Bell Ringer Opinion: What is the purpose of a

minimum wage? Is it necessary? Why/why not? Do you think employers would take

advantage of workers if there were no minimum wage? Explain.

What, if any, are the benefits for employers of paying above minimum wage?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQE0ldkiKo0

History of Minimum Wage Signed into law in 1938 by President Franklin

Roosevelt, at the height of the Great Depression. Its stated purpose was to keep America’s workers

out of poverty, and increase consumer purchasing power in order to stimulate the economy.

Does it Work? The Federal minimum wage is

$7.25/hour What is the annual income for a

minimum-wage earner who works 40 hours/week?$15,080

The poverty line:$11,490 for a single person$23,550 for a family of four

Compare to Living Wage worksheet.

What is the solution? Take a side! Make a list of arguments presented as

you view each video (T-chart style!).Raise the minimum wage to a living wage

(or, at least above the poverty line)!○ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ct8CGJy9e

F8Get rid of the minimum wage!

○ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=siW0YAAfX6I

Discuss with a partner

Minimum Wage Debate! With your partner, research your

assigned side of the minimum wage debate

Find as many CREDIBLE arguments for your side as possible (minimum 5, well-explained arguments)

List each source (Organization, publication, etc. and date)

Other ways wages are impacted… The minimum wage is one way

government regulation affects the labor market.

Unions are another organization that impacts worker wages.

Right-to-work laws