Economics

Welcome to Introduction to Economics!!   Economics is an introductory course of both microeconomic and macroeconomic concepts.  The course investigates the problem of scarcity and its impact on choices made by individuals, organizations, businesses, and governments.  Economic tools of analysis are used to examine the outcomes of decisions made by these groups.  A variety of public issues are explored with emphasis on identifying problems and proposing possible solutions.  The ups and downs of the American economy are investigating along with government stabilization efforts using the tools of monetary and fiscal policy.  Finally, the course examines how domestic and global economic systems interact.

**Please note:  When studying economics, there can be many sensitive subjects discussed.  Students are expected to treat one another with maturity, respect, and should value the right to opinion of classmates.

Course Content:

Unit 1:  Introduction to Economics

  • What is Economics?

  • Economic Systems

Unit 2:  Elements of Microeconomics

  • Demand

  • Supply

  • Prices

  • Market Structures

Unit 3:  Free Enterprise at Work

  • Business Organizations

  • Labor and Unions

  • Sources of Capital

Unit 4:  Elements of Macroeconomics

  • Economic Performance

  • Economic Challenges

Unit 5:  Government and the Economy

  • Role of Government

  • Money and the Banking System

  • The Federal Reserve and Monetary Policy

  • Fiscal Policy

Unit 6:  International Economics

  • Comparing Economic Systems

  • Developing Countries

  • International Trade

Personal Finance:  Throughout the semester, we will focus on various personal finance topics.  We will apply economics and decision-making skills to the real world of earning and spending an income, savings, using credit, investing, and managing money.

Current Economic Issues

We will be focusing on the issues and current events of today and relating them to field of economics.


Guest Speakers

I will do my best to bring in as many guest speakers in the field of economics as I can.  My goal is to show you how much of our daily lives can relate back to economics.  I also want you to be made aware of the job options available in the field.  

Grading

  • Economics grades are based on an accumulation of points throughout two-quarters/one semester.

  • The point values for assignments will vary.

  • The BAHS Student Handbook grading scale will be used.

  • All late work received will be reduced 50% of points earned.  See BAHS Student Handbook for further clarification.

  • This course will rely heavily on student participation. Participation points will be given out daily.  Taking notes, staying focused, and adding to classroom discussion will be vital to your grade.

  • Grades will be updated at least once a week. Parents and students can monitor their grades via Powerschool.


Class Policies and Procedures

  • Attendance is important in Economics, as most of the concepts are new and are much easier to understand through classroom demonstrations, discussions, etc.  Course  concepts will be delivered through classroom discussions and lectures and being in attendance the day it is delivered is vital.

  • With that said, if a student must be absent, it is up to the student to take care of any missing or late homework, obtain missing notes from a classmate, and to monitor his/her grades on a routine basis.

  • Please arrive to class on time and be ready to learn when the bell rings.  Tardy students will not be appreciated.  Tardies will be dealt with on an individual basis and excessive tardiness will result in parent contact, loss of participation points, and/or detention.

  • Please follow these simple rules:

    • All Braham Area High School formal school rules, policies, and procedures apply.

    • All encounters are based upon the foundation of respect.  All students are to respect their peers, teachers/guest speakers, classroom environment, as well as themselves.  

    • Raise your hand to speak.  When someone is talking, you are not…be an active listener.

    • Work hard and individually.  Do not cheat or plagiarize.

    • Arrive on time and prepared to learn.  Be sure to bring your notebook, folder, pen/pencil, assignments, and an active mind ready to participate each day.

    • No food or drink, with the exception of water, is permitted in the classroom.

    • Do not leave trash in the room.

    • Submit all assignments at the time they are due (or earlier).

    • Think positively and try your best at all times!

Chromebooks/Phones

Please bring your charged Chromebook with you to class each day.  Having an electronic device will benefit the work/learning we do in this course.  With all students having access to Chromebooks, I expect all phones to remain turned off and stored during class time.

Teacher Contact

I look forward to and encourage communication.  Please feel free to contact me with any concerns and/or questions you may have.  I have posted all of my contact information below.  

I look forward to teaching this course and getting to know you as students.

Mrs. Johnson

Room F113

(320) 396-5234

[email protected]