help with my history study guide?

[Mida]

So we have essays that will be on the test but we don't know what one, but we have to know them anyways one is.. How did the meaning of freedom and the role of government in America change from the Gilded Age to the Progressive Era? (Please discuss the social problems that existed in America during the Industrial Age that caused a shift in the meaning of freedom from Liberty of Contract to Progressive Freedom. Be ready to discuss who were the Progressices and the reforms passed during the Progressive Era). My teacher does alot of explain to answer the question correctly but i still feel lost. Any ideas how i should start it, or what which is my problem does the question mean? This makes no sense to me!! i try and try in class and this question means nothing to me, i dont even know where or how to answer this. Help?