B2 – Upper Intermediate
A tech CEO warns that AI could replace millions of jobs, especially entry-level office work in law, marketing, tech, and finance. Some companies are already cutting jobs as they prepare for the AI era.
Experts say young workers with less experience are most at risk. To protect their careers, people should focus on human skills like teamwork and learn how to work with AI tools.
Let’s watch the video to learn more about how AI is about to wipe out millions of jobs.
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “early career knowledge job” mean? “These new generative AI technologies pose a real risk to early career knowledge jobs.” Use this term in a sentence.
- What does “to get up to speed with someone/something” mean? “Anthropic CEO is pushing lawmakers to get up to speed on AI and to urgently look at ways to regulate this technology.” Give a similar expression and use this phrase in a sentence.
- What does it mean “to double down on something”? “Experts say to double down on what AI struggles with — making human connections and doing things in person.” Give a similar expression and use this phrasal verb in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What is your reaction to the warning that AI could wipe out millions of jobs in the next five years? How do you feel about this possibility?
- Do you agree with the advice to “double down on what AI struggles with,” like human connections and in-person work? Can you give examples?
- Share your thoughts on this statement: “If you can do your job locked in a closet with a computer, those are the things that are more worrying for AI. Things that have to be in person and really with people tend to be safer.” What jobs do you think fit this description?
- What skills do you think workers should develop to protect their careers from AI disruption?
- How do you feel about companies restructuring and downsizing due to AI advancements? Is it inevitable or avoidable? Explain.
- Do you believe that working alongside AI, rather than competing with it, is a realistic and effective career strategy? Why or why not?