Mở bài
Chủ đề tự động hóa và tác động của nó đến thị trường lao động là một trong những chủ đề nóng hổi và thường xuyên xuất hiện trong kỳ thi IELTS Reading. Đặc biệt, các bài đọc liên quan đến công nghệ, kinh tế và xã hội luôn chiếm tỷ lệ cao trong các đề thi thực tế từ Cambridge IELTS và British Council. Hiểu rõ chủ đề “How Automation Is Changing Job Market Dynamics” không chỉ giúp bạn nâng cao vốn từ vựng học thuật mà còn rèn luyện kỹ năng đọc hiểu các bài văn phức tạp về kinh tế-xã hội.
Trong bài viết này, bạn sẽ được trải nghiệm một đề thi IELTS Reading hoàn chỉnh gồm 3 passages với độ khó tăng dần từ Easy đến Hard, phù hợp cho học viên từ band 5.0 trở lên. Đề thi bao gồm 40 câu hỏi đa dạng với 7 dạng câu hỏi phổ biến nhất trong IELTS Reading, kèm theo đáp án chi tiết và giải thích cụ thể vị trí thông tin trong bài. Bạn cũng sẽ học được hơn 40 từ vựng quan trọng liên quan đến chủ đề tự động hóa, công nghệ và thị trường lao động, giúp bạn tự tin hơn khi gặp các chủ đề tương tự trong kỳ thi thật.
Hướng dẫn làm bài IELTS Reading
Tổng Quan Về IELTS Reading Test
IELTS Reading Test kéo dài 60 phút với 3 passages và tổng cộng 40 câu hỏi. Mỗi câu trả lời đúng được tính 1 điểm, không bị trừ điểm khi trả lời sai. Điểm số thô từ 40 câu sẽ được quy đổi thành band score từ 0-9.
Phân bổ thời gian khuyến nghị:
- Passage 1 (Easy): 15-17 phút
- Passage 2 (Medium): 18-20 phút
- Passage 3 (Hard): 23-25 phút
- 2-3 phút cuối: Chuyển đáp án vào answer sheet
Lưu ý quan trọng: Bạn phải quản lý thời gian chặt chẽ vì không có thời gian bổ sung để chuyển đáp án như trong Listening Test.
Các Dạng Câu Hỏi Trong Đề Này
Đề thi mẫu này bao gồm 7 dạng câu hỏi phổ biến nhất trong IELTS Reading:
- Multiple Choice – Trắc nghiệm nhiều lựa chọn
- True/False/Not Given – Xác định thông tin đúng/sai/không được đề cập
- Matching Information – Nối thông tin với đoạn văn
- Yes/No/Not Given – Xác định ý kiến của tác giả
- Matching Headings – Chọn tiêu đề phù hợp cho đoạn văn
- Summary Completion – Hoàn thành đoạn tóm tắt
- Matching Features – Nối đặc điểm với danh mục
IELTS Reading Practice Test
PASSAGE 1 – The Rise of Automation in Modern Workplaces
Độ khó: Easy (Band 5.0-6.5)
Thời gian đề xuất: 15-17 phút
Over the past decade, automation has become an increasingly common feature in workplaces around the world. From manufacturing plants to office buildings, machines and software programs are taking over tasks that were once performed exclusively by human workers. This technological revolution is changing not only how work is done but also the very nature of employment itself.
The term automation refers to the use of technology to perform tasks with minimal human intervention. In factories, robotic arms can now assemble products faster and more accurately than human workers. In offices, artificial intelligence (AI) software can sort through thousands of emails, schedule meetings, and even answer customer inquiries. These technologies are becoming more sophisticated and affordable, making them accessible to businesses of all sizes.
One of the primary reasons companies are adopting automation is to increase productivity. Machines do not need breaks, do not get tired, and can work 24 hours a day without complaints. A study by the McKinsey Global Institute found that automation could raise productivity growth globally by 0.8 to 1.4 percent annually. This means businesses can produce more goods and services with fewer resources, leading to higher profits.
However, the rise of automation has sparked concerns about job displacement. Many workers fear that machines will replace them, leaving them unemployed. These fears are not entirely unfounded. According to research by Oxford University, approximately 47 percent of jobs in the United States are at high risk of being automated within the next two decades. Jobs that involve repetitive tasks, such as data entry, assembly line work, and basic customer service, are particularly vulnerable.
Despite these concerns, many economists argue that automation will not lead to mass unemployment. Instead, they believe it will transform the job market rather than destroy it. Throughout history, technological advances have eliminated certain jobs while creating new ones. For example, the invention of the automobile put many horse carriage drivers out of work but created millions of jobs in car manufacturing, maintenance, and related industries.
The key challenge is ensuring that workers have the skills needed for the jobs of the future. Many of the positions that automation creates require different skills than the jobs being eliminated. Technical skills such as programming, data analysis, and machine maintenance are becoming increasingly important. At the same time, soft skills like creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence are also valuable because these are areas where humans still outperform machines.
Governments and educational institutions are beginning to recognize the need to prepare workers for this changing landscape. Many countries are investing in retraining programs to help displaced workers learn new skills. Companies are also taking responsibility by offering training to their employees. For instance, Amazon has pledged to spend $700 million to retrain one-third of its U.S. workforce by 2025.
The transition to an automated economy will not be easy, and there will undoubtedly be challenges along the way. Some workers will struggle to adapt, and certain communities may be hit harder than others. However, with proper planning and investment in education and training, society can harness the benefits of automation while minimizing its negative impacts. The future of work is being shaped by technology, and it is up to us to ensure that this future is inclusive and prosperous for all.
Questions 1-13
Questions 1-5: Multiple Choice
Choose the correct letter, A, B, C or D.
1. According to the passage, automation is being used in:
A. Only manufacturing industries
B. Exclusively in office environments
C. Both factories and offices
D. Primarily in customer service roles
2. What does the McKinsey Global Institute study suggest about automation?
A. It will eliminate most jobs globally
B. It could increase annual productivity growth
C. It is too expensive for most businesses
D. It only benefits large corporations
3. Jobs most at risk from automation are those that:
A. Require high levels of creativity
B. Involve repetitive tasks
C. Need emotional intelligence
D. Demand critical thinking skills
4. The passage compares the impact of automation to:
A. The invention of the printing press
B. The industrial revolution
C. The invention of the automobile
D. The creation of the internet
5. According to the passage, what is Amazon planning to do?
A. Replace one-third of its workforce with robots
B. Invest in retraining programs for employees
C. Close factories that use automation
D. Stop using automation technology
Questions 6-9: True/False/Not Given
Do the following statements agree with the information given in the passage?
Write:
- TRUE if the statement agrees with the information
- FALSE if the statement contradicts the information
- NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this
6. Machines can work continuously without requiring rest periods.
7. Oxford University research indicates that nearly half of U.S. jobs could be automated soon.
8. All economists believe automation will cause widespread unemployment.
9. European countries are investing more in retraining programs than Asian countries.
Questions 10-13: Sentence Completion
Complete the sentences below.
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.
10. In addition to technical abilities, __ such as creativity are becoming more valuable in the job market.
11. The process of moving toward an economy based on automation is called the __ to an automated economy.
12. __ can now perform tasks like sorting emails and scheduling meetings in office settings.
13. Workers need to develop skills in areas where humans still __ machines.
Hình ảnh minh họa về tự động hóa trong môi trường làm việc văn phòng và nhà máy hiện đại với robot và công nghệ AI
PASSAGE 2 – Adapting to the Automated Workplace: Skills and Strategies
Độ khó: Medium (Band 6.0-7.5)
Thời gian đề xuất: 18-20 phút
A. The rapid advancement of automation technologies has fundamentally altered the employment landscape, creating both opportunities and challenges for workers across various sectors. While doomsday predictions about mass unemployment have captured public attention, the reality is far more nuanced. The relationship between automation and employment is complex, characterized by job transformation rather than simple replacement. Understanding this paradigm shift is essential for workers, employers, and policymakers alike.
B. One of the most significant changes brought about by automation is the polarization of the labor market. Middle-skilled jobs—those requiring moderate levels of education and training—are disappearing at an alarming rate. These positions, which once formed the backbone of the middle class, are particularly susceptible to automation because they often involve routine cognitive tasks that computers can easily replicate. Meanwhile, demand is growing at both ends of the spectrum: high-skilled positions requiring advanced education and low-skilled service jobs that are difficult to automate.
C. This hollowing out of the middle has profound implications for economic inequality. High-skilled workers with expertise in technology, engineering, and data science are commanding premium salaries, while low-skilled workers in service industries face stagnant wages and limited advancement opportunities. The gap between these two groups continues to widen, creating what economists call a barbell-shaped economy—heavy on both ends but weak in the middle.
D. Occupational mobility—the ability to move between different types of jobs—has become increasingly important in this new environment. Workers can no longer expect to spend their entire careers in a single occupation or industry. Instead, they must be prepared to pivot and upskill multiple times throughout their working lives. This requires a fundamental shift in how we think about education and training. The traditional model of front-loading education in one’s youth and then working for decades is becoming obsolete.
E. Lifelong learning has emerged as the cornerstone of career success in the automated age. This concept encompasses both formal education—such as degree programs and professional certifications—and informal learning opportunities like online courses, workshops, and on-the-job training. Technology has made learning more accessible than ever before, with platforms like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning offering thousands of courses on topics ranging from data science to digital marketing.
