Homework for the weekend and next week

In light of today's data, your assignment over the weekend is to give an analysis of the latest unemployment report. The report (found here) is 42 pages long, but I have already read it through for you and will direct you to the highlights.

Read and consider the following:
1. Read all of pages 1-3 (summary)
2. Table A, page 8, especially unemployment rates
3. Table B, page 9, especially hours and earnings
4. Skim pages 10-11 (questions- read any that are of interest to you)
5. Table A2, focus on rates
6. A-4, A-12, A-13
7. A-15: This is the official unemployment chart we looked at in class. Remember, U-3 is the "official" unemployment rate, U-6 is the broadest measure.
8. B-1: This is a long chart, but look mostly at the last column.
9. B-8: Look at the last 2 columns and consider any significant size changes.

As you look at each section, jot down (or type, copy, mark) any significant points or ideas that you see. Type up a one page analysis of the current employment situation. Do you think this is a significant change? Is the news positive or negative overall? You should also include your own critical questions or points for discussion for class on Monday.

For Wednesday (no class Tuesday), read chapter 8. We will park here for a couple of days before going back to Harford, then have a test over chapters 5-8.