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City

Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Project Topics



Personal Finance Topics

#1 Setting a Personal Budget
#2 Cost of College


#3 Education and Earnings

#4
#5
#6
#7
#8
#9
#10
#11
#12
#13

Renting an Apartment

Buying vs. Renting a House
Cost of Buying a House

Cost of Buying a Car

Cost of Marriage


Cost of Having a Baby

Where to Live (LA or Buffalo)
Where to Live (NYC or Buffalo)
Expensive Clothes

Hidden Consumer Fees

Domestic/International Topics
#14 Traditional Economy
#15 Command Economy
#16 Globalization and China's
Currency
#17 Effect of Japan's Tsunami
#18 Starting a Business
#19 Selling a Business
#20 Non-Profit Organizations
#21 Unemployment
#22 Intro to Marketing
#23 Marketing a Record/CD
#24 Tribal Casinos
#25 Monster Energy Drinks
#26 The Economics of Trade &
Import

Create a Free Website with:


http://www.weebly.com

Directions:
1) Select one partner to work with for the next few weeks.
2) Select one (1) topic from either Personal Finance or Domestic/International
topics to develop a multimedia economics website.
3) Create a FREE Weebly website creation account to host your project.
4) Conduct extensive research of your selected economic topic.
5) Develop a multi-page website project to present to the class.

Your Website MUST Include:
Home Page: Should Include;
Student name(s), topic title, introduction/thesis paragraph.

Multiple Body Pages: Should include;
Student composed essay/text, relevant information/data to your selected topic,
pictures, graphs, videos, etc.

This should be where you; compare, contrast, examine, explain, evaluate, define or
defend your work/project.

Written Materials Page: Should Include;
Sub Page 1;Process Paper, 500 words or less.
Sub Page 2;Works Cited/Bibliography (w/Annotations).


City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Process Paper
It must describe in 500 or fewer words how you conducted your research and
created your entry. The process paper must include four sections that explain:
1. Why you chose your topic.
2. How you conducted your research.
3. How you selected your presentation will be outlined.
4. How your project relates to economics.

Works Cited: Annotated Bibliographies
An annotated bibliography is required for this project. The annotation for each
source must explain how the source was used and how it helped you understand
your topic. You should also use the annotation to explain why you categorized a
particular source as primary or secondary. Sources of visual materials and oral
interviews, if used, must also be included.

List only those sources that you used to develop your entry. An annotation normally
should be only 1-3 sentences long.

Primary Sources
A primary source is a piece of information about a historical event or period in
which the creator of the source was an actual participant in or a contemporary of a
historical moment. The purpose of primary sources is to capture the words, the
thoughts and the intentions of the past. Primary sources help you to interpret what
happened and why it happened.

Examples of primary sources include: documents, artifacts, historic sites, songs, or
other written and tangible items created during the historical period you are studying.

Secondary Sources
A secondary source is a source that was not created first-hand by someone who
participated in the historical era. Secondary sources are usually created by
historians, but based on the historians reading of primary sources. Secondary
sources are usually written decades, if not centuries, after the event occurred by
people who did not live through or participate in the event or issue. The purpose of
a secondary source is to help build the story of your research from multiple
perspectives and to give your research historical context.

An example of a secondary source is Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era by James
M. McPherson, published in 1988. They are a great starting point in helping you see the
big picture. Understanding the context of your topic will help you make sense of the
primary sources that you find.





City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #1: Setting a Personal Budget



Learning Inquiry:
How can I create a complete budget and personal finance plan?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research personal budget and finance plan information. For at least 10 economic
concepts, look up and figure out the contextual meaning (what does it mean to
you?). Find or create a spreadsheet that keeps track of income and expenses. Create
at least 3 different budget scenarios (one of them can be your situation) and figure
out the budget details.

2. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

3. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

4. Write a research essay (7-10 paragraphs) describing what you learned. Include:
Your personal finance plan: describe your income and expenses. Are you
able to save/invest money or are you creating debt?
A description of the other two scenarios
Observations about how these scenarios compare to each other
What you learned from this project
Clear financial goals for the future

5. Go through the writing process with your teacher: multiple drafts of writing (as
many as necessary), editing, revising of your final essay (with a works cited page).

6. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.











