The topic of automation’s impact on manufacturing jobs has become increasingly relevant in recent years, making it a popular subject for IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on the analysis of past IELTS exams and current trends, this topic is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model essays to help you prepare effectively for this important subject.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:
Some people think that the increasing use of automation in manufacturing will lead to significant job losses. Others believe it will create new job opportunities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the view that automation will cause job losses in manufacturing
- Explore the perspective that automation will create new job opportunities
- Provide your own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at two sample essays that tackle this prompt, one aiming for Band 8 and another for Band 6.
Band 8 Sample Essay
The rapid advancement of automation technology has sparked a heated debate about its impact on employment in the manufacturing sector. While some argue that increased automation will result in widespread job losses, others contend that it will generate new employment opportunities. In my opinion, while automation may indeed eliminate certain traditional manufacturing roles, it will ultimately create more jobs and transform the nature of work in this industry.
Those who fear job losses due to automation have valid concerns. Undoubtedly, many repetitive and manual tasks in manufacturing are being replaced by machines and robots. For instance, assembly line workers who previously performed routine operations are increasingly being supplanted by automated systems that can work faster and with greater precision. This trend could lead to significant unemployment, particularly among low-skilled workers who may struggle to find alternative employment.
However, proponents of automation argue that it will create new job opportunities, and I tend to agree with this perspective. As manufacturing processes become more technologically advanced, there will be a growing demand for skilled workers to design, program, operate, and maintain these automated systems. For example, the rise of 3D printing in manufacturing has created jobs for 3D modeling specialists and additive manufacturing engineers. Moreover, automation often leads to increased productivity and lower production costs, which can result in business expansion and the creation of new roles in areas such as research and development, quality control, and customer service.
In my view, while the transition may be challenging for some workers in the short term, the long-term effects of automation on manufacturing jobs are likely to be positive. The key lies in adapting to this change through education and reskilling programs. Governments and industries should collaborate to provide training opportunities that equip workers with the skills needed in an increasingly automated manufacturing environment. This approach will not only help mitigate job losses but also ensure that the workforce is prepared to take advantage of the new opportunities created by technological advancements.
In conclusion, although automation in manufacturing may displace some traditional jobs, I believe it will ultimately lead to the creation of more diverse and skilled employment opportunities. The challenge lies in managing this transition effectively to ensure that the benefits of automation are widely shared across the workforce. (329 words)
Essay Analysis
This essay would likely score a Band 8 for the following reasons:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly stating the writer’s own opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a variety of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “However,” “Moreover,” “In my view”).
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Lexical Resource: The essay demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary used accurately and appropriately (e.g., “rapid advancement,” “repetitive and manual tasks,” “supplanted,” “technologically advanced”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately (e.g., “While some argue that…, others contend that…,” “Those who fear job losses due to automation have valid concerns.”).
Band 6 Sample Essay
Nowadays, many factories are using machines instead of people to make things. Some people think this will cause many workers to lose their jobs, but others believe it will create new jobs. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
On one hand, it’s true that machines can replace human workers in many manufacturing jobs. For example, robots can work faster and don’t get tired, so companies might prefer them over human workers. This could mean that many people who work in factories might lose their jobs, which is a big problem.
On the other hand, some people say that automation will create new jobs. When factories use more machines, they need people who can fix and control these machines. Also, with machines doing the hard work, companies might make more products and need more people to sell them or help customers. This could create new types of jobs that didn’t exist before.
In my opinion, I think automation will probably cause some job losses at first, but in the long run, it will create more jobs. The important thing is for workers to learn new skills so they can do the new jobs that automation creates. Governments and companies should help workers learn these new skills.
To conclude, while automation in manufacturing might cause some problems with job losses, I believe it will eventually create more jobs. The challenge is to help workers adapt to these changes. (228 words)
Essay Analysis
This essay would likely score a Band 6 for the following reasons:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the ideas are not as fully developed as in the Band 8 essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated (e.g., frequent use of “Also,” “On the other hand”).
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate but less varied and precise compared to the Band 8 essay (e.g., “make things,” “big problem”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, but with less variety and sophistication than the Band 8 essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Automation (noun) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/: The use of machines and computers to do work that was previously done by people.
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Manufacturing (noun) /ˌmænjuˈfæktʃərɪŋ/: The business of producing goods in large quantities in factories.
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Productivity (noun) /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/: The rate at which goods are produced or work is completed.
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Obsolete (adjective) /ˈɒbsəliːt/: No longer used or needed because something new has been invented.
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Reskilling (noun) /riːˈskɪlɪŋ/: The process of learning new skills so you can do a different job.
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Displacement (noun) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/: The act of forcing something out of its usual or original position.
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Adaptability (noun) /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/: The quality of being able to change or be changed in order to deal successfully with new situations.
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Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/: The introduction of new ideas, methods, or things.
Conclusion
The impact of automation on manufacturing jobs is a complex and evolving topic that is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The effects of artificial intelligence on various industries
- The role of technology in changing workplace dynamics
- The importance of lifelong learning in the age of rapid technological change
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about memorizing sample essays, but understanding how to structure your arguments, use appropriate vocabulary, and express your ideas clearly and coherently. Practice writing your own essays on this topic and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam.