Macroeconomics Lesson Plans

Twelfth graders identify and define in writing, various economic terms by conducting a Web search. In this macroeconomics lesson plan, 12th graders explain the development process and purpose of the Federal Reserve's Beige Book by conducting a search and completing a question sheet. Students also list and describe the significant of major economic sectors outlined in the Beige Book.

Students explore the consequences of unemployment. In this macroeconomics lesson, students listen to the songs “Johnny 99” and “Worried Man.” Students discuss the socioeconomic costs of unemployment as they analyze the songs.

Pupils analyze the decisions by the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates. Using data and announcements, they develop reasons why the rate would be lowered and how it would affect spending and employment in the United States. Using monetary policy, they gain insight into the concept of macroeconomics.

Students assess the increase in the international trade deficit for february, 2002. They examine causes for the changes in trade deficits and surplusses, noting the effects of the Winter Olympics on both imports and exports. Students observe various graphs, charts, and tables to develop an understanding of macroeconomics.

Students research and analyze the Federal Reserve System. They participate in a reader's theater, acting out the roles typical of a courtroom drama as they determine whether the defendant, Monty Terry, is guilty or innocent of manipulating the economy.

Students study the pros and cons of globalization. Theyhighlight the economic concepts of comparative advantage, specialization, and opportunity cost. They read and discuss the FRBSF Economic Letter: Globalization: Threat or Opportunity for the U.S. Economy?

Learners create and budgets. In this budgeting lesson, students use given income and expenses to create a chart and decide if they can afford a car. Web research is used to find current prices for each expense and selected terms and concepts. Learners create a PowerPoint presentation as a final project.

Students examine economic policy.  In this Economics lesson, students learn about the structure of the Federal Reserve System and the functioning of the Federal Open Market Committee.  The four-lesson unit consists of simulations and internet research designed to have students take on the roles of participants in a FOMC meeting.

Students examine Gross Domestic Product data from quarter 4 of 2009. in this economic data lesson plan, students review graphs, charts, and information to help them determine the current and historical growth, identify the components of measurement, and the economic indicators and business cycles of GDP in order to complete multiple choice and essay questions.

Students explore U.S. real GDP growth for quarter 3 (July-Sept 2009). In this economic data lesson, students review information, charts, and graphs in order to answer multiple choice, short answer, and essay questions over the current and historical growth, components of measurement, and the relationship of data as they pertain to the U.S. GDP.