IELTS Writing Task 2: How Automation Will Change the Future of Work

Automation and its impact on the workforce is a topic that has gained significant attention in recent years, making it a popular subject for IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams and current trends, this theme is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model answers to help you prepare for this important topic.

Analyzing the Question

Some people believe that in the future, machines will do most of the work currently done by humans. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

This question asks for your opinion on the future impact of automation on human jobs. It’s crucial to:

1. Clearly state your position
2. Provide balanced arguments
3. Support your points with relevant examples
4. Consider both positive and negative aspects of automation

Sample Essay (Band 7-8)

In recent years, the rapid advancement of technology has led many to speculate that machines will eventually replace human workers in numerous fields. While I agree that automation will significantly transform the job market, I believe that humans will continue to play a crucial role in the workforce, albeit in different capacities.

Undoubtedly, machines are becoming increasingly capable of performing tasks that were once exclusive to humans. For instance, in manufacturing, robots have already taken over many assembly line jobs, drastically reducing the need for human labor in these areas. Similarly, artificial intelligence is making inroads into white-collar professions, with algorithms now capable of analyzing legal documents and making financial predictions with remarkable accuracy. This trend suggests that certain job categories may indeed become obsolete in the future.

However, I argue that automation will also create new opportunities and reshape existing roles rather than completely eliminating human involvement. As machines take over routine and repetitive tasks, humans will be free to focus on more complex, creative, and emotionally intelligent work. For example, while AI can process medical data, doctors will still be needed to provide empathetic care and make nuanced decisions about patient treatment. Moreover, the development and maintenance of these advanced technologies will require a workforce with specialized skills in areas such as robotics, data science, and systems integration.

Future workforce collaboration

Furthermore, there are certain qualities inherent to humans that machines cannot replicate, at least in the foreseeable future. These include emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and adaptability to unpredictable situations. Jobs that require these skills, such as therapists, teachers, and creative professionals, are likely to remain predominantly human-driven.

In conclusion, while automation will undoubtedly change the landscape of work, I believe it is an oversimplification to say that machines will do most of the work currently done by humans. Instead, we are likely to see a shift in the nature of human work, with a greater emphasis on uniquely human skills and a collaborative relationship between humans and machines in many fields.

(Word count: 339)

Sample Essay (Band 6-7)

Many people think that in the future, machines will do most of the work that humans do now. I partly agree with this idea because machines are becoming more advanced, but I also think humans will still have important jobs to do.

It’s true that machines and computers are taking over some jobs that humans used to do. For example, in factories, robots are now doing a lot of the work that people used to do. This is because robots can work faster and don’t get tired. Also, in offices, computers can now do things like calculate numbers and organize information very quickly. This means that some jobs, like working on assembly lines or doing simple office tasks, might disappear in the future.

However, I don’t think machines will do all the work. There are many jobs that need human skills that machines don’t have. For instance, jobs that need creativity, like being an artist or a writer, are hard for machines to do. Also, jobs that need human emotions, like being a teacher or a nurse, are better done by people. Machines can’t understand human feelings or give comfort like humans can.

Additionally, as technology advances, new jobs will be created. People will be needed to design, build, and fix the machines. There will also be new jobs that we can’t even imagine yet, just like how jobs like “social media manager” didn’t exist 20 years ago.

In conclusion, while machines will certainly do more work in the future, I believe that humans will still have many important jobs. The types of jobs might change, but people will always be needed in the workforce.

(Word count: 272)

Key Points to Remember

1. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The higher band essay has more sophisticated paragraph development.

2. Language: The Band 7-8 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.

3. Arguments: Both essays present balanced arguments, but the higher band essay provides more nuanced points and deeper analysis.

4. Examples: Both essays use relevant examples to support their points, but the Band 7-8 essay’s examples are more specific and diverse.

5. Coherence: The Band 7-8 essay uses more advanced cohesive devices and demonstrates better paragraph and essay-level coherence.

Important Vocabulary

Here are some key terms related to automation and the future of work:

1. Automation (n.) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/ – The use of machines or computers to do work that was previously done by people
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) (n.) /ˌɑːtɪfɪʃl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/ – Computer systems able to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence
3. Obsolete (adj.) /ˈɒbsəliːt/ – No longer used or needed because something newer and better has been invented
4. Nuanced (adj.) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – Characterized by subtle differences or distinctions
5. Empathetic (adj.) /empəˈθetɪk/ – Showing the ability to understand and share the feelings of others
6. Adaptability (n.) /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/ – The quality of being able to adjust to new conditions or situations
7. Collaborative (adj.) /kəˈlæbərətɪv/ – Involving two or more parties working together
8. Workforce (n.) /ˈwɜːkfɔːs/ – The total number of people who are able to work in a country or company

Conclusion

The impact of automation on the future of work is a complex and evolving topic that is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for this theme, practice writing essays that discuss both the potential benefits and challenges of increased automation. Consider exploring related topics such as:

• The role of education in preparing for an automated workforce
• The ethical implications of replacing human workers with machines
• The potential economic impacts of widespread automation
• The importance of developing “uniquely human” skills in an automated world

By familiarizing yourself with these concepts and practicing your essay writing skills, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question related to automation and the future of work in your IELTS exam.