The Automation Paradox
Read a student’s summary of “The Automation Paradox.”
What is the most effective way to revise sentence 5 to include a transition word or phrase?
Answer: However, it will require some workers to gain new skills to meet the demands of a changing workforce.
Which two groups are most likely the intended audience of “Heads Up, Humans”?
Students and Young Adults.
What does the prefix auto- mean in the word automation?
Self
Why does Bessen use statistics in “The Automation Paradox”?
To support his claim that automation increases opportunities instead of reducing them.
Which comparison best explains how the authors develop their claims?
Bessen uses examples to show how computers improved the workplace; Alarcón uses statistics to show how computers increased unemployment.
Which statement best expresses the author’s central claim in “The Automation Paradox”?
Computer automation will likely increase the number of jobs in certain fields rather than decreasing them.
Read the dictionary entry. Which definition represents the meaning of “technology” as used in paragraph 3?
Definition 3 — electronic or digital products and systems.
Which sentence would best conclude the student’s analysis of “Heads Up, Humans” by using active voice?
Many people fear that our reliance on computers and other forms of technology will increase unemployment levels.
Why does Alarcón include counterclaims in “Heads Up, Humans”?
To acknowledge opposing viewpoints and strengthen her argument.
What is one similarity between both authors’ arguments?
Both discuss how technology impacts employment.
The word automation comes from the Greek prefix auto- meaning “self.” Based on this, what is the best definition of automation as used in the text?
Technology that operates on its own without human support.
Which two reasons best explain why the author included paragraph 5 in “Heads Up, Humans”?
To explain a counterclaim; To describe possible effects of technology.
What do the citations in “Heads Up, Humans” suggest about the author’s research?
She consulted a variety of source
What do both authors use to support their claims?
Evidence from research and real-world examples.
What is one key difference between their claims?
Bessen sees automation as beneficial; Alarcón sees it as harmful to employment.
What is the effect of the author’s use of graphs in “The Automation Paradox”?
They show employment statistics that support the claim that automation creates opportunities in higher-skill professions.
Which quotation from “Heads Up, Humans” expresses a counterclaim to the author’s argument?
“They say that people who are displaced from jobs will find new and better occupations that will be created by the economic shift.”
What is one synonym and one antonym for bewildering?
Synonym: puzzling; Antonym: straightforward.
How does paragraph organization differ between the two texts?
Bessen organizes around cause and effect with data, while Alarcón organizes around claims and counterclaims.
Compare and contrast the authors’ claims in a short written response.
Both focus on the impact of technology, but Bessen argues automation increases opportunities, while Alarcón argues it raises unemployment.
James Bessen argues that automation creates more opportunities for workers with higher skills. If you were advising students your age today, what specific skills or subjects would you recommend they focus on to be successful in a future workforce shaped by automation?
Coding, computer science, engineering
Creative problem-solving, critical thinking
Jobs that require emotional intelligence (teaching, counseling, healthcare)
Claudia Alarcón warns that technology may increase unemployment in the future. Do you agree or disagree with her claim? Use examples from your life or current events to support your answer.
Agree: Self-checkout machines replacing cashiers, AI tools replacing writers/designers
Disagree: Technology creates new industries like app development, renewable energy, or esports
Choose one key word from either article (automation, technology, employment, workforce). Create your own analogy to explain the meaning of the word in a creative way.
Automation is like a self-driving car because it works without someone steering it.
Technology is like a toolbox — the more tools inside, the more problems you can solve.
Both authors use evidence differently. Which do you find more convincing: Bessen’s use of graphs/statistics or Alarcón’s use of counterclaims and examples? Explain why, using evidence from the texts or your own perspective.
Bessen is more convincing because statistics show real proof.
Alarcón is more convincing because counterclaims help readers think critically.
If James Bessen and Claudia Alarcón were debating each other live on stage, what question would you ask them to challenge their perspectives?
“How do you prepare workers who don’t have access to higher education for a tech-heavy future?”
“What evidence proves your claim will be true in the next 20 years?”