The topic of automation’s impact on low-skilled jobs is increasingly relevant in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. This subject has appeared in various forms in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions over the years, and its frequency is likely to increase given its growing significance in the global workforce. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays and in-depth analysis to help you prepare for your IELTS exam.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that automation is causing low-skilled workers to lose their jobs. Others believe it creates new opportunities for these workers. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question presents a balanced argument about the effects of automation on low-skilled jobs. It requires you to:
- Discuss the view that automation leads to job losses for low-skilled workers.
- Explore the perspective that automation creates new opportunities for these workers.
- Provide your own opinion on the matter.
Remember to address all parts of the question and maintain a balanced approach throughout your essay.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The rapid advancement of technology has sparked a debate about its impact on the workforce, particularly on low-skilled jobs. While some argue that automation is leading to widespread job losses in this sector, others contend that it is creating new opportunities. In my opinion, while automation does pose challenges for low-skilled workers, it also offers potential benefits if managed properly.
Those who view automation negatively point to the displacement of workers in various industries. For instance, in manufacturing, robots have replaced humans in assembly lines, leading to significant job losses. Similarly, self-checkout machines in retail stores have reduced the need for cashiers. These examples illustrate how automation can indeed eliminate certain low-skilled positions, potentially leaving workers unemployed and struggling to find new roles.
On the other hand, proponents of automation argue that it creates new types of jobs and opportunities. As companies adopt new technologies, they require workers to operate, maintain, and repair these systems. This shift can lead to the creation of roles that, while different from traditional low-skilled jobs, may still be accessible to workers with some additional training. Furthermore, automation can increase productivity and profitability for businesses, potentially allowing them to expand and create more jobs in other areas.
In my view, the impact of automation on low-skilled jobs is complex and multifaceted. While it is true that some jobs will be lost, I believe that with proper planning and support, the overall effect can be positive. Governments and businesses should focus on retraining programs to help workers adapt to new roles created by automation. Additionally, the increased efficiency brought about by automation could lead to economic growth, potentially creating more employment opportunities across various sectors.
In conclusion, while automation poses challenges for low-skilled workers, it also presents opportunities for growth and development. The key lies in managing this transition effectively, ensuring that workers are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly automated world. (309 words)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:
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Clear structure: The essay follows a logical structure with a clear introduction, body paragraphs addressing both views, and a conclusion that summarizes the main points and offers a personal opinion.
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Balanced argument: Both perspectives are discussed thoroughly, with specific examples provided for each view.
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Advanced vocabulary: The essay uses sophisticated vocabulary and phrases such as “rapid advancement,” “displacement of workers,” and “multifaceted.”
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Complex sentence structures: The writer employs a variety of sentence structures, including complex sentences with multiple clauses.
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Cohesion and coherence: Ideas flow smoothly from one paragraph to the next, with appropriate use of linking words and phrases.
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Task response: All parts of the question are addressed, including a clear personal opinion.
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Relevant examples: The essay provides specific, relevant examples to support each argument.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Automation is changing the way we work, and it has different effects on low-skilled jobs. Some people think it’s bad because workers lose their jobs, but others say it creates new chances for these workers. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
First, automation can cause job losses for low-skilled workers. Many factories now use robots instead of people to do simple tasks. This means that some workers lose their jobs because machines can do the work faster and cheaper. For example, in car factories, robots now do a lot of the assembly work that humans used to do.
However, automation can also create new opportunities. When companies use new technology, they need people to work with these machines. This can create new jobs that didn’t exist before. Also, automation can make companies more successful, which might help them grow and hire more people in different areas.
In my opinion, automation has both good and bad effects on low-skilled jobs. It’s true that some jobs will disappear, but I think new jobs will also be created. The important thing is to help workers learn new skills so they can do these new jobs. Governments and companies should provide training programs to help workers adapt to changes in technology.
In conclusion, while automation can cause some low-skilled workers to lose their jobs, it can also create new opportunities. The key is to manage these changes well and help workers prepare for new types of jobs. (245 words)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates several features that place it in the Band 6-7 range:
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Adequate structure: The essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs addressing both views, and a conclusion. However, the development of ideas is less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.
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Task response: The essay addresses all parts of the question, including a personal opinion, but with less depth and nuance than the higher band essay.
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Vocabulary: The essay uses some good vocabulary related to the topic, but the range is more limited compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Grammar: The essay generally uses correct grammar, with a mix of simple and complex sentences. However, there is less variety in sentence structures compared to the higher band essay.
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Cohesion: Ideas are linked logically, but the essay could benefit from more sophisticated linking words and phrases.
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Examples: The essay provides some examples, but they are less specific and developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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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Low-skilled jobs (noun phrase) /ləʊ skɪld dʒɒbz/: Jobs that require minimal education or specialized training.
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Displacement (noun) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/: The act of moving something or someone from their usual place or position.
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Adapt (verb) /əˈdæpt/: To change or adjust to new conditions.
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Productivity (noun) /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/: The rate at which goods are produced or work is completed.
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Retraining (noun) /ˌriːˈtreɪnɪŋ/: The process of learning new skills or knowledge to do a different job.
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Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/: Having many different aspects or features.
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Efficiency (noun) /ɪˈfɪʃnsi/: The quality of being productive with minimum waste or effort.
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Transition (noun) /trænˈzɪʃn/: The process of changing from one state or condition to another.
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Economic growth (noun phrase) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ɡrəʊθ/: An increase in the amount of goods and services produced in an economy over time.
Conclusion
The impact of automation on low-skilled jobs is a complex and evolving topic that is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for this and similar topics, consider practicing with variations such as:
- The role of government in managing the transition to an automated workforce
- The ethical implications of replacing human workers with machines
- The potential long-term effects of automation on society and the economy
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. Practice writing essays on this topic and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS candidates. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for the IELTS exam.