A Union Revival?

1. Set Focus 
Pose this essential question: What sparks movements for social change?

2. Read and Discuss 
Have students read the article, marking key ideas and questions. 

• The first paragraph states the central idea of the article as a question. Paraphrase it as a statement. What aspect of the central idea does the author emphasize by stating it as a question? (The central idea is that labor unions used to play a powerful role in the workplace and may now be on the rise again. By stating the central idea as a question, the author emphasizes that a union revival isn’t a sure thing—it may or may not happen.)

• What led to the decline of unions after membership peaked in 1954? (Union membership began to decline as manufacturing jobs were lost to automation as well as workers overseas, where labor is cheaper. In addition, the U.S. shifted from a manufacturing-based economy to a service-based one. As unions lost members, they also lost political clout. And as corporations got wealthier, they gained more power in stopping unionizing efforts.)

• Why do some people favor unions and others don’t? What is your position on unions? (Supporters of unions say they help workers negotiate for higher wages, better benefits, stronger job security, and safer workplaces. Critics of unions say that they are bad for companies and limit their flexibility. Opinions on unions will vary.)

3. Core Skill Practice
Assign, print, or project the activity Milestones in Union History. Have students use the organizer to sequence and make connections among events described in the article.

4. Writing Prompt
Research and summarize the rise and fall of the International Ladies Garment Workers Union (ILGWU). Be sure to include how a changing economy affected the ILGWU’s strength.

5. Classroom Debate
Should the Senate pass the PRO ACT?

6. Quiz & Skills
Assess comprehension with the quiz.