The topic of artificial intelligence benefits and concerns has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on analysis of past IELTS tests, this theme appears approximately once every 4-5 months, particularly in countries with rapid AI adoption like Universal basic income: feasibility and impact. Let’s examine a recent task question and explore model responses across different band scores.
Task Analysis
Some people believe that artificial intelligence (AI) will bring enormous benefits to society, while others are concerned about its potential negative impacts. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires:
- Discussing both positive and negative aspects of AI
- Providing a balanced analysis
- Including your personal perspective
- Supporting arguments with relevant examples
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
Similar to discussions about Benefits of flexible working hours?, the debate around AI’s impact requires careful consideration. Here’s a high-scoring response:
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence has sparked intense debate regarding its societal implications. While I acknowledge both perspectives, I believe that the advantages of AI significantly outweigh its potential drawbacks when properly managed.
AI offers unprecedented benefits across multiple sectors. In healthcare, AI-powered diagnostic tools can detect diseases with remarkable accuracy, potentially saving millions of lives. Similarly, in education, personalized learning algorithms can adapt to individual students’ needs, revolutionizing how knowledge is acquired. Furthermore, AI automation in manufacturing has dramatically increased productivity while reducing human exposure to hazardous conditions.
However, legitimate concerns exist regarding AI’s implementation. The primary worry centers on potential job displacement, as automation could render certain professions obsolete. Additionally, there are valid concerns about data privacy and the ethical implications of AI decision-making in sensitive areas like criminal justice or financial lending. The potential for AI systems to perpetuate existing societal biases also raises significant ethical questions.
Despite these concerns, I maintain that proper regulation and ethical guidelines can effectively address these challenges. Governments and organizations worldwide are already developing frameworks to ensure AI development remains beneficial while minimizing potential harm. Furthermore, history shows that technological advancements, while initially disruptive, often create new employment opportunities and improve overall living standards.
In conclusion, while the concerns about AI deserve serious consideration, its potential to revolutionize healthcare, education, and industry makes it an invaluable tool for human progress. The key lies in implementing robust oversight mechanisms while maximizing its benefits for society.
AI applications in healthcare, education, and industry showing positive impacts
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
The rapid development of AI technology is changing our world. There are different opinions about whether this is good or bad for society. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On the positive side, AI has many benefits. Firstly, it helps doctors find diseases faster and better. Also, it makes work easier in factories because robots can do dangerous jobs. Students can learn better with AI programs that help them study. These are good things for society.
However, some people worry about AI problems. Many workers might lose their jobs because machines can do their work. There are also problems with privacy because AI needs lots of personal information. Sometimes AI makes mistakes that can cause serious problems.
I think AI is more good than bad for society. Even though there are some problems, we can fix them with good rules. Also, new jobs will come because of AI technology. We should not be afraid of AI but learn how to use it well.
In conclusion, AI has both good and bad points, but I believe the good points are more important. We need to be careful about how we use AI, but it can help make our lives better if we use it correctly.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Coherent arguments with clear progression
- Effective use of topic-specific examples
- Natural integration of advanced cohesive devices
- Balanced discussion with clear personal stance
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Basic but clear arguments
- Simple but accurate language
- Limited range of complex structures
- Basic cohesive devices
- Some development of ideas
Key Vocabulary
- unprecedented (adj.) /ʌnˈpres.ɪ.den.tɪd/ – never having happened or existed before
- perpetuate (v.) /pərˈpetʃ.u.eɪt/ – to cause something to continue
- implementation (n.) /ˌɪm.plɪ.menˈteɪ.ʃən/ – the process of putting a plan into action
- obsolete (adj.) /ˈɒb.sə.liːt/ – no longer used because something newer exists
- revolutionize (v.) /ˌrev.əˈluː.ʃən.aɪz/ – to change something completely and fundamentally
For those interested in exploring similar topics, consider practicing with prompts about Dyslexia and reading difficulties and their potential AI solutions. Share your practice essays in the comments for community feedback and improvement.