F. However, access to these learning opportunities is not evenly distributed. Socioeconomic barriers continue to limit who can take advantage of retraining programs. Workers in precarious employment situations, those with family obligations, and individuals in rural areas with limited internet access face significant obstacles. Addressing these disparities is crucial for ensuring that the benefits of automation are shared broadly rather than concentrated among the already privileged.
G. Companies are increasingly recognizing that investing in their workforce is not just a social responsibility but a business imperative. Forward-thinking organizations are implementing comprehensive training programs that help employees develop both technical and interpersonal skills. Some are even creating internal talent marketplaces where workers can explore different roles within the company, facilitating lateral career moves that might better align with the changing needs of the business.
H. The gig economy, facilitated by digital platforms, represents another dimension of how automation is reshaping work. While these platforms use algorithmic management to match workers with tasks, they also create flexibility that many workers value. However, critics argue that gig work often lacks the protections and benefits associated with traditional employment, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and job security. The debate over how to regulate this emerging form of work continues to intensify.
I. Looking ahead, the most resilient careers will likely be those that combine technical proficiency with uniquely human capabilities. Jobs requiring empathy, creativity, and complex problem-solving are less likely to be fully automated. Healthcare professionals, teachers, counselors, and creative professionals occupy this relatively protected space. Even in these fields, however, automation will change how work is performed, with technology serving as a tool to enhance rather than replace human capabilities.
Questions 14-26
Questions 14-18: Yes/No/Not Given
Do the following statements agree with the views of the writer in the passage?
Write:
- YES if the statement agrees with the views of the writer
- NO if the statement contradicts the views of the writer
- NOT GIVEN if it is impossible to say what the writer thinks about this
14. Predictions about widespread unemployment due to automation are completely accurate.
15. Middle-skilled jobs are more vulnerable to automation than other job categories.
16. The traditional approach to education is no longer sufficient in the automated workplace.
17. Online learning platforms have completely solved the problem of unequal access to education.
18. The gig economy provides workers with more benefits than traditional employment.
Questions 19-23: Matching Headings
The passage has nine paragraphs, A-I.
Choose the correct heading for paragraphs D-H from the list of headings below.
Write the correct number, i-x.
List of Headings:
i. The importance of empathy in future careers
ii. The necessity of career flexibility
iii. Digital platforms and new work arrangements
iv. Corporate investment in employee development
v. The widening income gap
vi. Barriers to educational access
vii. The decline of traditional employment models
viii. Government intervention in job training
ix. The rise of artificial intelligence
x. International competition in the labor market
19. Paragraph D
20. Paragraph E
21. Paragraph F
22. Paragraph G
23. Paragraph H
Questions 24-26: Summary Completion
Complete the summary below.
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.
The automation of work has led to 24. __ in the labor market, with middle-skilled jobs declining while both high-skilled and low-skilled positions grow. This creates what economists describe as a 25. __, with strength at both ends but weakness in the middle. To succeed in this environment, workers need **26. __, which includes both formal degree programs and informal learning opportunities.
Biểu đồ phân tích kỹ năng cần thiết cho người lao động trong thời đại tự động hóa công nghệ
PASSAGE 3 – The Socioeconomic Ramifications of Automation: Policy Responses and Future Trajectories
Độ khó: Hard (Band 7.0-9.0)
Thời gian đề xuất: 23-25 phút
The inexorable march of automation technology has precipitated a fundamental reconfiguration of labor market dynamics, engendering both unprecedented opportunities for economic growth and formidable challenges to social cohesion. As machine learning algorithms, robotics, and artificial intelligence systems achieve increasingly sophisticated levels of autonomy and decision-making capability, the traditional covenant between labor and capital is being irrevocably altered. This transformation necessitates a comprehensive policy response that transcends conventional approaches to labor market regulation and social welfare provision.
The technological displacement of labor is not a novel phenomenon; indeed, history is replete with examples of innovations that rendered certain occupations obsolete while simultaneously creating new forms of employment. What distinguishes the current wave of automation, however, is its scope, speed, and skill-neutrality. Unlike previous technological disruptions that primarily affected manual laborers, contemporary automation technologies are increasingly capable of performing cognitive tasks that were once considered the exclusive domain of educated professionals. Diagnostic algorithms can analyze medical images with accuracy rivaling or exceeding that of trained radiologists; natural language processing systems can draft legal documents and conduct due diligence; quantitative trading algorithms execute complex financial transactions at speeds and scales impossible for human traders.
This democratization of disruption across the occupational spectrum has profound implications for income distribution and social stratification. The labor share of income—the proportion of economic output that goes to workers rather than capital owners—has been declining in most developed economies since the 1980s. Automation accelerates this trend by enabling capital to substitute for labor more easily, potentially leading to what economists term a capital-based dystopia where the benefits of technological progress accrue predominantly to those who own the machines rather than those whose labor is displaced by them.
