The topic of artificial intelligence (AI) and its societal impact has become increasingly prominent in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on analysis of recent exam patterns, questions about AI’s influence on social inclusion have appeared multiple times, particularly in 2022-2023, making it a highly relevant topic for IELTS candidates.
The Impact of AI on Social Inclusion: Digital Integration and Society
Analyzing the Task Question
Some people believe that artificial intelligence (AI) technology will help create a more inclusive society, while others argue it may increase social inequality. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine both positive and negative perspectives on AI’s role in social inclusion
- Present a balanced discussion
- Provide relevant examples and evidence
- Express a clear personal stance
Band 8 Sample Essay
The debate over artificial intelligence’s impact on social inclusivity has gained significant attention as AI technology continues to advance rapidly. While some argue that AI will foster greater social integration, others contend it could exacerbate existing inequalities. In my view, while AI presents certain risks, its potential to promote inclusion outweighs the drawbacks.
Proponents of AI argue that it can break down traditional barriers to social participation. For instance, AI-powered assistive technologies enable people with disabilities to interact more effectively with digital services and participate more fully in society. Similarly, AI translation tools are helping bridge language gaps, making information and services more accessible to diverse populations, much like the way economic impact of contactless payments has improved financial inclusion.
However, critics raise valid concerns about AI potentially widening social divides. The primary argument is that access to AI technology often requires significant financial resources and digital literacy, which many disadvantaged groups lack. Furthermore, AI systems may perpetuate existing biases if trained on historically biased data, potentially leading to discriminatory outcomes in areas like hiring or lending decisions.
Despite these challenges, I believe AI’s potential for promoting inclusion is more compelling. The key lies in implementing appropriate policies and guidelines for AI development, similar to strategies for promoting racial equality. Governments and organizations can ensure equitable access to AI benefits through targeted programs and regulations. Additionally, ongoing efforts to address AI bias and improve algorithmic fairness demonstrate a commitment to making this technology more inclusive.
AI Technology Creating Opportunities for Social Integration
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Artificial intelligence is changing our society in many ways. Some people think it will help make society more inclusive, but others worry it will create bigger gaps between different groups. This essay will discuss both sides and share my thoughts.
On the positive side, AI can help many people participate better in society. For example, AI software can help disabled people use computers and smartphones more easily. Also, AI can translate languages quickly, which helps people from different countries communicate better. This is similar to how importance of financial inclusion for global development helps different groups access services.
However, there are some problems with AI. The biggest issue is that not everyone can afford AI technology or knows how to use it. Poor people might not have access to these tools. Also, sometimes AI makes unfair decisions because it learns from old data that might have discrimination in it.
In my opinion, AI will probably help make society more inclusive if we use it carefully. We need rules to make sure everyone can use AI technology, not just rich people. We also need to fix the problems with AI being unfair to some groups.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary (exacerbate, contend, perpetuate)
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear paragraphing and coherent arguments
- Well-developed examples
- Natural integration of academic phrases
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simpler vocabulary and structures
- Basic but clear organization
- Some repetition
- Less sophisticated examples
- More straightforward expressions
Key Vocabulary
- inclusivity (n) /ɪnˌkluːˈsɪvəti/ – the practice of including all types of people
- exacerbate (v) /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ – to make something worse
- perpetuate (v) /pərˈpetʃueɪt/ – to cause something to continue
- algorithmic (adj) /ˌælɡəˈrɪðmɪk/ – relating to or using algorithms
- discriminatory (adj) /dɪˈskrɪmɪnətɔri/ – treating different groups unfairly
For additional practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments. Future exam questions might explore related themes such as:
- AI’s impact on employment equality
- The role of AI in educational access
- AI and healthcare accessibility
Remember to focus on specific examples and maintain a balanced perspective while expressing your views clearly.
