A Guide to Primary Resources for U.S. History : Scientific Management Fordham University, Modern History Internet Sourcebook Frederick Taylor's principles of "scientific management" revolutionized the way companies ran. The so-called "father of systems engineering" laid out many principles that could be used to improve the efficiency and production of corporations. Brainstorm a list of scientific innovations and inventions from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Have students write a paragraph on what it would be like to not have use of one of these pieces of technology. Define scientific management as described by Frederick W. Taylor. How would this change American society? Have students research an innovation of industry or an invention from the time period and make a presentation to the class. This can be done alone or in groups. Create a note taking chart so that students can organize their notes on the different presentations. Have students read the introduction of The Principles of Scientific Management and write a paper addressing its purpose and defining national efficiency.

Scientific Management
Fordham University: Modern History Sourcebook

Description: Frederick Taylor's principles of "scientific management" revolutionized the way companies ran. The so-called "father of systems engineering" laid out many principles that could be used to improve the efficiency and production of corporations.

Teaching Tips:

"Do Now" Suggestions

Brainstorm a list of scientific innovations and inventions from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Have students write a paragraph on what it would be like to not have use of one of these pieces of technology.
Define scientific management as described by Frederick W. Taylor. How would this change American society?

Suggestions for Using this Resource as Part of a Lesson

Have students research an innovation of industry or an invention from the time period and make a presentation to the class. This can be done alone or in groups. Create a note taking chart so that students can organize their notes on the different presentations.
Have students read the introduction of The Principles of Scientific Management and write a paper addressing its purpose and defining national efficiency.