Read the excerpt from Fast Food Nation.

Question

Unlike Olympic gymnastics — an activity in which teenagers consistently perform at a higher level than adults — there’s nothing about the work in a fast food kitchen that requires young employees. Instead of relying upon a small, stable, well-paid, and well-trained workforce, the fast food industry seeks out part-time, unskilled workers who are willing to accept low pay. Teenagers have been the perfect candidates for these jobs, not only because they are less expensive to hire than adults, but also because their youthful inexperience makes them easier to control.

—Eric Schlosser, Fast Food Nation

A participant responds to the text by saying, “The fast-food industry can give valuable work experience to teenagers.” Write three to four sentences in which you share what you would say in support of or in opposition to this. Be sure to provide evidence to support your opinion.

Answer 1

While it is true that the fast food industry can provide valuable work experience to teenagers, the overall impact of these jobs may be detrimental rather than beneficial. Many fast food jobs offer low wages, limited hours, and minimal opportunities for advancement, which can hinder teenagers' financial independence rather than foster it. Additionally, the industry's focus on employing young, inexperienced workers often leads to exploitative practices, reducing their motivation for long-term career development. Instead of genuine skill-building experiences, teens may find themselves caught in a cycle of low-wage, part-time work without the support or training necessary to transition into more substantial career paths.

Answer 2

What did you include in your response? Check all that apply.

an acknowledgement of the other participant’s opinion

my opinion on the topic

examples to support my opinion

evidence from a text related to the discussion

Answer 3

In my response, I included the following:

• An acknowledgment of the other participant’s opinion: I recognized that the fast food industry can provide valuable work experience.
• My opinion on the topic: I expressed that the overall impact of these jobs may be detrimental.
• Examples to support my opinion: I provided reasons such as low wages, limited advancement opportunities, and the exploitative nature of the industry.
• Evidence from a text related to the discussion: I referenced the concept of employing young, inexperienced workers as discussed in the excerpt from Fast Food Nation.

So, all of the elements you listed are present in my response.