In recent IELTS examinations, topics related to ethical technology regulations have become increasingly prevalent. Based on analysis of past tests and current technological trends, this theme is likely to appear more frequently in future exams. Let’s examine a common question type on this subject.
The need for ethical AI regulations has become a crucial discussion point in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in questions about government control and technological development.
Some people believe that governments should strictly regulate the development and use of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. Others argue that too much regulation will slow down innovation. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of the Question
- Topic: Technology regulation
- Task: Discussion + Opinion
- Key elements: Government regulation, AI development, Innovation
- Two contrasting views to discuss
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The debate over government regulation of emerging technologies like The need for ethical technology development has become increasingly contentious. While some advocate for strict oversight, others warn of stifling innovation. In my view, a balanced approach combining reasonable regulation with space for innovation is optimal.
Proponents of strict regulation argue that oversight is essential for public safety and ethical development. Government controls can prevent misuse of AI technologies and protect privacy rights. For instance, the European Union’s implementation of GDPR has successfully protected consumer data while still allowing technological advancement. Moreover, regulated development ensures that Ethical considerations of drone technology? and other emerging technologies align with societal values and safety standards.
However, excessive regulation could indeed hamper innovation. Tech companies require flexibility to experiment and develop groundbreaking solutions. Silicon Valley’s rapid advancement in AI capabilities, for example, has been partly attributed to America’s relatively flexible regulatory environment. When bureaucratic processes become too cumbersome, smaller companies particularly struggle to bring new ideas to market.
In my opinion, the solution lies in implementing smart, adaptive regulations that protect public interests while fostering innovation. Governments should focus on establishing clear ethical guidelines and safety standards rather than imposing rigid controls. This approach allows for the role of ethical advertising in marketing and other technological applications while maintaining necessary oversight.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Currently, there is much discussion about whether governments should control new technologies like AI. This essay will discuss both sides of this issue and provide my opinion.
On one side, government regulation is important for safety. When companies develop new AI systems, they might not always think about the dangers. Strong rules can help protect people’s personal information and prevent misuse of technology. For example, some companies might use AI to collect too much data about people without their permission.
However, other people think too many rules are bad for progress. If companies have to follow many complicated rules, they might spend too much time and money on paperwork instead of making new things. This could mean we miss out on helpful new technologies that could solve important problems.
I believe we need some rules but not too many. Governments should make basic safety rules but also let companies try new ideas. This way, we can have both safe technology and new inventions that help people.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Task Response: Fully addresses all parts with clear position
- Coherence: Logical organization with clear progression
- Lexical Resource: Sophisticated vocabulary (“contentious,” “bureaucratic processes”)
- Grammar: Complex structures used accurately
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses main points but less developed
- Coherence: Basic organization with some progression
- Lexical Resource: Adequate but simpler vocabulary
- Grammar: Mix of simple and complex structures
Key Vocabulary
- contentious (adj) /kənˈtɛnʃəs/ – causing disagreement
- bureaucratic (adj) /ˌbjʊərəˈkrætɪk/ – involving complicated rules
- cumbersome (adj) /ˈkʌmbəsəm/ – slow and complicated
- groundbreaking (adj) /ˈɡraʊndˌbreɪkɪŋ/ – innovative
- oversight (n) /ˈəʊvəsaɪt/ – supervision
High-Scoring Sentence Patterns
- “While some advocate for X, others warn of Y” (Contrast structure)
- “For instance, [example] has successfully [result] while still allowing [benefit]” (Example + Result pattern)
- “In my opinion, the solution lies in [solution] that [benefit 1] while [benefit 2]” (Opinion + Double benefit structure)
To practice, write your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section. Focus on using the vocabulary and sentence patterns provided above to improve your writing skills.
Ensure AI used ethically: how? remains a critical consideration as you develop your response to similar questions in the actual test.