The topic of how automation is affecting job opportunities for low-skilled workers has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This subject reflects the growing concern about technological advancement and its implications for the global workforce. Based on an analysis of past IELTS exams and current trends, we can expect this theme to appear more frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Some people say that the use of automated machines in production will lead to unemployment for many low-skilled workers. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question asks you to consider the impact of automation on low-skilled workers’ employment prospects. It’s an opinion-based essay where you need to express your view and support it with logical arguments and relevant examples.
Key points to consider:
- The question focuses specifically on low-skilled workers
- It’s about the production sector
- You need to state your level of agreement or disagreement
- You should provide reasons and examples to support your position
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The rapid advancement of technology and the increasing use of automated machines in various industries have sparked a heated debate about their impact on employment, particularly for low-skilled workers. While I acknowledge that automation poses certain challenges, I partially disagree with the statement that it will inevitably lead to widespread unemployment among this group.
Undoubtedly, the implementation of automated systems in production processes can reduce the need for human labor in certain areas. Machines can perform repetitive tasks more efficiently and accurately than humans, potentially displacing workers in assembly lines or basic manufacturing roles. For instance, in the automotive industry, robotic arms have replaced many manual laborers in welding and painting processes, leading to job losses in these specific areas.
However, I believe that automation also creates new opportunities and can lead to job transformation rather than outright elimination. As industries evolve, new roles emerge that require human skills complementary to automated systems. For example, while machines may take over routine tasks, there is an increasing demand for workers who can operate, maintain, and supervise these automated systems. This shift creates opportunities for low-skilled workers to upskill and transition into more technical roles, potentially improving their long-term career prospects.
Moreover, the cost savings and increased productivity resulting from automation can lead to business expansion and the creation of new jobs in other areas. For instance, e-commerce giants like Amazon have heavily automated their warehouses, but simultaneously created numerous jobs in logistics, customer service, and last-mile delivery. This demonstrates how automation can reshape rather than eliminate employment opportunities.
It is crucial, however, that governments and businesses proactively address the challenges posed by automation. Implementing comprehensive retraining programs and promoting lifelong learning initiatives can help low-skilled workers adapt to the changing job market. Additionally, policies that encourage innovation and entrepreneurship can create new industries and job opportunities that offset potential losses in traditional sectors.
In conclusion, while automation may displace some low-skilled workers in specific roles, I believe its overall impact on employment is more nuanced. With proper management and support systems in place, automation can lead to job transformation and the creation of new opportunities, rather than widespread unemployment. The key lies in preparing the workforce for these changes and ensuring that the benefits of technological progress are broadly shared across society.
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that justify a high band score:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with a nuanced view. It acknowledges both positive and negative aspects of automation’s impact.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph has a central topic, and ideas are logically connected using cohesive devices.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is sophisticated and precise. Examples include “implementation of automated systems,” “job transformation,” and “comprehensive retraining programs.”
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a wide range of complex structures used accurately. It includes various sentence types and demonstrates excellent control over grammar and punctuation.
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Development and Support: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, such as the reference to the automotive industry and Amazon’s business model.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The use of automated machines in production is a growing trend that has raised concerns about job losses for low-skilled workers. While I agree that automation can lead to some job losses, I don’t think it will cause widespread unemployment for all low-skilled workers.
It’s true that automated machines can replace humans in many tasks, especially in factories. For example, in car manufacturing, robots now do a lot of the welding and painting work that used to be done by people. This has led to fewer jobs for workers who used to do these tasks manually. Also, in warehouses, automated systems can pick and pack items faster than humans, which might reduce the need for some warehouse workers.
However, I believe that automation also creates new job opportunities. When companies use machines, they often need people to operate and maintain these machines. This means that some low-skilled workers can be trained to do these new jobs. For instance, a factory worker who used to assemble products might be retrained to operate the machines that now do the assembly. This shows that automation can change jobs rather than just eliminate them.
Another point is that automation can help businesses grow. When companies save money by using machines, they might expand their operations and hire more people in other areas. For example, a company might use machines in its factory but hire more salespeople or customer service staff to handle increased business.
It’s important for governments and companies to help workers adapt to these changes. They should provide training programs to help low-skilled workers learn new skills that are needed in an automated workplace. This can help prevent unemployment and ensure that workers can find new jobs even as some old jobs disappear.
In conclusion, while automation may cause some job losses for low-skilled workers, I don’t fully agree that it will lead to widespread unemployment. With proper training and support, many workers can adapt to new roles created by automation. The key is to manage this change carefully to ensure that the benefits of automation are shared by everyone.
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good qualities that place it in the Band 6-7 range:
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Task Response: The essay addresses the main parts of the task and presents a clear position. However, the ideas could be further developed for a higher score.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. There is logical progression, but the use of cohesive devices could be more sophisticated.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is appropriate and sufficient to discuss the topic. There’s some attempt at using less common vocabulary (e.g., “widespread unemployment”), but the range could be wider for a higher band score.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are no major errors that impede communication.
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Development and Support: Main points are supported with relevant examples, but these could be more fully elaborated for a higher score.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Automation (noun) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/ – the use of automatic equipment in a manufacturing or other process
- Displace (verb) /dɪsˈpleɪs/ – to take the place of something or someone
- Upskill (verb) /ʌpˈskɪl/ – to learn new skills or to teach workers new skills
- Proactively (adverb) /prəʊˈæktɪvli/ – in a way that creates or controls a situation rather than just responding to it
- Implementation (noun) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃn/ – the process of putting a plan into effect
- Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
- Entrepreneurship (noun) /ˌɒntrəprəˈnɜːʃɪp/ – the activity of setting up a business or businesses
- Logistics (noun) /ləˈdʒɪstɪks/ – the detailed organization and implementation of a complex operation
Conclusion
The impact of automation on low-skilled workers is a complex and evolving topic that is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. When approaching this subject, it’s crucial to consider both the potential job losses and the new opportunities created by technological advancements. Future questions might explore related themes such as:
- The role of education in preparing workers for an automated future
- The responsibility of governments in managing the transition to automated workplaces
- The ethical implications of replacing human workers with machines
To prepare for such topics, practice writing essays that balance different perspectives, use specific examples, and demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the issues at hand. Remember to focus on developing your vocabulary, using a variety of grammatical structures, and organizing your ideas coherently.
We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!