This course guide is designed to help the student view some of the many facets of American society as they are portrayed in literature. Materials suggested are "The Great Gatsby,""The Grapes of Wrath,""All My Sons," and "They Shoot Horses, Don't They?" Performance objectives for students include identifying the rags and riches theme in American society during the periods of colonization and expansion, and immigration and industrialization. These objectives may be met by having students synthesize their concepts about the aspects of the rags and riches idea to show how this theme has contributed to the views held by contemporary society. Descriptions of course content, teaching strategies, student resources, and teacher resources are included. (LL)