HIST 1103, Section 903 – Honors Survey of American History

Laura A. Belmonte

Spring 2002

 

Book Assignment for Barbara Ehrenreich, Nickled and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America

 

To Read: entire text (221 pages)

 

Due by 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 9th.

 

Write a 5-7 page, typed, double-spaced, 12-point font essay (including introduction and conclusion) in which you summarize the author’s major arguments and answer (in whatever order you find appropriate) the following questions:

 

-Why did Ehrenreich write this book?

 

-What tactics did she use to investigate low-wage workers?

 

-What types of jobs and experiences does she have?

 

-Have you had similar experiences?  If so, provide examples.

 

-What kinds of statistics does Ehrenreich use to support her personal experiences?

 

-Has this book changed your views of poverty and low-wage workers?  Explain your answers.

 

-Does Ehrenreich offer a workable solution to the problems facing the poor?  Can you think of alternatives?

 

-Did you like this book?  Should I assign it again?  Explain your answers.