Self-Checkout Tipping

Warm Up

1. What stores do you like to go to?

2. Do you pay with cash or with a credit card?

3. Did you buy something yestarday?
   

Reading

Tipping at Self-Checkout: What Customers Think

Have you ever been to a store where you can scan and pay for your items all by yourself? It's called self-checkout. But did you know that some people feel unsure about tipping when they use self-checkout? Tipping is a way of showing gratitude to people who provide services, like waiters in restaurants or taxi drivers. But what about when you're doing all the work yourself at the checkout?

A study found that many customers feel unsure about tipping at self-checkout. Some people believe that since they're doing the work themselves, they shouldn't have to tip. Others think that tipping is only for when someone helps you directly. In some places, like the United States, tipping is a common practice. But in other countries, it might not be as common or expected. This can lead to confusion for customers.

Another reason why people might hesitate to tip at self-checkout is because they don't know who the tip would go to. In traditional checkout lines, you might tip the cashier who helps you bag your items. But at self-checkout, there's no one there to help. Additionally, some customers might not feel the need to tip because they believe the store already charges enough for the items they buy.

Reading Comprehension

1. Why do some customers feel unsure about tipping at self-checkout?

2. What is tipping, and where is it commonly practiced?

3. What different opinions about tipping at self-checkout do customers have?
   

Discussion Questions

1. Have you ever used a self-checkout system at a store? How was your experience?

2. In your country, is tipping common? When do people usually tip?

3. Do you think tipping should be expected at self-checkout? Why or why not?

4. Do you think the popularity of self-checkout will change tipping norms?

5. Do you agree that workers should be paid better so they don't have to rely on tips? Why or why not?

6. What are some other services where tipping is customary in your culture?

7. Do you think tipping should be mandatory or optional? Why?

8. Do you think cultural differences should be considered when it comes to tipping practices?

9. Have you ever felt confused about whether to tip in a certain situation? What did you do?

10. Why is it important to show gratitude and respect to service workers?