Automation in manufacturing is a hot topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. As an IELTS expert, I’ve noticed this theme recurring in recent exams and predict it will continue to be relevant in future tests. Let’s explore this topic through a carefully selected question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s focus on this IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
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 touches on a crucial debate surrounding automation in manufacturing. It requires you to:
- Discuss the view that automation will cause job losses
- Explore the perspective that automation will create new jobs
- Present your own opinion on the matter
Remember to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced argument.
Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9
The rapid advancement of automation in manufacturing has sparked a heated debate about its impact on employment. While some argue that it will lead to widespread job losses, others contend that it will generate new opportunities. In my opinion, while automation may initially displace some workers, it will ultimately create more diverse and skilled job roles in the long run.
Those who fear job losses due to automation have valid concerns. Undoubtedly, many repetitive and manual tasks in manufacturing are being taken over by machines, potentially leaving low-skilled workers unemployed. For instance, assembly line jobs that once required human hands are now often performed by robotic arms with greater precision and efficiency. This trend could lead to significant unemployment in sectors heavily reliant on manual labor, causing economic hardship for affected communities.
However, proponents of automation argue that it will create new job opportunities. As manufacturing processes become more sophisticated, there will be an increased demand for highly skilled workers to design, maintain, and operate these advanced systems. For example, the rise of 3D printing in manufacturing has led to a surge in demand for 3D modeling specialists and materials engineers. Moreover, the increased productivity brought about by automation can lead to business expansion, potentially creating more jobs in other areas of the company, such as sales, marketing, and customer service.
In my view, while the transition may be challenging, automation in manufacturing will ultimately benefit the job market. The key lies in adapting our education and training systems to prepare workers for the jobs of the future. Governments and industries should collaborate to provide retraining programs for displaced workers, focusing on developing skills that complement automated systems rather than compete with them. Additionally, the increased efficiency and productivity from automation could lead to economic growth, creating new industries and job opportunities we haven’t yet imagined.
In conclusion, while automation in manufacturing may cause short-term job displacement, I believe it will lead to a more dynamic and skilled job market in the long term. The challenge lies in managing this transition effectively to ensure that the benefits of automation are shared across society. (329 words)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. Each paragraph focuses on a specific idea, and there are effective transitions between paragraphs.
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately. Complex phrases like “rapid advancement,” “widespread job losses,” and “economic hardship” demonstrate a high level of language proficiency.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately. It includes conditionals, passive voice, and complex sentences, demonstrating a high level of grammatical control.
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Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with explanations and examples, showing depth of analysis.
Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7
The increasing use of automation in manufacturing is a topic of debate. Some people think it will cause many people to lose their jobs, while others believe it will create new job opportunities. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On one hand, automation can replace human workers in many manufacturing jobs. Machines can work faster and more accurately than humans in many tasks. For example, in car factories, robots now do much of the welding and assembly work that used to be done by human workers. This means that many factory workers might lose their jobs.
On the other hand, automation can also create new jobs. As factories become more automated, they need people who can design, build, and maintain the machines. These jobs often require higher skills and can pay better than traditional factory jobs. Also, if automation makes companies more productive, they might grow bigger and need more workers in other areas like sales or customer service.
In my opinion, I think automation will both cause some job losses and create new jobs. The important thing is to help workers learn new skills so they can do the new jobs that automation creates. Governments and companies should provide training programs to help workers adapt to the changing job market.
In conclusion, while automation in manufacturing may cause some job losses, it will also create new opportunities. The key is to prepare workers for these new jobs through education and training. (253 words)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates competence in several areas but has room for improvement:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the question, but the discussion could be more in-depth.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices could be more sophisticated.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate but could be more varied and precise.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences but could demonstrate a wider range of structures.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant but could be further developed with more specific examples or deeper analysis.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Automation (noun) /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/ – the use of machines and computers to do work that was previously done by people
- Manufacturing (noun) /ˌmænjuˈfæktʃərɪŋ/ – the business of producing goods in large quantities
- Displacement (noun) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ – the act of moving someone or something from their usual place or position
- Efficiency (noun) /ɪˈfɪʃnsi/ – the quality of doing something well and effectively, without wasting time or energy
- Sophisticated (adjective) /səˈfɪstɪkeɪtɪd/ – advanced and complex in design or function
- Adaptation (noun) /ˌædæpˈteɪʃn/ – the process of changing to suit different conditions
- Productivity (noun) /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/ – the rate at which goods are produced or work is completed
- Retraining (noun) /ˌriːˈtreɪnɪŋ/ – the process of learning new skills, especially so that you can do a different job
- Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – the introduction of new ideas, methods, or things
- Economic growth (noun phrase) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ɡrəʊθ/ – an increase in the amount of goods and services produced in a country
Conclusion
The topic of automation in manufacturing is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related topics such as:
- The impact of artificial intelligence on various industries
- The role of technology in reshaping the job market
- The importance of lifelong learning in the age of rapid technological change
- The responsibility of governments in managing technological transitions
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice. Try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam.
For more insights on related topics, check out our articles on the impact of automation on the workforce and how to address the challenges of job automation.