The topic of automation’s impact on the global job market is becoming increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on an analysis of past exams and current trends, we can expect this theme to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that in the future, machines will do most of the work and there will be fewer jobs for humans. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analyzing the Question
This question asks candidates to consider the future of employment in light of increasing automation. It requires a clear stance on whether you agree or disagree with the statement, along with well-supported arguments. Let’s break down the key elements:
- Topic: The impact of machines on future job availability
- Task: Express your opinion (agree or disagree) and provide reasons
- Key points to consider:
- The extent of automation in various industries
- The types of jobs that might be affected
- Potential new job opportunities created by automation
- The human skills that machines may not easily replace
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In recent years, there has been growing concern about the potential impact of automation on employment opportunities. While some argue that machines will significantly reduce job availability for humans in the future, I partially disagree with this view. Although automation will undoubtedly transform the job market, I believe it will create new opportunities alongside the challenges it presents.
Admittedly, certain sectors are likely to see a reduction in human workforce due to automation. Manufacturing and repetitive administrative tasks are prime examples where machines have already begun to replace human workers. For instance, how automation is reshaping traditional retail is evident in the increasing use of self-checkout systems and inventory management robots. This trend is likely to continue and expand into other industries, potentially leading to job losses in specific areas.
However, I argue that automation will also create new job opportunities and transform existing roles rather than eliminating human employment entirely. The development, maintenance, and oversight of automated systems will require a workforce with specialized skills. Moreover, automation often leads to increased productivity and economic growth, which can generate demand for new products and services, thereby creating new jobs. For example, the rise of e-commerce has led to a boom in logistics and last-mile delivery jobs, offsetting losses in traditional retail positions.
Furthermore, many professions require uniquely human skills that machines are unlikely to replicate in the near future. Creative industries, healthcare, education, and roles requiring emotional intelligence and complex problem-solving are areas where human workers will remain essential. The impact of automation on employment opportunities in developing countries may even be less severe, as these nations often rely more heavily on labor-intensive industries that are challenging to fully automate.
In conclusion, while automation will undoubtedly change the employment landscape, I believe it is overly pessimistic to assume that machines will dominate the job market entirely. The key to navigating this shift lies in adapting our education systems and workforce training to prepare for the jobs of the future, ensuring that humans can work alongside machines rather than being replaced by them.
(Word count: 345)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The question of whether machines will take over most jobs in the future is a hot topic these days. While I agree that automation will change the job market, I don’t think it will completely replace human workers.
It’s true that some jobs are already being done by machines. In factories, robots are doing a lot of the work that people used to do. Also, in offices, computers are handling many tasks like data entry and simple calculations. This trend will probably continue, and more jobs might be at risk in the future.
However, I believe that new jobs will also be created because of automation. Someone needs to design, build, and fix these machines. Also, how digital literacy affects job opportunities is important to consider. People who can work with technology will have more chances to get good jobs. This means we need to focus on education and training to prepare for these new roles.
Moreover, there are many jobs that machines can’t do well. Jobs that need creativity, empathy, or complex thinking are hard for machines to handle. For example, teachers, nurses, and artists will still be needed in the future. How automation is influencing the service industry shows that while some tasks can be automated, human interaction is still valued in many services.
In conclusion, while machines will change the job market, I don’t think they will take over completely. We need to adapt to these changes by learning new skills and focusing on jobs that require human qualities.
(Word count: 268)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with well-developed ideas and relevant examples.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, with good awareness of style and collocation.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of grammatical structures is used accurately, with only rare minor errors.
Band 6-7 Essay:
This essay shows good writing skills but with some limitations:
- Task Response: The essay addresses the task, but some ideas could be more fully developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some paragraphs could be better linked.
- Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used, but there’s less sophistication compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used, with generally good control, though there are some errors.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Automation (noun) – /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/ – The use of machines or computers to do work that was previously done by people.
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Workforce (noun) – /ˈwɜːkfɔːs/ – The total number of people who are available to work.
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Productivity (noun) – /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/ – The rate at which goods are produced or work is completed.
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Adapt (verb) – /əˈdæpt/ – To change something to suit different conditions or uses.
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Innovation (noun) – /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – The introduction of new ideas, methods, or things.
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Obsolete (adjective) – /ˈɒbsəliːt/ – No longer used or useful, out of date.
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Artificial Intelligence (noun) – /ˌɑːtɪfɪʃl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/ – The development of computer systems able to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence.
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Upskilling (noun) – /ˈʌpˌskɪlɪŋ/ – The process of learning new skills or teaching workers new skills.
Conclusion
The Impact Of Automation On The Global Job Market is a complex and evolving topic that is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for similar questions, consider practicing with variations such as:
- Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of increasing automation in the workplace.
- Some people believe that governments should take measures to protect jobs from automation. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
- How can education systems adapt to prepare students for a job market increasingly influenced by automation?
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with fellow learners.