IB Economics: Curriculum Modules & Topics Comparison
UNIT 3: Macroeconomics
Modules 3.1-3.2 (Measuring Activity, AD/AS)
| Traditional Topics | Potential Inclusions and Modifications |
|---|---|
| • GDP and economic activity • Business cycles • Aggregate demand • Aggregate supply • Macroeconomic equilibrium | None |
Module 3.3: Macroeconomic Objectives
| Traditional Topics | Potential Inclusions and Modifications |
|---|---|
| • Economic growth • Low unemployment - Types of unemployment - Costs of unemployment (personal and social) • Low inflation • Equitable income distribution | Add costs of conflict and impact on neighbours. Positive Peace Connection: Pillar 7 (High Human Capital) and Pillar 3 (Equitable Distribution) |
Module 3.4: Economics of Inequality and Poverty
| Traditional Topics | Potential Inclusions and Modifications |
|---|---|
| • Measuring inequality (Gini coefficient, Lorenz curve) • Poverty measurement • Causes of inequality • Consequences of inequality - Impact on social stability (already mentioned) • Policies to reduce inequality | Discuss different types of inequality (horizontal vs vertical). "Extreme inequality, especially between identity groups (horizontal inequality), is associated with higher grievances and conflict risk." Include policies to reduce inequality. Positive Peace Connection: Pillar 3 (Equitable Distribution of Resources) |
Modules 3.5-3.7 (Demand Management, Supply-side Policies)
| Traditional Topics | Potential Inclusions and Modifications |
|---|---|
| • Monetary policy • Fiscal policy • Supply-side policies • Evaluation of policies | Include case studies on hyperinflation, WWII, etc. Positive Peace Connection: Pillar 1 (Well-Functioning Government) |