SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME 2013

GRADE 12

ECONOMICS

TEACHER NOTES

The SSIP is supported by

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

TEACHER NOTES
SESSION TOPIC PAGE
1 Topic 1. Circular flow
3 – 16
Topic 2. The multiplier
2 Topic 1. Business cycle composition and reasons
Topic 2. Government policy and forcasting for business 17 - 27
cycles
3 Topic 1. Necessity of public sector and problems of public
sector provisions 28 - 39
Topic 2. Fiscal policy, laffer curve and public sector failure
4 Topic 1. Perfect market cost and revenue curves
40 – 49
Topic 2. Profit maximising in a perfect market
4 Self Study:
Topic 1. Imperfect market - monopoly 50 – 58
Topic 2. Imperfect market – oligopoly
5 Topic 1. Market failure
59 – 67
Topic 2. Cost benifit analysis
6 Topic 1. Economic growth and development
68 – 76
Topic 2. North-south divide
6 Self Study:
Topic 1. South Africa‘s industrial development policies
77 - 91
Topic 2. Free trade and protectionism
Topic 3. Import substitution and export promotion
7 Topic 1. Balance of payments
92 – 104
Topic 2. Foreign exchange market
7 Self Study:
Topic 1. Economic Indicators 105 – 119
Topic 2. Social Indicators

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 1 (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 1: CIRCULAR FLOW TOPIC 2: THE MULTIPLIER

Teacher Note: Make sure you explain the circular flow model and how to use it to work out
the value of the output produced by the economy at factor cost. Also remember that when
Leakages = Injections the economy will be in equilibrium. Point out how changes in the
injections cause a change in the equilibrium level of output.

LESSON OVERVIEW

1. Briefly introduce the cicular flow/multiplier: 10 minutes

2. Learners answer the questions: 45 minutes
3. Go through Solutions and Hints with the learners: 30 minutes
4. Preview Homework Questions 5 minutes

SECTION A: TYPICAL EXAM QUESTIONS: TOPIC 1: CIRCULAR FLOW

QUESTION 1: 12 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2009)

1.1 Study the table below on the calculation of GDP and answer the questions that follow.
CALCULATION OF GDP ACCORDING TO THE
INCOME METHOD
(2007 figures)
R bn.
Compensation of employees ……………………… 843
Net operating surplus ……………………………… 644
Consumption of fixed capital …………………….... _ _255
Gross value added @ _________ A________ 1 742
Taxes on production ………………………………. 35
Subsidies on production …………………………… _ _6
Gross value added @ basic prices …………….. B
__C____ on products ..…………………………… 231
Subsidies on products ……………………………… ________6
Gross domestic product @ market prices …… 1 996
Primary income from rest of world ……………….. 46
Primary income to rest of world …………………... ______108
GNI @ market prices ……………………………… 1 934
[Source: SARB Quarterly Bulletin, September 2008]
1.1.1. Differentiate between GDP and GNP. (4)
(Define both GDP and GNP)
1.1.2 Which alternative term is used for GDP in the national accounts? (2)
(Alternative name)
1.1.3 Provide labels for A and C. (4)
1.1.4 Calculate the gross value added at basic prices (letter B). (4)
1.1.5 Which component contributed most to the Gross Domestic Product? (3)
(Use data in table)

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 1 (TEACHER NOTES)

1.1.6 Give a reason why the GNP figures in South Africa are generally lower
than the GDP figures. (3)
[20]

QUESTION 2: 20 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

An open economy circular flow model illustrates the economic interaction between the
four participants.
Describe this interaction in detail with the aid of a diagram, which includes injections and
withdrawals. [35]
(This question is only part of an essay question that counts 50)

QUESTION 3: 13 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)

3.1 Explain leakages and injections. (8))

(Remember always to give an example)
3.2 List THREE methods by which the gross domestic product can be calculated.
(3 x 2) (6)
3.3 Discuss the role of households (consumers) in the economic circular flow
model. (4 x 2) (8)
[22]

QUESTION 4: 6 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)

4.1 Study the table below and answer the questions that follow.

4.1.1 Explain the item subsidies on products. (3)

4.1.2 Explain the item consumption of fixed capital. (3)
4.1.3 Calculate the compensation of employees as a percentage of GDP at market
prices. Show ALL calculations. (4)
[10]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 1 (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 2: THE MULTIPLIER

QUESTION 1: 12 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

1.1 Study the graph below that depicts a simplified two-sector economy (where E = C + I)
and answer the questions that follow.

1.1.1 Name the TWO sectors involved in deriving the macro-economic multiplier. (4)
(Name means to give only the terms and not discuss them.)

1.1.2 What is represented by the line E = Y? (4)

1.1.3 Use the formula, k = ΔY/ΔJ, to calculate the multiplier (k) for the above scenario. (4)
(Remember that ΔY = the change in Income, and that ΔJ = the change in
Injections.)

1.1.4 Calculate the multiplier, using the formula, k = 1/(1 – MPC), when the marginal
propensity to consume (MPC) = 0.8. Show calculations. (6)

1.1.5 Explain the relationship between the MPC and the multiplier. (2)
(Relationship is how they affect one another.)
[20]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 1 (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 2: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb/March 2009)

2.1 Copy the graph below. Indicate the new consumption curve, new equilibrium formed
after investment increased by R20 million, and describe the multiplier effect of the
increase of investment of R20 million on the economy. [16]

(Remember to copy the graph as is, because you will be indicating the change on the
graph. Calculate the multiplier first. Show your new formula with an increase of
R20 million.)

QUESTION 3: 12 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb/March 2010)

3.1 Study the graph of the multiplier in a two-sector model where the consumption function
is given by C = c + c(Y) on the following page, and answer the questions that follow.

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 1 (TEACHER NOTES)

3.1.1 Define the term multiplier. (3)

(Define means writing out the whole definition.)

3.1.2 With reference to the graph, name the TWO sectors involved in deriving the
macro-economic multiplier. (4)
(Please look at graph to identify the two sectors; don’t name any other.)

3.1.3 Indicate what is represented by the dotted line. (2)

3.1.4 What is the value of autonomous consumption for the original consumption
function? (2)
(It is only 2 marks; therefore, you don’t have to show any calculations.)

3.1.5 Suppose the marginal propensity to save (MPS) = 0,4. Use the multiplier formula
to calculate the eventual change in aggregate income, if there was an injection of
R10 billion into the economy. Show ALL the calculations. (HINT: Determine the
size of the multiplier first.) (6)

3.1.6 Describe the relationship between the MPC and the multiplier. (3)
[20]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 1 (TEACHER NOTES)

SECTION B: SOLUTIONS AND HINTS TO SECTION A: TOPIC CIRCULAR FLOW

QUESTION 1: 12 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2009)

1.1.1 GDP is total value of final goods and services  produced

within the boundaries/borders  of a country for a specified period.
GNP is total value of final goods and services  produced by the (4)
1.1.2 Gross Value Added  (2)
1.1.3 A = factor cost 
C = taxes  (4)
1.1.4 R1 742 bn. + R35 bn.  – R6 bn.  = R1 771 bn. 
OR
R1 771 bn.  / 1 771  (4)
1.1.5 Compensation of employees  (3)
1.1.6 Foreigners contribute more to our economy than we do to their
economy, therefore a greater amount is subtracted from the GDP and less is
added. 
(Accept any other relevant explanation) (3)
[20]

QUESTION 2: 20 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

CONCEPT
The circular flow model of the economy is a simplification showing how the economy
works and the relationship between income, production and spending in the economy
as a whole. The circular flow model of an open economy shows the workings of an
economy that is open to foreign trade. It is different to a closed economy because it
includes the foreign sector.         (Max. 3)
(Accept any other appropriate explanation of the concept.)

BODY (Accept any other well-labelled diagram) (Max. 8)

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 1 (TEACHER NOTES)

There is a flow of money and goods and services between the household sector and
business sectorHouseholds earn income in the form of wages by selling their factors of
production to business. Business use factors of production to produce goods and services
on which the household sector spendsThus the business will receive
income. 
There is a flow of money and goods and services between the household sector and
State. Household sector provides the state with labour and receive income. 
The state provides the household with public goods and services  e.g. parks,
hospitals for which they pay taxes. This is income for the state. 
There is a flow of money and goods and services between the business sector and
State. The business sector provides the state with goods and services for which the state
pays. The state provides the business sector with public goods and services for which
they pay taxes. 
There is a flow of goods (imports) to the business from the foreign sectorwhich the
business pays for . This will be regarded as expenditure for the business  There is also
a flow of goods from the business to the foreign sector. This will be income for the
business. 

