EconomicsCourse Description

www.NexGenAcademy.org 2018-2019

Welcome! This is an Introduction to the Principles of Economics that apply to the individual, the business firm, the government, and the economic system as a whole. We will cover the traditional high school Micro-and-Macro Economics curriculum, including an introduction to Civics/U.S. Government. The course uses classroom simulations & games to illustrate many of the main concepts in a fun and memorable way. Prerequisites: completed or enrolled in Algebra I.

Technical requirements: Access to a computer with Internet connection – together with some type of word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for example). You will also need a calculator in the range of $15-20.

Instructor: Kris Johanson, MBA kjohanson@san.rr.com. I am available throughout the week to answer questions about your homework or the study topics.

Textbook: Economics, BJU Press, Carper, Bradley, 2nd or 3rd edition. This is an excellent textbook which emphasizes limited government and free enterprise. You do not need to buy the workbooks. I will provide additional handouts and charts/tables as needed.

Course outlineUnit 1: Introduction to Economics

1. What is Economics2. Economic Models3. Demand4. Supply

Unit 2: Economics of the Nations5. What is the Economic Problem?6. Economic Systems

Unit 3: The Business Firm7. Forms of Business Ownership8. The Stock Market9. Markets and Competition

Unit 4: Financial Markets10. Money

11. BankingUnit 5: Economics of the Government

12. Measuring the Wealth of the Nation13. Business Cycles and Unemployment14. Inflation15. Government Policy

Unit 6: Civics16. The Declaration of Independence and

the True Purpose of Government17. The U.S. Constitution and the

Separation of Powers18. The Bill of Rights and Limits on

Government Powers

EconomicsCourse Description

www.NexGenAcademy.org 2018-2019

HomeworkHomework for this class consists of fairly typical end-of-chapter problems and a variety of Internet research assignments on practical topics. We will go over the homework problems carefully during the online webinar sessions. Students should read the chapter ahead of time and be prepared to take notes and participate in discussion. Estimated homework and study time is 5 hours per week.

Teaching PedagogyThe course uses a combination of hands-on labs, classroom instruction, and customized Internet homework videos. Communication skills are developed through periodic class presentations which take place throughout the year. During classes there is typically much lively discussion, and class cohesiveness and positive student-student interaction is encouraged over the course of the year.

ExamsYes, exams are necessary for a host of reasons. There will be a take-home style, open-book, midterm and final exam, covering material learned that semester. The exams are not burdensome, and you will be given a week to complete each one. Emphasis is on applications, not on rote memorization.

Course Requirements Attend the classes (including both in-person and webinar sessions). Wear business attire.

Be on time. Take notes and ask relevant questions during the lectures Participate in the class activities and ‘simulations’ Turn in your homework assignments by the due date Don’t fall behind in your work. Do not procrastinate!

Grading Policy Your work will be graded on a point system. Your total points earned will be divided by total points possible and converted to a percentage.

Grading Scale Grading Elementsabove 90% A: advanced Class participation 25%89 – 80% B: proficient Projects 25%79 – 70% C: basic Weekly homework 25%69 – 60% D: below basic Midterm & Final 25%Below 60% F: far below basic Total 100%

Timely completion of the required assignments is a basic requirement. Assignments turned in early will receive a “bonus incentive”. Assignments turned in later than the due date will receive a reduced grade.

Progress ReportingDetailed student progress reports are emailed to parents at the end of each semester.