The topic of artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on employment has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on analysis of past papers and current trends, this theme appears in approximately 15-20% of technology-related questions, particularly in questions about technological advancement and societal changes. Recent examinations have featured variations of this topic in major testing locations including India, China, and Vietnam.
Analysis of Topic and Question Type
Some people believe that artificial intelligence (AI) will lead to widespread job losses, while others think it will create more employment opportunities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question represents a classic discussion + opinion essay format, requiring candidates to:
- Examine both positive and negative impacts of AI on employment
- Present a balanced analysis of contrasting viewpoints
- Provide a clear personal stance supported by evidence
Impact of artificial intelligence on employment market analysis
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
In recent years, the debate about artificial intelligence’s impact on employment has intensified significantly. While some argue that AI will cause massive unemployment, others maintain that it will generate new job opportunities. In my opinion, while AI will undoubtedly eliminate certain jobs, it will ultimately create more employment possibilities than it destroys.
Those who fear AI-driven job losses have valid concerns. Many routine and repetitive tasks across various sectors are already being automated, from manufacturing assembly lines to customer service chatbots. For instance, self-checkout systems in retail stores have reduced the need for cashiers, while automated accounting software has diminished the demand for traditional bookkeepers. These technological advancements could potentially displace millions of workers worldwide.
However, proponents of AI’s positive impact on employment present compelling arguments. Historical evidence shows that technological revolutions consistently create more jobs than they eliminate. The rise of AI has already spawned new career paths such as machine learning engineers, AI ethics consultants, and data analysts. Furthermore, AI implementation often leads to increased productivity and business growth, indirectly creating employment opportunities in adjacent sectors. For example, the e-commerce boom, facilitated by AI algorithms, has generated numerous jobs in logistics, digital marketing, and warehouse management.
In my view, while the transition period may be challenging, AI will ultimately benefit employment markets. The key lies in society’s ability to adapt through education and reskilling programs. Countries like South Korea and Singapore demonstrate how proactive policies in digital literacy and technological education can help workforces evolve alongside AI advancement. This adaptation ensures that workers can transition into newly created roles that require human creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex problem-solving abilities – skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
The question of whether AI will cause job losses or create more jobs is very important today. Some people think AI will take away many jobs, while others believe it will make new jobs. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
First, many people worry about losing their jobs because of AI. For example, in factories, robots are now doing work that humans used to do. Also, in offices, computers can now do simple tasks like data entry and basic customer service. This means many workers might lose their jobs, especially those who do simple, repeated tasks.
However, AI can also make new jobs. When companies use AI, they need people who can work with these new technologies. For example, companies need people to program AI systems and fix them when they have problems. Also, when businesses use AI, they can grow bigger and need more workers for other types of jobs.
I think AI will probably create more jobs than it takes away. Even though some old jobs will disappear, new and different jobs will come up. But it is important that people learn new skills to work with AI. Schools and companies should help workers learn these new skills so they can find new jobs when old ones disappear.
AI transformation of workplace environments and job roles
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear progression of ideas with strong cohesion
- Nuanced arguments supported by specific examples
- Natural integration of academic vocabulary
- Balanced discussion with well-justified opinion
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Basic but clear argument structure
- Simple but accurate language use
- Limited range of complex sentences
- Some repetition in vocabulary
- Basic examples without detailed elaboration
Key Vocabulary
- artificial intelligence (n) /ˌɑːtɪˈfɪʃəl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/ – computer systems able to perform tasks normally requiring human intelligence
- displacement (n) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ – the act of forcing something out of its usual place
- proactive (adj) /prəʊˈæktɪv/ – creating or controlling a situation rather than responding to it
- reskilling (n) /riːˈskɪlɪŋ/ – learning new skills for a different job
- automation (n) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃən/ – use of machines to do work previously done by people
- adjacent (adj) /əˈdʒeɪsənt/ – next to or near something
- transition (n) /trænˈzɪʃən/ – the process of changing from one state to another
To practice, try writing your own essay addressing this alternative question: “Some people argue that governments should regulate the development of AI to protect jobs. To what extent do you agree or disagree?” Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.
