Thomas Trabka
Gov't Economics
After school Mondays and Wednesdays from 2:30-3:30
Contact Email: tjtrabka@leepublicschools.com
Contact Phone: 1(413)-243-2781 ext 2112

Government Economics

This is a full year course dealing with the government and economy of the United States.  In the fall semester, we investigate the political philosophy and government practices of the United States through examination of the founding documents of English and American law.  Special attention is given to the concepts of the separation of powers, checks and balances, rule of law, and individual rights and responsibilities in a democratic system.
The spring semester is designed to introduce students to features of the US economy as a free-market economy in the context of a global market.  Basic concepts of supply and demand, pricing, the business cycle, forms of business organization (proprietorships, partnerships, corporations) and the role of government are investigated.  Current topics in corporate ethics, the sub-prime mortgage crisis, technology, energy-related issues, and the economy and the environment are given special attention.