The impact of automation on employment has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past few years. According to recent examination trends from how automation is changing the labor market, this theme is likely to remain relevant in future tests due to its global significance and ongoing technological developments.
Analysis of Recent Test Question
Some people believe that the increasing use of automation and artificial intelligence in the workplace will lead to widespread unemployment. Others argue that it will create new job opportunities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Question Breakdown:
- Topic: Impact of automation on employment
- Task: Discussion + opinion
- Key areas to address: Both positive and negative effects of automation on jobs
- Structure required: Balanced discussion with personal stance
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate over AI and automation’s impact on employment has intensified in recent years. While some predict massive job losses, others anticipate new employment opportunities. In my view, while automation will undoubtedly eliminate certain jobs, it will ultimately create more opportunities than it destroys.
Those who fear widespread unemployment make valid points about immediate job displacement. Manufacturing workers, truck drivers, and retail cashiers face significant risks as robots and AI systems become more sophisticated. For instance, the impact of automation on transportation jobs is already evident with the development of self-driving vehicles, potentially affecting millions of workers globally.
However, proponents of automation present compelling counterarguments. Historical evidence shows that technological advances consistently generate new employment sectors. The impact of automation on the logistics industry has created demands for robot maintenance technicians, AI programmers, and data analysts. Furthermore, automation often enhances productivity, leading to economic growth and increased job opportunities in emerging fields.
In my opinion, while the transition may be challenging, automation will ultimately benefit employment markets. The key lies in education and adaptation. Society must focus on retraining workers and preparing future generations for jobs that complement rather than compete with automation. This approach has proven successful in countries like South Korea and Singapore, where investment in technical education has helped workers transition to new roles.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Many people worry about automation causing unemployment, while others think it will make new jobs. I believe both sides have good points, but automation will probably help more than hurt.
First, automation can take away some jobs. Many factory workers lose their jobs when companies buy robots. For example, in my country, some car factories now use machines instead of people. This makes workers worried about their future.
However, automation also makes new jobs. When companies use more machines, they need people to fix them and control them. Also, new types of jobs come up that we never had before. Like now we have jobs for making websites and managing social media.
In my opinion, automation is good for jobs in the long term. Yes, some people will lose their old jobs, but they can learn new skills. Governments should help workers learn these new skills. This way, people can get better jobs with computers and robots.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization and coherent arguments
- Relevant examples and detailed explanations
- Natural flow and academic tone
- Balanced discussion with well-supported opinion
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Basic vocabulary with some repetition
- Simple but clear structure
- Limited use of complex sentences
- Basic examples
- Clear opinion but less sophisticated support
Key Vocabulary
- Automation (n) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/ – the use of machines and computers to do work that was previously done by humans
- Displacement (n) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ – the act of forcing someone or something out of its usual place
- Technological advancement (n) /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkl ədˈvɑːnsmənt/ – progress in technology
- Counterargument (n) /ˈkaʊntərˌɑːɡjumənt/ – an argument opposed to another argument
- Enhancement (n) /ɪnˈhɑːnsmənt/ – improvement in quality, value, or extent
Conclusion
The impact of automation on employment remains a crucial IELTS topic. Similar questions might address:
- The role of AI in specific industries
- Government responsibility in managing automation
- Social implications of workplace automation
Practice writing your own response to this question and share it in the comments for feedback and discussion.