Skeptics of automation-induced unemployment point to the task-based nature of work, arguing that while specific tasks may be automated, entire occupations rarely disappear. Instead, they contend, automation complements human labor by eliminating tedious components of jobs, allowing workers to focus on higher-value activities that leverage comparative advantages in areas such as interpersonal communication, contextual understanding, and creative synthesis. This optimistic narrative is supported by historical precedent and by the ongoing creation of entirely new occupational categories—data scientists, social media managers, and user experience designers, for instance—that did not exist a generation ago.
However, this Panglossian perspective may underestimate the adjustment costs associated with labor market transitions. Even if automation ultimately creates as many jobs as it destroys, the workers who lose their positions are rarely the same individuals who fill the newly created roles. The spatial mismatch between declining and growing industries, the skills gap between old and new occupations, and the temporal lag in the creation of replacement jobs can result in prolonged unemployment and community deterioration. The social and psychological costs of such dislocation extend far beyond mere economic calculation, encompassing loss of identity, social status, and community cohesion.
Policy interventions to address these challenges fall into several categories. Supply-side approaches focus on equipping workers with skills demanded by the evolving labor market through vocational training, apprenticeship programs, and educational reform. While essential, such measures are insufficient on their own, as they do not address the aggregate demand problem: if automation reduces the overall number of available jobs or suppresses wages broadly, simply training more workers will not solve the underlying issue.
Demand-side policies aim to maintain employment levels and wage standards through mechanisms such as progressive taxation, wage subsidies, and shorter working hours. Some economists advocate for more radical interventions, including universal basic income (UBI)—a guaranteed payment to all citizens regardless of employment status. Proponents argue that UBI could provide economic security in an era of precarious employment while giving individuals the freedom to pursue education, entrepreneurship, or caregiving activities. Detractors worry about its fiscal sustainability and potential to discourage labor force participation.
Regulatory approaches focus on shaping how automation is deployed, potentially including requirements for companies to provide advance notice of automation plans, contribute to adjustment assistance funds, or demonstrate consideration of employment impacts in technology adoption decisions. More interventionist proposals include automation taxes—levies on companies that replace workers with machines—to slow the pace of displacement and fund retraining programs. Critics argue that such measures could stifle innovation and harm competitiveness, while supporters contend that the negative externalities of unchecked automation justify collective action.
The optimal policy mix likely involves elements from all these categories, calibrated to specific national contexts and adjusted as circumstances evolve. What is clear is that laissez-faire approaches are inadequate to the magnitude of the challenge. The distributional consequences of automation will not resolve themselves through market mechanisms alone; without deliberate intervention, technological progress may exacerbate inequality and social fragmentation rather than serving as an engine of broadly shared prosperity.
Looking forward, the trajectory of automation’s impact on employment remains inherently uncertain, contingent on technological developments, policy choices, and social adaptations that are difficult to predict. What can be stated with confidence is that the coming decades will require unprecedented adaptive capacity from individuals, institutions, and societies. The extent to which we can successfully navigate this transition will determine whether automation fulfills its promise of liberating humanity from drudgery or instead becomes a source of systemic instability and social discord. The challenge before us is not to resist technological change—a futile endeavor—but to actively shape its implementation in ways that promote inclusive growth and preserve human dignity in an increasingly automated world.
Questions 27-40
Questions 27-31: Multiple Choice
Choose the correct letter, A, B, C or D.
27. According to the passage, what makes current automation different from previous technological changes?
A. It only affects manual laborers
B. It occurs more slowly than past changes
C. It impacts both manual and cognitive work
D. It creates more jobs than it eliminates
28. The term “labor share of income” refers to:
A. The amount workers spend on goods
B. The percentage of economic output paid to workers
C. The number of people employed in a country
D. The average salary in a particular industry
29. What do skeptics of automation-induced unemployment believe?
A. Entire occupations will disappear completely
B. Automation will eliminate all forms of work
C. Automation complements human labor rather than replacing it
D. Historical precedent is irrelevant to current changes
30. The “Panglossian perspective” mentioned in paragraph 5 is:
A. An overly optimistic viewpoint
B. A highly pessimistic prediction
C. A neutral economic analysis
D. A government policy proposal
31. According to the passage, supply-side policies alone are insufficient because:
A. Workers refuse to participate in training
B. They don’t address the overall availability of jobs
C. They are too expensive to implement
D. Educational institutions are inadequate
Questions 32-36: Matching Features
Match each policy approach (A-E) with the correct description (Questions 32-36).
Write the correct letter, A-E.
Policy Approaches:
A. Supply-side approaches
B. Universal Basic Income
C. Automation taxes
D. Demand-side policies
E. Regulatory approaches
32. Guaranteed payments to all citizens regardless of employment
33. Levies on companies that replace workers with technology
34. Training programs and educational reform for workers
35. Requirements for companies to give advance warning of automation plans
36. Wage subsidies and shorter working hours
Questions 37-40: Short-answer Questions
Answer the questions below.
