IELTS Writing Task 2: Mastering Essays on the Impact of Automation on Jobs

IELTS Mentor

3 weeks ago

The topic of automation’s impact on jobs is increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. As an experienced IELTS instructor, I’ve observed this theme appearing more frequently in recent years, and I predict it will continue to be a popular subject for examiners. Let’s explore this topic in depth, providing sample essays for different band scores and analyzing them to help you excel in your IELTS Writing Task 2.

Analyzing the Topic

Before we dive into sample essays, let’s break down a typical question you might encounter:

Some people believe that the increasing use of automation in various industries will lead to widespread unemployment. Others argue that it will create new job opportunities. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

This question touches on a critical debate in our rapidly evolving job market. It requires you to:

Discuss the view that automation causes unemployment
Explore the perspective that automation creates new jobs
Provide your own opinion on the matter

Remember, IELTS examiners are looking for a well-structured essay that addresses all parts of the question, uses appropriate vocabulary, and demonstrates critical thinking.

Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Response

Let’s start with a high-scoring sample essay:

The increasing integration of automation in various sectors has sparked a heated debate about its impact on employment. While some argue that this technological advancement will lead to widespread job losses, others contend that it will generate new employment opportunities. In my opinion, while automation may initially disrupt certain job markets, it ultimately creates more opportunities than it eliminates.

Those who fear automation’s impact on employment often point to historical precedents. The Industrial Revolution, for instance, saw many traditional craftsmen lose their livelihoods to machines. Similarly, in recent decades, we’ve witnessed the decline of manufacturing jobs in developed countries as robots take over assembly lines. This trend, they argue, will only accelerate as artificial intelligence and machine learning become more sophisticated, potentially replacing even white-collar jobs in fields like accounting, law, and medicine.

However, proponents of automation argue that while certain jobs may become obsolete, new ones will emerge. They contend that technological advancements have always created more jobs than they’ve destroyed in the long run. For example, the rise of the internet eliminated some traditional roles but gave birth to entirely new industries such as web development, digital marketing, and e-commerce. Automation, they believe, will similarly create new job categories that we can’t yet imagine, from AI ethicists to robot maintenance specialists.

In my view, while the transition may be challenging for some workers in the short term, automation ultimately benefits society by increasing productivity and creating new opportunities. The key lies in how we manage this transition. Governments and educational institutions must focus on reskilling and upskilling programs to prepare workers for the jobs of the future. Additionally, businesses should be encouraged to invest in human capital alongside technological advancements.

In conclusion, while automation may cause temporary disruptions in the job market, I believe its long-term impact will be positive. By embracing this change and preparing for it proactively, we can harness the benefits of automation while mitigating its potential negative effects on employment.

(Word count: 317)

Impact of Automation on Jobs

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:

Clear structure: The essay follows a logical structure with a clear introduction, body paragraphs addressing both sides of the argument, and a conclusion.
Balanced argument: It discusses both viewpoints before presenting the writer’s opinion, as required by the question.
Sophisticated vocabulary: The essay uses a range of advanced vocabulary appropriate to the topic, such as “integration,” “disrupt,” “obsolete,” and “reskilling.”
Complex sentence structures: The writer employs a mix of simple and complex sentences, demonstrating linguistic flexibility.
Cohesion and coherence: Ideas flow logically, with appropriate use of linking words and phrases.
Relevant examples: The essay provides specific examples to support its arguments, such as the Industrial Revolution and the rise of the internet.
Clear position: The writer’s opinion is clearly stated and supported with reasons.

Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Response

Now, let’s look at a mid-range sample essay:

Nowadays, many industries are using more and more automation in their work. Some people think this will cause many people to lose their jobs, while others believe it will create new job opportunities. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

On one hand, automation can lead to job losses. When machines can do the work of humans, companies may not need as many workers. For example, in factories, robots can now do many tasks that people used to do. This means fewer jobs for factory workers. Also, even in offices, computers can now do some jobs like data entry or basic accounting. This could mean fewer jobs in these areas too.

On the other hand, automation can also create new jobs. As new technologies are developed, we need people to design, build, and maintain these machines and systems. For instance, the growth of the internet has created many new jobs in areas like web design and online marketing. Similarly, as we use more robots and AI, we will need more people who can work with these technologies. This could create many new and interesting job opportunities.

In my opinion, while automation may cause some job losses in the short term, it will ultimately create more jobs than it destroys. However, I think it’s important for people to keep learning new skills so they can adapt to changes in the job market. Governments and companies should also provide training to help workers learn new skills.

In conclusion, automation has both positive and negative effects on jobs. While it may cause some job losses, it also creates new opportunities. I believe the key is to prepare for these changes by continuing to learn and adapt.

(Word count: 283)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates several features that place it in the Band 6-7 range:

Addresses the task: The essay discusses both viewpoints and provides an opinion, as required.
Clear structure: It has a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
Relevant ideas: The main points are relevant to the question and supported with examples.
Vocabulary: The essay uses some topic-specific vocabulary, though not as sophisticated as the Band 8-9 essay.
Grammar: There’s a mix of simple and complex sentences, with generally accurate grammar.
Cohesion: Ideas are linked, though not always as smoothly as in higher-band essays.
Development: Ideas are developed, but not as fully as in the Band 8-9 essay.

To improve this essay, the writer could:

Use more sophisticated vocabulary and sentence structures
Provide more specific examples and deeper analysis
Improve the flow between ideas for better cohesion

Key Vocabulary for This Topic

Here are some useful words and phrases for discussing the Impact Of Automation On Jobs:

Automation (noun) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃən/: The use of machines or computers to do work that was previously done by people.
Disrupt (verb) /dɪsˈrʌpt/: To change or destroy something so that it no longer continues in the usual way.
Obsolete (adjective) /ˈɒbsəliːt/: No longer used or needed because something newer or better has been invented.
Reskilling (noun) /riːˈskɪlɪŋ/: The process of learning new skills to do a different job.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) (noun) /ˌɑːtɪfɪʃl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/: The development of computer systems able to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence.
Productivity (noun) /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/: The rate at which goods are produced or work is completed.
Technological advancement (noun phrase) /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkl ədˈvɑːnsmənt/: The development and application of new technologies.
Job market (noun phrase) /dʒɒb ˈmɑːkɪt/: The availability of employment and labor.
White-collar jobs (noun phrase) /waɪt ˈkɒlə dʒɒbz/: Professional or managerial jobs, typically performed in an office setting.
Blue-collar jobs (noun phrase) /bluː ˈkɒlə dʒɒbz/: Manual labor jobs, typically in industrial or manufacturing settings.

Conclusion and Practice Suggestions

The impact of automation on jobs is a complex and evolving topic that’s likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. As you prepare, consider practicing essays on related themes such as:

The role of technology in education
The effects of artificial intelligence on society
The changing nature of work in the 21st century
The importance of lifelong learning in the modern job market

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice. Try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare for similar questions in the actual IELTS exam.

For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:

Keep practicing, and good luck with your IELTS preparation!