Central Connecticut State University

1615 Stanley Street

New Britain, Ct   06050

www.ccsu.edu

Course Title:  Principles of Economics I

Course Number:  Econ 200 - 13

Course Item Number:  CRN 15974

FALL 2007

T, TH 12:30 – 1:45pm

Instructor:  Jerry Joseph    (jerry-joseph@comcast.net) or (josephje@mail.ccsu.edu)

MACROECONOMICS COURSE DESCRIPTION:  Following a brief overview of our modern economic system, consisting of markets and the private and public sectors.  Macroeconomics begins with how economists measure the economy and its performance by building a rudimentary macro model first then analyzing aggregate demand and aggregate supply.  Government fiscal and monetary policy will then be explored using the macro model as a tool and aggregate demand and aggregate supply as concepts.

Required Text:

                                McConnell/Brue, ECONOMICS, 17^th Ed., McGraw-Hill Irwin, 2007

OR,

                  McConnell/Brue, MACROECONOMICS, 17^th Ed., McGraw-Hill Irwin, 2007

Optional Readings:

McConnell/Brue – MACROECONOMICS – STUDY GUIDE (recommended by the instructor)

                THE WALL STREET JOURNAL

The journal and other online content providers cover numerous current events on economic issues. The instructor includes this timely material to coincide with text presentations.

COURSE OBJECTIVE – ECONOMICS:  To introduce the beginning economics student to principles essential to understanding the basic economizing problem, specific economic issues, and policy formulation.  Develop analysis by using verbal descriptions and illustrations, numerical examples, and graphical presentations.

Academic expectations and polices:

• MATERIAL COVERAGE: We will cover the chapters in the order listed below. Before each class, a specific schedule (covering up to three weeks) will be announced. You are strongly urged to prepare any reading and other assignments prior to each class meeting.

• EXAMS AND GRADING: Grades will be based, for the most part, on the scheduled exams during the semester. Additionally, any assigned homework; quizzes and the student’s participation will be factored into the final grade.  For this semester, there will be 4 exams.  Understand that all exams must be taken for a successful completion of class requirements.  Term papers, if submitted, will consist of an add factor to the final exam average (usually 1-5 points).  MAKE UP EXAMS ARE TAKEN IN THE CONTINUING EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.

• TERM PAPER – (OPTIONAL): Students have the option of submitting a term paper or preparing a class presentation on a topic related to microeconomics selected by them, but approved by the instructor.  A brief outline with your selected topic must be submitted in writing prior to approval.

• EXTRA HELP: Students can take advantage of student services offering free tutoring during the semester. If necessary, time can be arranged with the instructor for individual consultation during the semester.  The instructor will provide an email address for students to reach him.  Emailing is not intended to “carry on” course work in place of attendance and should be considered as another means of short direct communication.   

Required Reading and Exam Schedule:

            Part 1 – Exam 1:        An Introduction to Economics and the Economy

            Chapter 1 - Limits, Alternatives, and Choices

            Chapter 2 - The Market System and the Circular Flow

            Chapter 3 - Demand, Supply, and Market Equilibrium

             Chapter 4 - The U.S. Economy: Private and Public Sectors

             Chapter 5 - The U.S. in the Global Economy

               Part 2 – Exam 2:            Macroeconomic Measurement and Basic Concepts

            Chapter 6 - Measuring Domestic Output and National Income

            Chapter 7 - Introduction to Economic Growth and Instability

            Chapter 8 - Basic Macroeconomic Relationships

            Part 3 – Exam 3:           Macroeconomic Models and Fiscal Policy

            Chapter   9 - The Aggregate Expenditures Model

            Chapter 10 - Aggregate Demand and Aggregate Supply

            Chapter 11 - Fiscal Policy, Deficits, and Debt

            Part 4 – Exam 4:           Money, Banking, and Monetary Policy

            Chapter 12 - Money and Banking

            Chapter 13 - Money Creation

            Chapter 14 - Interest Rates and Monetary Policy