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 1 (TEACHER NOTES)

The financial sector consists of banks, insurance companies and pension funds. 
They act as a link between households and firms who have surplus money and others in
the economy who require funds. The money which households and firms provide to the
financial sector is known as savings. The spending on capital equipment by firms is
regarded as investment.         (max 24)
[35]

QUESTION 3: 13 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)

3.1 Leakages are any flow that does not give rise to a further round of income also
known as withdrawals because it represents a withdrawal of money from the
economy. 
(e.g.) of leakages are taxes (T) expenditure on imports (Z/M)  and
savings (S)          (Max. 4)
Injections represent the introduction of additional money into the economy 
(e.g.) of injections are government spending (G) income earned from
exports (X) investment spending (I)      (Max. 4)(8)

3.2 Production method / Value Added Method 

Income method 
Expenditure method  (3 x 2) (6)

3.3 Owns four factors of production and presents on input market 

Receives income (rent, interest, wages and profit) in return 
Primary sector of consumption of goods and services 
Pays taxes to the government e.g. income tax 
Enjoy collective goods and services delivered by the state 
Spending on goods and services (domestic and foreign) 
Saving as source of investment 
Primary participant in the economy 
(Accept any other relevant fact.) (Any 4 x 2) (8)
[22]

QUESTION 4: 6 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)

4.1.1 A subsidy (grant) on a product is paid on the outputs to reduce the price to make
it more affordable E.g. R1 for each loaf of bread    (3)
4.1.2 Consumption of Fixed Capital is the diminishing value of an asset over a period of
time, also called depreciation E.g. depreciation in the value of equipment,
machinery, and vehicles         (3)
4.1.3 1 086 907X 100
2 423 3231
= 44,85 % / 44,9% / 45 %        (4)
[10]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 1 (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 2: THE MULTIPLIER

QUESTION 1
1.1.1 Households/Consumers 
Business sector/Firms/Producers 
    (2 x 2) (4)

1.1.2 It shows all the possible levels of expenditure and output 
at which the economy is in equilibrium     (2 x 2) (4)
1.1.3 k = 20
10 
= 2  (4)
1.1.4 k = ___1____ 
(1 – 0.8)
=1
0.2
= 5  (6)

1.1.5 The bigger the mpc, the bigger the multiplier (and vice versa)  (2)
[20]

QUESTION 2

2.1

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 1 (TEACHER NOTES)

In the diagram above, a change in investment of R20 million, with an mpc of (0,5)  will
result in equilibrium moving from E to E  (R20 million – R60 million). The multiplier is,
1
therefore = 2, therefore the change in income with an injection of R20 million, will be
(2 x R20 million = R40 million)  (Max. 4 marks)

The multiplier describes the situation where a change in spending causes a

disproportionate change in the level of aggregate income M = (change in Y) 
change in J. The multiplier effect starts off with unused resources in the economy
(e.g.) increase in investment, like construction of roads leads to more jobs The new
workers would then have income to purchase consumer goods which in turn stimulates
the demand for goods and services and this results in increased levels of production
which further increases the level of employment This raises income and stimulates
greater consumer demand The size of the eventual change in the income will depend
on mpc (marginal propensity to consume)  (Max. 6 marks) [16]

QUESTION 3

3.1.1 The multiplier shows how an increase in spending (injection) produces a more
than proportional increase in national income (3)

3.1.2 Household 
Business  (4)

3.1.1 Indicates all points where income = expenditure / 45º line / Keynesian
equilibrium  (2)

3.1.4 20 bn.  (2)

3.1.5 M = 1 = 1  = 2.5 
mps 0.4
2.5 x 10 bn.  = 25 bn.  (6)

3.1.6 The larger the MPC the bigger the multiplier and vice versa  (3)
[26]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 1 (TEACHER NOTES)

SECTION C: HOMEWORK
TOPIC 1: CIRCULAR FLOW

QUESTION 1

Look at the following diagram and answer the questions that follow.

1.1 What is the amount for the letter A in the diagram? (2)
1.2 Identify any ONE leakage in the diagram? (2)
1.3 List any ONE major real flow element in the economy. (2)
1.4 Why does an increase in exports eventually lead to an increase in
consumption by households? (4)
1.5 Give an equation for GDP. (5)
[15]
QUESTION 2
2.1 The table below provides hypothetical national income figures for a country, in
R million. Use these figures to calculate the level of aggregate income in
the country. (6)

Exports 23
Government spending 147
Net foreign factor income earned in the country 10
Consumption spending by households 343
Imports 18
Savings 417
Interests on public debt 33
Private sector investment in equipment and construction ( gross ) 79
Corporate profits 28
Personal taxes 83

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 1 (TEACHER NOTES)

2.2 Look at the following table and answer the questions that follow.
Nominal GDP (R mil) Deflator Real GDP (R mil)
1990 25 500 100 25 500
1991 27 800 105 ?
1992 30 000 112 26 785
2.2.1 Which year is the base year? (2)
2.2.2 Differentiate between Nominal and Real GDP. (4)
2.2.3 What was the average inflation rate for 1992? (2)
2.3.4 Calculate Real GDP for 1991. (4)
[18]

TOPIC 2: THE MULTIPLIER

QUESTION 1: 24 minutes
1.1 Imagine you are given the following information for a closed economy without
government.
C = 20 + 0.5Y
I = 10
1.1.1 What is the equilibrium level of income? (3)
1.1.2 What is the value of the multiplier? (6)

1.1.3 Explain the multiplier process that results from an increase in

investment from 10 to 30. (8)

1.2 Draw a 45° diagram to illustrate the two expenditure functions and the
respective equilibrium levels of income. (6)

1.3 Calculate the multiplier in each case:

1.3.1 MPC = 0,9 (3)

1.3.2 MPS = 0,1 (3)
1.3.3 MPS = 0,25 (3)
1.3.4 MPC = 0,5 (3)

1.4 If the national income increases by R100m and the multiplier is 4, what is
the change in investment? (4)
[39]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 1 (TEACHER NOTES)

SECTION D: SOLUTIONS TO HOMEWORK

TOPIC 1: CIRCULAR FLOW

QUESTION 1
1.1.1 A = R8 000  (2)
1.1.2 Savings / Taxes / Imports  (2)
1.1.3 Final goods and services / Factors of production  (2)
1.1.4 Because export‘s is an injection  and an increase in injections will increase
consumption.  (4)
1.1.5 GDP = C  + I  +G  + X  – Z  (5)
[15]
QUESTION 2

2.1 GDP = C + I + G + X – Z
= 343  + 79  + 147  + 23  – 18 
= 610  (6)

2.2.1 1990  (2)

2.2.2 Nominal GDP (current prices) includes inflation  and Real GDP
(constant prices) excludes inflation.  (4)
2.2.3 12%  (2)
2.3.4 Real GDP = Nominal GDP x 100/deflator
= 27 800 x 100 
105
= 26 476  (4)
[18]

TOPIC 2: THE MULTIPLIER

QUESTION 1

1.1.1 Y = 20  (3)

1.1.2 k = __1__
(1-mpc) 
k = __1__
(1 - 0.5) 
k = 2  (6)

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 1 (TEACHER NOTES)

1.1.3 The multiplier process occurs in the economy, when injections into the
circular flow of spending, production and income take place. 

The injection is investments and it has increased from 10 to 30, therefore

E=0.5Y+30. 
Income will have gone from 20 to 60; a change in the equilibrium. 
The multiplier refers to the ratio used to work out the difference between the
initial investment and the eventual change in income.  (8)

1.2 Draw a 45° diagram to illustrate the two expenditure functions and the
respective equilibrium levels of income. 6)

1.3 Calculate the multiplier in each case:

1.3.1 MPC = 0,9
k = 10  (3)
1.3.2 MPS = 0,1
k = 10  (3)
1.3.3 MPS = 0,25
k = 4  (3)
1.3.4 MPC = 0,5
k = 2  (3)

1.4 If the national income increases by R100m and the multiplier is 4, what is the
change in investment?

100 ÷ 4 = 25 

The change in investment was R25 m  (4)

[39]

The SSIP is supported by

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 2 (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 1: BUSINESS CYCLE COMPOSITION AND REASONS

Teacher Note: The business cycle shows what happens to the value of the domestic output
(GDP) of the economy over time (Ask learners to name the three ways of calculating GDP as
part of revision). The time series shows the values of a variable over time.

TOPIC 2: GOVERNMENT POLICY AND FORCASTING FOR BUSINESS CYCLES

Teacher Note: Remember that in periods of expansion, income, output and employment all
increase; government does not welcome this. Therefore, they use two policies to influence
the business cycle. Together with that, Government and economic agents also want to know
what is going to happen in the economy.