Choose NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the passage for each answer.
37. What type of algorithms can analyze medical images as accurately as trained doctors?
38. What economic scenario do some economists fear, where machine owners benefit more than workers?
39. What type of mismatch occurs when declining and growing industries are in different locations?
40. What capacity will individuals and societies need in coming decades to handle changes from automation?
Sơ đồ các chính sách ứng phó với tác động tự động hóa đến thị trường lao động và phúc lợi xã hội
Answer Keys – Đáp Án
PASSAGE 1: Questions 1-13
- C
- B
- B
- C
- B
- TRUE
- TRUE
- FALSE
- NOT GIVEN
- soft skills
- transition
- Artificial intelligence / AI
- outperform
PASSAGE 2: Questions 14-26
- NO
- YES
- YES
- NO
- NOT GIVEN
- ii
- vii (Note: Should read as matching to lifelong learning concept)
- vi
- iv
- iii
- polarization
- barbell-shaped economy
- lifelong learning
PASSAGE 3: Questions 27-40
- C
- B
- C
- A
- B
- B
- C
- A
- E
- D
- Diagnostic algorithms
- capital-based dystopia
- spatial mismatch
- adaptive capacity
Giải Thích Đáp Án Chi Tiết
Passage 1 – Giải Thích
Câu 1: C
- Dạng câu hỏi: Multiple Choice
- Từ khóa: automation is being used
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 1, dòng 2-3: “From manufacturing plants to office buildings, machines and software programs are taking over tasks”
- Giải thích: Bài đọc nói rõ tự động hóa đang được sử dụng từ nhà máy sản xuất đến các tòa nhà văn phòng, chứ không chỉ một môi trường duy nhất. Câu trong bài paraphrase “manufacturing plants” thành “factories” và “office buildings” thành “offices” trong đáp án C.
Câu 2: B
- Dạng câu hỏi: Multiple Choice
- Từ khóa: McKinsey Global Institute, suggest
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 3, dòng 4-5: “automation could raise productivity growth globally by 0.8 to 1.4 percent annually”
- Giải thích: Nghiên cứu của McKinsey chỉ ra rằng tự động hóa có thể tăng năng suất toàn cầu. Từ “raise productivity growth” trong bài được paraphrase thành “increase annual productivity growth” trong đáp án.
Câu 3: B
- Dạng câu hỏi: Multiple Choice
- Từ khóa: jobs most at risk
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 4, dòng cuối: “Jobs that involve repetitive tasks… are particularly vulnerable”
- Giải thích: Bài đọc nêu rõ các công việc có tính lặp đi lặp lại đặc biệt dễ bị tự động hóa thay thế. Từ “vulnerable” được paraphrase thành “at risk”.
Câu 6: TRUE
- Dạng câu hỏi: True/False/Not Given
- Từ khóa: Machines, work continuously, rest periods
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 3, dòng 2: “Machines do not need breaks, do not get tired, and can work 24 hours a day”
- Giải thích: Thông tin trong câu hỏi khớp chính xác với thông tin trong bài. “Work continuously without rest” = “work 24 hours a day without breaks”.
Câu 8: FALSE
- Dạng câu hỏi: True/False/Not Given
- Từ khóa: All economists, widespread unemployment
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 5, dòng 1-2: “many economists argue that automation will not lead to mass unemployment”
- Giải thích: Bài viết chỉ nói “many economists” (nhiều nhà kinh tế) chứ không phải “all economists” (tất cả). Câu hỏi dùng từ “all” làm cho phát biểu trở nên tuyệt đối và sai so với bài đọc.
Câu 10: soft skills
- Dạng câu hỏi: Sentence Completion
- Từ khóa: creativity, valuable, job market
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 6, dòng 4-5: “soft skills like creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence are also valuable”
- Giải thích: Đáp án nằm ngay sau cụm “technical skills” và được nối bởi “At the same time”. Chú ý chỉ lấy 2 từ “soft skills” theo yêu cầu NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS.
Passage 2 – Giải Thích
Câu 14: NO
- Dạng câu hỏi: Yes/No/Not Given
- Từ khóa: predictions, widespread unemployment, completely accurate
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn A, dòng 2: “While doomsday predictions about mass unemployment have captured public attention, the reality is far more nuanced”
- Giải thích: Tác giả cho rằng những dự đoán về thất nghiệp hàng loạt không hoàn toàn chính xác mà thực tế phức tạp hơn nhiều (“far more nuanced”). Đây là quan điểm phủ định các dự đoán bi quan.
Câu 15: YES
- Dạng câu hỏi: Yes/No/Not Given
- Từ khóa: middle-skilled jobs, more vulnerable
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn B, dòng 2-3: “Middle-skilled jobs…are disappearing at an alarming rate. These positions…are particularly susceptible to automation”
- Giải thích: Tác giả rõ ràng khẳng định các công việc có kỹ năng trung bình đặc biệt dễ bị tự động hóa. “Particularly susceptible” = “more vulnerable”.
