1. Prep Work What did American gain from the industrial revolution in the late 19th and early 20th centuries? What did America lose as a result of the industrial revolution?

2. Directions 1. Read each poem silently. -As you read fill out the chart. 2. In groups of four discuss and come up with a response to the following questions. -15 minutes to discuss. 3. Whole class discussion

3. Who is the SpeakerLucinda MatlockRichard Cory What is the person’s Lifestyle Wealth Outlook on life Manner of Death Opinion of Others Your Opinion

4. Discussion Q’s 1. From what do people derive meaning in their lives? 2. Why are some people unhappy? What causes unhappiness? 3. What do you think of Lucinda Matlock's life? 4. Her life consisted of hard work and the loss of 8 of her 12 children. What do you think of her approach to life? 5. Is Lucinda being fair in her judgment of the younger generation? Explain. 6. What does she mean by the last 2 lines? 7. Lucinda seems to believe she deserves respect. Does she win your respect? Explain. 8. Why does Richard Cory, who seems to have everything, end his life? 9. Are people in your community similar to the townspeople in Richard Cory? Explain.

5. Reflection What, if anything, has humanity had to sacrifice for modernity and technology? Then and now? What lessons can we learn from the gilded age and the industrial revolution that might be applied to today? Some might say we've lost are independence and know-how to the alter of technology and convenience. Is there any truth to this type of statement?