LESSON OVERVIEW

1. Review Homework from Session 1 10 minutes

Briefly introduce the business cycle: 5 minutes
2. Learners answer the questions: 40 minutes
3. Go through Solutions and Hints with the Learners: 30 minutes
4. Preview Homework questions 5 minutes

SECTION A: TYPICAL EXAM QUESTIONS

TOPIC 1: BUSINESS CYCLE COMPOSITION AND REASONS

QUESTION 1: 9 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

1.1 Study the diagram below and answer the questions that follow.

1.1.1 Define a business cycle. (3)

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 2 (TEACHER NOTES)

1.1.2 Identify the labels for the following periods in the business cycle as
indicated in the above diagram:
(a) Upswing or expansion
(b) Length or duration of a cycle (2 x 3) (6)
1.1.3 At which point/phase in the above diagram will unemployment be at its
highest? (2)
1.1.4 Name ONE exogenous factor that gives rise to business cycles. (3)
[14]

QUESTION 2: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2010)

2.1 Differentiate between exogenous and endogenous reasons for business cycles.
(8 x 2) [16]
QUESTION 3: 5 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)
3.1 Discuss the Monetarist approach as a cause of business cycles. [8]

QUESTION 4: 18 minutes (Taken from Feb-March 2009)

4.1 Write an essay briefly analysing the composition and features of business cycles.
(Remember this question is part of an essay question) [30]

TOPIC 2: GOVERNMENT POLICY AND FORCASTING FOR BUSINESS CYCLES

QUESTION 1: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

1.1.1 Explain how Government can stimulate economic activity in an effort to smooth
out cycles. (3)
1.1.2 Name the method of predicting future business cycles based on the patterns of
previous ones. (3)
[6]

QUESTION 2: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)

2.1 List the THREE economic indicators used in forecasting of business cycles.
(3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 3: 6 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2009)

3.1 Explain how authorities use certain policies to smooth out business cycles.
(This is part of an essay question that usually counts 50 marks) [10]

QUESTION 4: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2009)

4.1 Explain, with the aid of an appropriately labeled diagram, how the various business
cycle indicators can be used in forecasting. [50]
(Remember that only the second part of the question is based on this session)

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 2 (TEACHER NOTES)

SECTION B: SOLUTIONS AND HINTS TO SECTION A

TOPIC 1: BUSINESS CYCLE COMPOSITION AND REASONS

QUESTION 1: 9 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

1.1.1 Refer to successive periods  of increasing (expansion/upswing) and decreasing

(contraction/downswing)  economic activities 
OR
Successive periods  of economic  fluctuations  (3)

1.1.2 (a) CDE / CE 

(b) CG / AE (2 x 3) (6)

1.1.3 Point C / point G / trough  (1 x 2) (2)

1.1.4 • inappropriate government policies / interventions 

• change in money supply 
• climate conditions (sunspot theory) 
• shocks (e.g. war, major increase in fuel price) 
• structural change to the economy 
• technology 
(Accept any other relevant factor from an approved resource) (1 x 3) (3)
[14]

QUESTION 2: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2010)

Exogenous reasons (explanations)

• The monetarist school of thought started in 1960 by Professor Milton Friedman. 
• The classical economists believed that the markets were inherently (naturally)
stable. 
• They then presented exogenous explanations (conditions that originate outside of the
market system) for periodic recessions and revivals. 
• They saw these fluctuations in economic activity as temporary due to external
factors. 
• (E.g.) inventions, technological innovations, natural causes etc. 
• These fluctuations can also occur because of ineffective government policy. 
• This results in fluctuations in the rate of increase in the money supply, which causes
changes in the rate of increase in prices, production and employment. 
Any (4 x 2)

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 2 (TEACHER NOTES)

Endogenous reasons (explanations)

• Also known as the interventionist approach. 

• The Keynesians hold the view that markets are inherently unstable. 
• These economic fluctuations are caused by endogenous (Internal) causes. 
• There is a self-correcting mechanism in the market system that acts to correct any
economic boom or recession. 
• (e.g.) If business conditions improve, there will be an increase in economic output,
resulting in increased interest rates, increase in imports and a fall in foreign
exchange. 
• All of these factors combine to dampen the economic growth and curb the boom 
• The reverse is also true; interest rates and import rates can decrease and foreign
exchange can increase, leading to a recession. 
• The Keynesians believe that these fluctuations are part of the market economy and
governments have a duty to use monetary and fiscal policy to intervene. 
• When the government intervenes, this brings stability to the economy and helps to
smooth out the peaks and troughs in the business cycles. 
(Any 4 x 2)
[16]

QUESTION 3: 5 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)

• Also called the sunspot theory / exogenous approach 

• Believe markets are inherently stable. 
• Departures from the equilibrium state are caused by factors outside of the
market system. 
• Market forces (supply and demand) kick in and bring the economy back
to its natural state or equilibrium route. 
• These interferences are not part of the normal forces operating in the
market. 
• Governments should not interfere in the markets. 
• Major cause (examples) of economic fluctuations are inappropriate government
policies , undesirable increases and decreases in money supply  weather
conditions  shocks (September 11)  structural changes severe increases in
the price of fuel and wars
(Maximum 4 marks for examples) (Any 4 x 2) [8]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 2 (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 4: 18 minutes (Taken from Feb-March 2009)

INTRODUCTION

Business cycles refer to continuous periods of expansion and contraction of economic

activity.  (Max. 3 marks)

BODY

Discussion of Graph:
NB. Do not credit for the heading if already credited in diagram.
1. Period of Recession (BC) 
• During a recession, jobs are lost and there is a feeling of pessimism 
• Employment levels drop, and there is a decrease in economic activity, and the
economy slows down  (Max. 5 marks)
2. Period of Depression (CD) 
• During a depression money is in short supply leading to a further decline in spending 
• There is a negative impact on investment spending 
• When economic activity is at its lowest, a trough is reached at point D 
• There is competition for jobs and the cost of production decreases 
• This encourages foreign trade and leads to a recovery.  (Max. 5 marks)
3. Period of Recovery (DE) 
• During a recovery, production increases and more jobs are created 
• Business confidence rises and there is increased spending by firms 
• There is increased economic activity and the country enters into a period of
prosperity  (Max. 5 marks)

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 2 (TEACHER NOTES)

4. Period of Expansion (AB/EF) 

• During a period of expansion there is a great degree of optimism  Employment
levels rise, salaries and wages rise and spending increases 
• A peak is reached at point B/F 
• A larger amount of money is in circulation and this leads to an inflationary situation 
(Max. 5 marks)
5. Trend 
• The cycle continues oscillating along a trend line and in-between upper and lower
limits 
• The trend line that rises gradually represents the average effect on the economy
over time 
• Positively sloped: show that GDP is rising over time on average 
(Max. 5 marks)
[30]

TOPIC 2: GOVERNMENT POLICY AND FORCASTING FOR BUSINESS CYCLES

QUESTION 1: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

1.1.1 • Using expansionary monetary policies 

• Reducing interest rates 
• Expansionary fiscal policies 
• Reducing tax 
• Increased government expenditure 
(Any other relevant examples) (Max. 3) (3)

1.1.2 Extrapolation  (1 x 3) (3)

[6]

QUESTION 2: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)

2.1 • Leading 
• Lagging 
• Coincident  (Any 3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 3: 6 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2009)

POLICIES USED BY THE GOVERNMENT TO SMOOTH OUT BUSINESS CYCLES

• The new economic paradigm, results in the state using monetary policy and fiscal
policy to smooth out the business cycle 

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 2 (TEACHER NOTES)

Fiscal policy
• It has been successfully used to stimulate a depressed economy 
• e.g. by reducing taxes or by increasing the government expenditure 
• By reducing taxes households have more disposable income which increases
consumption spending and stimulates economic activity 
• Increasing government spending leads to a further injection in the circular flow which
stimulates economic activity 

Monetary policy
• It can be utilised more effectively to dampen an overheated economy with severe
inflationary pressures 
• e.g. reduce money supply or by increasing interest rates 
• This will cause total spending to decrease and the level of economic activity to
decline  (Max. 10 marks)
[10]

QUESTION 4: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2009)

BODY
BUSINESS CYCLE INDICATORS:
1. LEADING ECONOMIC INDICATORS 
• These are indicators that change before the economy changes 
• They give consumers, business leaders and policy makers a glimpse of where the economy
might be heading 
• When these indicators rise, the level of economic activities will also rise in a few months‘
time. 
• E.g. job advertising space/inventory/sales ratio  (Max 6)
2. LAGGING ECONOMIC INDICATORS 
• They do not change direction until after the business cycle has changed its direction. 
• They serve to confirm the behavior of co-incident indicators. 
• E.g. the value of wholesalers‘ sales of machinery  if the business cycle reaches a peak
and begins to decline, then we are able to predict the value of new machinery sold
(Max 6)
3. CO-INCIDENTAL ECONOMIC INDICATORS 
• They simply move at the same time as the economy moves 
• It indicates the actual state of the economy. 
• E.g. value of retail sales. If the business cycle reaches a peak and then begins to decline,
then the value of retail sales will reach a peak and then begin to decline at same time 
(Max 6)

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 2 (TEACHER NOTES)

