Technology’s influence on the future of work is a hot topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. This theme has appeared frequently in recent exams and is likely to continue being a popular subject due to its relevance in our rapidly evolving digital age. Let’s examine a typical question on this topic and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Technology and Future of Work
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that technology will eventually replace most human jobs, while others think technology will create new job opportunities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question asks you to explore two contrasting viewpoints on technology’s impact on employment:
- Technology will eliminate most human jobs
- Technology will generate new job opportunities
You need to discuss both perspectives and then provide your personal opinion. This is a classic example of an opinion essay, which requires a balanced approach and a clear stance.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Technology’s role in shaping the future of work is a topic of intense debate. While some argue that technological advancements will ultimately lead to widespread job losses, others contend that these innovations will create new employment opportunities. In my opinion, while technology will undoubtedly disrupt certain industries, it will also pave the way for novel career paths, resulting in a transformed but not diminished job market.
Those who fear technology’s impact on employment often point to the increasing automation of manual and repetitive tasks. For instance, self-checkout counters in supermarkets and automated assembly lines in factories have already replaced numerous low-skilled jobs. As artificial intelligence and robotics continue to advance, even more complex roles in fields such as accounting, law, and medicine may be at risk. This perspective suggests that technology will gradually render human labor obsolete across various sectors.
On the other hand, proponents of technology’s positive impact on employment argue that innovation has historically created more jobs than it has eliminated. The rise of the internet, for example, has given birth to entirely new industries such as digital marketing, app development, and cybersecurity. Furthermore, as technology automates routine tasks, it frees up human workers to focus on more creative, strategic, and emotionally intelligent aspects of their jobs. This view posits that technology will enhance human capabilities rather than replace them entirely.
In my assessment, while technology will undoubtedly disrupt traditional employment patterns, it is more likely to transform the nature of work rather than eliminate it altogether. The key lies in our ability to adapt and acquire new skills that complement technological advancements. Education systems and workforce training programs will need to evolve to equip people with the digital literacy and soft skills required in an increasingly tech-driven economy. Additionally, as technology takes over mundane tasks, there may be a greater emphasis on uniquely human qualities such as empathy, creativity, and critical thinking in the workplace.
In conclusion, technology’s impact on the future of work is complex and multifaceted. While it may lead to job losses in some areas, it will also create new opportunities in others. The challenge for society is to ensure that the benefits of technological progress are distributed equitably and that workers are supported in transitioning to the jobs of the future.
(Word count: 366)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Technology is changing the way we work very quickly. Some people think it will take away most jobs from humans, but others believe it will make new jobs. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
People who worry about technology taking jobs often talk about machines doing work instead of humans. For example, in factories, robots can now do many jobs that people used to do. Also, computers can do some office work faster than humans. This makes some people think that in the future, there will be fewer jobs for people.
However, other people say that technology will create new types of jobs. When computers and the internet became popular, they made new jobs like making websites or fixing computers. They think that as new technology comes, it will always make new kinds of work for people to do.
In my opinion, I think both ideas are partly true. Some jobs will disappear because of technology, but new jobs will also be created. The important thing is for people to learn new skills so they can do the new jobs that technology creates. Schools and companies should help people learn these new skills.
To conclude, technology will change the way we work, but it won’t take away all jobs. It will create new opportunities, and we need to be ready for these changes by learning new things.
(Word count: 228)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced argument.
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Language: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language. Both are appropriate for their respective levels.
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Examples: Both essays provide specific examples to support their points. The higher band essay offers more detailed and varied examples.
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Opinion: Both essays clearly state the writer’s opinion, but the Band 8-9 essay provides a more in-depth analysis of the writer’s stance.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates better use of linking words and ideas, creating a more cohesive argument.
Vocabulary to Remember
- Disrupt (verb) /dɪsˈrʌpt/ – to interrupt something and stop it from continuing as it should
- Obsolete (adjective) /ˈɒbsəliːt/ – no longer used or needed
- Pave the way (phrase) /peɪv ðə weɪ/ – to make it easier for something to happen
- Artificial intelligence (noun) /ˌɑːtɪˈfɪʃl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/ – the study and development of computer systems able to perform tasks normally requiring human intelligence
- Cybersecurity (noun) /ˌsaɪbəsɪˈkjʊərəti/ – the state of being protected against the criminal or unauthorized use of electronic data
- Equitably (adverb) /ˈekwɪtəbli/ – in a fair and impartial manner
- Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
Conclusion
The impact of technology on the future of work is a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. To excel in writing about this subject, focus on presenting balanced arguments, providing relevant examples, and clearly stating your opinion. Practice writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of artificial intelligence in education
- The impact of automation on the global economy
- The importance of digital literacy in the modern workforce
Remember to structure your essay well, use appropriate vocabulary, and support your arguments with specific examples. Feel free to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active practice will significantly improve your IELTS writing skills.
