Business 10th Grade

COMMUNICATIONS (051) / (039)

Grades 8-/9-12: Level 2

(Semester) .50 credits (9th-12th only)

The course's primary goal is to help each student become a more effective speaker and listener. Emphasis will be placed on face-to-face communication skills, the importance of eye contact and body language, and ethical communication practices. The principles of the course are based on the theory of the communication model. Units studied include communication theories, demonstration, argumentation and persuasion, and interview techniques. Written work such as outlines, note-cards, and graphic organizers will accompany units where appropriate. The student will learn to use audio visual components to complement their presentations. Instructional methods will include individual presentations, small and large group discussions, and lectures.

Introduction to Business & Marketing (254)

Grades 9-12

(Semester) .50 credit

Introduction to Business and Marketing is recommended as a foundation course to a Business & Information Technology sequence. Students learn the functions of American and international business organizations in the global economy. Activities emphasize the roles of the consumer, marketer, and producer. Students learn the basics of the private enterprise system and are introduced to careers in business, including the opportunities of entrepreneurship and world trade.

ECONOMICS (139/146)

Grades 10-12: Level 2 and Honors

(Semester) .75 credit

Contemporary Economics introduces students to key concepts and principles of the American economic system and relates these concepts and principles to students’ future economic roles. Content includes the following: a survey of economic systems as societies decide what to produce, how and for whom; a study of the role of supply and demand, prices and profits in a market economy; and understanding of the organization and role of business firms in terms of how decisions are made as they respond to market structures. Further topics studied in this course are an understanding of economic performance indicators, along with fiscal (taxation) and monetary (money and banking) responses to market failures and what these mean in terms of poverty, employment, and other quality of life indicators. World trade, exchange rates and Third World development are additional topics for study.

Instructional methods include class discussion, inquiry, lectures, and audio-visual materials. Skill development concentrates upon critical analysis and application of concepts to assignments and activities. Course materials include an assigned textbook, and reprints from contemporary economics journals as well as other readings.