4. LENGTH 
• Is the time it takes for business cycle to move through one complete cycle (measured from
peak to peak) 
• E.g. Useful to know the length because the length tends to remain relatively constant over
time 
• If a business cycle has the length of 10 years, it can be predicted that 10 years will pass
between successive peaks or troughs in the economy 
• Longer cycles show strength 
• Cycles can overshoot  (Max 6)
5. AMPLITUDE
• It is the difference between the total output between a peak and a trough  / Measures the
distance of the oscillation of a variable from the trend line 
•A large amplitude during an upswing indicates strong underlying forces – which result in
longer cycles
• The larger the amplitude, the more extreme the changes are that may occur. 
E.g. During the upswing inflation may increase from 5% to 10%. (100% increase) 
(Max 6)
6. TREND 
• A trend is the movement in a general direction of the economy 
• It usually has a positive slope because production capacity of the economy increases over
time. 
• E.g. The diagram above illustrates an economy which is growing – thus an upward trend 
• Trends are useful because they indicate the general direction in which the economy is
moving – indicate the rate of increase or decrease in level of output  (Max 6)
. EXTRAPOLATION 
• Forecasters use past data, e.g. trends, and by assuming that this trend will continue, they
make predictions about the future 
• E.g. if it becomes clear that the business cycle has passed through a trough and has
entered into a boom phase, forecasters might predict that the economy will grow in the
months that follow 
• It‘s also used to make economic predictions in other settings, e.g. prediction of future
share prices  (Max 6)
. MOVING AVERAGE 
E.g. the moving average could be calculated for the past three months in order to smooth out
any minor fluctuations 
• They are calculated to iron out small fluctuations and reveal long-term trends in the business
cycle  (Max 6) (Body Max. 40]
CONCLUSION
Business cycles will continue to have an effect on the economic well-being of South Africa in
future. Although we may understand the causes of business cycles and how the economy
may respond to certain policies, accurate prediction of business cycles is beyond us. (2)
[50]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 2 (TEACHER NOTES)

SECTION C: HOMEWORK

TOPIC 1: BUSINESS CYCLE COMPOSITION AND REASONS

QUESTION 1 20 minutes (Source: The Answer Series)
1.1 Discuss the features and compositions of business cycles. (16)
1.2 Discuss the causes of business cycles with reference to the exogenous and
endogenous factors. (16)
[32]

TOPIC 2: GOVERNMENT POLICY AND FORCASTING FOR BUSINESS CYCLES

QUESTION 1 20 minutes (Source: The Answer Series)

1.1 Explain how the monetary policy can be used to dampen an overheated
economy. (8)
1.2 Explain how the fiscal policy is used to stimulate a depressed economy. (8)
1.3 Discuss the economic indicators used in forecasting. (16)
[32]

SECTION D: SOLUTIONS TO HOMEWORK

TOPIC 1: BUSINESS CYCLE COMPOSITION AND REASONS

QUESTION 1
1.1 All business cycles have the following:
o Two periods, i.e. contraction (downswing) and expansion (upswing). 
o Two turning points, i.e. trough and peak. 
The upward and downward periods divide into the following phases:
o prosperity phase (boom)
o recession
o depression
o recovery
The expansion period:
o Level of economic activity increases
o More goods and services are being produced
o Households expenditure increases
o Interest rates decrease
o Inflation increases
Peak:
o The economy is using most of its resources, such as skilled labour and
capital
o There is an upward pressure on prices and the balance on the current account
worsens as a result of higher imports. 

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 2 (TEACHER NOTES)

Contraction period:
o Level of economic activity decreases
o Less goods and services are being produced
o Decline in spending
o Interest rates increase
o Inflation decreases
Trough:
o Turning point at the end of the contraction period.  (16)

1.2 Exogenous reasons (explanations)

• The monetarist school of thought started in 1960 by Professor Milton Friedman. 
• The classical economists believed that the markets were inherently (naturally) stable.

• They then presented exogenous explanations (conditions that originate outside of the
market system) for periodic recessions and revivals. 
• They saw these fluctuations in economic activity as temporary due to external
factors. 
• (E.g.) inventions, technological innovations, natural causes etc. 
• These fluctuations can also occur because of ineffective government policy. 
• This results in fluctuations in the rate of increase in the money supply, which causes
changes in the rate of increase in prices, production and employment. 
Any (4 x 2) (8)

Endogenous reasons (explanations)

• Also known as the interventionist approach. 
• The Keynesians hold the view that markets are inherently unstable. 
• These economic fluctuations are caused by endogenous (Internal) causes. 
• There is a self-correcting mechanism in the market system that acts to correct any
economic boom or recession. 
• (e.g.) If business conditions improve, there will be an increase in economic output,
resulting in increased interest rates, increase in imports and a fall in foreign
exchange. 
• All of these factors combine to dampen the economic growth and curb the boom 
• The reverse is also true; interest rates and import rates can decrease and foreign
exchange can increase, leading to a recession. 
• The Keynesians believe that these fluctuations are part of the market economy and
governments have a duty to use monetary and fiscal policy to intervene. 
• When the government intervenes, this brings stability to the economy and helps to
smooth out the peaks and troughs in the business cycles. 
Any (4 x 2) (8)
[16]
[32]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 2 (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 2: GOVERNMENT POLICY AND FORCASTING FOR BUSINESS CYCLES

QUESTION 1
1.1 Monetary policy:
o It focuses on the money supply and interests rates and is controlled by the
Reserve Bank.
o When the economy is in a contraction, the central bank can increase the money
supply by decreasing the interest rates.
o Instruments the Reserve Bank can use:
 Interest rates
 Cash reserve requirements
 Open-market transaction
 Moral suasion
 Exchange rate policy (free-floating policy (supply and demand determine
currency) or managed policy (central bank intervenes) (8)

1.2 Fiscal policy:

o It‘s about Government‘s budget, how it raises money and how it spends money.
o When the economy is in an expansion, Government can increase taxation
(leakage) and decrease expenditure (injection).
o When the economy is in a contraction, Government can increase expenditure
and decrease taxation (8)

1.3 Leading indicators

 It shows you in advance what is going to happen.

 It is before the aggregate economic activity.
 E.g.Net gold and other foreign reserves.
Co-incident indicators

 They move together with the aggregate economic activity.

 Provides us with current information on the state of the economy.
 E.g. Real GDP.

Lagging indicators

 They are behind the aggregate economic activity.

 They serve to confirm what has happened.
 E.g. Hours worked in construction. (16)
[32]

The SSIP is supported by

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 3 (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 1: NECESSITY OF PUBLIC SECTOR AND PROBLEMS OF PUBLIC SECTOR

PROVISIONS
Teacher Note: The government intervenes in a mixed economic system (in grade 11 we did
South Africa as a mixed economic system) when there is market failure (market failure will be
done in detail in Module 2). Market failure occurs when the free market forces of supply and
demand fail to lead to an efficient allocation of resources.

LESSON OVERVIEW

1. Review Homework 10 min

2. Briefly introduce the necessity and problems o public sector/fiscal policy
and the Laffer-curve: 5 minutes
3. Learners answer the questions: 40 minutes
4. Go through Solutions and Hints with the learners: 30 minutes
5. Review Homework 5 minutes

SECTION A: TYPICAL EXAM QUESTIONS

QUESTION 1: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

1.1 List any THREE reasons for the existence of a public sector. (3 x 2) [6]
(Only list, do not explain)

QUESTION 2: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2009)

2.1 Name any THREE advantages of privatisation. (3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 3: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2010)

3.1 List any THREE arguments in favour of privatisation. (3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 4: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2010)

4.1 Explain inefficiency as a problem in providing necessity goods and services. [16]

QUESTION 5: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)

5.1 Owing to problems experienced in the Department of Public Enterprises, Nomsa
Dlamini, the Minister of Public Enterprises, writes a memorandum to personnel in her
Department to discuss the necessity of the public sector and the macro-economic
objectives of the government in detail.
Write the memorandum on behalf of Mrs Nomsa Dlamini. [50]
(Remember you have to write it in the format of a memorandum)

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 3 (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 2: FISCAL POLICY, LAFFER CURVE AND PUBLIC SECTOR FAILURE

Teacher Note: Fiscal policy refers to the government‘s use of taxation and government
spending to achieve the economic objectives of the state.

QUESTION 1: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

Government spending, taxation and borrowing: Through fiscal policy government aims to
achieve particular economic goals.
Discuss the features, composition and effects of fiscal policy (including a clearly
labelled Laffer curve). [50]
(Remember with every essay question you must have an introduction, body and
conclusion)

QUESTION 2: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

2.1 Explain the reasons for public sector failure. (4 x 4) [16]

QUESTION 3: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2009)

3.1 With the aid of a Laffer curve, explain the relationship between tax and revenue.
(You have to draw the Laffer curve) [16]

SECTION B: SOLUTIONS AND HINTS TO SECTION A

TOPIC 1: NECESSITY OF PUBLIC SECTOR AND PROBLEMS OF PUBLIC SECTOR

PROVISIONS

QUESTION 1: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

• Market failure / inefficient resource allocation 
• Provision of necessity goods and services 
• Problems with externalities require government intervention, e.g. negative externalities -
government restricting output 
• Provision of merit goods - broad social benefit 
• Discourage demerit goods - taxes to discourage consumption and production. 
• Prevention of monopolies or encourage competition. 
• Redistribution of income for the benefit of society. 
• Managing the economy/stabilising the economy /enforcing a legal structure 
(Any 3 x 2) [6]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 3 (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 2: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2009)

• Improve efficiency of enterprises 
• Broaden the tax base 
• Attracts foreign investment 
• Lessens pressure on government budget 
• Promotes BEE / increased share in economy
• Provides additional funds to carry out projects  (Any 3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 3: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2010)

• Provides Government with additional funds. 
• Broadens the tax base which increases government revenue. 
• Improves the efficiency of the economy. 
• Attracts foreign investment. 
• Decreases pressure on the government budget. 
• Promotes black economic empowerment. 
• Reduction of personal income tax and public debt.  (Any 3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 4: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2010)

