Technology’s influence on employment has become a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This topic’s frequency in past exams and its relevance to current global trends suggest it will continue to be a popular subject in future tests. Let’s explore some real IELTS questions related to this theme and provide a comprehensive guide to tackling such essays effectively.
Analyzing the Question
Among the various questions on this topic, one that stands out for its likelihood to appear in future exams is:
Some people believe that technological developments lead to the loss of traditional skills. Others say that technology brings more opportunities for economic development. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This question encapsulates two contrasting viewpoints on technology’s impact on job opportunities:
- Technology leads to the loss of traditional skills
- Technology creates more opportunities for economic growth
The task requires you to discuss both perspectives and present your own opinion, making it a classic example of an IELTS Task 2 essay question.
Sample Essays
Band 7-8 Essay
In today’s rapidly evolving world, the impact of technology on job markets is a topic of heated debate. While some argue that technological advancements lead to the erosion of traditional skills, others contend that these developments create new economic opportunities. In my opinion, while technology does pose challenges to certain traditional occupations, its overall effect on job creation and economic growth is largely positive.
On one hand, it is undeniable that technological progress has rendered some traditional skills obsolete. For instance, the advent of digital photography has significantly reduced the demand for traditional film developers. Similarly, automation in manufacturing has displaced many manual laborers. These changes have undoubtedly caused hardship for workers in affected industries, leading to job losses and the need for retraining.
However, the opposing view holds considerable merit. Technological developments have given rise to entirely new industries and job categories. The emergence of social media has created roles such as social media managers and content creators, which were non-existent a decade ago. Moreover, technology has enhanced productivity across various sectors, fostering economic growth and indirectly creating more employment opportunities. For example, e-commerce platforms have not only generated jobs in IT and logistics but have also empowered small businesses to reach global markets.
In my view, while the loss of certain traditional skills is regrettable, the overall impact of technology on job opportunities is beneficial. The key lies in adapting to these changes through education and upskilling. Governments and educational institutions should focus on equipping the workforce with the digital skills necessary to thrive in the modern economy. Additionally, efforts should be made to preserve valuable traditional skills through cultural initiatives and niche market opportunities.
In conclusion, although technological advancements do pose challenges to some traditional occupations, they ultimately create more opportunities than they eliminate. The onus is on society to manage this transition effectively, ensuring that the benefits of technological progress are widely shared.
(Word count: 309)
Technology's impact on job market
Band 6-7 Essay
In recent years, technology has had a big impact on jobs. Some people think it’s causing traditional skills to disappear, while others believe it’s creating new opportunities for economic growth. I think both views have some truth, but overall technology is more beneficial for job opportunities.
Firstly, it’s true that some traditional jobs are being lost because of technology. For example, many factory workers have been replaced by machines. This has caused problems for people who have these skills and now struggle to find work. Also, some crafts like handmade furniture making are becoming less common because machines can make things faster and cheaper.
However, technology has also created many new jobs. The IT industry has grown a lot, creating jobs for programmers, web designers, and data analysts. Even traditional businesses now need people with technology skills to help them use computers and the internet. Moreover, technology has made it easier for people to start their own businesses online, which can create more jobs.
In my opinion, while it’s sad that some traditional skills are being lost, technology is generally good for job opportunities. The new jobs created by technology often pay better and offer more opportunities for growth. Also, technology has made many jobs easier and safer, which is a good thing.
I think the solution is to help people learn new skills so they can get the new jobs that technology creates. Schools and governments should focus on teaching technology skills to prepare people for the future job market. At the same time, we should try to preserve important traditional skills through museums and special training programs.
In conclusion, although technology does cause some traditional jobs to disappear, it creates more opportunities overall. The challenge is to make sure everyone can benefit from these new opportunities.
(Word count: 295)
Writing Tips
When tackling essays on technology’s impact on job opportunities, consider the following:
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Balanced Approach: Ensure you discuss both positive and negative aspects of technology’s impact on employment.
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Specific Examples: Use concrete examples to illustrate your points. For higher band scores, include less obvious examples beyond common ones like factory automation.
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Personal Opinion: Clearly state your own view, typically in the introduction and conclusion. For band 7-8, your opinion should be nuanced rather than extreme.
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Cohesion and Coherence: Use a variety of linking words to connect your ideas smoothly. For band 7-8, aim for sophisticated connectors beyond basic ones.
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Lexical Resource: Employ a range of vocabulary related to technology and employment. Higher band scores require less common words and phrases used accurately.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. For band 7-8, include a variety of complex structures with minimal errors.
Vocabulary to Remember
- Technological advancements (noun) – /ˌtek.nəˈlɒdʒ.ɪ.kəl ədˈvɑːns.mənts/ – progress in technology
- Obsolete (adjective) – /ˈɒb.sə.liːt/ – no longer used or needed
- Automation (noun) – /ˌɔː.təˈmeɪ.ʃən/ – the use of machines to do work that was previously done by people
- Upskilling (noun) – /ˈʌpˌskɪl.ɪŋ/ – the process of learning new skills or teaching workers new skills
- Digital literacy (noun) – /ˈdɪdʒ.ɪ.təl ˈlɪt.ər.ə.si/ – the ability to use digital technology effectively
- Economic growth (noun) – /ˌiː.kəˈnɒm.ɪk ɡrəʊθ/ – an increase in the amount of goods and services produced in a country
- Displaced workers (noun) – /dɪˈspleɪst ˈwɜː.kəz/ – people who have lost their jobs due to changes in technology or the economy
- Innovation (noun) – /ˌɪn.əˈveɪ.ʃən/ – a new idea or method, or the use of new ideas and methods
- Adaptive skills (noun) – /əˈdæp.tɪv skɪlz/ – abilities that allow a person to adjust to new situations
- Emerging industries (noun) – /ɪˈmɜː.dʒɪŋ ˈɪn.də.striz/ – new types of businesses that are developing
Conclusion
The topic of technology’s impact on job opportunities is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of artificial intelligence in changing job markets
- The importance of lifelong learning in a technology-driven economy
- The balance between preserving traditional skills and embracing technological innovation
- The responsibility of governments and businesses in managing technological unemployment
By familiarizing yourself with these themes and practicing your essay writing skills, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question on this topic in your IELTS Writing Task 2.
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