City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #2: Cost of College



Learning Inquiry:
How much does college actually cost?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:
1. Research the costs involved with going to college. Look at:
At least 3 colleges in state: 1 public 4-year, 1 private 4-year, and 1
community college
At least 1 college out of state

For each college, consider:
Tuition & Fees
Travel costs to and from the college to your hometown, and everyday
transportation costs
Room & Board
Amount of time/money YOUR potential major would take to complete

Also research these issues involved with education:
Systematic problems with education and income inequality (both in the U.S.
and worldwide)
How education is funded (include options for how YOU can pay for higher
education)

2. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project).

3. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

4. Write a research essay (7-10 paragraphs) describing what you learned. Be sure
that it answers your learning inquiry and covers the information listed above.
Include the information from your research. Go through the writing process with
your teacher: multiple drafts of writing (as many as necessary), editing, revising of
your essay (with a works cited page).

5. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.






City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #3: Education and Earnings



Learning Inquiry:
Whats the difference in how much money youll make if you drop out of high
school; get your GED, graduate from high school, or graduate from college?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research the difference in job opportunities and average earnings depending on
the amount of education one has. Include:
A brief history of how society educates its young
Educations cost to society
Job opportunities available to people who have different levels of education
Average earnings depending on level of education
How people pay for their own education (especially college)
What should be done about the education system (include your opinion)

2. As part of your research, conduct an interview with a knowledgeable authority on
your topic (a teacher, counselor or administrator). Create 5 questions beforehand to
use for this interview.

3. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

4. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

5. Write a report, which answers your learning inquiry and demonstrates what you
learned in your research. Include the information listed above.

6. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.











City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #4: Renting an Apartment



Learning Inquiry:
Which apartment should I rent?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research the process of renting an apartment. Also research important factors to
consider when choosing and paying for a living situation. Consider:
Roommate situations
Apartment size
Rent
Security deposit
Location
Laundry
Other bills: water, sewer, gas/heat, air conditioning, cable TV, internet
Transportation costs and time
Social life
Rules and restrictions differences
Estimated total cost per month for each apartment
Etc.

Compare at least 3 different actual apartments
Also research how the economic system of housing works. Include:
How supply and demand works
How apartment complexes work financially. What are their costs and sources
of income? How is profit determined?

2. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

3. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

4. Write a research essay (7-10 paragraphs) demonstrating what you learned.
Include the topics listed above. Include the answer to your learning inquiry.

5. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.




City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #5: Buying vs. Renting a House



Learning Inquiry:
Is it better to buy a house or rent a house?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research all aspects of buying and renting a house. Compare and contrast these
two options. For at least 10 economic concepts, look up and figure out the
contextual meaning (what does it mean to you?).

2. As part of your research, interview a person who works professionally in some
aspect of real estate. Ask this professional about the pros and cons of renting and
buying a house. Also ask about the process of renting and the process of buying.

3. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

4. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

5. Write a research essay (7-10 paragraphs) describing what you learned. Include:
The pros, cons, and process of renting a house
The pros, cons, and process of buying a house
A comparison. Which is better? Why?
How this applies to your life

6. Go through the writing process with your teacher: multiple drafts of writing (as
many as necessary), editing, revising of your essay (with a works cited page).

7. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.











City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #6: Buying a House



Learning Inquiry:
How much would it cost to buy a house in Buffalo, NY vs. Boston, MA?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research all aspects of buying a house. For example:
Research the process of buying a house (hiring an agent, getting pre-
approved for a loan, etc., etc.)
Research the housing markets in Spokane and Eugene. Compare and contrast
these two places.
Consider how the government affects housing (setting loan rates, property
taxes, etc.)
For at least 10 economic concepts, look up and figure out the contextual
meaning (what does it mean to you?).

2. As part of your research, interview a person who works professionally in some
aspect of real estate. Ask this professional about the process of buying a house and
how housing markets differ in different places.

3. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

4. Write a research essay (7-10 paragraphs) describing what you learned. Include:
The process of buying a house
How the government affects housing
A comparison. Which place is better? Why?
How this applies to your life

5. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

6. Write a research essay (7-10 paragraphs) that answers all of the learning inquires
above. Go through the writing process with your teacher: multiple drafts of writing
(as many as necessary), editing, revising of your essay (with a works cited page).

7. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.




City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #7: Cost of Buying a Car



Learning Inquiry:
What kind of car should I get? How do I buy a car? How should I pay, and how is
the government involved?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Brainstorm and research the pros and cons of different types of cars (smaller,
larger, older, newer, trucks, hybrid, sports car, van, etc.). Which is best for your
situation?

