Blower Dogs
Very interesting and informational article about young boys working in glass factories. Some of these boys were working as young as 8 years old. They were referred to as "blower dogs" (cheap labor). These children often came from orphanages and the adult workers would claim them as their own.
Assignment: My students will be expected to put themselves in the "blower dogs" position. I want them to keep a journal about the different jobs they will have, the pay wages, and hard labor. The teacher would have to go into more depth obviously with the job requirements and pay wages. However, I think the students would maybe appreciate their lifestyles that they have now in present day. Excellent article!
Such a great article to use in class! First, I didn't know glass was originally melted at such high temperatures until soda ash was used, very cool information! Second the detailed description of the tools, the processes and the history will really aide in the explanation of the glass industry. I like how you're using such an informative article to specifically focus on the children rights and working conditions! This will really resonate with them!
ReplyDelete