University of Illinois at Chicago The Labor Market Rhetorical Analysis

In this class this semester you have read and discussed four texts concerning observations of the labor market in general and the workplace in particular.These readings, intended to provide sociocultural filters through which the work place can be viewed and evaluated, include the following:

• “The Three Jobs of the Future,” by Robert Reich

• “The Big Earners and the Big Losers,” by Tyler Cowen

• “Serving in Florida,” by Barbara Ehrenreich

• “Class in America—2012,” by Gregory Mantsios

Instructions:

1. Read “The Three Jobs of the Future,” by Robert Reich.

2. Write an analysis of Reich’s chapter, making sure you cover all the following questions, although not necessarily in the order they appear here.

• Introduce Reich and title of his chapter.Describe briefly what the chapter is about and explain Reich’s purpose in writing it.

• What is Reich’s main claim—stated in your own words?What reasons does he give to support this claim?

• Who is Reich’s audience?

• What does Reich want the audience to do or feel as a result of reading this chapter (for example:change their minds/opinions, vote in a certain way, broaden their understanding of a subject, give money to a cause, take some other action?)Explain.

• Explain the rhetorical situation/context/larger discussion of Reich’s topic:the diversity and changing nature of the global labor market and its influence on the American work place.What are the key concerns regarding this issue?Use the other chapters you have read in class to help you understand the context of this topic as you explain each of the other authors’ claims, the supporting ideas they use to develop their arguments, and how their arguments relate to Reich’s arguments.

• Identify at least two (2) rhetorical techniques/strategies/appeals Reich uses to persuade his intended audience.Provide examples from his chapter and explain why he uses these strategies.Does he more heavily rely on one type of technique over others?Why does he do this?

3. In the second part of your rhetorical analysis paper evaluate the extent to which all four of these readings have influenced your views about the diversity and changing nature of the global labor market and its influence on the American work place.Evaluate the credibility and sufficiency of the evidence used to support each argument as you address the following questions:

• How have your views changed as a result of reading these chapters?Explain.

• Which argument(s) most influenced your views?Explain.

• Do not simply talk about how you feel about the American labor market.You must explain your views in reference to how they have been influenced by the arguments and information in the readings.

Length: The paper should be 4-6 pages, double-spaced

Due Date: Refer to the class assignment sheet for submission date

Format: Follow MLA guidelines for line spacing, margins, headers, page numbering, and documentation of sources.Your paper must be typed using a font no larger than 12 point.

Audience: Your peers, instructor, and other college-educated readers

Purpose: Analysis/argument