Welcome to Economics: From the Greek: oikos (house) + nemian (to manage)
Overview
Economics is all about CHOICES. We all, as individuals and as members of a larger society, choose how to allocate scarce resources. In doing so, we hopefully become good “household managers.” In this course, insight into economic terms, concepts, and institutions will derive from:
- Analysis and discussion of current economic issues and events
- Role playing exercises and specific Problem Based Learning simulations
- Topical readings and written responses
- A major research and writing project
Our broad objectives are to gain an understanding of:
- Opportunities, costs, and tradeoffs for businesses and individuals
- Opportunities, costs, and tradeoffs for governmental fiscal and monetary policy
- The current economic situation
- Globalization
Our underlying goal is for each student to complete this course and graduate as an informed global citizen who is historically, geographically, and politically literate.
Outline
| UNIT 1 |
Jan 20 – Feb 12 |
Micro-economics, Supply and Demand |
UNIT 2
|
Feb 17 – Mar 18 |
Macro-economics, U.S. fiscal and monetary policy |
| UNIT 3 |
Mar 23 – Apr 3 |
The 2008 financial meltdown |
| UNIT 4 |
Apr 13 – May 1 |
Globalization I and II: historical perspective |
| UNIT 5 |
May 11 – May 29 |
Globalization now |
Interspersed within each unit will be readings, written analysis, and ample discussion of current economic topics. Let us all agree to engage in discussion actively, with conviction, yet ever mindful and respectful of divergent views and personalities, and the proper management of our house.
Evaluation
It should be noted that teachers do not “give” grades, but rather students “earn” them through their own efforts. It is therefore the student’s responsibility to seek out the teacher for any missed work due to absence. On occasion, there will be limited opportunity to turn in a late assignment for
75% maximum credit.
Notes
Oral presentations will constitute an integral part of this course. Each student will present to the class as individuals, with partners, and as members of a larger group. You will always be evaluated on an individual basis.
The Research Paper on the economic topic of your choice will be due Monday, March 30. Late papers will be accepted for 75% maximum credit up to Friday, April 3. No papers will be accepted after that. Expect details in early March.
We will not be using a textbook. The two Problem Based Learning simulations include a great deal of material. Many of our shorter readings will be derived from such publications as The Economist, The New York Times, High Country News, and Newsweek, among others. During the units on globalization, extended readings will be assigned from Thomas Friedman’s The Lexus and the Olive Tree, and Fareed Zakaria’s The Post American World.
HINTS: Make good choices. Strive to be a good household manager. Remember that I am a resource. Advocate for yourself.
How Grades are Computed
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Assignment Categories |
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Letter Grades |
| Oral Presentations |
25% |
A: 90% and above
B: 80% and above
C: 70% and above
D: 60% and above
F: below 60% |
| Written Work |
25% |
| Quizzes and Tests |
25% |
| Research Paper |
15% |
| Deportment |
5% |
| Study Period |
5% |
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