The topic of managing risks associated with automation in the workforce is increasingly relevant in today’s rapidly evolving job market. This subject has appeared in various forms in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions and is likely to continue being a popular theme due to its global significance. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays for different band scores, providing you with valuable insights to enhance your IELTS writing skills.
Automation in the workforce
Analyzing the Task 2 Question
Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
As automation becomes more prevalent in the workplace, many fear job losses. Some suggest that governments should protect jobs by limiting automation, while others argue that we should embrace technological change. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question addresses a critical issue in modern society: the impact of automation on employment. It requires you to:
- Discuss the view that governments should limit automation to protect jobs
- Discuss the opposing view that we should embrace technological change
- Provide your own opinion on the matter
Now, let’s examine sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
High Band Score Essay
As technology continues to advance at an unprecedented rate, the debate over automation’s role in the workplace has intensified. While some advocate for government intervention to safeguard jobs by restricting automation, others argue for embracing technological progress. In my opinion, while job protection is crucial, adapting to and harnessing the benefits of automation is ultimately more beneficial for society.
Those in favor of limiting automation argue that unchecked technological advancement could lead to widespread unemployment and social upheaval. They contend that governments have a responsibility to protect their citizens’ livelihoods and that allowing companies to replace human workers with machines en masse could result in economic instability and increased inequality. By imposing restrictions on automation, proponents believe that jobs can be preserved, ensuring a smoother transition as society adapts to technological changes.
On the other hand, advocates for embracing automation argue that technological progress is inevitable and attempts to hinder it are both futile and counterproductive. They point out that throughout history, technological advancements have consistently created new job opportunities while eliminating obsolete ones. These proponents contend that automation can lead to increased productivity, economic growth, and improved living standards. Furthermore, they argue that by embracing automation, societies can focus on developing skills that complement rather than compete with technology, thereby creating a more resilient and adaptable workforce.
In my view, while the concerns about job losses due to automation are valid, the solution lies not in limiting technological progress but in proactively managing its implementation and effects. Governments and businesses should focus on reskilling and upskilling programs to prepare workers for the jobs of the future. Additionally, investing in education systems that emphasize creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability will be crucial in equipping future generations to thrive in an increasingly automated world.
Moreover, policymakers should consider implementing measures such as universal basic income or shorter working weeks to mitigate the potential negative impacts of automation on employment. These approaches could help distribute the benefits of increased productivity more equitably while providing a safety net for those affected by job displacement.
In conclusion, while the risks associated with automation in the workforce are significant, the potential benefits of embracing technological change outweigh the drawbacks of attempting to limit it. By focusing on adaptive strategies and supportive policies, societies can harness the power of automation to create a more prosperous and equitable future for all.
(Word count: 398)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:
Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices (e.g., “On the other hand,” “Moreover,” “In conclusion”).
Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “unprecedented,” “upheaval,” “counterproductive,” “mitigate”).
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).
Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Clarity of Argument: The writer’s position is clear and consistent throughout the essay.
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Medium Band Score Essay
Automation is becoming more common in many workplaces, and this is causing worries about job losses. Some people think governments should protect jobs by putting limits on automation, while others believe we should accept technological changes. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Those who want to limit automation say that it’s important to protect people’s jobs. They think that if too many machines replace workers, a lot of people will become unemployed. This could cause problems in society and the economy. They believe the government should make rules to stop companies from using too much automation, so people can keep their jobs.
On the other hand, people who support automation say that we can’t stop technology from changing things. They point out that new technology has always changed jobs throughout history, but it also creates new types of work. They think automation can make businesses more efficient and help the economy grow. Also, they say that by accepting automation, we can focus on developing new skills that work well with technology.
In my opinion, I think we should embrace technological changes, but we need to be careful about how we do it. It’s important for governments and companies to help workers learn new skills so they can find different jobs if automation takes their old ones. We should also change our education system to teach skills that machines can’t easily replace, like creativity and problem-solving.
Additionally, I believe we need to think about new ways to support people if automation does cause job losses. This could include ideas like providing a basic income to everyone or reducing working hours so more people can have jobs.
In conclusion, while I understand the worries about job losses from automation, I think trying to limit technology is not the best solution. Instead, we should focus on preparing people for changes and finding ways to share the benefits of automation fairly.
(Word count: 329)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates features that place it in the Band 6-7 range:
Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing an opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
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.
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is appropriate but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control, but lacks the flexibility and accuracy of the Band 8-9 essay.
Development of Ideas: Main points are supported, but the examples and explanations are less detailed and nuanced than in the higher band essay.
Clarity of Argument: The writer’s position is clear, but the argument could be more convincingly presented.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Automation (noun) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/ – the use of machines and computers to do work that was previously done by people
- Prevalent (adjective) /ˈprevələnt/ – widespread or common
- Safeguard (verb) /ˈseɪfɡɑːd/ – to protect something from harm or damage
- Upheaval (noun) /ʌpˈhiːvl/ – a big change that causes trouble and confusion
- Proactively (adverb) /prəʊˈæktɪvli/ – acting in advance to deal with an expected difficulty
- Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – to make something less harmful, serious, or painful
- Reskilling (noun) /riːˈskɪlɪŋ/ – the process of learning new skills so you can do a different job
- Universal basic income (noun phrase) /ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsl ˈbeɪsɪk ˈɪnkʌm/ – a government program in which every adult citizen receives a set amount of money regularly
Conclusion
The topic of managing automation risks in the workforce is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. To prepare for such topics, practice writing essays that discuss both the benefits and challenges of technological advancements in the workplace. Consider exploring related themes such as:
- The role of education in preparing for an automated future
- The ethical implications of replacing human workers with machines
- The potential economic impacts of widespread automation
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about having good ideas, but also about presenting them clearly and coherently. Practice regularly, focusing on improving your vocabulary, grammar, and essay structure.
We encourage you to try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your skills and receive valuable feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.