Ragged Dick

Consider the idiom “from rags to riches” as it relates to the characters in Alger’s novel. Which characters are fortunate enough to follow this trajectory? Is their ability due to hard work or to luck? Are the characters who find wealth able to secure happiness? If so, how?

Teaching Suggestion: This Discussion/Analysis Prompt invites students to reconsider their responses from the Personal Connection Prompt in the context of the novel. Although Alger highlights the importance of work ethic and determination in The Rise Of The Self-Made Man, both Dick and Frank also encounter a lucky situation that provides the initial stepping stone of social mobility. Part of this luck is related to their wardrobe and demeanor, ultimately signifying The Importance Of Appearances.

Differentiation Suggestion: For an exercise that focuses on developing oral argumentative skills, this prompt may be changed to an in-class debate where students must argue for or against the following statement: Alger’s characters are socially mobile due only to their hard work.

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

CREATIVE WRITING: “Ragged Dick in the 21st Century”

In this activity, students will adapt Alger’s novel to the setting of 21st-century New York City.