IELTS Writing Task 2 Automation and Labor

Automation’s impact on labor in developing countries is a topic that has gained significant attention in recent IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This subject is particularly relevant given the rapid technological advancements and their widespread effects on global economies. Based on an analysis of past IELTS exams and current trends, it’s highly likely that this theme will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model essays for different band scores to help you prepare effectively for this topic.

Sample Question Analysis

Some people believe that the increasing use of automation in developing countries will lead to widespread unemployment. Others argue that it will create new job opportunities. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

This question presents a classic IELTS debate topic, asking candidates to discuss two contrasting viewpoints on the effects of automation in developing countries. The key aspects to address are:

1. The potential for widespread unemployment due to automation
2. The possibility of new job opportunities arising from automation
3. Your personal opinion on the issue

Remember to provide balanced arguments for both sides before stating your own view.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

The rapid advancement of technology has led to increased automation across various sectors, sparking a debate about its impact on employment in developing nations. While some argue that this trend will result in widespread job losses, others contend that it will generate new employment opportunities. In my opinion, while automation may cause short-term disruptions, it ultimately has the potential to create more diverse and sustainable job markets in developing countries.

Those who fear widespread unemployment due to automation have valid concerns. In many developing countries, a significant portion of the workforce is engaged in low-skilled, repetitive tasks that are prime candidates for automation. For instance, in manufacturing hubs like Bangladesh or Vietnam, the introduction of robotic assembly lines could potentially displace thousands of factory workers. Similarly, in countries with large agricultural sectors, automated farming equipment could reduce the need for manual labor, leading to job losses in rural areas.

However, proponents of automation argue that it will create new job opportunities, and this view has merit. As industries adopt new technologies, there will be an increased demand for workers skilled in operating, maintaining, and programming automated systems. This shift could lead to the emergence of entirely new job categories, such as AI specialists or robotics technicians. Moreover, automation can make businesses in developing countries more competitive globally, potentially leading to industry expansion and job creation in auxiliary sectors like logistics or customer service.

In my view, while the transition to automated systems may cause short-term job displacement, the long-term benefits for developing economies are likely to outweigh the initial challenges. Automation has the potential to increase productivity, reduce costs, and improve the quality of goods and services, making developing countries more attractive for investment and fostering economic growth. This growth, in turn, can create new employment opportunities across various sectors. However, it is crucial for governments and educational institutions in these countries to proactively address this shift by investing in skills training and education programs that prepare the workforce for the jobs of the future.

In conclusion, while automation poses challenges for labor markets in developing countries, it also presents significant opportunities for economic growth and job creation. The key lies in managing this transition effectively, ensuring that the benefits of automation are distributed equitably and that workers are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly automated economy. (349 words)

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

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

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
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, with some less common phrases (e.g., “prime candidates for automation”, “auxiliary sectors”).
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately, with only minor errors.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The increasing use of automation in developing countries is a topic of much debate. Some people think it will cause a lot of unemployment, while others believe it will create new jobs. In my opinion, automation will have both positive and negative effects on employment in these countries.

Those who worry about unemployment have some good reasons. Many jobs in developing countries involve simple tasks that machines can easily do. For example, in factories, robots can replace workers on assembly lines. This could lead to many people losing their jobs, especially those with low skills. Also, in farming, new machines can do the work of many farmers, which could be a problem in countries where many people work in agriculture.

On the other hand, automation can also create new job opportunities. As companies start using more machines and computers, they will need people who can operate and fix these machines. This means there will be new jobs for people who learn about technology. Additionally, if businesses become more efficient with automation, they might grow bigger and need more workers in other areas like sales or customer service.

I think that automation will cause some problems at first, but in the long run, it can be good for developing countries. While some people might lose their jobs, new types of work will appear. The important thing is for governments to help people learn new skills so they can get these new jobs. Also, automation can make countries’ economies stronger, which could lead to more jobs in different areas.

In conclusion, automation in developing countries will likely cause both job losses and new job creation. The challenge is to manage this change well so that more people can benefit from the new opportunities that come with automation. (276 words)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

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

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting both viewpoints and the writer’s opinion.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are organized logically, though the linking between and within paragraphs could be more sophisticated.
3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, with some attempts at less common words, though not always precisely.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, with some errors that do not impede communication.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Automation (noun) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃən/ – the use of machines and computers to do work that was previously done by people
2. Displacement (noun) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ – the act of forcing something out of its usual place
3. Proponents (noun) /prəˈpəʊnənts/ – people who support or promote something
4. Auxiliary (adjective) /ɔːɡˈzɪliəri/ – providing additional support or help
5. Equitably (adverb) /ˈekwɪtəbli/ – in a fair and impartial manner
6. Transitioning (verb) /trænˈzɪʃənɪŋ/ – the process of changing from one state or condition to another
7. Competitive (adjective) /kəmˈpetətɪv/ – as good as or better than others of a comparable nature
8. Disruptions (noun) /dɪsˈrʌpʃənz/ – disturbances or problems which interrupt an event, activity, or process
9. Productivity (noun) /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/ – the effectiveness of productive effort, especially in industry
10. Proactively (adverb) /prəʊˈæktɪvli/ – in a way that creates or controls a situation rather than just responding to it after it has happened

Conclusion

The topic of automation’s effect on labor in developing countries is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

• The role of government in managing technological transitions in the workforce
• The impact of artificial intelligence on traditional job markets in developing nations
• The importance of education reform in preparing for an automated future

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. We encourage you to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your IELTS Writing skills and prepare for the exam.