The topic of Universal Basic Income (UBI) in relation to automation and technological advancement has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on analysis of past papers and current trends, this theme appears approximately 2-3 times annually, often in combination with questions about employment, social welfare, or technological progress.
Analysis of Task 2 Question
Some people believe that governments should provide universal basic income to all citizens due to increasing automation in the workplace. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
This question requires candidates to:
- Express their opinion on UBI implementation
- Consider the relationship between automation and employment
- Evaluate government responsibility in addressing technological unemployment
- Provide supporting arguments and examples
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
In recent years, the debate surrounding universal basic income has intensified as automation continues to transform the workplace landscape. While some advocate for government-provided basic income as a solution to technological unemployment, I strongly agree with this proposition due to its potential benefits and necessity in our evolving economy.
First and foremost, automation is rapidly replacing human workers across various sectors, creating a significant shift in employment patterns. Manufacturing, customer service, and even professional services are experiencing unprecedented automation, leading to job displacement. A universal basic income would provide a crucial safety net for workers whose positions become obsolete, ensuring they maintain a decent standard of living while transitioning to new roles or acquiring different skills.
Moreover, UBI could stimulate innovation and entrepreneurship by providing financial security that allows individuals to take calculated risks. When people are not constrained by immediate survival needs, they are more likely to pursue education, start businesses, or develop new skills that benefit the broader economy. This could lead to a more dynamic and adaptable workforce, better equipped to handle the challenges of an automated future.
However, implementing UBI would require careful consideration of funding mechanisms and potential economic impacts. Governments would need to establish sustainable financing methods, possibly through technology taxes or redistribution of automation-generated wealth. Additionally, the basic income amount must be carefully calibrated to provide sufficient support without diminishing work incentives.
In conclusion, as automation continues to reshape our economic landscape, universal basic income appears to be not just beneficial but necessary. This policy could help society adapt to technological changes while ensuring economic stability and social progress. The challenge lies not in whether to implement UBI, but in determining how to execute it effectively.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, many people think governments should give money to all citizens because machines are taking over jobs. I partially agree with this idea because it has both advantages and disadvantages.
On the positive side, giving basic income to everyone can help people who lose their jobs to machines. For example, in many factories, robots are now doing the work that humans used to do. These workers need money to live while they learn new skills or find different jobs. Also, when people have some basic money, they can start small businesses or study new things.
However, there are some problems with this idea. First, it will cost the government a lot of money. They will need to increase taxes or find other ways to pay for it. Second, some people might become lazy and not want to work if they get free money every month. This could be bad for the economy.
I think a better solution is to give money only to people who really need it, like those who lost their jobs to machines. Also, governments should focus on training programs to help workers learn new skills for different jobs.
In conclusion, while universal basic income could help some people affected by automation, it might create other problems. A more targeted approach might work better than giving money to everyone.
Band Score Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Clear position and sophisticated argument development
- Excellent paragraph organization and cohesion
- Advanced vocabulary use: “unprecedented,” “obsolete,” “calibrated”
- Complex sentence structures with accurate grammar
- Relevant examples and thorough explanations
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Clear but simpler position
- Basic paragraph organization
- Limited vocabulary range
- Simple sentence structures
- Basic examples and explanations
- Some repetition of ideas
Key Vocabulary
- Automation (n) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃən/ – the use of machines to do work previously done by people
- Obsolete (adj) /ˈɒbsəliːt/ – no longer useful, out of date
- Implementation (n) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃən/ – the process of putting a plan into action
- Unprecedented (adj) /ʌnˈpresɪdentɪd/ – never having happened before
- Calibrated (adj) /ˈkælɪbreɪtɪd/ – carefully assessed, adjusted, or planned
- Stimulus (n) /ˈstɪmjʊləs/ – something that encourages activity or development
- Displacement (n) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ – the act of forcing something out of its usual position
For practice, try writing your own essay about UBI and automation, focusing on specific aspects like:
- Economic implications
- Social impacts
- Implementation challenges
- Alternative solutions
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.