The Influence Of Technology On The Economy is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular choice due to its relevance in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape. Based on our analysis of previous IELTS exams and current trends, we’ve identified several potential questions related to this theme. Let’s focus on one particularly common question type:
Some people think that the increasing use of technology in the workplace is causing job losses. Others believe it is creating new job opportunities. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the view that technology is causing job losses
- Discuss the view that technology is creating 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 examine two sample essays that tackle this topic – one aiming for Band 8 and another for Band 6-7.
Sample Essay (Band 8)
The rapid advancement of technology has undeniably transformed the modern workplace, leading to divergent views on its impact on employment. While some argue that technological innovations are displacing workers, others contend that they are generating new career prospects. In my opinion, while technology does eliminate certain jobs, it ultimately creates more opportunities than it destroys.
Those who believe technology is causing job losses have valid concerns. Automation and artificial intelligence have indeed replaced human workers in many sectors, particularly in manufacturing and routine administrative tasks. For instance, self-checkout machines in supermarkets have reduced the need for cashiers, while algorithmic trading has diminished the role of human stockbrokers. This trend has left many workers, especially those in low-skilled positions, vulnerable to unemployment.
However, proponents of technology argue that it simultaneously creates new job opportunities. The digital revolution has given rise to entirely new industries and roles that were unimaginable a few decades ago. Social media managers, app developers, and data scientists are just a few examples of professions born from technological advancements. Moreover, technology has enabled the growth of the gig economy, providing flexible work options for millions of people worldwide.
In my view, while the short-term disruption caused by technology is undeniable, its long-term benefits for job creation outweigh the negatives. History has shown that technological revolutions, from the Industrial Revolution to the Digital Age, have ultimately led to net job growth and improved living standards. The key lies in society’s ability to adapt through education and reskilling programs, ensuring that workers can transition into emerging roles.
In conclusion, technology’s impact on employment is complex and multifaceted. While it does eliminate certain jobs, it also creates new opportunities and industries. To harness the full potential of technological advancements, it is crucial for governments, businesses, and individuals to invest in continuous learning and skill development, thereby creating a workforce that can thrive in the evolving digital economy.
(Word count: 309)
Technology reshaping job market
Sample Essay (Band 6-7)
Many people have different opinions about how technology affects jobs. Some think it’s making people lose their jobs, while others believe it’s creating new opportunities. I will discuss both sides and give my own thoughts on this issue.
On one hand, technology can cause job losses. Many companies are using machines and computers to do work that people used to do. For example, in factories, robots are now doing jobs that workers used to do. This means some people might lose their jobs because machines can work faster and make fewer mistakes. Also, in offices, computers can do many tasks, so some office jobs are disappearing.
On the other hand, technology is also creating new jobs. As new technologies are developed, new types of work are needed. For instance, we now have jobs like website designers and social media managers that didn’t exist before. Technology has also made it possible for people to work from home or start their own online businesses. This gives people more choices and opportunities for work.
In my opinion, I think technology creates more jobs than it takes away. While some old jobs might disappear, many new and exciting jobs are being created. However, it’s important for people to learn new skills so they can do these new jobs. Governments and companies should help workers learn these new skills.
To conclude, technology has both positive and negative effects on jobs. It can cause some job losses, but it also creates many new opportunities. The most important thing is for people to be ready to learn and adapt to new types of work in the future.
(Word count: 269)
Key Writing Tips
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8 essay demonstrates more sophisticated paragraph development and transitions.
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Language: The Band 8 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language. Both are appropriate for their respective levels.
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Arguments: The Band 8 essay provides more specific examples and deeper analysis, while the Band 6-7 essay offers more general points. Both address the question fully.
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Opinion: Both essays clearly state the writer’s opinion, but the Band 8 essay integrates it more seamlessly into the overall argument.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8 essay demonstrates better use of linking words and ideas, creating a more fluid and cohesive text.
Important 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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Artificial Intelligence (AI) (noun) /ˌɑːtɪˈfɪʃl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/: The development of computer systems able to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence.
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Displace (verb) /dɪsˈpleɪs/: To take the place of something or someone, especially in a job or position.
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Gig economy (noun) /ɡɪɡ iˈkɒnəmi/: A labor market characterized by short-term contracts or freelance work rather than permanent jobs.
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Reskilling (noun) /riːˈskɪlɪŋ/: The process of learning new skills so you can do a different job, or of training people to do a different job.
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Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/: Having many different aspects or features.
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Adapt (verb) /əˈdæpt/: To change, or to change something, to suit different conditions or uses.
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Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/: A new idea, method, or device.
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Digital revolution (noun) /ˈdɪdʒɪtl ˌrevəˈluːʃn/: The change to digital technology from analog or mechanical technology.
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Workforce (noun) /ˈwɜːkfɔːs/: The total number of people who are able to work in a country or region.
Conclusion
The influence of technology on the economy, particularly in terms of job creation and loss, is a complex and evolving topic that is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for this and similar topics, practice writing essays that discuss both positive and negative aspects, provide specific examples, and offer a balanced opinion.
Some potential future questions on this theme might include:
- How has remote work technology changed the job market? Discuss the advantages and disadvantages.
- Some people believe that robots will replace human workers in most industries within the next 50 years. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
- Discuss the impact of artificial intelligence on employment in both developed and developing countries.
We encourage you to practice writing essays on these topics and share them in the comments section below. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam. Remember to analyze the question carefully, plan your response, and use a variety of vocabulary and sentence structures in your essay.
