Economics

1. What is ‘A’ Level Economics?

Economics is a social science concerned with the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. It studies the problem of scarcity and how individuals, firms, governments, and nations make choices on allocating resources to satisfy their wants and needs. It is the study of decision-making and how people respond to incentives. The study of individual decisions is called Microeconomics while the study of the economy as a whole is called Macroeconomics.

In ‘A’ Level Economics, students will learn:

• Fundamental economic concepts, theories and principles and methods of analysis

• Tools and methods of economic reasoning to explain and analyse economic issues, and to evaluate perspectives and decisions of economic agents

• How to read critically from a variety of sources to gain information about the changing economic activities and policies at national and international levels

• How to make well-reasoned economic arguments to arrive at rational and considered decisions

2. How is Economics taught at SAJC?

The Economics teachers at SAJC adopt a blended learning approach to help your child build both content knowledge and skills. Concepts, theories and principles are introduced through online lectures and activities, which students work through before coming to class. This allows tutorial time to be spent on discussion and application rather than on covering content. Our tutorial worksheets are built around guided questions that help students apply what they have learnt to unfamiliar contexts, and develop the analytical and evaluative skills needed to think like an economist. Regular bite-sized assessments give students and teachers a timely picture of progress, and our teachers follow up individually with students who need further support. Closer to the examinations, revision packages of past-year questions and suggested answers help students consolidate their learning for the 'A' Level examinations.

3. What can I do to prepare myself for Economics?

The economist’s view of the world and economic thinking can be rather abstract, and it is very likely that you will find it to be different from the way you are used to thinking. It is therefore important that you:

• Understand that you cannot simply memorise notes provided to you

• Read your lecture notes and view lecture videos

• Read widely, keep abreast of current issues and apply economic theories to things happening around you

• Attempt tutorial questions (and other practice questions) diligently so that you are able to apply your thinking skills to a wide range of questions

• Ask questions in class if you don’t understand and participate in class discussions

• Challenge theories and consider assumptions; evaluate what you read and hear

You may also visit the SEAB's website for the latest information on the syllabus.