ECON 198

HONORS ECONOMICS

FALL, 2004

 

    Dr. Patricia Kuzyk                                                                                               

    Todd 437D                                                                                                           

    335-5141

    pkuzyk@wsu.edu

Course Description: This is an introductory course that covers principles of both micro and macroeconomics.  My goal is for the student to learn, rigorously, the economic concepts that are crucial for her to understand how our political-economic system works, and to build a framework for analyzing social issues that dominate today's political dialogue.  This means comparing various perspectives, identifying arguments, and critically assessing the strengths and weaknesses of those arguments.  

Learning Goals: Below is a specific list of the economic concepts you will be expected to master.  From time to time during the semester, especially before you begin a reading assignment, refer back to this list to focus your thinking.  By the end of the course, students should be able to:

Required Texts: Parkin, Economics, Seventh edition PLUS Kuzyk, Econ 198 Workbook, Fall 2004. The Parkin book will be stocked at the Bookie AND at the competing off-campus bookstore, Crimson and Gray.  The workbook will be stocked only at the Bookie.

Assessment: 

        Worksheets...............................10%

        Quizzes.....................................40%

        Writing Assignments.................. 30%

        Final Exam.................................20%

Worksheets: Worksheets from the "Econ 198 Workbook" will be assigned for just about every class. Each worksheet is connected to a specific reading assignment. Some of the worksheets will be done in small groups in class, but others must be done in advance and will be collected at the beginning of the class period. The "Schedule of Readings and Assignments" specifies which worksheets are to be done in advance and which will be done in class.  Altogether, your average worksheet grade along with any other homework assignments will account for 10% of your course grade.

Quizzes:  There will be a quiz almost every week, on Friday.  (See "Schedule of Readings and Assignments" for details)  Collectively, the quizzes will account for 40% of your course grade. 

Writing Assignments:  A number of short writing assignments will be given during the course of the semester in which you will apply your new understanding of economic theory to current events.  Altogether, your performance on these assignments constitutes 30% of your grade.

Final Exam: There is only one exam - the Final.  It is a cumulative exam, constituting 20% of your course grade. The format will be short essay questions and problems. I will give you a study guide in advance to help you prepare.