This lesson focuses on the September 2, 2011, U.S. Department of
Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Employment Situation"
announcement of employment data and the unemployment rate for
the month of August, 2011. This lesson introduces the basic
concepts of the BLS employment and unemployment data. The
meaning and importance of the data are discussed. Assessment
exercises are included for reinforcing knowledge of the
concepts. - Review the most recently reported U.S. employment
and unemployment data. - Determine the changes in U.S.
employment and unemployment from the past month and year. -
Determine the factors that have influenced the change in the
U.S. unemployment rate. - Explain the implications of the
employment and unemployment data for individuals, population
groups, and the U.S. economy. Current Key Economic Indicatorsas
of May 5, 2013 On a seasonally adjusted basis, the Consumer
Price Index for All Urban Consumers decreased 0.2 percent in
March after increasing 0.7 percent in February. The index for