In recent years, the topic of automation and its effects on employment has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This trend reflects the growing importance of technological advancements in our society and their far-reaching implications. As an IELTS instructor, I’ve observed a significant rise in questions related to this theme, making it crucial for test-takers to be well-prepared.
Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that the increasing use of technology, such as robots and artificial intelligence, will reduce human employment. Others believe that it will create new jobs. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that technology will reduce employment
- Discuss the view that technology will create new jobs
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
The rapid advancement of technology, particularly in robotics and artificial intelligence, has sparked a debate about its impact on human employment. While some argue that these innovations will lead to widespread job losses, others contend that they will generate new employment opportunities. In my opinion, while there may be short-term disruptions, the long-term effect of technology on employment will be largely positive.
Those who fear job losses due to automation have valid concerns. Many routine and repetitive tasks, both in blue-collar and white-collar sectors, are increasingly being performed by machines. For instance, assembly line workers in manufacturing plants are being replaced by robots, while AI-powered software is taking over data entry and basic analytical tasks in offices. This trend could potentially lead to significant unemployment, particularly among low-skilled workers who may struggle to adapt to new job requirements.
On the other hand, proponents of technological progress argue that it will create new job opportunities. Historically, technological revolutions have always led to the emergence of new industries and job roles. The digital revolution, for example, has created millions of jobs in software development, data analysis, and digital marketing – roles that didn’t exist a few decades ago. Furthermore, the development, maintenance, and supervision of new technologies will require a workforce with specialized skills, potentially leading to high-quality, well-paid jobs.
In my view, while the transition may be challenging, the overall impact of technology on employment will be positive. The key lies in how societies manage this transition. Education systems need to evolve to equip people with skills that complement rather than compete with technology. Governments and businesses should invest in retraining programs to help workers adapt to changing job markets. Moreover, technology often increases productivity and economic growth, which can lead to increased demand for goods and services, potentially creating more jobs in various sectors.
In conclusion, while the rise of robots and AI may displace some jobs in the short term, I believe that with proper planning and adaptation, it will ultimately lead to a more dynamic and prosperous job market. The focus should be on preparing the workforce for the jobs of the future rather than resisting technological progress.
(Word count: 367)
Band 6-7 Essay
The increasing use of technology like robots and artificial intelligence is a hot topic nowadays. Some people think it will cause many people to lose their jobs, while others believe it will create new job opportunities. In my opinion, both views have some truth, but overall, I think technology will bring more benefits than problems to the job market.
On one hand, it’s true that some jobs are disappearing because of technology. For example, in factories, robots are now doing work that humans used to do. This means some workers might lose their jobs. Also, in offices, computers can now do tasks like data entry faster than humans. This could lead to fewer jobs for office workers.
However, technology is also creating new types of jobs. For instance, we now have jobs like app developers and social media managers that didn’t exist before. Also, someone needs to design, build, and fix the robots and AI systems. These are new job opportunities created by technology.
I believe that in the long run, technology will create more jobs than it eliminates. This is because new technologies often lead to new industries and new types of work. For example, when cars were invented, it led to many new jobs in car manufacturing, mechanics, and later, in industries like car insurance and car rental.
The important thing is for people to learn new skills to work with technology. Schools and companies should provide training to help workers adapt to new technologies. Governments should also have programs to help people who lose their jobs to find new work or learn new skills.
In conclusion, while some jobs may be lost due to technology, I believe that overall, it will create more opportunities than problems. The key is to prepare people for the changes and help them adapt to new types of work.
(Word count: 309)
Band 5-6 Essay
Nowadays, many people worry about robots and AI taking away jobs. Some think it’s a big problem, but others say it will make new jobs. I think both ideas are partly right.
It’s true that some jobs are going away because of technology. In factories, robots do work that people used to do. This means some workers lose their jobs. Also, computers can do some office work now, so some office workers might lose jobs too.
But technology also makes new jobs. For example, we need people to make and fix robots. We also need people who know how to use computers for new kinds of work. These are new jobs that didn’t exist before.
I think in the future, there will be both good and bad things about technology and jobs. Some people will lose their jobs, but there will also be new jobs. The important thing is for people to learn new skills. Schools should teach students about technology. Companies should help their workers learn new things too.
In conclusion, I believe technology will change jobs, but it won’t be all bad. We need to be ready for changes and learn new things to get new jobs.
(Word count: 186)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Explanation
This essay achieves a high band score due to several factors:
- Task Response: It fully addresses all parts of the question, providing a balanced discussion of both viewpoints and a clear personal opinion.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices.
- Lexical Resource: It demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary used accurately and appropriately.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures with minimal errors.
Band 6-7 Essay Explanation
This essay achieves a mid-range band score for the following reasons:
- Task Response: It addresses all parts of the question but with less depth and development compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized but uses simpler linking words and phrases.
- Lexical Resource: It uses a good range of vocabulary but with less sophistication than the higher band essay.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with some errors that do not impede communication.
Band 5-6 Essay Explanation
This essay achieves a lower band score due to:
- Task Response: It addresses the main points but lacks depth and detail.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a basic structure but limited use of cohesive devices.
- Lexical Resource: It uses simple vocabulary with some repetition.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay primarily uses simple sentence structures with some errors.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Automation (noun) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/: The use of machines and computers to do work that was previously done by people.
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) (noun) /ˌɑːtɪfɪʃl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/: The development of computer systems able to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence.
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Displace (verb) /dɪsˈpleɪs/: To take the place of something or someone, especially in a job or position.
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Adaptation (noun) /ˌædæpˈteɪʃn/: The process of changing to suit different conditions.
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Productivity (noun) /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/: The rate at which goods are produced or work is completed.
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Retraining (noun) /ˌriːˈtreɪnɪŋ/: The process of learning new skills, especially to do a different job.
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Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/: A new idea, method, or device.
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Disruption (noun) /dɪsˈrʌpʃn/: A disturbance or problem that interrupts an event, activity, or process.
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Technological revolution (noun phrase) /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkl ˌrevəˈluːʃn/: A period in which one or more technologies is replaced by another, novel technology.
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Workforce (noun) /ˈwɜːkfɔːs/: The people engaged in or available for work.
Automation Impact on Employment
In conclusion, the impact of automation on employment rates is a complex and evolving topic that is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future questions might explore related themes such as:
- The role of government in managing the transition to an automated workforce
- The impact of automation on specific industries or job sectors
- The ethical implications of replacing human workers with machines
To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on these topics, focusing on developing balanced arguments and clear personal opinions. Remember to use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures to showcase your language skills. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam.
