Technology’s influence on employment has become an increasingly common theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent exam questions. This topic’s frequency reflects its relevance to modern society and global workforce changes, particularly as AI and automation’s impact on employment continues to reshape industries worldwide.
Technology transforming modern workplace environment with robots and humans
Sample Question Analysis
Some people believe that technology is making many workers unemployed, while others think it creates new job opportunities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question type requires candidates to:
- Examine both positive and negative impacts of technology on employment
- Present balanced arguments for both perspectives
- Provide a clear personal stance supported by evidence
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
Technology’s impact on employment has become a contentious issue, with valid arguments on both sides. While technological advancement has indeed displaced some traditional jobs, I believe it ultimately generates more employment opportunities than it eliminates.
On one side, technological automation has undeniably led to job losses in certain sectors. Manufacturing plants now employ fewer workers as robots handle assembly lines, and how digital technologies affect human creativity has transformed industries like graphic design and architecture. Banking is another sector where ATMs and online services have reduced the need for human tellers.
However, technology has simultaneously created numerous new employment opportunities. The rise of e-commerce has generated millions of jobs in logistics, data analysis, and digital marketing. Software development, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence have emerged as thriving fields offering high-paying positions. Moreover, technology has enabled the gig economy, providing flexible work opportunities through platforms like ride-sharing and freelance marketplaces.
In my opinion, while the transition may be challenging for some workers, technology’s net effect on employment is positive. The key lies in adaptation and reskilling. Just as Blockchain technology: future of transactions? creates new financial sector roles, technological evolution consistently opens new career paths. The solution lies in preparing workers for these emerging opportunities through education and training programs.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
These days, technology affects jobs in many ways. Some people think it’s bad because workers lose their jobs, but others say it makes new jobs. I think both sides have good points.
First, technology makes some jobs disappear. Many factories now use machines instead of people. Bank workers lose jobs because of online banking. Also, shops close because of online shopping, so workers lose their jobs.
But technology also makes new jobs. People can work as website makers, computer fixers, and social media managers. Young people find new jobs in technology companies. Also, online selling gives people chances to start small businesses from home.
I think technology is good for jobs, but we need to learn new skills. Old jobs may go away, but new ones come. The government should help workers learn about computers and new technology. This way, people can find new jobs when old ones disappear.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “contentious,” “undeniably,” “simultaneously”
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear paragraph organization
- Strong cohesion between ideas
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic sentence structures
- Some repetition in expression
- Limited use of complex language
- Basic examples and explanations
Key Vocabulary
- Contentious (adj) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing disagreement or argument
- Displacement (n) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ – the act of forcing something out of its usual position
- Automation (n) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/ – the use of machines to do work previously done by people
- Adaptation (n) /ˌædæpˈteɪʃn/ – the process of changing to suit new conditions
- Reskilling (n) /riːˈskɪlɪŋ/ – learning new skills for a different job
Consider practicing with similar topics like Changing careers during working life: reasons and positive or negative development for society to improve your writing skills. Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
