Why do some people earn a lot of money while others work hard and earn little? With a little information, and a little theory, you can begin answering this and other puzzling questions. In the process, you will learn how the government measures the unemployment rate, how workers' wages are determined, and how labor unions influence workers' earnings, job security, and benefits in today's economy.
Interview a parent, grandparent, or other older adult, and ask that person to describe his or her first job. Ask about hours, pay, working conditions, and co-workers. Take detailed notes of the responses to your questions.