Automation and its impact on job security is a topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends and historical data from various IELTS preparation websites, this theme has a high probability of appearing in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has been featured in past IELTS exams and provide sample essays to help you prepare effectively.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that in the future, machines will do most of the work and there will be fewer jobs for humans. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question directly addresses the relationship between automation and job security. It requires you to express your opinion on whether machines will significantly reduce employment opportunities for humans in the future. Let’s break down the key elements:
- Topic: The impact of machines (automation) on future job availability
- Task: Agree or disagree with the statement
- Focus: The extent to which you agree or disagree
- Time frame: The future
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Here’s a high-quality sample essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:
In recent years, there has been growing concern about the potential impact of automation on employment opportunities. While some individuals argue that machines will eventually dominate the workforce, leaving fewer jobs for humans, I partially disagree with this view. Although automation will undoubtedly transform the job market, I believe it will create new opportunities alongside the challenges it presents.
Certainly, automation is poised to replace many routine and repetitive tasks across various industries. For instance, in manufacturing, robotics have already taken over assembly line positions that were once performed by human workers. Similarly, in the service sector, self-checkout kiosks are becoming increasingly common, reducing the need for cashiers. These trends suggest that certain job categories may indeed see a decline in human employment.
However, it is crucial to recognize that technological advancements often lead to the creation of new job roles and industries. The rise of the internet, for example, has given birth to entirely new career paths such as social media management, digital marketing, and web development. As automation continues to evolve, we can expect similar innovations to emerge, requiring human expertise in areas such as machine learning, robotics maintenance, and AI ethics.
Moreover, many complex tasks that require emotional intelligence, creativity, and critical thinking are likely to remain in human hands. Professions such as teaching, counseling, and leadership roles rely heavily on interpersonal skills and nuanced decision-making that machines cannot easily replicate. Additionally, the arts, entertainment, and creative industries are likely to continue thriving, as these fields depend on uniquely human attributes.
In conclusion, while automation will undoubtedly reshape the job market, I believe it is an oversimplification to claim that machines will dominate most work in the future. Instead, we are likely to see a shift in the types of jobs available, with new opportunities emerging alongside technological advancements. The key to navigating this changing landscape will be adaptability and continuous learning, ensuring that humans can work alongside machines in complementary roles.
(Word count: 309)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Here’s a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:
In today’s world, technology is advancing rapidly, and some people believe that in the future, machines will do most of the work, leaving fewer jobs for humans. I partially agree with this statement because while machines will take over some jobs, they will also create new opportunities.
It is true that automation is replacing some human jobs. For example, in factories, robots are now doing work that people used to do. Also, in supermarkets, we can see self-checkout machines instead of human cashiers. This shows that some jobs are disappearing because of machines.
However, I think that new jobs will also be created because of technology. When computers became common, many new jobs appeared, like computer programmers and IT support. I believe the same thing will happen with new technologies. We will need people to design, build, and fix the machines.
Also, there are many jobs that machines cannot do well. Jobs that need human emotions and creativity, like teachers, artists, and counselors, will still be important. Machines cannot replace the human touch in these areas.
In conclusion, while some jobs will be lost to machines, I don’t think all work will be done by them in the future. Humans will still have important roles to play, and new job opportunities will appear. The key is for people to learn new skills and adapt to the changing job market.
(Word count: 228)
Key Points to Consider When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph development and transitions.
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Language: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.
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Arguments: Both essays present balanced arguments, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and deeper analysis.
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Coherence: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates stronger coherence with better-linked ideas and smoother transitions between paragraphs.
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Task Response: Both essays address the question directly, but the Band 8-9 essay offers a more nuanced perspective and fully developed ideas.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
- Automation (noun) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/ – the use of machines and computers to do work that was previously done by people
- Job security (noun phrase) /dʒɒb sɪˈkjʊərəti/ – the assurance that you will be able to keep your job
- Workforce (noun) /ˈwɜːkfɔːs/ – the total number of people who work in a country or company, or are available for work
- Adaptability (noun) /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to change to suit different conditions
- Interpersonal skills (noun phrase) /ˌɪntəˈpɜːsənl skɪlz/ – the ability to communicate and interact well with other people
- Critical thinking (noun phrase) /ˈkrɪtɪkl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/ – the ability to analyze and evaluate information objectively
- Technological advancements (noun phrase) /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkl ədˈvɑːnsmənts/ – improvements in technology
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) (noun phrase) /ˌɑːtɪˈfɪʃl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/ – the development of computer systems able to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence
Conclusion
The topic of automation’s impact on job security is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of education in preparing workers for an automated future
- The ethical implications of replacing human workers with machines
- Government policies to address job displacement due to automation
- The potential benefits and drawbacks of a highly automated society
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use relevant examples, and demonstrate a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. We encourage you to practice writing an essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS Writing Task 2.