In this high school lesson students will have the opportunity to explore competing theories of wealth and social responsibility, as expressed in the late nineteenth century. Through examination of primary sources, students will develop an understanding of varying approaches to the problem of wealth. Afterward, they will express their own interpretations and propose solutions to the questions raised through written, verbal, and creative expression.

Objectives

Students will be able to: 1.Analyze and interpret primary sources. 2.Discuss historical opinions on the accumulation and use of wealth. 3.Apply historical events and lessons to contemporary questions and issues. 4.Develop their own opinions on relevant contemporary issues. 5.Express ideas in written and verbal form. 6.Create a political cartoon.

Standards Alignment

• Economics
  
  6.1.9. D. Describe the historical examples of expansion, recession and depression in the United States.
  6.2.12. E. Predict how changes in supply and demand affect equilibrium price and quantity sold.
  6.2.12. G. Evaluate types of tax systems.
  6.2.12. H. Evaluate the economic roles of governments
  6.2.12. I. Evaluate government decisions to provide public goods
  6.2.12. J. Evaluate the social, political, and economic changes in tax policy using cost/benefit analysis
  6.5.9. E. Define wealth and describe its distribution within and among the political divisions of the United States.
  
  
• History
  
  8.1.12. D. Synthesize historical research.
  8.2.9. A. Analyze the political and cultural contributions of individuals and groups to Pennsylvania history from 1787 to 1914.
  8.2.9. B. Identify and analyze primary documents, material artifacts and historic sites important in Pennsylvania history from 1787 to 1914.
  8.3.9. A. Identify and analyze the political and cultural contributions of individuals and groups to United States history from 1787 to 1914.
  
  
• Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening
  
  1.1.11. D. Identify, describe, evaluate and synthesize the essential ideas in text.
  1.4.11. B. Write complex informational pieces.
  1.4.11. C. Write persuasive pieces.
  1.6.11. D. Contribute to discussions.
  1.6.11. E. Participate in small and large group discussions and presentations.