 Inefficiency means that goods and services are not provided in the desired quantity and
quality 
 Public goods are efficiently provided if Pareto-Efficiency is achieved
 i.e. it is impossible to make somebody better off without making the other worse off 
 Objectives like housing, health, employment etc., are not always possible because of
limited resources  and serious structural weakness in the economy 

The following aspects contribute to inefficiency:

BUREAUCRACY 
• There are too many rules and procedures (red tape). 
• Officials focus on following rules such that they are indifferent to the quality of service. 
• Sometimes they are insensitive to the needs of the client. 
• Policies take a long time to implement. 
INCOMPETENCE 
• There is a lack of skills or ability to do a task successfully 
• A reason for this could be improper qualifications, lack of training and experience etc. 
CORRUPTION 
• Government officials are sometimes guilty of taking bribes, committing fraud, resorting to
nepotism 
• Politicians sometimes promote policies which might involve an inefficient
allocation of resources in order to secure votes 
• Sometimes trade unions and businesses influence government to distribute resources
so that they benefit at the country's expense 
(Accept any other relevant facts) (Any 8 x 2) [16]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 3 (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 5: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC ENTERPRISES 

MEMORANDUM 

TO: ALL PERSONNEL 

FROM: MINISTER OF PUBLIC ENTERPRISES, NOMSA DLAMINI 
SUBJECT: NECESSITY OF THE PUBLIC SECTOR AND ITS OBJECTIVES 
DATE: ____________________  (Format: marks 5)

All countries have public sectors and there are good reasons for the existence of such
sectors.  The public sector is necessary for the following reasons.

1. To provide necessity goods

• Necessity goods are mostly in the form of services. 
• Government use policies such as taxation and government spending 
• Community goods  are characterised by not being excluded and no competition.
 Non-excludability (e.g.) defence force The protection available to everyone living in a
country irrespective of whether they are willing to pay for it or not. 
• Collective goods  e.g. parks, beaches  can exclude free-riders by levying fees 

2. To take care of common resources

• Environment consists of resources that no one owns, yet everyone can use free of
charge. 
• (e.g.) oceans for fishing / the air we breathe / natural scenery we enjoy 
• Governments have to intervene in order to protect the environment and prevent the creation
of negative externalities / protection and enforcement of legal structure 

3. To manage the economy. 

• Governments manage the collective interests of its people 
• Government has to ensure a social and legislative environment in which businesses and
individuals can pursue their own interests to the maximum 
• Government must also apply suitable and credible economic and other policies in order to
achieve internationally respected economic objectives. 
• Public policy needed to secure high employment, price stability and socially desired rate of
economic growth 
4. Externalities 
• Benefits or costs from production of goods and services 
• Government can subsidise or restrict production 
5. Merit and demerit goods 
• Merit goods benefit the public more than private goods 
• e.g. health care and education 
• Demerit goods are goods considered to be harmful to society 
• Government imposes taxes and regulations to discourage consumption 
• e.g. cigarettes 

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 3 (TEACHER NOTES)

6. Monopolies and imperfect competition 

• Government should intervene and prevent economically inefficient and imperfect
competition from occurring 
In developing countries governments have FIVE macro-economic objectives.
A. Economic growth 
• Refers to an increase in the production of goods and services in the economy. 
• It is measured in terms of real GDP 
• For economic development to occur, economic growth rate must be higher than the
population growth rate. 
• Growth and development in a country benefits its citizens because it often leads to a higher
standard of living. 

B. Full employment 
• Accept any relevant definition 
• Government is always trying to attain high levels of employment. 
 Unemployment rate increased from 14,0% in 1994 to 26,5% in 2005. 
• Employment increased mainly due to informal sector activities. 
• The GEAR strategy was implemented to create a climate that was conducive to employment
creation by the private sector. 
C. Exchange rate stability 
• The government should manage the economy through effective fiscal and monetary policies
so that the exchange rate remains relatively stable. 
• Depreciation and appreciation of a currency could create uncertainties for producers and
traders and should be limited. 
• The SARB changed the exchange rate from a managed floating system to a free-floating
exchange rate system. 

D. Price stability 
• SARB has succeeded in keeping inflation within the target range of 3% - 6% 
• Market economies produce better results in terms of economic growth and development
when prices are relatively stable. 
• Interest rates, based on the repo rate, are the main instrument used in the stabilisation
policy. 
• The stable budget deficit also has a stabilising effect on the inflation rate. 
E. Economic equity 
• Redistribution of income and wealth is essential in market economies. 
• In South Africa, the progressive tax system is used. 
• Progressive income tax  tax on profits , wealth and expenditure are used to finance
free social services (e.g.) health  education  and to pay cash grants to the
poor (e.g.) pensions and other vulnerable people 
(Max. 40)

______________________________ ___________________________
MRS NOMSA DLAMINI  DATE
MINISTER OF PUBLIC ENTERPRISE [50]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 3 (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 2: FISCAL POLICY, LAFFER CURVE AND PUBLIC SECTOR FAILURE

QUESTION 1: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

FEATURES:
1. It is goal-bound 
 Central government use budgetary process of consultation and persuasion to determine
economic and social goals 
 Provincial and local governments execute approved budget goals 
2. It is demand biased 
 Fiscal policy is a main policy instrument in demand-side policies – elements also used to
realise supply-side objectives 
 E.g. when Government improves infrastructure, uses taxation as incentive, allows rapid
depreciation of assets and subsidises human resource development 
3. It is cyclical 
 Business cycle has direct effect on fiscal policy – during upswing income and profits
increase – increase in aggregate demand and expenditure – increase in income tax and
profit – government‘s income higher – higher levels of spending 
 Opposite happens in downswing – therefore, fiscal policy should be anticyclical, so that
smoothes out extreme fluctuations  (Max. 12)

COMPOSITION:
Instruments of fiscal policy are government spending and taxation: balanced budget; if
expenditure > income: deficit; if income > expenditure: surplus 
1. Government spending 
 Government spending classified in 2 formats: functional and economic 
Spending to provide necessity and merit goods (free or subsidised prices), pay interest on
debt; redistribute income; influence aggregate demand; influence aggregate supply 
2. Taxation 
 Government imposes taxation to: raise revenue for expenditure; discourage consumption
of demerit goods; convert external into private costs; discourage purchase of imports;
redistribute income; influence level of aggregate demand; influence level of aggregate
supply 
3. State debt 
 Main budget must balance – if deficit: loans incurred to balance; if surplus: savings set off
against debt 
 After adding extraordinary transfers and receipts = net borrowing requirement – borrowing
adds to loan debt, known as public debt 
(Max. 12)

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 3 (TEACHER NOTES)

EFFECTS (INCLUDING LAFFER CURVE)

Fiscal policy effects depend on period of business cycle – during upswing policy contracts –
during downswing policy expands 
1. Income distribution 
 Progressive taxes make income more evenly distributed and regressive taxes make
income less evenly distributed – proportional taxes leave distribution unchanged 
 Spending on social goods, security and welfare payments supplement income of poor
more than the rich 
 E.g. 20 % of SA population enjoyed cash income from welfare and social security in
2005 
2. Consumption 
 Direct and indirect taxes will affect total and pattern of consumer spending 
 Direct taxes reduce disposable income – effect on consumption depends on propensity to
consume, and level of saving  - direct taxes will reduce consumption with little savings
 Income multiplier kicks in when government spending increases due to higher levels of
employment, higher income, and consumer spending 
3. Price level 
 Direct taxes reduce inflationary pressure – lower aggregate demand 
 Result in cost-push inflation – stimulate workers - claim higher wages 
 Rise in indirect taxes raise general price level 
 Inflationary and deflationary spending depends on availability of production factors 
4. Incentives 
 Taxation  direct taxes (income and company tax) reduce incentive to work, save, invest
and take risks  High and progressive rates keep people from entering job market 
 Laffer-curve: if average tax rate were zero no revenue would be raised – if tax rate raised
above zero, tax revenues increase – curve slope upwards – then peaks (t) – thereafter,
tax rates become so high (t1), fall in output is more than rise in tax rate 
 Suggests that cut in high rate of income tax from t1 to t increase tax revenue from R1 to R
– encourage people to work – reduce tax evasion and avoidance 
 By decreasing taxation from t1 to t2 has no effect on revenue of state, but reduces tax rate
by 2/3 
 In most countries tax rates are below t - SA‘s tax rates also reduced
 Government spending  grants and subsidies serve as incentives for vital municipal
services and feeding schemes 

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 3 (TEACHER NOTES)

 Graph:

5. Discretion 
 Minister of Finance uses discretion, e.g. how much to reduce income tax or spend on new
infrastructure 
 Discretion limits: deficit rule (3 % of GDP); borrowing rule (only for capital expenditure);
debt rule (not exceed 60 % of nominal GDP) 
(Graph: 4 marks Max 16) [50]

