The topic of technology’s impact on employment has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 15-20% of the time in recent years. This trend is likely to continue given its relevance to modern society and workplace dynamics. One frequently tested question format is:
Some people believe that technological advancement leads to job losses, while others think it creates new employment opportunities. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Technology transforming modern workplace environment
Analysis of Task Requirements
- Topic: Technology’s impact on employment
- Task: Discuss both perspectives and provide personal opinion
- Key points to cover: Job losses vs. new opportunities
- Format: Discussion essay with clear position
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
Technological progress has sparked intense debate about its effects on employment, with some viewing it as a threat while others see it as a catalyst for job creation. In my opinion, while technology does eliminate certain positions, it ultimately generates more opportunities than it destroys.
Those who fear technology’s impact on employment have valid concerns. Automation and artificial intelligence have indeed replaced many traditional roles, particularly in manufacturing and routine administrative tasks. For instance, self-checkout systems have reduced the need for cashiers, while automated assembly lines have decreased factory workforce requirements. The impact of AI on financial systems has also led to significant changes in banking sector employment.
However, I strongly believe that technological advancement creates more jobs than it eliminates. The digital revolution has spawned entirely new industries and career paths that were unimaginable decades ago. Software development, data analysis, and digital marketing are just a few examples of flourishing fields born from technological progress. Moreover, The role of technology in agriculture has created new specialized positions while improving efficiency.
Furthermore, technology often transforms rather than eliminates jobs. Workers whose roles become automated typically transition into more sophisticated positions that require human creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex problem-solving abilities. This evolution demands continuous learning and adaptation but ultimately leads to more fulfilling and better-compensated employment opportunities.
Technology creating diverse new career opportunities
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Many people have different opinions about how technology affects jobs. Some think it causes unemployment, while others believe it makes new jobs. I think both sides have good points, but technology mostly helps create jobs.
First, technology can cause some people to lose their jobs. Many factories now use robots instead of workers, and computers do many office jobs. For example, many bank tellers lost their jobs because of ATMs and online banking. This makes some people worried about their future.
However, technology also makes new types of jobs. Many people now work in computer programming, website design, and social media. The need for ethical technology development has also created new jobs in technology ethics and safety. These jobs didn’t exist before but are very important now.
Also, technology helps workers do their jobs better. Instead of replacing workers, computers and machines help them work faster and better. This means workers can focus on more important tasks and learn new skills.
Score Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Task Response: Clear position, fully developed ideas
- Coherence: Logical flow, effective paragraphing
- Lexical Resource: Sophisticated vocabulary use
- Grammar: Complex structures, minimal errors
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Task Response: Clear but simpler ideas
- Coherence: Basic organization
- Lexical Resource: Limited but adequate vocabulary
- Grammar: Mix of simple and complex structures
Key Vocabulary
- technological advancement (n.) /ˌtek.nəˈlɒdʒ.ɪ.kəl/ – progress in technology
- automation (n.) /ˌɔː.təˈmeɪ.ʃən/ – use of machines to do work
- artificial intelligence (n.) /ˌɑː.tɪ.fɪʃ.əl ɪnˈtel.ɪ.dʒəns/ – computer systems that can perform tasks requiring human intelligence
- workforce (n.) /ˈwɜːk.fɔːs/ – the total number of workers
- transition (v.) /trænˈzɪʃ.ən/ – to change from one state to another
High-Scoring Sentence Patterns
- “While X, Y” structure: “While technology does eliminate certain positions, it ultimately generates more opportunities than it destroys.”
- Complex causation: “The digital revolution has spawned entirely new industries and career paths that were unimaginable decades ago.”
- Parallel structure: “Workers whose roles become automated typically transition into more sophisticated positions that require human creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex problem-solving abilities.”
For practice, write your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section. Focus on developing clear arguments and using sophisticated vocabulary while maintaining grammatical accuracy.
