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

I agree that working in fast food can give teenagers valuable experience because it teaches transferable skills like customer service, cash handling, teamwork, and time management. For example, managing a busy lunch shift requires multitasking, following safety procedures, and interacting with upset customers—abilities that employers and colleges recognize on a resume. Although Schlosser rightly criticizes low pay and limited advancement in the industry, the practical responsibility and workplace routines teens learn often make them more reliable and hireable for future jobs.