Write for an Academic Discussion

A professor has posted a question about a topic and students have responded with their thoughts and ideas. Make a contribution to the discussion.
You will have 10 minutes to write.

Your professor is teaching a class on public health.

In your response, you should do the following.

• • Express and support your opinion.
• • Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.

Professor’s question:

To address rising rates of obesity and related health problems, some city governments have proposed a special tax on sugary drinks like soda and juice. The goal is to discourage consumption of these unhealthy products and use the tax revenue to fund health programs. Do you think this is a good strategy for improving public health? Why or why not?

Student response 1:

Yes, I think a tax on sugary drinks is a great idea. It makes people think twice before buying something unhealthy because it costs more. For example, a similar tax in other places has led to a decrease in soda sales. The money collected can also be used for positive things like building parks.

Student response 2:

I don't think this tax is fair. It disproportionately affects people with lower incomes since they tend to spend a larger portion of their budget on food. However, the main issue is that people should have the freedom to choose what they eat and drink without government interference.