Principles of Macroeconomics: Course Syllabus and Structure

Course Overview

Introduction

This course, Economics 111-006: Principles of Macroeconomics, provides a comprehensive introduction to macroeconomic theory and practice. The syllabus outlines the structure, evaluation methods, required materials, and a detailed calendar of topics covered throughout the semester. The course is based on the textbook Macroeconomics (9th edition) by Glenn Hubbard and Anthony Patrick O’Brien.

Course Structure and Evaluation

Grading Components

• Exams: Four exams are administered. The first three are weighted at 20% each, and the final exam is comprehensive and weighted at 30%.

• Homework: Eleven assignments, each with 15 questions, contribute 10% to the final grade. Assignments include multiple choice, calculations, and graphical/data work.

• Extra Credit: Participation in in-class experiments and activities may earn extra credit or participation points.

Final Grade Formula:

• $\text{Final Average} = (\text{Exam 1} + \text{Exam 2} + \text{Exam 3}) \times 20\% + \text{Final} \times 30\% + \text{Homework Avg} \times 10\%$

Policies

• Academic Dishonesty: The University of Alabama Code of Academic Conduct applies at all times.

• Exam Policy: Make-up exams are allowed for documented illness, university events, or religious observance. Proper documentation is required.

• Technology: Calculators are permitted; other electronic devices are prohibited during exams. Exams are administered via Respondus Lockdown Browser.

• Homework Submission: Assignments are submitted electronically via MyLab. Late submissions receive half credit up to the semester's end; no extensions are granted.

Required Materials

• Textbook: Macroeconomics (9th edition) by Hubbard & O’Brien

• MyLab Platform: Access required for homework and digital resources

• Blackboard Learn (BBL): Course page and MyLab access instructions

Course Calendar and Topics

Weekly Topics and Associated Readings

The course is organized into thematic units, each corresponding to textbook chapters and scheduled dates. Below is a structured summary of the main topics:

Unit	Topic	Textbook Chapters	Dates
I	Ten Big Ideas in Economics	Ch. 1.1 - 1.4	Jan. 8
II	The Benefits of Trade	Ch. 2.1 - 2.2, 7.2 - 7.3	Jan. 13 & Jan. 15
III	Supply and Demand	Ch. 3.1 - 3.4	Jan. 20 & Jan. 22
IV	Measuring Economic Activity	Ch. 8.1 - 8.3	Jan. 27 & Jan. 29
V	Measuring the Cost of Living	Ch. 9.4 - 9.6	Feb. 5 & Feb. 10
VI	Long-run Economic Growth	Ch. 10.1, 11.1 - 11.5	Feb. 12 & Feb. 17
VII	The Financial System	Ch. 6.2, 10.2	Feb. 19, Feb. 24 & Feb. 26
VIII	Unemployment and the Labor Market	Ch. 9.1 - 9.3	Mar. 5, Mar. 10 & Mar. 12
IX	The Monetary System	Ch. 14.1 - 14.4	Mar. 24, Mar. 26 & Mar. 31
X	Money and Inflation	Ch. 14.5, 9.7	Apr. 2, Apr. 7 & Apr. 9
XI	Open Economy Concepts	Ch. 7.1, 18.1 - 18.2	Apr. 16, Apr. 21 & Apr. 23

Key Macroeconomic Topics Covered

• Foundations and Models: Basic principles and frameworks of macroeconomics

• Trade and Comparative Advantage: Benefits of trade, specialization, and international economics

• Supply and Demand: Market equilibrium, price determination, and efficiency

• Measuring Economic Activity: GDP, national income, and economic indicators

• Cost of Living: Inflation, price indices, and purchasing power

• Economic Growth: Long-run growth, productivity, and growth policies

• Financial System: Role of banks, stock markets, and financial intermediaries

• Unemployment: Types, measurement, and labor market dynamics

• Monetary System: Money, banking, and the Federal Reserve

• Inflation: Causes, consequences, and monetary policy

• Open Economy: International trade, exchange rates, and global financial systems

Important Dates

• Midterm Exam 1: Feb. 3

• Midterm Exam 2: Mar. 3

• Midterm Exam 3: Apr. 14

• Final Exam: Apr. 28, 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Contact Information

• Instructor: Gregory Givens ([e-mail])

• Teaching Assistants: Josephine Matalone ([e-mail]), Mira Kondor ([e-mail])

• Office: Alston 243

• Office Hours: Monday 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Tuesday 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM (Alston 270)

• Personal Website: http://www.gegivens.weebly.com/

Summary

This syllabus provides a structured roadmap for the Principles of Macroeconomics course, detailing the topics, readings, evaluation methods, and policies. Students are expected to engage with the textbook, complete assignments via MyLab, and adhere to academic integrity standards. The course covers all foundational macroeconomic concepts, preparing students for further study and application in economics.