Automation in manufacturing is a hot topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on past exam trends and the current relevance of this issue, we can expect to see questions related to “how automation is reducing employment in manufacturing” in future tests. Let’s analyze a sample question and provide model essays to help you prepare for this important subject.
Some people think that the increasing use of automation in manufacturing is causing unemployment. Others believe it creates new job opportunities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question asks you to discuss two contrasting viewpoints on the impact of automation in manufacturing:
- Automation causes unemployment
- Automation creates new job opportunities
You need to explore both perspectives and then provide your own opinion on the matter. Remember to support your arguments with relevant examples and explanations.
Model Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The proliferation of automation in manufacturing has sparked a debate about its effects on employment. While some argue that it leads to job losses, others contend that it generates new career possibilities. In my opinion, although automation may cause short-term unemployment in certain sectors, it ultimately creates more diverse and high-skilled job opportunities in the long run.
Those who believe automation reduces employment have valid concerns. As machines and robots take over repetitive tasks on assembly lines, many low-skilled workers find themselves displaced. For instance, in the automotive industry, robotic arms have replaced human workers in welding and painting processes, resulting in significant job cuts. This trend can lead to immediate unemployment and economic hardship for affected individuals and communities.
On the other hand, proponents of automation argue that it creates new job opportunities. As manufacturing processes become more technologically advanced, there is an increased demand for skilled workers to design, program, and maintain these automated systems. For example, the rise of 3D printing technology has led to the emergence of new roles such as 3D printing technicians and additive manufacturing engineers. Additionally, the cost savings from automation often allow companies to expand their operations, potentially creating more jobs in other areas of the business.
In my view, while the short-term effects of automation on employment can be disruptive, the long-term benefits outweigh the drawbacks. Automation drives innovation and productivity, which are essential for economic growth and the creation of new industries. To mitigate the negative impacts, governments and businesses should focus on retraining and upskilling programs to help workers transition into new roles. Furthermore, education systems need to adapt to prepare future generations for the changing job market by emphasizing skills that complement automation, such as critical thinking and creativity.
In conclusion, automation in manufacturing presents both challenges and opportunities for employment. By proactively addressing the potential job losses and investing in workforce development, we can harness the benefits of automation while minimizing its negative consequences.
(Word count: 318)
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a comprehensive understanding of the topic, warranting a Band 8-9 score. Here’s why:
- Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices. Ideas flow logically from one paragraph to the next.
- Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately. Complex phrases like “proliferation of automation” and “economic hardship” demonstrate a high level of language proficiency.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a variety of complex sentence structures with very few errors. It uses a mix of simple, compound, and complex sentences effectively.
- Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, showing depth of analysis.
Model Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Nowadays, more and more factories are using machines instead of people to make things. Some think this causes unemployment, while others believe it creates new jobs. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On one hand, automation in factories can lead to job losses. When companies buy machines to do work that people used to do, they often need fewer workers. For example, in car factories, robots now do a lot of the welding and painting. This means many workers lose their jobs and have trouble finding new ones, especially if they don’t have other skills.
However, some people say that automation creates new job opportunities. As factories become more high-tech, they need workers who can operate and fix the new machines. Also, when companies save money by using machines, they might use that money to grow their business and hire more people in other areas. For instance, a company might hire more salespeople or customer service representatives.
In my opinion, I think automation has both good and bad effects on jobs. While it’s true that some people lose their jobs because of machines, it also creates new types of work. The important thing is for workers to learn new skills so they can adapt to these changes. Governments and companies should help workers retrain for new jobs in the changing economy.
To conclude, automation in manufacturing has different effects on employment. It can cause some job losses but also create new opportunities. The key is to help workers prepare for these changes so they can find new jobs in the future.
(Word count: 273)
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good writing skills but has some areas for improvement, placing it in the Band 6-7 range. Here’s the breakdown:
- Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and stating the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure with appropriate paragraphing. Some cohesive devices are used, but they could be more varied.
- Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, with some attempts at less common words. However, there’s room for more sophisticated vocabulary use.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control. There are some minor errors, but they don’t impede communication.
- Development of Ideas: Main ideas are relevant and supported with examples, but the depth of explanation could be improved.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Automation (noun) – /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/ – The use of machines or computers instead of people to do a job
- Proliferation (noun) – /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃn/ – Rapid increase in the number or amount of something
- Displacement (noun) – /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ – The act of forcing someone or something out of its usual place
- Mitigate (verb) – /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – To make something less harmful, serious, or bad
- Upskilling (noun) – /ˈʌpskɪlɪŋ/ – The process of learning new skills or teaching workers new skills
- Innovative (adjective) – /ˈɪnəvətɪv/ – Using new methods or ideas
- Transition (noun/verb) – /trænˈzɪʃn/ – The process of changing from one state or condition to another
- Productivity (noun) – /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/ – The rate at which goods are produced or work is completed
Conclusion
The topic of automation’s impact on manufacturing employment is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of government in managing job displacement due to automation
- The importance of education in preparing the workforce for an automated future
- The ethical implications of replacing human workers with machines
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active approach to learning will help you improve your IELTS Writing Task 2 skills and prepare you for success in the exam.
For more insights on related topics, check out our articles on how automation is transforming customer service, the impact of automation on low-skilled workers, and how advancements in robotics are reshaping manufacturing.