Cambridge IELTS 14 Academic Writing Test 4

Grange Park was opened in 1920, a rectangular area with access from Arnold Avenue on the north side and from Eldon Street on the south side. There was a fountain in the centre, with a stage for musicians situated centre left, a glasshouse to the right of the Eldon Street entrance and a pond for water plants in the north east corner opposite. Around the edges of the park there were rose gardens, with seats nearby for people to smell the flowers and listen to music.

The park has altered considerably since then. Now there is one large-ish rose garden, occupying the central area where the fountain stood, and with seats all around it. One of the smaller rose gardens remains on the north side of the park. The bandstand (stage for musicians) has also been replaced, by an amphitheatre for concerts and associated seating. The glasshouse has gone and in its places is a water feature; similarly, where the pond for water plants stood there is now a children’s play area with a café nearby. Access to the park is still via the two original entrances, but there is now a third entrance near the water feature from an underground car park.

Despite the apparently significant changes, the park retains the basic elements of flowers, water, seating and music, with the addition of a café and a children’s play area.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift towards self-employment, with many individuals opting to work for themselves rather than for a company or organization. This trend can be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, the desire for greater autonomy and flexibility is a significant motivator. Self-employed individuals have the freedom to set their own schedules, choose their projects, and work from locations of their choice. This level of control over one’s work-life balance is particularly appealing in today’s fast-paced world, where traditional 9-to-5 jobs often leave little room for personal pursuits.

Secondly, technological advancements have made self-employment more accessible. The internet and digital tools have opened up numerous opportunities for remote work, online businesses, and freelance services. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Etsy enable individuals to reach a global market, making it easier to start and sustain a business.

However, self-employment is not without its challenges. One major disadvantage is the lack of financial stability. Unlike salaried employees, self-employed individuals do not have a guaranteed income. Their earnings can be unpredictable, fluctuating based on market demand and client availability. This financial uncertainty can be stressful and requires careful financial planning and management.

Another drawback is the absence of employee benefits. Self-employed individuals do not receive health insurance, retirement plans, or paid leave from an employer. They must bear the full cost of these benefits themselves, which can be a significant financial burden.

Moreover, self-employment often involves longer working hours and greater responsibility. Self-employed individuals must handle all aspects of their business, from marketing and client acquisition to accounting and customer service. This can lead to increased stress and burnout if not managed properly.

In conclusion, while self-employment offers the allure of independence and flexibility, it also comes with its own set of challenges, including financial instability and the lack of traditional employee benefits. Individuals considering this path must weigh these factors carefully and be prepared to navigate the complexities of running their own business.