The learning module is the first in a three part series which examines American history in light of industrial development and expansion. Presented in field test condition to allow for feedback from students and teachers, the booklet explores the American work ethic through presentation of an extensive teacher background section, eight class exercises, and 50 ideas for additional activities. The learning activities are designed to help 11th grade social studies students develop concepts and understandings related to American labor history. The topics of the activities include labor imports, treatment of laborers, working conditions, upward mobility, worker attitudes, alienation, and success factors. Learning activities comprise reading and writing assignments, class discussion, hypothesis formulation, panels, art work, role playing, character research, and attitude measurement. The format of the exercises generally includes objectives, materials, strategy, and evaluation. Sample teacher questions, background information, illustrations, and newspaper clippings are included where relevant. The list of 50 supplementary ideas suggests community interviews, novel reviewing, a cartoon club, a labor history center, and a profile of local labor beliefs. An evaluation form for teachers, a bibliography, film list, and an annotated listing of simulations are included. (Author/DB)