The topic of “universal basic income as a response to automation” has gained significant traction in recent IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on trends observed on reputable IELTS websites and forums, this subject is likely to appear more frequently in future tests due to its relevance in today’s rapidly evolving job market. Let’s explore a common question format related to this theme and analyze sample essays for different band scores.

Analyzing the Question

Some people believe that governments should provide a universal basic income as automation replaces human workers in many jobs. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?

This question asks for your opinion on whether governments should implement a universal basic income (UBI) system in response to job losses caused by automation. Let’s break down the key elements:

1. Topic: Universal basic income and automation
2. Task: Agree or disagree
3. Focus: The role of government in addressing job displacement due to automation
4. Key points to consider:
   • Impact of automation on employment
   • Pros and cons of UBI
   • Government responsibility in economic transitions

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

As technological advancements continue to reshape the employment landscape, the notion of a government-provided universal basic income (UBI) has gained traction as a potential solution to job displacement caused by automation. While this proposal has its merits, I partially agree with the implementation of UBI, as it should be part of a more comprehensive strategy to address the challenges posed by automation.

Undoubtedly, automation poses a significant threat to numerous job sectors, particularly those involving repetitive tasks or manual labor. This technological revolution has the potential to exacerbate income inequality and social unrest if left unchecked. In this context, UBI could serve as a crucial safety net, ensuring that individuals affected by job losses maintain a basic standard of living. Moreover, it could provide people with the financial security to pursue education, retraining, or entrepreneurial ventures, thus fostering innovation and adaptability in the workforce.

However, implementing UBI as a standalone solution oversimplifies the complex challenges presented by automation. A more holistic approach is necessary to address the multifaceted implications of this technological shift. Governments should prioritize investments in education and skill development programs that prepare workers for the jobs of the future. Additionally, policies that encourage the creation of new industries and support small businesses could help offset job losses in traditional sectors. Furthermore, collaboration between governments, businesses, and educational institutions is essential to ensure that the workforce remains competitive in an increasingly automated world.

It is also crucial to consider the potential drawbacks of UBI. Critics argue that it may disincentivize work and innovation, leading to reduced productivity and economic growth. Moreover, the substantial cost of implementing UBI could strain government budgets, potentially leading to increased taxes or reduced funding for other essential services. These concerns highlight the need for careful consideration and pilot programs before widespread implementation.

In conclusion, while I believe that UBI could play a role in mitigating the negative impacts of automation on employment, it should not be viewed as a panacea. A comprehensive strategy that combines UBI with investments in education, skill development, and economic diversification is more likely to effectively address the challenges posed by automation. Governments must strike a balance between providing a safety net for those affected by job displacement and fostering an environment that encourages adaptation, innovation, and sustainable economic growth.

(Word count: 377)

Universal Basic Income and Automation

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with a nuanced approach (partial agreement).

2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.

3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “universal basic income,” “automation,” and “job displacement.”

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a wide range of complex structures used accurately, with only minor errors that do not impede communication.

5. Critical Thinking: The response demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of the issue, presenting both advantages and potential drawbacks of UBI while suggesting a more comprehensive approach.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

In recent years, many people have suggested that governments should provide a universal basic income (UBI) to help workers who lose their jobs because of automation. I partly agree with this idea, but I think there are both good and bad points to consider.

On the positive side, UBI could help many people who lose their jobs to robots and computers. As machines take over more tasks, many workers might find themselves without work and income. A basic income from the government could help these people pay for food, housing, and other necessities. This could prevent poverty and social problems that might happen if many people suddenly become unemployed.

Another advantage of UBI is that it could give people more freedom to choose their work or study new skills. With a basic income, someone might decide to start a small business or go back to school to learn about a new field. This could lead to more innovation and help people adapt to the changing job market.

However, there are also some potential problems with UBI. One big issue is the cost. Governments would need to spend a lot of money to give everyone a basic income, which might mean higher taxes or less money for other important things like healthcare or education. Also, some people worry that if everyone gets money without working, they might become lazy and not want to work at all.

I think a better solution would be for governments to combine UBI with other programs. For example, they could offer free training courses to help workers learn new skills for jobs that are less likely to be automated. They could also encourage companies to create new types of jobs that machines can’t do easily.

In conclusion, while UBI could help address some problems caused by automation, I believe it should be part of a larger plan. Governments need to find a balance between supporting people who lose their jobs and encouraging everyone to keep working and learning new skills. This way, we can better prepare for a future where many traditional jobs might disappear due to technology.

(Word count: 344)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a mid-range IELTS Writing Task 2 response:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses the main parts of the task and presents a clear position (partial agreement).

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are generally well-organized, though the linking between some paragraphs could be stronger.

3. Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used, with some attempts at using less common words. However, there is less precision and sophistication compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

4. 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 significantly impede communication.

5. Critical Thinking: The response shows an understanding of the main issues, presenting both advantages and disadvantages of UBI. However, the analysis is less in-depth compared to the higher band essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Universal Basic Income (UBI) (noun) – /ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsl ˈbeɪsɪk ˈɪnkʌm/ – A government program in which every adult citizen receives a set amount of money regularly

2. Automation (noun) – /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/ – The use of machines and technology to perform tasks previously done by humans

3. Job displacement (noun) – /dʒɒb dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ – The loss of jobs due to changes in technology or economic conditions

4. Exacerbate (verb) – /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ – To make a problem or situation worse

5. Holistic (adjective) – /həˈlɪstɪk/ – Considering the whole of something rather than just a part

6. Disincentivize (verb) – /ˌdɪsɪnˈsentɪvaɪz/ – To discourage or deter (someone) from doing something

7. Panacea (noun) – /ˌpænəˈsiːə/ – A solution or remedy for all difficulties or diseases

8. Mitigate (verb) – /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – To make less severe, serious, or painful

9. Adaptability (noun) – /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/ – The quality of being able to adjust to new conditions

10. Economic diversification (noun) – /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk daɪˌvɜːsɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/ – The process of a country or region expanding the range of industries and economic activities it supports

Conclusion

The topic of universal basic income as a response to automation is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, consider practicing with variations of this question, such as:

1. “To what extent can universal basic income solve the problems caused by job automation?”
2. “Some argue that education and retraining are better solutions than UBI for addressing job losses due to automation. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
3. “What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of implementing a universal basic income system in response to increasing automation?”

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and develop your ideas with relevant examples and explanations. You can practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active approach to learning can significantly improve your IELTS Writing skills.

For more information on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:

• The Impact of Automation on Global Job Markets
• Universal Basic Income: Benefits and Challenges
• How Automation is Transforming Blue-Collar Jobs