Tuesday February 2, 2016

Circle: Is it Mike's fault that he's living in a dying town?

Take a tour of Flint

Survey: Click HERE to make some Mock Economy predictions.

Economics Unit Objective: To understand economics and different types of economic systems.
Success Criteria:
1. Students will be able to explain the role capitalism plays in distributing wealth.
2. Students can explain how environment/culture can encourage or inhibit aspirations.
3. Students can identify elements of socialism in a capitalist economy.
4. Students can identify and explain the possible roles of government in an capitalist economy.
5. Students can explain the role the"Surplus value of labor" plays in capitalism.
6. Students can explain the "Societal value of the profit motive."

Documentary:  Roger and Me
Question: Capitalism requires a high level of competition to work.  In order to stay in existence, companies must make a profit.  Is it right for companies to do whatever it takes to make a profit? To what degree are individuals responsible for where they end up? Remember, mock economy is starting soon...

Vocab:

GM, NAFTA, Capitalism, Communism, Reaganomics (also called “trickle-down economics”), Management, Robert Schuler, Televangelist, Organized Labor, Labor Union, AFL, CIO, UAW, Closed Shop, Open Shop

Sequence: 
1) Brainstorm -- what are we looking for?
2) Write on the board key ideas we are looking for.
3) Watch and take notes.

REMINDER HONORS Activity: Connecting to One Local Small Business
Students can explain the role competition plays in capitalism
Before February break, interview in person an owner or manager of any local business asking these questions:

1. What is the most effective thing you do to maximize your profit?
2. Who is your closest competitor?
3. What skill do prospective employees have to possess to compete for a job in your company?
4. What does your company do better than your competition?
5. What's the biggest challenge your company faces?