2. Research the process of buying a car. How do you make sure youre not getting
ripped off? How is the government involved in this process? What taxes do you have
to pay at the time of purchase, annually, biannually, etc.?

3. Research the pros and cons of these two options: paying in full and making
payments. Consider:
Building credit
The cost of interest associated with loans
The amount of money you have now
Other factors

4. Conduct a short interview with a person connected to the automotive business to
help you answer these questions.

5. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

6. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

7. Write a research essay (7-10 paragraphs) that answers all of the learning inquires
above. Go through the writing process with your teacher: multiple drafts of writing
(as many as necessary), editing, revising of your essay (with a works cited page).

8. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.





City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #8: The Cost of Marriage



Learning Inquiry:
How much does it cost to get married?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research items that are necessary (and optional) to have a wedding, and their
costs. Use the Internet, magazines, and/or call around town (have at least 2 written
sources).
Come up with 3 scenarios: a budget (cheaper) wedding, an average-cost wedding,
and a dream (more expensive) wedding. Describe the costs of each.
Also include how the government is involved with weddings (wedding license,
liquor permits, sales tax for all of the items you buy, etc.). How much does the
government make on an average wedding?

2. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

3. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

4. Write a research essay (7-10 paragraphs) answering your learning inquiry.
Describe the costs involved, and how those costs can vary depending on your
wedding budget (the 3 scenarios). Include how the government is involved. Go
through the writing process with your teacher: multiple drafts of writing (as many
as necessary), editing, revising of your essay (with a works cited page).

5. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.













City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #9: Cost of Having a Baby



Learning Inquiry:
How much does a baby cost?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research and analyze all costs of having a child (from pregnancy to the first 6
months of the babys life). Consider the costs of:
Health care
Transportation (to doctors appointments, etc.)
Clothing
Diapers
Formula
Bottles
Food
Furniture (crib, stroller, car seat, etc.)
Child care, etc. (peek ahead to after the first 6 months) Other expenses

2. Research and analyze what government assistance is available for those unable to
pay, and where that money comes from. Research how the U.S. health-care system
functions, and how insurance is involved.

2. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

3. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

4. Write a research essay (7-10 paragraphs) describing the costs of having a baby.
Analyze different options for obtaining each item. Include a brief analysis of how
government assistance and health care works. Go through the writing process with
your teacher: multiple drafts of writing (as many as necessary), editing, revising of
your essay (with a works cited page).

5. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.






City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #10: Where to live? West Coast



Learning Inquiry:
Financially, is it better go to school and live in Los Angeles, CA, or Buffalo, NY?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research the costs of living in Los Angeles, CA and Buffalo, NY. Consider the prices
of:
Housing
Utilities (electricity, water, TV, heating/A.C., etc.)
School (tuition, scholarship opportunities, etc.)
Transportation (around town, to school/work, to visit family far away, etc.) If
driving, look at gas prices as well as parking at home and at school/work
Clothing
Entertainment
Other expenses Also consider:
Averages wages in each place (Do people generally make more money in one
place to offset higher costs in that place? What are the minimum wages?
What kinds of jobs, and how much money, could YOU get in each place?)
Non-financial costs (quality of schools, proximity to family and friends,
weather preferences, cultural preferences, job opportunities, etc.)

2. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

3. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

4. Write a letter to your family outlining both options, focusing on the economics of
each situation. Include details about how you could keep a balanced budget in each
situation (as a young person, you might need to assume that youll get student loans,
financial help from family, and/or scholarships which you dont have). Also include
why these places are different economically.

5. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.






City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #11: Where to live? East Coast



Learning Inquiry:
Financially, is it better go to school and live in New York City or Buffalo, NY?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research the costs of living in NYC and Buffalo, NY. Consider the prices of:
Housing
Utilities (electricity, water, TV, heating/A.C., etc.)
Wages Earned (job opportunities and pay)
Transportation (around town, to school/work, to visit family far away, etc.) If
driving, look at gas prices and parking at home and at work)
Clothing
Entertainment
Other expenses Also consider:
Averages wages in each place (Do people generally make more money in one
place to offset higher costs in that place? What are the minimum wages?
What kinds of jobs, and how much money, could YOU get in each place?)
Non-financial costs (quality of jobs, proximity to family and friends, weather
preferences, cultural preferences, job opportunities, etc.)

2. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

3. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

4. Write a letter to your family outlining both options, focusing on the economics of
each situation. Include details about how you could keep a balanced budget in each
situation. Also include why these places are different economically.

5. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.









City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #12: Expensive Clothes



Learning Inquiry:
Is it worth it to buy expensive clothes?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research the history of clothing. Research how clothing is created nowadays, and
how it gets from raw material to the consumer. Research the cost of different
articles of clothing, and different brands of clothing. Research how clothing
companies make profits, and how marketing and branding affects consumers.

2. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

3. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

4. Write a research essay (7-10 paragraphs) describing what you learned. Include:
A very brief history of clothing.
The process of how clothing is created nowadays.
The cost (for the consumer) of different articles of clothing.
The cost (for the consumer) of different brands of clothing.
How companies make profits from more expensive clothing.
How marketing and branding affect consumers.
A summary of the benefits and drawbacks of expensive clothing compared to
cheaper clothing.
An analysis and opinion on whether more expensive clothing is worth it.

5. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.












City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #13: Hidden Consumer Fees



Learning Inquiry:
How do hidden consumer fees work?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research hidden consumer fees, consider:
An explanation of hidden consumer fees
Market tactics: look at examples of hidden consumer fees
Consumer reactions to fees
How to avoid being surprised
Legal aspects: whats legal and whats not? What rights do consumers have?

Define disclosure and give examples
How companies get away with hidden fees (considering the customer is
always right)?

2. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

3. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

4. Write a research essay (7-10 paragraphs), which answers your learning inquiry.
Include your thesis statement and the information from your research. Before
starting your essay, create an outline of the essay and get it approved by your
teacher. Go through the writing process with your teacher: multiple drafts of writing
(as many as necessary), editing, revising of your essay (with a works cited page).

5. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.











City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #14: Traditional Economy



Learning Inquiry:
How are roles defined in a traditional economy? How would your life be
different if you lived in a traditional economy?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research two traditional economies existing today. Describe the standard of living
and the quality of life for these people. Also consider:
How a traditional economy differs from other types of economies
How roles are defined in a traditional economy
The strengths of a traditional economy
The weaknesses of a traditional economy
How your life would be different if you lived in a traditional economy
How elements of traditional economies can be seen on a smaller scale in
many American household economies.

2. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

3. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

4. Write a detailed letter as if you were a member of a community with a traditional
economy. Address this letter to someone outside of that community. Show that
youve learned the above information through this letter.

5. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.













City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #15: Command Economy



Learning Inquiry:
How are roles defined in a command economy? How would your life be different
if you lived in a command economy?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research two command economies existing today. Describe the standard of living
and the quality of life for these people. Also consider:
How a command economy differs from other types of economies
How roles are defined in a command economy
The strengths of a command economy
The weaknesses of a command economy
How your life would be different if you lived in a command economy
How elements of command economies can be seen on a smaller scale in
America.

2. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

3. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

4. Write a detailed letter as if you were a member of a community with a command
economy. Address this letter to someone outside of that community. Show that
youve learned the above information through this letter.

5. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.













City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #16: Globalization and Chinas Currency Economics



Learning Inquiry:
How does China undervaluing its currency affect the global economy?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research how values of currencies affect other currencies, international trade,
and the global economic situation. How do currencies play a part in economic
systems? Why are currencies bought and sold on the market? How does a currency
lose/gain value (inflation/deflation)? How can a currencys value be controlled?

2. Research Chinas situation with its currency. What is its value tied to, and how
does China control that value? How does China undervaluing its currency affect the
global economy?

3. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

4. Create a flow chart illustrating how China undervaluing its currency affects global
economics, etc.

5. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

6. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.
















City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #17: Japans Economy Before and After the 2011 Tsunami

Learning Inquiry:
How was the economy in Japan affected by the 2011 Tsunami?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research Japans economy before the tsunami, and how the tsunami has affected
Japans economy. Consider:
How Japans economic system functioned before (include the history of
Japans economy in the last 100+ years)
Strengths and weaknesses of that system
What the tsunami did to interrupt that system
What the Japanese are doing to fix and improve that system
What the future of Japans economy is

2. As part of your research, conduct an interview with a knowledgeable authority on
economics. Ask about how economic systems work, and how the environment can
disrupt that system. Create 5 questions beforehand to use for this interview.

3. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

4. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

5. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.















City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #18: Starting a Business



Learning Inquiry:
How does starting a business work and what do you have to do to begin?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research the process of starting and owning a small business. Consider:
Choosing a name for your business
What goods/services your business will offer
The process of finding a location for your business (Lease or buy? Zoning?
Parking?)
The process of getting funding for your business (Loans? Investors?)
Contracting with suppliers
Hiring employees
Making your business sustainable/profitable going forward

2. As part of your research, conduct an interview with someone experienced in
starting up and owning a small business. Write at least 5 questions for the interview
beforehand.

3. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

4. Write a business proposal portfolio for potential investors describing your
business. Include the ideas listed above. Be informative and detailed about how you
will start and run your business (youre trying to convince people to buy in to your
concept...literally!).

5. Go through the writing process with your teacher: multiple drafts of writing (as
many as necessary), editing, revising and a final portfolio (with a works cited page).

6. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

5. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.






City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015


Topic #19: Selling a Business

Learning Inquiry:
What are the steps used to sell a business?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Prepare and plan your information about when you have sold a business.
Consider:
How a family weighs its decision to keep or sell a business based on that
familys wants and needs
How businesses succeed and how businesses fail. What economic factors,
personnel factors, etc., are involved with this?

2. Keep a learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final
reflection at the end of your project.

3. Write a research essay (7-10 paragraphs) describing the steps you followed to sell
a business. Include the above ideas. Also include a thesis statement (opinion
sentence) summing up your opinion on this topic, and which your whole paper will
revolve around. Be informative and detailed throughout your essay.

4. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

5. Go through the writing process with your teacher: multiple drafts of writing (as
many as necessary), editing, revising of your essay (with a works cited page).

6. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.













City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #20: Nonprofit Organizations



Learning Inquiry:
How do nonprofit organizations work financially?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research how a nonprofit organization works financially. Consider:
Starting a non-profit
Finding funding
Paying (or not paying) taxes
How the organization decides what to spend its money on
How money cycles through NPOs and society (circular model)
The difference between an NPO and a for-profit business
Examples of what NPOs strive to achieve

2. After doing research conduct an interview with someone involved with nonprofit
organizations. Before the interview, create 5 or more questions for the interview.
Use the interview answers as part of your research.

3. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

4. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

5. Create a flow chart illustrating how money flows in-and-out of nonprofit
organizations (circular model). Include multiple ways of how money enters and
exits organizations.

6. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.











City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #21: Unemployment



Learning Inquiry:
What effect has the economy had on employment in New York State (or WNY) in
the last 20 years?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research the situation of the U.S. economy and how the economys change has
affected unemployment rates during the last 20 years. Some ideas:
Why have things changed economically? How have things changed?
Is it easier to get a job now or 20 years ago?
What kinds of jobs have been affected?
What have people had to do to cope with a changing economy? How have
everyday people been affected?
How has the government been involved? What has the government done to
try to help the economy (include at least 3 examples)? What are the pros and
cons of these actions?

2. As part of your research, interview at least 1 person who is an authority on the
economic situation and/or unemployment. Write at least 5 questions for this
interview and use the information you get as part of your research for your paper.

3. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

4. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

5. Write a research essay (7-10 paragraphs), which answers your learning inquiry.
Your essay should revolve around your thesis statement. Include information about
the economy during the past 20 years, and how people have to make choices
between wants and needs and evaluate the outcomes of those choices. Also include
the governments role in the economy. Theorize what can be done to remedy the
current economic problem.

6. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.





City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #22: Into to Marketing



Learning Inquiry:
How does marketing work?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research marketing (advertising). Consider:
Marketing tactics: look at psychological research behind advertising (i.e.
colors, objects that are off-center, symbols/logos, fonts, sex appeal, snob
appeal, using different types of media, etc.)
Analyze some specific examples of marketing
Marketing budgets. What percent of their budget do companies spend on
marketing compared to other costs? Why do companies consider marketing
important or unimportant? What laws deal with marketing?

2. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

3. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

4. Write a research essay (7-10 paragraphs), which answers your learning inquiry.
Include your thesis statement and the information from your research. Before
starting your essay, create an outline of the essay and get it approved by your
teacher. Go through the writing process with your teacher: multiple drafts of writing
(as many as necessary), editing, revising of your essay (with a works cited page).

5. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.













City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #23: Marketing a Record/CD



Learning Inquiry:
How do you market a Record/CD?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research how to make and market a Record/CD. Consider:
The recording process (how to make at least a demo CD)
The CD itself: cover art, casing for the CD, etc.
CD release promotion
A general marketing outline on how to promote your CD (online advertising,
in-store advertising, iTunes, concerts, word of mouth, etc.)
The issue of free Internet downloading. Analyze the impact that downloading
has had on the music industry in general. Also analyze government copyright
laws and what the government has done to enforce personal property rights
regarding music.

2. After doing some research, conduct an interview with someone involved with
marketing music. Before the interview, create 5 or more questions for the interview.
Use the interview answers as part of your research.

3. Keep a vocabulary log of at least 10 new words that youve learned through your
research. Especially focus on economics-related words (including some non-
economics words that youve learned is OK). Include the word itself and its
definition.

4. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

5. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

6. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.








City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #24: Tribal Casinos



Learning Inquiry:
How do tribal casinos in New York State work?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research the history of tribal casinos in New York State. Focus on how they began
and were made legal.

2. Research how tribal casinos work. Consider how casinos:
Earn revenue for the tribe
Use the profit (Where does the money go? Be specific.)
Hire employees
Affect surrounding communities (for better or for worse)
Affect the economy
Earn revenue for the state

3. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

4. As part of your research, conduct an interview with someone knowledgeable
about tribal casinos. Write at least 5 questions beforehand, so youre prepared.

5. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry.

6. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.














City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #25: Spending Money on Soft Drinks



Learning Inquiry:
How much do I spend on Soft Drinks (Soda, Coffee, Tea, Sports, Energy, etc.)?
What do they do to my health?

Student will demonstrate the competencies for Economics based on completion of
the following project:

1. Research the energy drink industry. Consider:
The health implications of soft drinks (soda, coffee, tea, sports, energy, etc.)
How much money the industry makes
How much the industry spends on advertising and who they target/how they
target that audience
Lawsuits against energy drink or related companies
How the U.S. Government regulates this industry

Also consider:
How much our country spends on health care per year.
The cost of health care for an average individual (include costs for
government/Medicare/business-sponsored health care programs, not just an
individuals out-of-pocket costs)

2. As part of your research, keep track of how many energy drinks you drink on
average per day/week/month/year. How much money does that cost you? How
much does that affect your health (include health risks in the long run)?

3. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

4. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry

5. Write a research essay (7-10 paragraph), which details what you learned. Include
the items listed above. Go through the writing process with your teacher: multiple
drafts of writing (as many as necessary), editing, revising of your essay (with a
works cited page).

6. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.




City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

Topic #26: The Economics of Trade and Import Economics



Learning Inquiry:
What are the effects of the governments trade and import policies on the
economy?

Student will demonstrate competencies for Economics based on completion of the
following project:

1. Research the effects of the U.S. governments policies regarding international
trade and import. Focus on the value of items traded, and the balance of trade.
Consider:
What countries are trading with the U.S.?
How much is the U.S. importing and exporting from certain countries?
What does an imbalance of importing and exporting do to an economy?
How is currency involved?
How does the U.S. government make policies to try to control international
trade (like tariffs, import/export taxes, etc.)?
How does the U.S. government enforce these policies?
Which countries arent trading with the U.S.? How does an embargo affect
both countries (give examples)?
How do countries, or international bodies (like the U.N.), economically
punish (sanction) countries through international trade restrictions?
What is globalization, and how does it affect international trade, as well as
individual countries?

2. Keep a research log (where you keep research details and sources). Keep a
learning log (keeping track of time spent on the project). Complete a final reflection
at the end of your project.

3 Write a research essay (7-10 paragraph), which details what you learned. Include
the items listed above. Go through the writing process with your teacher: multiple
drafts of writing (as many as necessary), editing, revising of your essay (with a
works cited page).

4. Write a thesis statement, which answers your learning inquiry

5. Go through the writing process with your teacher: multiple drafts of writing (as
many as necessary), editing, revising of your essay (with a works cited page).

6. Plan, create, and publicly present a detailed website that illustrates what you
learned in your research. Include information from your process paper & annotated
bibliography. Present this information with your intended audience in mind. Make
reflection forms for the audience to participate in your presentation.


City Honors School IB Economics Multimedia Projects 2014-2015

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