The United States of Inequality: A QR Writing Activity
This material was developed as part of the Carleton Teaching Activity Collection and is replicated on a number of sites
as part of the
SERC Pedagogic Service Project
Initial Publication Date: December 6, 2010
Summary
In this project, students will be asked to read a series of articles containing information, data and graphics, on income inequality in the United States. Students will be asked to analyze the various explanations offered for the growing gap between the rich and poor and then write a short paper summarizing their findings, and offering their own take on this issue (including implications for public policy).
Learning Goals
Students will learn to study a complex societal issue from multiple viewpoints, assessing the cogency of arguments presented and then developing their own analysis of the situation. This will require them to develop their ability to reason effectively from evidence and communicate their arguments.
Context for Use
This is meant to be a project in a Quantitative Reasoning course.
Description and Teaching Materials
Teaching Notes and Tips
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Assessment
References and Resources
Article and slide show on Income Inequality:
http://www.slate.com/id/2266025/entry/2266026/
http://www.slate.com/id/2266025/entry/2266026/