Part 1.

Conduct Internet research, (sources must be documented using MLA format), and write a brief analysis of the current status of the U.S. economy.

Include current values and trends for at least three of the following indicators:

GDP

Productivity

Inflation

Unemployment rate

CPI

Balance of Payments and/or Trade

Part 2:

Using Internet sources or the additional sources listed in your materials or any other Internet sources (sources must be documented), respond to the following question:

Outsourcing, (purchasing goods and services overseas), is currently a controversial topic. Businesses argue that free trade permits lower prices and is beneficial to consumers and the economy.

Labor Unions argue that outsourcing reduces employment and wages in the home economy and is detrimental.

Write a brief position paper taking a stance either pro or con the continuing drive towards free trade which facilitates outsourcing by U. S. corporations. Use statistics from your research to support your argument.

MLA Format, 250+ words each part, cited sources.