanation could be improved for a higher band score.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
Artificial Intelligence (AI) (noun) /ˌɑːr.tɪˈfɪʃ.əl ɪnˈtel.ə.dʒəns/: The theory and development of computer systems able to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence.
Proliferation (noun) /prəˌlɪf.əˈreɪ.ʃən/: Rapid increase in the number or amount of something.
Autonomous (adjective) /ɔːˈtɒn.ə.məs/: Able to act and make decisions without being controlled by anyone else.
Surveillance (noun) /sərˈveɪ.ləns/: The careful watching of a person or place, especially by an organization.
Humanitarian (adjective) /hjuːˌmæn.ɪˈter.i.ən/: Concerned with reducing suffering and improving the conditions that people live in.
Escalate (verb) /ˈes.kə.leɪt/: To become or make something become greater or more serious.
Incursion (noun) /ɪnˈkɜː.ʒən/: A sudden attack on or act of going into a place, especially across a border.
Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪt.ɪ.ɡeɪt/: To make something less harmful, unpleasant, or bad.
Ethical (adjective) /ˈeθ.ɪ.kəl/: Relating to beliefs about what is morally right and wrong.
Inevitable (adjective) /ɪˈnev.ɪ.tə.bəl/: Certain to happen and unable to be avoided or prevented.
Conclusion
The topic of AI’s role in modern military technologies is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The ethical implications of autonomous weapons systems
- The impact of AI on international relations and diplomacy
- The role of AI in cybersecurity and information warfare
- Balancing technological advancement with human control in military operations
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and further discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for the IELTS exam.