QUESTION 2: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

• Politicians tend to promote policies and spend money on projects as long as they get votes
in return.  These policies might involve an inefficient allocation of resources. 
• Many public sector entities lack capacity because of a shortage of skills / management
failure / Bureaucracy  This means that funds are often left unspent and then returned to
the treasury. 
• Lack of accountability / Parastatals (public enterprise)  leads to inefficiency, corruption /
crime, and poor service delivery. 
• Lack of motivation / apathy  Workers rarely receive incentives for successful service
delivery. This leads to services being limited, low in quality and high in cost. 
• Rent seeking / special interest groups / own interest  Individuals and enterprises
influence Government to act in their interest e.g. profitable contracts, favourable regulations,
etc. ignorance, personal and hidden agendas, questionable motives improve the welfare of
someone at the expense of another. 
• Serious structural weakness in the economy / Privatisation  This can result in social
goals not being attained. 
• Objectives are not attainable / overpopulation  employment, housing and feeding
programmes not possible with limited resources 
• Assessing needs  leads to under and oversupply 
• Pricing policy  problems in determining the price for necessity goods and services 
(Any 4 x 4) [16]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 3 (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 3: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2009)

• The Laffer curve shows the relationship between tax rates and tax revenue collected by the
government 
• The curve shows that as tax increase government revenue increases up to a certain point
(e.g. t ) 
2
• If the tax rate rises beyond ‗t‘, (e.g. at t there will be a decline in government revenue 
1
• When the tax rate is high, people are less likely to work hard 
• If tax is 100% then nobody will work because all income would go to the government 
• Too high tax rates may lead to tax evasion and avoidance 
• Reduction in tax rates will lead to a decrease in tax evasion and increase the incentive to
work, save and invest 
• If tax rate is zero, no government revenue will be raised 
• Economists use this to justify a reduction in the level of income tax 
• The apex of the curve shows the tax rate where government revenue can be maximised 
•This point can vary from country to country – the Laffer curve may not always be
symmetrical – it can peak at 40% or even at a 90% rate 
• Evidence suggests that tax rates in most countries are below t. 
• In South Africa individual and company income tax rates were reduced over the last
decade  (Max 6 x 2)
[16]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 3 (TEACHER NOTES)

SECTION C: HOMEWORK

TOPIC 1: NECESSITY OF PUBLIC SECTOR AND PROBLEMS OF PUBLIC SECTOR

PROVISIONS

QUESTIONS 24 minutes

1. Discuss necessity goods. (16)

2. Why is accountability an issue in the public sector? (8)
3. Differentiate between Parastatals and Privatisation. (16)
[40]

TOPIC 2: FISCAL POLICY, LAFFER CURVE AND PUBLIC SECTOR FAILURE

QUESTIONS: 23 minutes

1. Name the 5 macro-economic objectives of Government. (10)

2. Name the 2 types of budgets that Government uses. (4)
3. Name the reasons for public sector failure. (8)
4. Explain the Laffer-curve by using a graph. (16)
[38]

SECTION D: SOLUTIONS TO HOMEWORK

TOPIC 1: NECESSITY OF PUBLIC SECTOR AND PROBLEMS OF PUBLIC SECTOR

PROVISIONS

QUESTIONS 24 minutes

1. Discuss public goods.

a. Community goods: 
i. E.g. defence, police, street lights, etc. 
ii. Non-excludability means that individuals cannot be charged a price on
the basis of use. 
iii. They are non-rival goods, which mean that the consumption by one does
not exclude consumption by another. 
b. Collective goods: 
i. E.g. parks, beaches, streets, roads, bridges, etc. 
ii. It is possible to exclude free-riders by levying fees, charges or tolls. 
iii. Free-rider: Individuals who realise that they will benefit from goods or a
service even if they do not pay for it. Therefore, free-riders do not pay for
goods or a service but continue to consume it. 

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 3 (TEACHER NOTES)

c. Merit goods: 
i. E.g. education, health care, research, libraries, etc. 
ii. Supplied by Government, because they would be inadequately
consumed, either through lack of income or spending preferences if they
were supplied by the private sector. 
iii. Merit goods: Consuming increases the welfare of the country. 
iv. Demerit goods: Goods that are harmful.  (Any 2 x 8) [16]

2. Why is accountability an issue in the public sector?

 Does government deliver the desired quantities and quality of goods and services
for which taxes are raised? 
 Does government abuse the powers it was granted, for example, by creating
monopolies? 
 Accountability: Means being required to give an explanation of one‘s decisions,
actions and expenditure. 
 In South Africa accountability is underpinned by the following:
o Ministerial responsibilities
o Parliamentary questioning
o Treasury control
o The Auditor-General (AG)  (Any 2 x 4) [8]

3. Differentiate between Parastatals and Privatisation.

a. Parastatals
o Parastatals are SOEs and they are created in one of two ways:
 Government starts an enterprise, or
 An existing enterprise is nationalised. 
o SOEs are companies with limited liability. 
o Non-profit enterprises are referred to as entities. 
b. Privatisation
o Privatisation means that Government sells more than 50% of the shares of state
owned enterprises to the private sector. 
o Privatisation provides Government with additional funds
o Privatisation increases efficiency in the economy.  [16]
TOTAL: 40

TOPIC 2: FISCAL POLICY, LAFFER CURVE AND PUBLIC SECTOR FAILURE

QUESTIONS: 23 minutes

1. Name the 5 macro-economic objectives of government.

 Economic Growth
 Price stability
 Exchange rate stability
 Full employment
 Economic equity [10]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 3 (TEACHER NOTES)

2. Name the 2 types of budgets that Government uses.

 Medium term budget frame work
 Annual (main) budget [4]

3. Name the reasons for public sector failure.

 Management failure
 Apathy
 Lack of motivation
 Rent-seeking interest groups (enterprises, unions and individuals that try to
influence government to act in a way which benefits them)  [8]

4. Explain the Laffer-curve by using a graph.

 A Laffer curve shows the relationship between tax rates and government
revenue. 
 The principal of the Laffer curve state that if average tax rate were zero
,no revenue would be raised. 
 As the tax rate is raised above zero, tax revenues increase. 
 After the curve peaks, tax rates become so high that the resulting fall in
output more than offsets the rise in the tax rate. 
 Tax revenue decreases. 
 The curve also suggests that by reducing a high tax rate, Government
can increase its tax revenue, as more people are willing to work and it
reduces the number of people evading tax.  [16]

TOTAL: 38

The SSIP is supported by

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 1: PERFECT MARKET COST AND REVENUE CURVES

Teacher Note: Make sure learners understand the difference between perfect and imperfect
market. Revise Grade 11 cost and revenue curves. This session has a self study section
that learners can begin in the session but need to complete on their own.

LESSON OVERVIEW

1. Brief introduction: 10 minutes

2. Learners answer the questions: 40 minutes
3. Go through Solutions and Hints with the learners 30 minutes
4. Review Homework & introduce Self Study material 10 minutes

SECTION A: TYPICAL EXAM QUESTIONS

QUESTION 1: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

'Markets are at the centre of economic activities and provide the dynamics for the
performance of economies.'

Discuss perfect competition as a market structure with special reference to the definition
and characteristics.

Conclude your discussion with reasons why you would not participate in the market under
conditions of monopolistic competition. (Max. 10)
[50]
(This question is an essay question and should have an introduction, body and
conclusion)

QUESTION 2: 3 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008 and 2009)

Choose the correct answer in brackets:

2.1 All products sold in the perfect market, are (homogeneous/heterogeneous). (2)
2.2 A mechanism that brings buyers and sellers together is known as a (tribunal/market).
(2)
[4]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 2: PROFIT MAXIMISING IN A PERFECT MARKET

Teacher Note: For this section the difference between perfect and imperfect market, and
Grade 11 cost and revenue curves is important. Profit maximisation is where MR = MC.

QUESTION 1: 12 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

Study the following graphs and answer the questions that follow:

1.1 Which of the above graphs are associated with (i) loss (ii) normal profit
(iii) economic profit? (6)
1.2 Define normal profit. (3)
1.3 Identify the profit maximisation point in Graph B. (3)
1.4 Calculate the total economic loss as reflected in Graph C. Show ALL calculations.
(6)
1.5 Calculate total revenue as indicated in Graph A. (2)
[20]

QUESTION 2: 12 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2009)

Study the graph on the following page and answer the questions that follow

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (TEACHER NOTES)

2.1 Define the concept market. (3)

2.2 Under which market conditions will the above market situation prevail?
Motivate your answer. (5)
2.3 Identify the market price from the graph. (2)
2.4 Determine the profit maximisation point on the graph. (2)
2.5 Distinguish between short-term and long-term equilibrium. (4)
2.6 What does the shaded area represent in the above graph? (4)
[20]

QUESTION 3: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2010)

With the aid of the graphs below, examine the dynamics of long-term equilibrium in the
individual firm and industry under conditions of perfect competition.

MARKET INDIVIDUAL FIRM

(This question is an essay question and should have an introduction, body and
conclusion) [50]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (TEACHER NOTES)

SECTION D: SOLUTIONS AND HINTS TO SECTION A

TOPIC 1: PERFECT MARKET COST AND REVENUE CURVES

QUESTION 1: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

INTRODUCTION
Definition:
It is a market structure with a large number of participants who are price-takers, there are no
entry or exit barriers in the long run, all information is available to both buyers and sellers, and
a homogeneous product is sold OR A market in which the conditions for perfect competition
are satisfied OR Perfect competition occurs when none of the individual market participants
can influence the price of the product  (Max. 3)
(Accept any other definition.)

