Traces the decline in United States productivity growth since the late 1960's. Suggests that the failure to innovate, changing demographics, and disruptions to the economy (including oil price increases and inflation) are major contributors to the decline. Argues that American living standards will stagnate unless this trend is reversed. (TW)

Presents a lesson plan constructed around materials found in the User's Guide to the Federal Project. The Federal Theater Project produced radical and populist plays during the Great Depression before being de-funded by a conservative Congress. The lessons include activities and discussion built around the original plays. (MJP)