The Worker's Bill of Rights Time required: One to two class periods
Objectives: Students will...
1. read primary sources about the working conditions of immigrant workers.
2. create a list of rights that should belong to any worker.
3. empathize with the struggle and challenge of the worker.
4. empathize with the needs and wants of the employer.
Materials:
1. Primary sources on experiences of workers
Sources for the Asians/Mexicans
2. Butcher paper and markers
Procedures:1. Divide the class in half. One half will read primary sources about the work experiences of the Europeans in the factories. The other half will read primary sources about the work experiences for the Asians and Mexicans in the fields.
2. Divide students in groups of six. Give each group their source to read and butcher paper with markers.
3. After each group reads their source, have students list 10 rights every worker should have in the work place.
4. Post the completed list of rights throughout the room for class discussion. Compare the European experience and the Asian/Mexican experience.
Follow-up:
The next day have students write down the 10 rights of every employer and discuss.
This can be a lead in for your lesson on the labor movement.