The topic of automation’s impact on the workforce is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on an analysis of past exams and current trends, this subject is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Its relevance to modern society and the global economy makes it a prime candidate for examination. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that in the future there will be fewer jobs for humans because of the development of automation. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analyzing the Question
This question asks candidates to discuss their opinion on the potential reduction of human jobs due to increased automation. Key points to consider:
- The main topic is the relationship between automation and job availability.
- The question requires you to agree or disagree with the statement.
- You should discuss the extent of your agreement or disagreement.
- Examples and reasoning should support your position.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Technological advancements, particularly in automation, have sparked debates about their potential impact on human employment. While some argue that automation will significantly reduce job opportunities, I partially agree with this view, believing that while certain jobs may disappear, new opportunities will emerge, leading to a transformation rather than a reduction in the workforce.
Undoubtedly, automation will eliminate some traditional jobs. Manufacturing and assembly line positions, for instance, have already seen substantial reductions due to robotic systems. Similarly, self-checkout kiosks in retail stores and automated customer service chatbots are gradually replacing human workers in these sectors. This trend is likely to continue and expand into other industries, potentially leading to job losses in certain areas.
However, I believe that automation will also create new job opportunities. The development, maintenance, and improvement of automated systems require skilled professionals such as software engineers, data analysts, and robotics specialists. Furthermore, as automation takes over routine tasks, there will be an increased demand for jobs that require uniquely human skills like creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex problem-solving. For example, the rise of social media has created entirely new career paths such as content creators and digital marketing specialists.
Moreover, automation often leads to increased productivity and economic growth, which can indirectly create more jobs. As businesses become more efficient through automation, they may expand into new markets or develop new products, necessitating additional human workers in various capacities. The gig economy, facilitated by technological platforms, is a prime example of how automation can create flexible work opportunities that didn’t exist before.
In conclusion, while automation will undoubtedly change the job market, I believe it will lead to a shift in the types of jobs available rather than an overall reduction. The key to thriving in this evolving landscape will be adaptability and continuous learning, ensuring that workers can transition into new roles as they emerge.
Automation's impact on workforce: Job transformation visualization
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the impact of automation on job availability. Some people believe that there will be fewer jobs for humans in the future due to increased automation. I partially agree with this view, as automation will likely reduce some job opportunities, but it may also create new ones.
On one hand, it’s true that automation can replace many jobs currently done by humans. For example, in factories, robots are now doing work that was previously done by human workers. This has led to job losses in manufacturing. Similarly, self-driving cars might replace taxi and truck drivers in the future. These examples show that automation can indeed reduce job opportunities in certain areas.
However, I also believe that automation can create new jobs. As machines become more advanced, we need people to design, build, and maintain them. This means there will be more jobs in fields like engineering and computer programming. Additionally, automation can make some jobs easier and more productive, allowing businesses to grow and possibly hire more people in other roles.
Furthermore, there are many jobs that machines cannot easily replace. Jobs that require creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex decision-making are difficult to automate. For instance, teachers, nurses, and social workers will likely always be needed because their work involves human interaction and empathy.
In conclusion, while automation may reduce some job opportunities, it’s unlikely to eliminate all jobs for humans. Instead, it will probably change the types of jobs available, requiring people to adapt and learn new skills. The key is to prepare for these changes by focusing on education and training in areas that are less likely to be automated.
Human-robot collaboration in the future workplace
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Nowadays, many people worry about automation taking away jobs from humans. Some think there will be less work for people in the future because of machines. I agree with this idea to some extent, but I also think there are other things to consider.
First, it’s true that machines can do many jobs that humans used to do. In factories, we can see robots working instead of people. This means some people lost their jobs. Also, in supermarkets, we now have self-checkout machines, so fewer cashiers are needed. These examples show that automation can reduce jobs for humans.
However, I think automation also creates new jobs. When we have more machines, we need people to make and fix them. This means new jobs for engineers and technicians. Also, some jobs are hard for machines to do. For example, jobs that need creativity or understanding human emotions are difficult for machines. Teachers and nurses will probably always be needed.
Another point is that automation can make some jobs easier. This might help businesses grow and hire more people for different jobs. For instance, when a company uses machines to work faster, they might need more people to sell their products or help customers.
In conclusion, while automation might take away some jobs, I don’t think it will take all jobs from humans. People will need to learn new skills to work with machines or do jobs that machines can’t do. It’s important for people to be ready for changes in the job market.
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Fully addresses all parts of the task with a clear position
- Presents a well-developed response with relevant, extended examples
- Logically organizes information and ideas with clear progression
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control
- Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents relevant main ideas but some may be inadequately developed/unclear
- Arranges information and ideas coherently and there is a clear overall progression
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task with some inaccuracies
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with some errors
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task only partially; format may be inappropriate in places
- Expresses a position but development is not always clear and ideas may be repetitive
- Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression
- Uses a limited range of vocabulary, though this is minimally adequate for the task
- Uses only a limited range of structures with some accuracy
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Automation (noun) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/: The use of machines or computers to do work that was previously done by people.
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Workforce (noun) /ˈwɜːkfɔːs/: The total number of people who are available to work.
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Technological advancements (noun phrase) /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkl ədˈvɑːnsmənts/: Improvements in technology.
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Productivity (noun) /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/: The rate at which goods are produced or work is completed.
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Adaptability (noun) /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/: The quality of being able to adjust to new conditions.
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Emotional intelligence (noun phrase) /ɪˈmoʊʃənl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/: The ability to understand and manage your own emotions, and those of the people around you.
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Gig economy (noun phrase) /ɡɪɡ ɪˈkɒnəmi/: A labor market characterized by short-term contracts or freelance work as opposed to permanent jobs.
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Complex problem-solving (noun phrase) /ˈkɒmpleks ˈprɒbləm ˈsɒlvɪŋ/: The process of finding solutions to difficult or complicated issues.
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Self-checkout (noun) /ˌself ˈtʃekaʊt/: A system in a store that allows customers to scan and pay for their purchases without the help of a cashier.
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Job market (noun phrase) /dʒɒb ˈmɑːkɪt/: The availability of employment and labor in an economy.
In conclusion, the impact of automation on the workforce is a complex and evolving topic that is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future exam questions might explore related themes such as:
- The role of education in preparing workers for an automated future
- Government policies to address job displacement due to automation
- The ethical implications of replacing human workers with machines
To practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.
