Central Connecticut State University

1615 Stanley Street

New Britain, Ct   06050

www.ccsu.edu

Course Title:  Principles of Economics II

Course Number:  Econ 201 - 70

Course Item Number:  CRN 10758

 Fall 2007

T, TH 6:45pm – 8:00pm

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

 MICROECONOMICS COURSE DESCRIPTION:  Following a brief overview of our modern economic system consisting of markets and the private and public sectors.  Microeconomics begins with extensive coverage of the law of demand and supply and analytical tools that are the underpinnings of modern market analysis.  Using demand analysis and costs unique to all business, a complete theory of the firm and its behavior is presented.  Resource markets are then covered with special emphasis on explaining wages and salaries.  Finally, consumer behavior theory is examined outlining the decision-making process.

 Required Text:

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

 Optional Readings:

 McConnell/Brue – MICROECONOMICS – STUDY GUIDE 

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:        Microeconomics of Product Markets

            Chapter 6 - Extensions of Demand and Supply Analysis

            Chapter 8 - The Costs of Production

            Part 3 – Exam 3:        Microeconomics of Product Markets

            Chapter   9 - Pure Competition

            Chapter 10 - Pure Monopoly

            Chapter 11 - Monopolistic Competition and Oligopoly

             Part 4 - Exam 4:         Resource Markets/Consumer Theory

             Chapter 13 - The Demand for Resources

             Chapter 14 - Wage Determination

             Chapter   7 - Consumer Behavior and Utility Maximization