Automation and its impact on low-skilled jobs is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular subject due to its relevance in today’s rapidly evolving job market. Let’s explore this theme through sample essays and in-depth analysis to help you prepare for your IELTS Writing Task 2.

Analyzing the Question

Some people think that robots and automation are causing many low-skilled workers to lose their jobs. Others believe that automation creates more job opportunities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question asks you to consider two contrasting viewpoints on the impact of automation on low-skilled jobs. It’s crucial to:

1. Discuss both perspectives equally
2. Provide examples to support each view
3. Present your own opinion, preferably in the conclusion

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

The increasing prevalence of robots and automation in various industries has sparked a debate about their impact on low-skilled employment. While some argue that these technological advancements are leading to job losses, others contend that they are creating new opportunities. This essay will examine both viewpoints before presenting my own perspective on this complex issue.

On one hand, there is a valid concern that automation is displacing low-skilled workers in many sectors. For instance, in manufacturing, robots have replaced human workers on assembly lines, performing tasks with greater precision and efficiency. Similarly, self-checkout machines in retail stores have reduced the need for cashiers. These examples illustrate how automation can indeed lead to job losses, particularly for those in routine, repetitive roles.

On the other hand, proponents of automation argue that it generates new employment opportunities and enhances overall economic growth. As companies become more productive through automation, they may expand their operations, creating jobs in other areas such as maintenance, programming, and customer service. Additionally, the development and production of robots and automated systems itself creates high-skilled jobs in engineering and technology sectors. This perspective suggests that automation leads to a shift in the job market rather than a net loss of employment.

In my opinion, while automation does pose challenges for low-skilled workers in the short term, its long-term benefits for the economy and society outweigh these initial disruptions. However, it is crucial that governments and businesses take proactive measures to support those affected by automation. This could include providing retraining programs, investing in education that focuses on skills less likely to be automated, and implementing policies that ensure the benefits of automation are distributed fairly across society.

In conclusion, the impact of automation on low-skilled jobs is multifaceted. While it does lead to job losses in certain sectors, it also creates new opportunities and drives economic growth. The key lies in managing this transition effectively to ensure that the benefits of technological progress are shared equitably.

(Word count: 309)

Automation Impact on Jobs

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

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

1. Clear structure: The essay follows a logical structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion.

2. Balanced argument: Both perspectives are given equal attention and supported with relevant examples.

3. Coherence and cohesion: The essay uses appropriate linking words and phrases to ensure smooth transitions between ideas.

4. Lexical resource: The writer employs a wide range of vocabulary accurately and effectively, such as “prevalence,” “contend,” “proactive measures,” and “multifaceted.”

5. Grammatical range and accuracy: The essay showcases various complex sentence structures without significant errors.

6. Task response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, including discussing both views and giving a clear personal opinion.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Nowadays, robots and automation are becoming more common in many industries. Some people think this is causing low-skilled workers to lose their jobs, while others believe it creates more job opportunities. In this essay, I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

On the one hand, it’s true that automation is replacing some low-skilled jobs. For example, in factories, robots are now doing work that people used to do, like putting things together on assembly lines. Also, in supermarkets, we can see self-checkout machines that are taking the place of human cashiers. This means that some people who used to do these jobs might lose them because of automation.

On the other hand, automation can also create new jobs and help the economy grow. When companies use robots and automation, they can make more products faster and cheaper. This might help them grow bigger and hire more people for different jobs, like taking care of the machines or helping customers. Also, making robots and automated systems creates jobs for engineers and other skilled workers.

In my opinion, I think automation has both good and bad effects on jobs. While it’s true that some low-skilled workers might lose their jobs, I believe that in the long run, automation will create more opportunities and help the economy. However, it’s important for governments and companies to help workers who lose their jobs because of automation. They should provide training programs to help these workers learn new skills and find new jobs.

To conclude, automation has different effects on low-skilled jobs. It can cause some job losses, but it can also create new opportunities. The most important thing is to manage these changes well so that everyone can benefit from new technology.

(Word count: 292)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates characteristics of a Band 6-7 response:

1. Addresses the task: The essay discusses both views and provides a personal opinion.

2. Coherence and cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, with clear paragraphs and some use of linking words.

3. Lexical resource: The vocabulary used is appropriate but less sophisticated compared to the Band 8-9 essay. There’s some repetition of words and phrases.

4. Grammatical range and accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, with generally good control of grammar.

5. Task response: While the essay covers the main points, the ideas could be developed further with more specific examples or deeper analysis.

6. Paragraph development: Each paragraph has a clear central topic, but the development of ideas is somewhat limited compared to the higher band essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Automation (noun) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/ – The use of machines and computers to do work that was previously done by people.

2. Displace (verb) /dɪsˈpleɪs/ – To force something or someone out of their usual or original position.

3. Prevalence (noun) /ˈprevələns/ – The fact of being very common or widespread.

4. Proactive (adjective) /prəʊˈæktɪv/ – Taking action to cause change rather than reacting to change when it happens.

5. Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features.

6. Disruption (noun) /dɪsˈrʌpʃn/ – Disturbance or problems which interrupt an event, activity, or process.

7. Contend (verb) /kənˈtend/ – To assert something as a position in an argument.

8. Equitably (adverb) /ˈekwɪtəbli/ – In a fair and impartial manner.

Conclusion

The topic of automation and its impact on low-skilled jobs is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS exams. To prepare, consider practicing with similar questions such as:

1. How can governments best support workers affected by automation?
2. Do you think the benefits of automation outweigh its drawbacks for society?
3. Should companies be required to retrain workers displaced by automation?

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to fully address the question, provide relevant examples, and express your ideas clearly and coherently. Practice writing essays on this topic and consider sharing them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for your IELTS exam.