Introductory Portion of Microeconomics:  Analysis of Events.  This first paper includes 3 questions which should be submitted as a single Word file document or in rich text format (double-spaced).  Each should be about 2 pages, with the total length between 6 – 7 pages [Maximum].  No references nor internet sources are required as it is entirely based on your own critical thinking and ability to apply what you have learned from the course to date.  If the essays are not in your own words, little credit will be earned.  [Please make sure that your choice of current events is not one already covered in any of the Case Studies or Discussions!]

Necessary Steps:  (1) For each essay, write & underline a meaningful thesis statement in the first paragraph for each question to describe the main idea and purpose of the essay.  (2) Then in each succeeding paragraph, analyze a separate microeconomic concept or theory which applies to your chosen topic and explain its relevance.  (3)  In the  final paragraph, develop a meaningful conclusion which you can draw from the topic.  The best papers will integrate the course material effectively with your choice of events / markets:

1.  Select any American microeconomic current event or market occurring this quarter (and not covered by Discussions or any Case Study in the Modules) to analyze.

2.  Select any foreign (non-American) current microeconomic event or market to analyze in light of our course material.

3.  Watch the entire video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RytWLheTNf4):  Episode II, “The Agony of Reform,” from The Commanding Heights.  This is about the transition process to capitalism in selected emerging economies.  Following your thesis statement and preceding your conclusion, use each paragraph to analyze a separate micro concept / principle from the course content which was illustrated in for one of the economies from this video (for example Bolivia, India, or Poland).