The topic of automation’s impact on job creation in developing countries is increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. This theme has appeared multiple times in recent years and is likely to continue being a popular subject due to its global significance. Let’s examine a real IELTS question that addresses this issue and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Some people believe that the development of automation and artificial intelligence will lead to job losses in developing countries. Others think it will create new job opportunities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to discuss two contrasting viewpoints on the impact of automation and AI on employment in developing countries. It’s crucial to:
- Explain how automation might lead to job losses
- Discuss how it could create new job opportunities
- Provide your personal opinion with supporting arguments
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The rapid advancement of automation and artificial intelligence (AI) has sparked a heated debate about its effects on employment in developing nations. While some argue that these technologies will inevitably lead to widespread job losses, others contend that they will usher in new opportunities. In my opinion, while there may be short-term disruptions, the long-term impact of automation on developing economies is likely to be positive, creating more jobs than it eliminates.
Those who fear job losses have valid concerns. Many traditional jobs, particularly in manufacturing and low-skilled sectors, are at risk of being replaced by machines and AI systems. For instance, assembly line workers in factories or data entry clerks in offices may find their roles becoming obsolete as these tasks can be performed more efficiently and cost-effectively by automated systems. This could lead to significant unemployment in countries that heavily rely on these industries for economic growth and employment.
However, the optimistic view suggests that automation will create new job opportunities, albeit in different sectors. As technology advances, there will be an increased demand for skilled workers to develop, maintain, and operate these new systems. This could lead to the emergence of entirely new industries and job categories that we cannot yet foresee. For example, the rise of e-commerce in developing countries has created numerous jobs in logistics, digital marketing, and customer service that didn’t exist a decade ago.
The effects of automation on job creation in developing countries are complex and multifaceted. While some traditional jobs may disappear, the overall impact is likely to be positive. Automation can increase productivity and efficiency, leading to economic growth that can, in turn, create more jobs. Moreover, it can free up human workers from mundane, repetitive tasks, allowing them to focus on more creative and value-added activities.
In my view, the key to harnessing the benefits of automation lies in education and upskilling. Developing countries need to invest heavily in their human capital, focusing on STEM education and digital literacy to prepare their workforce for the jobs of the future. Governments and businesses should collaborate to create retraining programs for workers whose jobs are at risk of automation. By doing so, these countries can position themselves to take advantage of the opportunities presented by technological advancements, rather than being left behind.
In conclusion, while the concerns about job losses due to automation are understandable, I believe that the long-term benefits outweigh the short-term challenges. With proper planning and investment in human capital, developing countries can leverage automation and AI to create more diverse, resilient, and innovative economies, ultimately leading to net job creation and improved living standards for their populations.
(343 words)
Explanation of Band Score 8-9
This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that justify a high band score:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly presenting a personal opinion with well-developed support.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. Sophisticated words and phrases like “ushering in,” “obsolete,” and “multifaceted” demonstrate a high level of language proficiency.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex sentence structures with a high degree of accuracy. There is good control of grammar and punctuation throughout.
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Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-elaborated with relevant examples and explanations, showing depth of thought and analysis.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The impact of automation and artificial intelligence on jobs in developing countries is a topic of much debate. Some people think it will cause many people to lose their jobs, while others believe it will create new job opportunities. In my opinion, both views have some truth, but overall, I think automation will bring more benefits than problems in the long run.
On one hand, it’s true that automation can lead to job losses. Many jobs that involve repetitive tasks, like factory work or data entry, can be done by machines more efficiently. This means that some workers in developing countries might lose their jobs as companies replace them with automated systems to save money and increase production. This could be a big problem for countries where many people work in these kinds of jobs.
On the other hand, automation and AI can also create new job opportunities. As new technologies are introduced, there will be a need for people to design, build, and maintain these systems. This could lead to new types of jobs that didn’t exist before. For example, the growth of online shopping has created many jobs in areas like website design, digital marketing, and delivery services. Also, as some jobs become automated, people might have more time to focus on jobs that require human skills like creativity and emotional intelligence.
How does technology affect traditional job sectors is an important question to consider. While some traditional jobs may disappear, new ones will likely emerge. The key is for developing countries to prepare their workforce for these changes. This means investing in education, especially in areas like science, technology, and engineering. Governments should also work with businesses to create training programs to help workers learn new skills.
In my opinion, while automation might cause some short-term job losses, it will ultimately bring more benefits to developing countries. It can help increase productivity and economic growth, which can lead to more job creation in the long term. However, it’s important for these countries to plan ahead and make sure their people are ready for the changes that automation will bring.
In conclusion, automation and AI will likely have both positive and negative effects on jobs in developing countries. While some jobs may be lost, new opportunities will also be created. With proper planning and education, I believe developing countries can benefit from these technological advances and create more jobs for their people in the future.
(379 words)
Explanation of Band Score 6-7
This essay demonstrates good qualities that justify a band score of 6-7:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting both viewpoints and offering a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear progression of ideas. Paragraphing is logical, but the use of cohesive devices could be more sophisticated.
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Lexical Resource: There is a good range of vocabulary, with some less common words used appropriately. However, the language is less sophisticated compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are some errors, but they do not impede communication.
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Development of Ideas: Main points are supported with relevant ideas and examples, but the depth of analysis is not as profound as in the higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Automation (noun) – /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/ – The use of machines or computers instead of people to do a job.
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) (noun) – /ˌɑːtɪˌfɪʃl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/ – The development of computer systems able to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence.
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Obsolete (adjective) – /ˈɒbsəliːt/ – No longer used or useful; out of date.
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Upskilling (noun) – /ˈʌpˌskɪlɪŋ/ – The process of learning new skills or teaching workers new skills.
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Multifaceted (adjective) – /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features.
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Resilient (adjective) – /rɪˈzɪliənt/ – Able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions.
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Leverage (verb) – /ˈliːvərɪdʒ/ – Use (something) to maximum advantage.
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Digital literacy (noun phrase) – /ˈdɪdʒɪtl ˈlɪtərəsi/ – The ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information.
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Economic growth (noun phrase) – /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈɡrəʊθ/ – An increase in the amount of goods and services produced per head of the population over a period of time.
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Productivity (noun) – /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/ – The effectiveness of productive effort, especially in industry, as measured in terms of the rate of output per unit of input.
Conclusion
The topic of automation’s impact on job creation in developing countries is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for this and similar topics, practice writing essays that discuss both positive and negative aspects of technological advancements in the job market. Consider exploring related themes such as the impact of AI on labor markets in developing countries or how international trade agreements affect developing countries.
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. As a practice exercise, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active approach to learning can significantly improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS exam.