BODY
Characteristics:
 Many buyers:  The number of buyers in the market is so large that individual market
participants are insignificant in relation to the market as a whole.  This has the
important implication that no individual buyer is able to influence the market price. 
 Many sellers:  The number of sellers in the market is so large that the individual seller
cannot influence the market price (price takers). 
 Homogenous product:  All the products sold in the specific market are homogenous,
 that is, they are exactly the same regarding quality, appearance, etc. It makes no
difference to a buyer where or from whom he/she buys the product. 
 Freedom of entry / exit:  There is complete freedom of entry and exit, that is to say,
the market is fully accessible.  Buyers and sellers are completely free to enter or to
leave the market. Entry should not be subject to any restrictions in the form of legal,
financial, technological or other barriers that curtail the freedom of movement of buyers
and sellers. 
 Mobility of factors of production:  All factors of production are completely mobile,
 in other words, labour, capital and all other factors of production can move freely from
one market to another. 
 Perfect information:  Both buyers and sellers have full knowledge of all the prevailing
market conditions.  For example, if one business ventured to raise its price above the
market price, buyers would immediately became aware of it and would switch their
purchases to businesses who still charge the lower price. 
 No collusion:  Collusion between sellers does not occur.  In a perfectly
competitive market, each buyer and seller acts independently from one another. Collusive
practices are illegal in South Africa, according to the Competition Act 1998. 
 Unregulated market:  There is no government intervention that could affect buyers or
sellers.  Decisions are left to individual sellers or producers and buyers. 
 No preferential treatment (no discrimination)  nobody is advantaged above the
others 
 Efficient transport and communication:  Makes access to and from markets
possible.  (Max 8 x 4) (32)

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (TEACHER NOTES)

CONCLUSION
Monopolistic Competition
Disadvantages for the firm and consumer
 Consumers pay a higher price under monopolistic competition 
 Output of monopolistic competition is less than that of the perfect competitor. 
 Monopolistic competitor is unable to produce at the ideal production levels 
 Monopolistic competition is, therefore, neither allocatively nor productively efficient
 Inefficient use of resources in the case of monopolistic competition – perfect competitor
produces more at lower prices – therefore, more efficient in the use of resources 
 Market information on monopolistic competition is incomplete  Max (5 x 2)
[50]

QUESTION 2: 3 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008 and 2009)

2.1 Homogenous  (2)
2.2 Market  (2)
[4]

TOPIC 2: PROFIT MAXIMISING IN A PERFECT MARKET

QUESTION 1: 12 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

1.1 (i) loss = C 
(ii) normal profit = A 
(iii) economic profit = B        (3 x 2) (6)
1.2 Normal profit is a situation where total revenue is exactly equivalent to total
costs – is amount entrepreneur pays himself – expense – minimum earnings
required to prevent entrepreneur from leaving production sector / AR = AC  (3)
1.3 E2 where MR = MC  (3)
1.4 TR – TC = Total economic loss 
(R6 X 60) – (R8 X 60) = total economic loss 
R360 – R480 = -R120         (3 x
2) (6)
1.5 Total revenue = R8 X 80 = R640  (2)
[20]

QUESTION 2: 12 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2009)

2.1 A market is a place or circumstance where buyers and sellers interact to
determine the price and quantity.  (3)
2.2 Perfect Competition / Perfect Market. 
Where: P / OP (Market price) = MC = MR = AR / The demand curve is
1 1
horizontal / parallel to the quantity axis  (5)
2.3 P / OP  (2)
1 1
2.4 E / MC = MR / where MC intersects AVC at its minimum turning point  (2)
3

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (TEACHER NOTES)

2.5 Short-term equilibrium – The period is so short that it is possible to vary the quantity
of at least one input. All other inputs are fixed / Demand equals supply – economic
profit/loss 
Long-term equilibrium – There are no fixed inputs, all the inputs are variable.
The period is long enough to vary all the inputs / Firms can only make normal
profit  (2 x 2) (4)
2.6 Economic Loss / Loss  (4)
.
[20]

QUESTION 3: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2010)

INTRODUCTION
The industry is in equilibrium at the price that clears the market, namely at the price at which
the quantity demanded is exactly equal to the quantity offered  (Max 3)

BODY
1. In the long run, two things can change:
 New firms can enter the industry and existing firms can leave. 
 All factors of production became variable and existing firms earning economic profit in
the short run may decide to expand their plant size to realize economies of scale. 
2. Economic profit 
 Suppose the business's short-term plant is represented by SAC . 
1
 If the market price is P the business is making an economic profit of P E FP with the
1 1 1 2
short-term plant-size represented by SAC . 
1
 At a price of P the business will maximise profit in the short-term at point E where the
1 1
profit maximisation (MR=MC) applies, and the quantity q will be produced. 
1
3. Bigger plant, lower unit cost 
 If the producer does a cost estimate, he/she will realize that, if he/she will be able to
produce at a lower unit cost in the long-run, 
 As illustrated by the downward sloping portion of the LAC curve. 
 The prospect of increased profit would therefore encourage the producer to build a
bigger plant. 
 The business would however not be interested in producing output levels greater than
those presented by the minimum point E 
2
 Of the LAC because such output levels are only possible at higher cost levels –
internal scale disadvantages cause the LAC to rise to the right of point E . 
2
 New entrants, increased supply 
 The economic profit that businesses make is likely to attract new businesses to the
industry. 
 Because the quantity offered on the market increases as a result of expansion by
existing businesses and the entry of new businesses. The supply curve on the market
will shift to the right from S to S and the price will drop until it eventually reaches
1
P. 

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (TEACHER NOTES)

 At the price P, which is at the same level as the minimum point of the LAC curve,
total revenue (0P X 0q) is equal to total cost 0q X q E ) 
2 2 2
 And the business is making normal profit, because it is exactly covering its total
cost. 
 Over time all the businesses in the industry will make normal profit and will be in
long-term equilibrium. 
5. Initial losses 
 Individual firms can be in equilibrium in the short run where it makes an economic profit
or an economic loss. 
 These positions, however, are not sustainable in the long run under conditions of
perfect competition. 
 If the market price is below the minimum point of the long-term average cost curve, the
adjustment process simply works the other way around. 
 Eventually the LAC curve will also form a tangent with the demand curve and the
businesses that have remained in the industry will be making normal profit. 
6. Price in the long term 
 The above analyses leads to the conclusion that under perfect competition the price of
a product in the long term will settle at a level that corresponds to the lowest point of
the LAC curve. 
 A point such as E represents the equilibrium point of the business in the long run. 
2
 The business is making normal profit and there will be no incentive to leave or enter
the industry. 
 When a market price has been established under perfect competition at a level where
each business is in equilibrium at the minimum point of its LAC curve and only making
normal profit, the industry will also be in long-term equilibrium. 
7. Equilibrium 
 Once long-term equilibrium has been achieved, and provided that there are no
changes in the technology or the factors of production, there will be no further entry or
exit of businesses. 
CONCLUSION
 Under perfect competition in the long-term, the market mechanism will lead to an
optimal utilisation of factors of production due to the following reasons: 
 The output is produced at the lowest possible cost (minimum point of LAC) 
 The consumer pay the lowest possible price for the product (price = the lowest cost at
which the product can be produced) 
 The price of the product = the opportunity cost of producing the product. 
 All businesses are making normal profits only.  (Max 2)
[50]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (TEACHER NOTES)

SECTION C: HOMEWORK

TOPIC 1: PERFECT MARKET COST AND REVENUE CURVES

QUESTION 1: 5 minutes (Source: Focus study guide)

Identify the characteristics of perfect competition. [8]

QUESTION 2: 21 minutes (Source: Oxford Economics)

2.1 Name four types of short-run costs. (8)

2.2 Complete the following table. (27)

Q P TR AR MR
0 11.20
1 11.20
2 11.20
3 11.20
4 11.20
5 11.20
6 11.20
7 11.20
8 11.20
[35]

TOPIC 2: PROFIT MAXIMISING IN A PERFECT MARKET

QUESTION 1: 17 minutes (Source: Oxford Economics)

1.1 Make use of graphs to illustrate the difference between normal profit and
economic profit. (16)
1.2 Define break-even point. (4)
1.3 Define profit maximisation output. (4)
1.4 What is meant by the term economic loss? (4)
[28]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (TEACHER NOTES)

SECTION D: SOLUTIONS TO HOMEWORK

TOPIC 1: PERFECT MARKET COST AND REVENUE CURVES

QUESTION 1: 5 minutes (Source: Focus study guide)

1. Large number of buyers and sellers 
2. All products are homogeneous 
3. Complete freedom of entry and exit 
4. All factors of production are mobile 
5. Both buyers and sellers has got full knowledge 
6. Collusion between sellers does not occur 
7. No government intervention.  (Any 4 x 2) [8]

QUESTION 2: 21 minutes (Source: Oxford Economics)

