For Teachers

Run the 15-minute warm-up in Module 1, give learners 25 minutes to write in Module 2, and spend 15 minutes reviewing the model in Module 3.

Check answers using the quick keys in Module 1 and grade the final essay against the 4-item self-check list.

For Learners

Complete the word, phrase, and grammar drills in Module 1 first to collect key tools for your essay.

Next, write your 250-word essay in Module 2 using the four given paragraph starters, and check your work before finishing.

be required to / be obliged to: something you must do by law or rule.

Example: Couriers are required to sign in at the start of a shift.

be entitled to: something you have a legal right to receive.

Example: Regular staff are entitled to paid annual leave.

be exempt from: you do not have to follow this rule.

Example: Freelancers are exempt from set working times.

may not / shall: strict prohibition or formal official instruction.

Example: Drivers may not log into another person's account.

Learner requirements:

• Write at least 250 words.
• Use at least 3 sentences containing formal obligation or permission grammar (be required to, be obliged to, be entitled to, be exempt from, may not, shall).
• Include at least 5 Unit words (contractor, freelance, autonomy, rota, remuneration, liability, unionise, grievance, dismissal, arbitration).

📝 Four-paragraph plan

Begin each paragraph with these exact starters:

✅ Self-check list

Tick each item once you complete it in your essay:

Write your essay here

Assessment criteria: Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy.

More and more people work through apps these days, and there is a big debate about whether they should count as employees. While some people argue that app-based workers need formal employment protections, others feel that complete flexibility is more valuable. This essay will examine both views.

Supporters of the first view argue that gig workers face severe financial instability and lack basic protections. In regular jobs, staff are entitled to minimum wage protections, sick leave, and fair dismissal procedures. Without these rights, an independent contractor absorbs all the operational liability, such as vehicle upkeep and road accidents, while receiving minimal remuneration. Also, when unfair penalties occur, workers often have no formal route to raise a grievance. So platforms shall provide equal safety nets so that vulnerable couriers are not exploited.

By contrast, others maintain that rigid workplace regulations could destroy the core appeal of the gig economy. Many people choose freelance driving because they value complete autonomy over their schedule. If workers are required to follow a fixed rota or mandatory shifts, they lose the freedom to balance jobs with studies or family duties. On top of that, companies might cut total positions if they are obliged to fund full employment benefits for casual workers.

On balance, while flexibility is attractive, basic dignity and economic security must come first. Digital couriers may not be treated as disposable labour simply because their tasks are managed by an application. I think a few basic protections would still leave people free to choose their hours.