CIA4U: Analyzing Current Economic Issues (University Preparation)
PREREQUISITE: Any university or university/college preparation course in Canadian and world studies, English, or social sciences and humanities
GRADE: 12 (University)
AVAILABILITY: Spark Asher Academy Online
THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM: Canadian and World Studies
Course Overview
This course investigates the nature of the competitive global economy and explores how individuals and societies can obtain the information needed to make appropriate economic decisions. Students will learn the principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics, apply economic models and concepts to interpret economic information, assess the validity of statistics, and investigate marketplace dynamics. Using economic inquiry and communication skills, students will analyze current economic issues, make informed judgments, and present their findings.
UNIT ONE: Introduction to Economics
Essential Question: How is scarcity an economic concept and how does it influence economic choices and decisions?
- This introductory unit lays the groundwork for economic thinking by exploring key concepts such as scarcity, opportunity cost, and the differences between microeconomics and macroeconomics. Students will learn to differentiate between positive and normative economics and begin to understand how economic models and theories are formulated and applied.
UNIT TWO: Supply and Demand
Essential Question: How are supply and demand models used to analyze and illustrate factors affecting economic choices?
- Students will delve into the core principles of supply and demand, understanding how these forces interact to determine prices and affect economic equilibrium. The unit also covers the concept of elasticity and its implications on consumer and producer behavior.
UNIT THREE: Achieving Economic Prosperity
Essential Question: How can we achieve and measure economic prosperity?
- In this unit, students explore various economic stakeholders and the impacts of different economic decisions on sustainability and prosperity. Concepts such as cost-benefit analysis, behavioral economics, and production decisions are examined through practical case studies.
UNIT FOUR: Introduction to Macroeconomics
Essential Question: What considerations are missing from some of the common indicators used to measure economic growth and well-being?
- Students are introduced to macroeconomic indicators such as GDP and explore the business cycle and its phases. The unit challenges students to consider alternative measures of well-being and the role of government budgets in economic stability and growth.
UNIT FIVE: Monetary and Fiscal Policy
Essential Question: How does the Bank of Canada influence financial markets and how do the fiscal policies of the federal government affect individuals in Canada?
- This unit focuses on the tools of monetary and fiscal policy used by governments and central banks to influence the economy. Students will study the roles and effects of these policies on inflation, unemployment, and overall economic activity.
UNIT SIX: International Interdependence and Inequality
Essential Question: How does economic globalization affect society, culture, and the environment?
- The final unit addresses the complexities of the global economy, including the impacts of globalization on inequality, social justice, and environmental sustainability. Students will analyze trade models and agreements and their effects on economic disparity across different regions.
Assessment
- Coursework (70%): Ongoing assessments will include essays, project work, and interactive assignments that encourage students to apply economic theories to analyze current issues and events.
- Final Evaluation (30%): The course culminates in a comprehensive project that requires students to conduct a macroeconomic analysis on a topic of their choice, demonstrating their understanding of course content and their ability to apply economic concepts in a global context.
CIA4U online not only equips students with critical economic knowledge and skills but also fosters a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of global economic systems and the importance of informed decision-making in addressing contemporary economic challenges. This course prepares students for further studies in economics, finance, and related fields, as well as for thoughtful participation in economic and policy discussions.
For more details on final exams and the exam fee, please consult to us directly via contact page. Additional information can be found in our download section in courses page.
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