Classism in America "A Touchy Subject" ACT-Style Reading Quiz / SAT-ACT-CCR Test

I used this while watching Breaking Away, but any story, film, or class that deals with social class in America (or overseas) can use this ACT-style test to practice essential reading skills AND learn about the class system AND integrate class content AND have an interesting discussion.

The reading itself is college-level, so I would say it's 24-27 skills band ACT practice, and I wouldn't use it in most 9th grade classes, but I did get a typical bell curve out of a 11th and 12th grade class. Actually, if you are teaching at an elite school, this article is not only just as relevant, but it would be interesting to see if students are able to ace the quiz because of their class (just don't tell them that).

I also tied this article to Catcher in the Rye and Holden's life is a game idea. If you've got a class full of hot shots or a class full of the underprivileged masses, this article and the test form a wonderful reminder of the class system that does exist in America.

Link to NY Times class webpage and at least two versions of original article. Great for social studies class--maybe even more relevant than in most English classes. Get a license for the teachers in each department.

10 questions means easy percentages.