Automation and its impact on employment has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past few years. Based on analysis of recent exam patterns, questions about workplace automation and technological displacement show up approximately once every 3-4 months, making it a high-priority topic for IELTS candidates.
The influence of artificial intelligence on job markets has led to recurring IELTS questions about both positive and negative impacts on employment. Let’s examine a recent example that exemplifies this trend.
Task Analysis and Sample Question
Some people believe that the increasing automation of work will lead to widespread unemployment, while others think it will create new job opportunities. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine both positive and negative effects of automation
- Present balanced arguments for each perspective
- Provide a clear personal stance
- Support ideas with relevant examples
The impact of automation on modern workplace showing robots and humans working together
Band 8 Sample Essay
The debate over whether workplace automation will result in job losses or create new employment opportunities has become increasingly relevant in today’s rapidly evolving economy. While both perspectives have merit, I believe that automation will ultimately generate more opportunities than it eliminates.
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. Impact of automation on transportation jobs is particularly concerning, with autonomous vehicles potentially affecting millions of workers globally. Moreover, this displacement often affects lower-skilled workers who may struggle to transition to new roles.
However, historical evidence suggests that technological advancement creates more jobs than it destroys. The digital revolution has spawned entirely new industries, from app development to data analysis, creating millions of positions that didn’t exist decades ago. How technology affects traditional job markets shows that while certain roles become obsolete, new opportunities emerge in maintenance, programming, and supervision of automated systems. Furthermore, automation often leads to increased productivity and economic growth, indirectly creating jobs across various sectors.
In my view, while the transition period may be challenging, automation will ultimately benefit the labor market. The key lies in proactive adaptation through education and skill development. Governments and businesses must invest in retraining programs to help workers acquire the competencies needed for emerging roles. This approach has proven successful in countries like South Korea and Singapore, where robust technical education systems have helped workers adapt to technological changes.
(290 words)
Workers receiving training on new automated systems in a modern facility
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Today, many people worry about machines taking their jobs, while others think automation will make new jobs. I think both sides have good points, but automation will probably help more than hurt.
Some people think automation is dangerous for jobs. Factory workers might lose their jobs because robots can work faster and don’t need breaks or salary. Also, many office jobs might disappear because computers can do simple tasks like data entry. This makes many workers worried about their future.
But automation also makes new jobs. When companies use new machines, they need people to fix them and control them. Importance of skilled labor in manufacturing shows that factories still need skilled workers even with robots. Also, when businesses save money with automation, they can make new jobs in other areas.
I believe automation will be good for jobs in the long term. While some old jobs will go away, new and better jobs will come. However, workers need to learn new skills to get these jobs. Companies and governments should help workers learn these new skills through training programs.
(146 words)
Key Vocabulary
- Automation (n) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃən/ – use of machines to do work automatically
- Displacement (n) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ – forced removal from a position
- Proactive (adj) /prəʊˈæktɪv/ – acting before a situation becomes a problem
- Obsolete (adj) /ˈɒbsəliːt/ – no longer useful, out of date
- Transition (n) /trænˈzɪʃən/ – process of changing from one state to another
Writing Tips for Different Band Scores
To achieve Band 8:
- Present sophisticated arguments with clear logic
- Use advanced vocabulary accurately
- Maintain coherent paragraph structure
- Provide specific examples
For Band 6-7:
- Focus on clear organization
- Use some advanced vocabulary
- Develop basic ideas fully
- Connect ideas logically
Consider practicing with similar topics like:
- The role of AI in future workplaces
- Benefits and drawbacks of industrial automation
- Government policies for technological unemployment
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and improvement suggestions.
