ECN 143: Principles of Microeconomics – Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

Introduction to Microeconomics

This course provides an introduction to the basic concepts of microeconomics, focusing on the behavior of consumers and producers, the functioning of markets, and the role of government in the economy. Students will learn to analyze supply and demand, market equilibrium, and the effects of government policies on market outcomes.

• Supply and Demand: Fundamental forces that determine prices and quantities in markets.

• Market Structures: Examination of competitive markets, monopoly, monopolistic competition, and oligopoly.

• Government Policies: Analysis of taxes, subsidies, and regulations and their impact on market efficiency and welfare.

Course Objectives

• Develop an understanding of the various types of goods, services, and resources in the economy.

• Analyze the behavior and decision-making of consumers and producers in different market structures.

• Evaluate the effects of government intervention on market outcomes.

• Appreciate the production and pricing policies of firms and the resource supply and consumption decisions of households.

Required Materials

• Textbook: "Principles of Microeconomics" by N. Gregory Mankiw, 9th Edition (or earlier editions acceptable with caution regarding content differences).

• CANVAS Access: All quizzes, videos, slides, and other materials will be posted online.

• Lockdown Browser: Required for online quizzes and tests.

Evaluation and Grading

Grades are based on quizzes, tests, and a final exam. Students must achieve at least 40% on the final exam to pass the course, regardless of other grades.

Grade	Percentage
A	90% – 100%
B	80% – 89%
C	70% – 79%
D	60% – 69%
F	0% – 59%

Assignments and Exams

• Open Book Module Quizzes: 20% of grade. Quizzes are open book and based on textbook, slides, and other course materials.

• Lockdown Respondus Tests: 17.5% each (two tests). Cover multiple modules and require the use of Lockdown Browser.

• In-Person Final Exam: 45% of grade. Must be taken in person at the scheduled time and location. A minimum score of 40% is required to pass the course.

Class Schedule

Module	Chapters	Topics	Quiz/Test Due
1	1, 2	Introduction, Ten Principles of Economics, Thinking Like an Economist	Quiz: Sep. 3
2	3, 4	Interdependence and Gains from Trade, Supply and Demand	Quiz: Sep. 10
3	5, 6	Elasticity, Government Policies	Quiz: Sep. 17
4	7, 8	Efficiency of Markets, Costs of Taxation	Quiz: Sep. 24
5	9, 10	International Trade, Externalities	Quiz: Oct. 1
6	11, 12	Public Goods, Tax System	Quiz: Oct. 8
7	13, 14	Costs of Production, Competitive Markets	Quiz: Oct. 15
8	15, 16	Monopoly, Monopolistic Competition	Quiz: Oct. 22
9	17, 18	Oligopoly, Factor Markets	Quiz: Oct. 29
10	19, 20	Earnings, Inequality, Poverty	Quiz: Nov. 5
11	21, 22	Theory of Consumer Choice, Frontiers of Microeconomics	Quiz: Nov. 12

Additional info: The schedule aligns with the standard topics in a college-level microeconomics course, covering all major chapters listed in the initial instructions.

Attendance and Academic Policies

• Quizzes are mandatory for each module.

• Missed assignments or tests require documentation for make-up consideration.

• Academic honesty is strictly enforced; violations may result in disciplinary action.

University and Disability Support

• Reasonable accommodations are available for students with documented disabilities.

• Students are encouraged to utilize campus resources for academic and personal support.

Important Dates

• In-person final exam: Dec. 12th, 9am-10am in the Nursing Building (NU/R103B).

• Refer to the academic calendar for other important deadlines.