Child Labor: A Fight for the Future's Workforce (with Primary Source Analysis!)

Unmask the hidden costs of the Industrial Revolution! This engaging reading comprehension worksheet delves into the horrific reality of child labor during the Industrial Age. Students will grapple with the working conditions, the fight for reform led by labor unions, and the lasting impact of child labor laws. A powerful primary source analysis activity brings the human cost to life.

What's Included:

• Informative reading passage on child labor in the Industrial Revolution
• Primary source analysis activity (testimony from a former child laborer)
• Varied assessment questions: multiple choice, matching, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer
• Answer key for easy grading

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze the causes and consequences of child labor during the Industrial Revolution
• Evaluate the role of labor unions in advocating for child labor reform
• Understand the impact of child labor laws on protecting children's rights
• Develop critical thinking skills through primary source analysis

Common Core Standards Addressed:

• RH.6-8.1: Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
• RH.6-8.2: Determine the central ideas or themes of a text and analyze their development over time.
• RH.6-8.7: Integrate quantitative and qualitative information to develop an explanation or argument.

Why Buy This Resource?

• A compelling and often under-explored topic in the Industrial Revolution
• Fosters critical thinking, empathy, and social justice awareness
• Aligns with Common Core standards
• Provides a clear and engaging overview of child labor and the fight for reform
• Includes a valuable primary source analysis activity to deepen comprehension

Ready to unlock your students' critical thinking potential?
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