The LG 91223 Analysing International Trade Learning Guide is a structured, write-on student resource specifically designed for the NCEA Level 2 Economics Internal Achievement Standard: Analyse a contemporary economic issue using economic models. Unlike the external standards that focus on one specific theme, this guide teaches students how to apply a range of economic tools to a "live" issue, such as the housing crisis, climate change, or the impact of a major global event on a local industry.
Key Features
Defining the Contemporary Issue: Helps students identify and define a relevant economic issue currently impacting New Zealand. This includes gathering background information, identifying the stakeholders involved, and understanding the scope of the problem.
The Multi-Model Approach: A unique feature of this guide is teaching students how to select and use the right models for the specific issue. Depending on the topic, students may use:
Supply and Demand: To analyze price changes in specific markets (e.g., the rental market).
The AD/AS Model: To show the impact on the national economy (e.g., how a tourism slump affects GDP).
The Production Possibility Frontier (PPF): To illustrate trade-offs (e.g., choosing between economic growth and environmental protection).
The Circular Flow Model: To track how a change in one sector ripples through households, firms, and the government.
Data Collection and Interpretation: Provides guidance on how to find and use economic data from sources like Stats NZ, the Reserve Bank, and Treasury. Students learn to create and interpret tables and graphs to support their analysis.
Cause and Effect Analysis: Exercises focused on identifying the "drivers" of the issue. For example, if the issue is housing affordability, the guide walks through causes like high net migration (demand) and restrictive zoning laws (supply).
Impact on Stakeholders: A comprehensive look at how the issue affects different groups. Students learn to evaluate the consequences for:
Consumers/Households: (e.g., changes in cost of living or debt levels).
Producers/Firms: (e.g., changes in production costs or export competitiveness).
The Government: (e.g., changes in tax revenue or social welfare spending).
Evaluating Policy Options: Investigates how the government or local authorities might respond to the issue. Students learn to analyze the pros and cons of different interventions, such as subsidies, taxes, or legislative changes.
NCEA Internal Assessment Preparation: Specifically designed to mirror the requirements of the internal assessment task. It provides a clear structure for writing a formal economic report, ensuring all requirements for Achievement, Merit, and Excellence are met.
Scaffolding for Excellence: Focuses on the "Comprehensive Analysis" requirement, teaching students how to link multiple models together and provide a detailed justification for their conclusions.
Case Study Examples: Includes "practice" issues—such as the impact of an increase in the minimum wage or the introduction of a carbon tax—to help students hone their analytical skills before starting their actual assessment.
Glossary of Economic Terms: A versatile list of vocabulary that spans across micro and macroeconomics, ensuring students use the precise language required for a Level 2 report.