Exploring Economics is a one-semester curriculum that teaches high school students about macroeconomics and microeconomics. You can use it in 9th grade, 10th grade, 11th grade, or 12th grade.
Watch this video walkthrough with author Ray Notgrass to see how it works.
Written from a perspective of faith in God and trust in His word, Exploring Economics surveys Biblical teachings on money and finance, provides an overview of the economic history of the United States, gives a clear explanation of terms and concepts used in economics, discusses economic issues confronting us today, and puts our participation in the national and world economies on a personal level. In a time when economic activity is challenging classic definitions, Exploring Economics reasserts the importance of the free market system and enables students to take part in the economy with knowledge and faith.
Exploring Economics is divided into 15 units with five lessons each. Your student can complete the curriculum in one semester by doing one lesson per day for 75 days. What the student is to do each week and each day is clearly outlined. The Unit Introduction page gives a brief overview of the unit, the lessons in that unit, and suggestions for a project that is relevant to that unit.
Your student can read the daily lessons and follow the instructions independently. You as the parent can be involved as much or as little as you desire.
Reading one lesson will take about 20 minutes per day. At the end of each lesson is a list of assignments. Students using the course for both economics and English credit may need another 60-90 minutes to complete the additional readings and work on the weekly project. If your student is not completing the English credit, the total time needed per day will be about 45-60 minutes.
If you use the course as written, your student can earn one half year of high school credit in economics and one half year of credit in English (literature and composition). However, the course is flexible, so you can adjust the assignments as needed to fit your student's schedule and needs.
We recommend four books that complement the lessons in Exploring Economics. These books are not essential for understanding the lessons, but each one adds a valuable perspective on topics discussed in the lessons.
Reading the literature is part of earning the English credit. If your student has already read one of the assigned books, or you want to choose a different book for any reason, you can substitute a different book.
- Silas Marner by George Eliot (Units 1-3)
- The Rise of Silas Lapham by William Dean Howells (Units 4-7)
- The Travels of a T-Shirt in the Global Economy by Pietra Rivoli (Units 8-11)
- Mover of Men and Mountains by R. G. LeTourneau (Units 12-15)
If you already have the curriculum, our Quick Start Guide will launch you to success in using the literature, suggested supplements, and bonus downloads.