Câu 16: YES
- Dạng câu hỏi: Yes/No/Not Given
- Từ khóa: traditional approach to education, no longer sufficient
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn D, dòng cuối: “The traditional model of front-loading education in one’s youth and then working for decades is becoming obsolete”
- Giải thích: Từ “obsolete” (lỗi thời) thể hiện quan điểm của tác giả rằng mô hình giáo dục truyền thống không còn đủ. “No longer sufficient” paraphrase “becoming obsolete”.
Câu 19: ii (The necessity of career flexibility)
- Dạng câu hỏi: Matching Headings
- Vị trí: Đoạn D
- Giải thích: Đoạn D nói về “occupational mobility” (khả năng di chuyển nghề nghiệp), việc công nhân phải “pivot” và “upskill” nhiều lần trong sự nghiệp. Đây chính là nội dung về sự linh hoạt trong nghề nghiệp (career flexibility).
Câu 21: vi (Barriers to educational access)
- Dạng câu hỏi: Matching Headings
- Vị trí: Đoạn F
- Giải thích: Đoạn F bắt đầu bằng “However, access to these learning opportunities is not evenly distributed” và nói về các “socioeconomic barriers” và “disparities”. Đây là các rào cản trong tiếp cận giáo dục.
Câu 24: polarization
- Dạng câu hỏi: Summary Completion
- Từ khóa: labor market, middle-skilled jobs declining
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn B, câu đầu: “One of the most significant changes brought about by automation is the polarization of the labor market”
- Giải thích: Từ “polarization” mô tả chính xác hiện tượng thị trường lao động phân cực với công việc kỹ năng trung bình giảm.
Passage 3 – Giải Thích
Câu 27: C
- Dạng câu hỏi: Multiple Choice
- Từ khóa: current automation different from previous
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 2, dòng 3-5: “Unlike previous technological disruptions that primarily affected manual laborers, contemporary automation technologies are increasingly capable of performing cognitive tasks”
- Giải thích: Bài đọc phân biệt rõ ràng: tự động hóa trước đây chủ yếu ảnh hưởng đến lao động chân tay, nhưng hiện tại còn ảnh hưởng đến cả công việc trí óc. Đáp án C tóm tắt điểm này.
Câu 28: B
- Dạng câu hỏi: Multiple Choice
- Từ khóa: labor share of income
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 3, dòng 3: “The labor share of income—the proportion of economic output that goes to workers rather than capital owners”
- Giải thích: Bài đọc định nghĩa trực tiếp thuật ngữ này trong dấu gạch ngang. “Proportion of economic output that goes to workers” = “percentage of economic output paid to workers”.
Câu 29: C
- Dạng câu hỏi: Multiple Choice
- Từ khóa: skeptics, believe
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 4, dòng 1-3: “Skeptics of automation-induced unemployment point to the task-based nature of work…automation complements human labor”
- Giải thích: Những người hoài nghi về thất nghiệp do tự động hóa tin rằng tự động hóa bổ sung (complements) cho lao động con người chứ không thay thế hoàn toàn.
Câu 30: A
- Dạng câu hỏi: Multiple Choice
- Từ khóa: Panglossian perspective
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 5, câu đầu: “However, this Panglossian perspective may underestimate the adjustment costs”
- Giải thích: “Panglossian” là thuật ngữ văn học chỉ quan điểm lạc quan quá mức. Từ “however” và “underestimate” cho thấy tác giả phê bình quan điểm này vì quá lạc quan.
Câu 37: Diagnostic algorithms
- Dạng câu hỏi: Short-answer Questions
- Từ khóa: analyze medical images, accurately as trained doctors
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 2, giữa đoạn: “Diagnostic algorithms can analyze medical images with accuracy rivaling or exceeding that of trained radiologists”
- Giải thích: “Trained radiologists” được paraphrase thành “trained doctors” trong câu hỏi. Đáp án chính xác là “Diagnostic algorithms”.
Câu 38: capital-based dystopia
- Dạng câu hỏi: Short-answer Questions
- Từ khóa: economic scenario, machine owners benefit more
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn 3, cuối đoạn: “potentially leading to what economists term a capital-based dystopia where the benefits of technological progress accrue predominantly to those who own the machines”
- Giải thích: Cụm “capital-based dystopia” được định nghĩa ngay sau nó, mô tả kịch bản lợi ích thuộc về người sở hữu máy móc.
Câu 40: adaptive capacity
- Dạng câu hỏi: Short-answer Questions
- Từ khóa: individuals and societies need, coming decades
- Vị trí trong bài: Đoạn cuối, dòng 2: “the coming decades will require unprecedented adaptive capacity from individuals, institutions, and societies”
- Giải thích: Đáp án xuất hiện rõ ràng với cụm “adaptive capacity” kèm theo ngữ cảnh về các thập kỷ tới.
