As an IELTS Writing Task 2 expert, I’ve noticed that topics related to automation and its impact on traditional jobs have become increasingly common in recent years. This trend is likely to continue, given the rapid technological advancements and their profound effects on the global job market. Let’s explore this theme through the lens of IELTS Writing Task 2, focusing on how automation is replacing traditional manufacturing jobs.
Based on my research of past IELTS exams and current trends, I’ve identified a relevant question that aligns closely with our topic:
Some people think that robots are essential for a country’s industrial development, while others think they are dangerous and have negative effects on society. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Let’s analyze this question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires us to:
- Discuss the positive view: Robots are essential for industrial development
- Discuss the negative view: Robots are dangerous and have negative effects on society
- Provide our own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question and maintain a balanced approach while clearly stating your personal stance.
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
Technological advancement has led to an increased use of robots in various industries, sparking a debate about their impact on society and economic development. While some argue that robots are crucial for industrial progress, others contend that they pose significant risks to social stability. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of robotics in industry argue that automation is essential for economic growth and competitiveness. Robots can work tirelessly, with precision and speed that far surpasses human capabilities, leading to increased productivity and efficiency. For instance, in the automotive industry, robotic assembly lines have drastically reduced production times and improved product quality. Moreover, automation allows countries to compete globally, even with higher labor costs, by offsetting these expenses through increased output and reduced errors.
On the other hand, critics argue that the widespread adoption of robots in manufacturing poses serious threats to employment and social cohesion. As machines replace human workers, there is a legitimate concern about mass unemployment, particularly among low-skilled laborers. This job displacement can lead to increased income inequality, social unrest, and a strain on welfare systems. Furthermore, there are concerns about the loss of craftsmanship and human touch in production processes, potentially affecting product quality and cultural heritage in certain industries.
In my opinion, while the concerns about job displacement are valid, the benefits of robotic automation outweigh the drawbacks. However, it is crucial to implement this technology responsibly. Governments and industries should focus on retraining and upskilling workers to adapt to the changing job market. Additionally, policies that ensure a fair distribution of the benefits of automation, such as shorter working hours or universal basic income, could help mitigate the negative social impacts.
In conclusion, robots are indeed essential for industrial development in our increasingly competitive global economy. However, their integration must be carefully managed to balance economic progress with social welfare. By focusing on education, retraining, and equitable policies, we can harness the benefits of automation while minimizing its potential negative effects on society.
(Word count: 329)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating a personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. Ideas flow logically, and cohesive devices are used effectively (e.g., “On the other hand”, “Moreover”, “In conclusion”).
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “competitiveness”, “precision”, “social cohesion”, “craftsmanship”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly (e.g., complex sentences, passive voice, conditional statements).
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Band 6-7 Essay
The use of robots in industries has become a topic of debate in recent years. Some people believe that robots are necessary for industrial development, while others think they are dangerous and have negative effects on society. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On one hand, robots can be very helpful for industrial development. They can work faster and more accurately than humans, which means companies can produce more goods in less time. For example, in car factories, robots can assemble parts much quicker than human workers. This increased productivity can help countries compete better in the global market. Also, robots can do dangerous jobs that might hurt human workers, making workplaces safer.
On the other hand, there are concerns about the negative effects of robots on society. The main worry is that robots will replace human workers, leading to unemployment. If many people lose their jobs to robots, it could cause social problems and increase poverty. Another issue is that robots might make mistakes or malfunction, which could be dangerous in some industries.
In my opinion, while robots do have some negative effects, their benefits for industrial development are more significant. However, I think it’s important for governments and companies to help workers who lose their jobs because of robots. They should provide training programs to help these workers learn new skills and find different jobs.
To conclude, robots are important for industrial progress, but we need to be careful about how we use them. We should try to balance the benefits of robots with the needs of workers to create a society that benefits from technology without leaving people behind.
(Word count: 276)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates competence in several areas but falls short of excellence:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the question, but the ideas could be more fully developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, but with less variety than the Band 8-9 essay.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented clearly, but some points lack the depth of explanation seen in higher band essays.
Key Vocabulary
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Automation (noun) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/: The use of automatic equipment in a manufacturing process.
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Productivity (noun) /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/: The rate at which goods are produced or work is completed.
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Displacement (noun) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/: The act of moving someone or something from their usual place or position.
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Craftsmanship (noun) /ˈkrɑːftsmənʃɪp/: The quality of design and work shown in something made by hand; artistry.
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Upskilling (noun) /ˌʌpˈskɪlɪŋ/: The process of learning new skills or teaching workers new skills.
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Malfunction (verb) /ˌmælˈfʌŋkʃn/: To fail to function normally or satisfactorily.
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Competitiveness (noun) /kəmˈpetətɪvnəs/: The quality of being as good as or better than others of a comparable nature.
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Social cohesion (noun phrase) /ˈsəʊʃl kəʊˈhiːʒn/: The willingness of members of a society to cooperate with each other in order to survive and prosper.
Conclusion
The topic of automation replacing traditional manufacturing jobs is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for such questions, practice writing essays on related themes like:
- The impact of artificial intelligence on various job sectors
- The role of technology in reshaping the job market
- Balancing technological progress with social welfare
- The future of work in an increasingly automated world
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and fully address all parts of the question. Practice writing your own essays on this topic and share them in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active practice will help you improve your IELTS Writing skills and prepare you for success in the exam.