In recent years, the topic of automation’s impact on industries 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 effects on various sectors. As an IELTS instructor, I’ve observed a significant uptick in questions related to this theme, making it crucial for test-takers to be well-prepared to tackle such topics.
Let’s delve into a specific question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams and is likely to resurface in various forms:
Some people think that automation is causing many problems in society. Others believe that automation has more advantages than disadvantages. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the problems caused by automation in society
- Explore the advantages of automation
- Compare the advantages and disadvantages
- Provide your personal opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all these points in your essay to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at two sample essays that tackle this question, one aiming for Band 8 and another for Band 7.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8)
Automation, the use of technology to perform tasks with minimal human intervention, has become a contentious issue in modern society. While some argue that it creates significant societal problems, others believe its benefits outweigh its drawbacks. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Those who criticize automation often point to its impact on employment. As machines and algorithms replace human workers in various industries, from manufacturing to customer service, many fear widespread job losses and economic instability. Furthermore, there are concerns about the widening skill gap, where workers without technical expertise struggle to find new roles in an increasingly automated job market. This could potentially lead to increased income inequality and social unrest.
On the other hand, proponents of automation argue that it brings numerous advantages to society. Firstly, automation significantly enhances productivity and efficiency across industries, leading to economic growth and potentially creating new job opportunities in emerging fields. Secondly, it can improve workplace safety by taking over dangerous or repetitive tasks, reducing the risk of accidents and occupational health issues. Additionally, automation can lead to higher quality products and services, benefiting consumers and businesses alike.
In my opinion, while the concerns about automation are valid, its advantages ultimately outweigh its disadvantages. The key lies in how we manage this technological transition. Governments and businesses must invest in reskilling and upskilling programs to help workers adapt to the changing job market. Moreover, the increased productivity from automation could potentially fund social programs or even a universal basic income to support those affected by job displacement.
In conclusion, automation is a double-edged sword that brings both challenges and opportunities to society. By proactively addressing its potential negative impacts while harnessing its benefits, we can create a future where automation enhances rather than hinders societal progress.
(Word count: 309)
Essay Analysis (Band 8)
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting a personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, with some less common phrases (e.g., “contentious issue”, “widening skill gap”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately, with only minor errors.
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 7)
Automation has become a hot topic in recent years, with some people worried about its negative effects on society, while others see it as mostly beneficial. This essay will look at both sides of this argument and give my personal view.
Those who are against automation often talk about job losses. When machines do the work that people used to do, many workers lose their jobs. This can cause big problems for families and communities. Also, some people worry that automation might make the gap between rich and poor bigger, as those who own the machines get richer while workers struggle to find new jobs.
However, there are also many good things about automation. It can make businesses more efficient, which can lead to cheaper products for consumers. Automation can also make work safer by doing dangerous jobs that used to put human workers at risk. Additionally, it can improve the quality of products and services, which is good for everyone.
In my opinion, while automation does cause some problems, its benefits are greater. I think the key is to manage the change well. Governments and companies should help workers learn new skills so they can find different jobs. The money saved through automation could be used to support people who lose their jobs or to create new kinds of work.
To sum up, automation has both good and bad effects on society. If we handle it carefully, we can make the most of its benefits while reducing its negative impacts. This way, automation can help make life better for everyone.
(Word count: 275)
Essay Analysis (Band 7)
This essay demonstrates competence in several areas, though not to the same level as the Band 8 essay:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8 essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is appropriate but less varied and precise compared to the Band 8 essay.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, with generally good control of grammar.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported, but not as fully elaborated as in the Band 8 essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Automation (noun) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/: The use of machines or computers instead of people to do a job.
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Contentious (adjective) /kənˈtenʃəs/: Causing or likely to cause disagreement.
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Efficiency (noun) /ɪˈfɪʃnsi/: The quality of doing something well with no waste of time or money.
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Upskilling (noun) /ˌʌpˈskɪlɪŋ/: The process of learning new skills or teaching workers new skills.
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Displacement (noun) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/: The act of forcing something out of its usual place.
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Productivity (noun) /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/: The rate at which goods are produced or work is completed.
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Inequality (noun) /ˌɪnɪˈkwɒləti/: The unfair difference between groups of people in society.
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Harness (verb) /ˈhɑːnɪs/: To control and use the force or strength of something to produce power or achieve something.
Conclusion
The topic of automation’s impact on industries is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of artificial intelligence in the workplace
- The future of employment in an automated world
- The ethical implications of replacing human workers with machines
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to fully address the question, organize your ideas coherently, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and develop your arguments with relevant examples. Practice regularly and don’t hesitate to share your essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!