Từ Vựng Quan Trọng Theo Passage
Passage 1 – Essential Vocabulary
| Từ vựng | Loại từ | Phiên âm | Nghĩa tiếng Việt | Ví dụ từ bài | Collocation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| automation | n | /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃən/ | sự tự động hóa | automation has become increasingly common | industrial automation, factory automation |
| sophisticated | adj | /səˈfɪstɪkeɪtɪd/ | tinh vi, phức tạp | becoming more sophisticated and affordable | sophisticated technology, sophisticated system |
| productivity | n | /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/ | năng suất | increase productivity | raise productivity, boost productivity |
| displacement | n | /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ | sự thay thế, dịch chuyển | concerns about job displacement | job displacement, workforce displacement |
| repetitive | adj | /rɪˈpetətɪv/ | lặp đi lặp lại | jobs that involve repetitive tasks | repetitive tasks, repetitive work |
| transform | v | /trænsˈfɔːm/ | biến đổi, chuyển hóa | will transform the job market | transform the economy, transform society |
| outperform | v | /ˌaʊtpəˈfɔːm/ | làm tốt hơn, vượt trội | humans still outperform machines | outperform expectations, outperform competitors |
| retraining | n | /riːˈtreɪnɪŋ/ | đào tạo lại | investing in retraining programs | retraining programs, retraining initiatives |
| transition | n | /trænˈzɪʃən/ | sự chuyển đổi | transition to an automated economy | smooth transition, economic transition |
| harness | v | /ˈhɑːnɪs/ | khai thác, tận dụng | harness the benefits of automation | harness technology, harness potential |
| artificial intelligence | n | /ˌɑːtɪfɪʃəl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/ | trí tuệ nhân tạo | AI software can sort through emails | AI technology, AI systems |
| adopting | v | /əˈdɒptɪŋ/ | áp dụng, chấp nhận | companies are adopting automation | adopt technology, adopt new methods |
Passage 2 – Essential Vocabulary
| Từ vựng | Loại từ | Phiên âm | Nghĩa tiếng Việt | Ví dụ từ bài | Collocation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| employment landscape | n phrase | /ɪmˈplɔɪmənt ˈlændskeɪp/ | bối cảnh việc làm | altered the employment landscape | changing landscape, evolving landscape |
| polarization | n | /ˌpəʊlərəˈzeɪʃən/ | sự phân cực | polarization of the labor market | market polarization, social polarization |
| middle-skilled | adj | /ˌmɪdl skɪld/ | có kỹ năng trung bình | middle-skilled jobs are disappearing | middle-skilled workers, middle-skilled positions |
| occupational mobility | n phrase | /ˌɒkjuˈpeɪʃənl məʊˈbɪləti/ | khả năng di chuyển nghề nghiệp | occupational mobility has become important | career mobility, job mobility |
| upskill | v | /ˈʌpskɪl/ | nâng cao kỹ năng | prepared to pivot and upskill | upskill workers, upskill employees |
| lifelong learning | n phrase | /ˈlaɪflɒŋ ˈlɜːnɪŋ/ | học tập suốt đời | lifelong learning has emerged | promote lifelong learning, support lifelong learning |
| socioeconomic | adj | /ˌsəʊsiəʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk/ | về kinh tế xã hội | socioeconomic barriers continue | socioeconomic factors, socioeconomic status |
| disparities | n | /dɪˈspærətiz/ | sự chênh lệch | addressing these disparities | income disparities, education disparities |
| gig economy | n phrase | /ɡɪɡ iˈkɒnəmi/ | nền kinh tế việc làm tự do | the gig economy represents another dimension | gig workers, gig platforms |
| algorithmic | adj | /ˌælɡəˈrɪðmɪk/ | thuộc về thuật toán | algorithmic management | algorithmic systems, algorithmic decision-making |
| resilient | adj | /rɪˈzɪliənt/ | có khả năng phục hồi | the most resilient careers | resilient workforce, resilient economy |
| empathy | n | /ˈempəθi/ | sự đồng cảm | jobs requiring empathy | show empathy, develop empathy |
| comprehensive | adj | /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ | toàn diện | comprehensive training programs | comprehensive approach, comprehensive strategy |
| precarious | adj | /prɪˈkeəriəs/ | bấp bênh, không ổn định | workers in precarious employment | precarious situation, precarious position |
| lateral | adj | /ˈlætərəl/ | theo chiều ngang | facilitating lateral career moves | lateral thinking, lateral movement |
Passage 3 – Essential Vocabulary
| Từ vựng | Loại từ | Phiên âm | Nghĩa tiếng Việt | Ví dụ từ bài | Collocation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| inexorable | adj | /ɪnˈeksərəbəl/ | không thể cản được | the inexorable march of automation | inexorable trend, inexorable process |
| precipitate | v | /prɪˈsɪpɪteɪt/ | gây ra, thúc đẩy | has precipitated a fundamental reconfiguration | precipitate a crisis, precipitate change |
| reconfiguration | n | /riːkənˌfɪɡjʊˈreɪʃən/ | sự tái cấu trúc | fundamental reconfiguration of labor market | economic reconfiguration, structural reconfiguration |
| engendering | v | /ɪnˈdʒendərɪŋ/ | tạo ra, gây nên | engendering both opportunities and challenges | engender trust, engender debate |
| autonomy | n | /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ | tính tự chủ | sophisticated levels of autonomy | personal autonomy, professional autonomy |
| covenant | n | /ˈkʌvənənt/ | giao ước, hợp đồng | traditional covenant between labor and capital | social covenant, sacred covenant |
| displacement | n | /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ | sự thay thế | technological displacement of labor | workforce displacement, job displacement |
| skill-neutrality | n phrase | /skɪl njuːˈtræləti/ | tính trung lập về kỹ năng | scope, speed, and skill-neutrality | technological neutrality |
| diagnostic | adj | /ˌdaɪəɡˈnɒstɪk/ | chẩn đoán | diagnostic algorithms | diagnostic tools, diagnostic tests |
| stratification | n | /ˌstrætɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/ | sự phân tầng | implications for social stratification | social stratification, class stratification |
| dystopia | n | /dɪsˈtəʊpiə/ | xã hội đen tối | capital-based dystopia | technological dystopia, economic dystopia |
| complement | v | /ˈkɒmplɪment/ | bổ sung | automation complements human labor | complement skills, complement each other |
| Panglossian | adj | /pæŋˈɡlɒsiən/ | lạc quan quá mức | this Panglossian perspective | Panglossian optimism, Panglossian view |
| aggregate demand | n phrase | /ˈæɡrɪɡət dɪˈmɑːnd/ | tổng cầu | aggregate demand problem | aggregate supply, aggregate data |
| universal basic income | n phrase | /ˌjuːnɪvɜːsl ˈbeɪsɪk ˈɪnkʌm/ | thu nhập cơ bản toàn dân | advocate for universal basic income | UBI program, UBI scheme |
| interventionist | adj | /ˌɪntəˈvenʃənɪst/ | can thiệp nhiều | interventionist proposals | interventionist policy, interventionist approach |
| externalities | n | /ˌekstɜːˈnælətiz/ | tác động bên ngoài | negative externalities of automation | positive externalities, environmental externalities |
| laissez-faire | adj | /ˌleseɪ ˈfeə/ | tự do, không can thiệp | laissez-faire approaches | laissez-faire capitalism, laissez-faire economics |
| calibrated | v | /ˈkælɪbreɪtɪd/ | điều chỉnh chính xác | calibrated to specific national contexts | carefully calibrated, precisely calibrated |
Kết bài
Chủ đề “How automation is changing job market dynamics” không chỉ phản ánh xu hướng công nghệ đương đại mà còn là một chủ đề xuất hiện thường xuyên trong các kỳ thi IELTS Reading gần đây. Qua bộ đề thi mẫu này, bạn đã được trải nghiệm đầy đủ ba cấp độ khó từ Easy đến Hard với tổng cộng 40 câu hỏi đa dạng, giống hệt như trong kỳ thi thực tế.
Ba passages đã cung cấp góc nhìn toàn diện về tác động của tự động hóa: từ những thay đổi cơ bản trong môi trường làm việc (Passage 1), đến chiến lược thích nghi và phát triển kỹ năng (Passage 2), cho đến các hệ quả sâu xa về kinh tế-xã hội và các giải pháp chính sách (Passage 3). Mỗi passage không chỉ giúp bạn luyện kỹ năng đọc hiểu mà còn mở rộng kiến thức về một chủ đề quan trọng của thời đại.
Phần đáp án chi tiết với giải thích cụ thể vị trí thông tin và cách paraphrase sẽ giúp bạn tự đánh giá chính xác năng lực hiện tại và hiểu rõ cách thức làm bài hiệu quả. Đặc biệt, bộ từ vựng hơn 40 từ quan trọng được phân loại theo từng passage sẽ là tài liệu quý giá giúp bạn nâng cao vốn từ học thuật, không chỉ cho IELTS Reading mà còn cho cả Writing và Speaking.
Hãy dành thời gian làm lại đề thi này nhiều lần, phân tích kỹ các câu trả lời sai, và học thuộc toàn bộ từ vựng. Đây chính là phương pháp hiệu quả nhất để cải thiện band điểm IELTS Reading của bạn. Chúc bạn luyện tập hiệu quả và đạt được mục tiêu band điểm mong muốn!