2.1 Total Cost (TC) 
Average Variable Cost (AVC) 
Average Total Cost (ATC) 
Marginal Cost (MC)  (8)
2.2 (27)
Q P TR AR MR
0 11.20 0 11.20 -
1 11.20 11.20 11.20 11.20
2 11.20 22.40 11.20 11.20
3 11.20 33.60 11.20 11.20
4 11.20 44.80 11.20 11.20
5 11.20 56 11.20 11.20
6 11.20 67.20 11.20 11.20
7 11.20 78.40 11.20 11.20
8 11.20 89.60 11.20 11.20
[35]

TOPIC 2: PROFIT MAXIMISING IN A PERFECT MARKET

QUESTION 1: 17 minutes (Source: Oxford Economics)

1.1
Normal profit
 Normal profit is equal to the best return that the firm‘s self-owned, self-employed
resources could earn elsewhere. 
 A firm makes a normal profit when the TC of production is equal to the TR that the firm
makes from the sale of the output. 
 In other words, the normal profit is part of the cost of production. 
 The normal profit is the profit that the firm must make to ensure that it remains in the
industry. 
 AR = AC or RT = TC (Any 2 x 2) (4)

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (TEACHER NOTES)

(4 marks for graph)

Economic profit

 Economic profit is equal to the total revenue that exceeds the total cost. 
 This is when the firm is making more than the normal profit.  (4)

(4 marks for graph)

[16]
1.2 Break-even is when the firm makes a normal profit.  And AR=MR.  (4)
1.3 Profit maximisation output is the output at which the firm makes the largest (or
maximum) profit possible, ceteris paribus.  (MC = MR)  (4)
1.4 If the firm makes less than a normal profit then it is making an economic loss. 
This is when the firms cost is more than its revenue.  (4)
[28]

The SSIP is supported by

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (Self Study) (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 1: IMPERFECT MARKET – MONOPOLY

Teacher Note: Explain marginal revenue, marginal cost and profit maximisation point. Briefly
revise the factors that give rise to monopoly done in grade 11. Explain to the learner that the
demand curve of a monopolist is also the market demand curve, since the monopolist is the
only supplier.
SECTION A: TYPICAL EXAM QUESTIONS

TOPIC 1: IMPERFECT MARKET – MONOPOLY

QUESTION 1: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

List any THREE characteristics of a monopoly. (3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 2: 12 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2009)

Study the graph below and answer the questions that follow.

2.1 Define the term imperfect market. (3)

2.2 Is the above graph indicating a short- or long-run equilibrium? (3)
2.3 What determines the optimum production level in a monopoly market? (3)
2.4 Indicate the profit area on the graph, by using the labelling system used in
the graph. (3)

2.5 Explain why the AR and MR curves are two different curves. (6)
2.6 If you assume that the MC curve represents the supply curve for a perfect market,
what will the effect on the price of goods be? (2)
[20]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (Self Study) (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 3: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2009)

Examine the monopoly as a market structure and briefly compare it to the perfect market.
[50]

QUESTION 4: 5 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)

Draw a fully labelled graph to illustrate economic profit for a monopolist in the short run.
[8]

TOPIC 2: IMPERFECT MARKET – OLIGOPOLY

Teacher Note: Compare the characteristics of the oligopoly with those of the monopoly.
Explain non-price competition and collusion.

QUESTION 1: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

Discuss the characteristics of a typical oligopoly. (4 x 4) [16]

QUESTION 2: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

With reference to oligopolies, list any THREE forms of non-price competition. (3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 3: 5 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

Discuss collusion by oligopolies. [8]

QUESTION 4: 6 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)

Study the extract below and answer the questions that follow.

R53 MILLION FINE FOR PRICE FIXING

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (Self Study) (TEACHER NOTES)

COLLUSION: Health group fixed prices of medical supplies

Tiger Brands CEO says their firm is 'upset and embarrassed' by the involvement of Adcock
Ingram Critical Care (AICC) in collusion, for which it will pay a R53 million penalty. This
follows yesterday's announcement that AICC admitted to being involved in collusive tendering
with its competitors for a state tender for intravenous medical products.

The Competition Commission said the penalty it imposed on AICC equates to eight percent of
the division's annual turnover, and that the penalty is the highest imposed by it to date – in
percentage terms – for collusive behaviour. The commission has referred the matter to its
sister body, the Competition Tribunal, to confirm the order.
[Adapted from: Business Times, 2007]

4.1 State TWO aims of the competition policy in South Africa. (4)
4.2 Explain the role played by the Competition Tribunal regarding AICC's
anti-competitive behaviour. (3)
4.3 Which body/institution can AICC approach if it had not been happy with the penalty
imposed by the Competition Tribunal? (3)
[10]

QUESTION 5: 5 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)

Discuss how non-price competition influences the behaviour of oligopolists. [8]

SECTION B: SOLUTIONS AND HINTS

TOPIC 1: IMPERFECT MARKET – MONOPOLY

QUESTION 1: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

 Faced with demand curves 

 Decide on their production levels 
 Exposed to market forces 
 Face substitutes / No close substitutes 
 Enjoy favourable circumstances 
 Exploit consumers 
 Are protected by barriers of entry 
 (Any other relevant facts) (3 x 2) [6]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (Self Study) (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 2: 12 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2009)

2.1 A market situation where at least one of the conditions for perfect
competition is not satisfied.  (3)
2.2 Short-run  (3)
2.3 The position of MC and MR where MC = MR  (3)
2.4 R, a, b, C  (3)
2.5 In a perfectly competitive market the AR = MR = P.
 A monopoly is confronted with a normal market demand curve which slopes
downwards from left to right D = AR.
 Any point on the monopolist‘s demand curve (D) is an indication of the quantity
of the product that can be sold, and the price at which it will trade
 The MR curve runs below the demand curve with the exception of the first unit,
 TR increases at a diminishing rate up until a point and then starts to decrease.
 MR is always lower than AR
 The percentage increase in quantity demanded is greater than the % decrease
in price at all points; therefore, the MR will always lower than AR (Any 3 x 2) (6)
2.6 Will decrease to equilibrium point k  (2)
[20]

QUESTION 3: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2009)

INTRODUCTION

The major organisational features of a market, (e.g. number of sellers/buyers the

degree of product differentiation/the availability of information) are called the structure
of the market. 
OR
Is a market structure in which there is only ONE seller of a good or service that has no
close substitutes, entry into that market is completely blocked.  (Max. 3)

BODY
MONOPOLY AS MARKET STRUCTURE
Number of firms 
• Whereas a perfectly competitive industry consists of a large number of small firms, the
monopoly consists out of one single firm. 
• The monopoly is also the industry. 
• Example: Eskom or De Beers – diamond-selling 
(Accept any other relevant example) 
• In the perfect market there is a large number of firms 
Nature of product 
• The product is unique with no close substitute. 
• Example: Diamonds are unique. 
• In the perfect market products sold are homogeneous. 

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (Self Study) (TEACHER NOTES)

Market entry 
• Refers to how easy or difficult it is for businesses to enter or to leave the market 
• Is entirely/completely blocked. 
• A number of barriers to entry that may give rise to monopoly can be:
- Economies of scale 
- Limited size of the market 
- Exclusive ownership of raw materials 
- Patents 
- Licensing 
- Sole rights 
- Import restrictions 
• In the perfect market, there is complete freedom of entry and exit 
Market Information 
• This refers to market participant‘s information on market conditions. 
• All information on market conditions should be available to both buyers and sellers. 
• This means that there are no uncertainties. 
• This assumption also applies in the case of the monopoly. 
• In the perfect market both sellers and buyers have full knowledge of all prevailing market
conditions 
Control over price 
• A perfectly competitive business has no control over the price of its product and is,
therefore, a price-taker. 
• In the case of a monopoly there are considerable price controls, but limited by market
demand and the goal of profit maximisation. 
• In the perfect market no individual buyer or seller is able to influence the market price 
Demand curve for the firm’s product 
• It equals the market demand curve 
• Downward-sloping from left to right 
• In the perfect market, the market demand curve slopes downwards from left to right, but the
individual business cannot influence the market price, and its demand curve is the actual
market price taken – horizontal to the quantity axis
Long-run economic profit 
• Can be positive 
• Because new entries are blocked and short-run economic profit; therefore, cannot be
reduced by new competing firms entering the industry 
• The monopoly can thus continue to earn economic profit as long as the demand for its
product remains intact 
• In the perfect market economic profit does not exist on the long run 
Any 5 x 6 (30) – discussion on monopoly
Any 5 x 2 (10) – for comparison to perfect market
A maximum of 12 marks can be allocated for graphs – 28 marks for discussion

CONCLUSION
From the above it is clear that healthy competition contributes to a well-functioning
market structure.  (Max. 2)
[50]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (Self Study) (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 4: 5 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)

TOPIC 2: IMPERFECT MARKET - OLIGOPOLY

QUESTION 1: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

 Type of product homogeneous (pure oligopoly) or differentiated (differentiated

oligopoly) 
 Entry new producers have free entry although not easily illustrated - only few
businesses in market 
 Control over prices producers generally have considerable control over price of
products 
 Mutual dependence only few businesses – influenced by others‘ actions –
competitors react 
(Any other relevant facts) (4 x 4) [16]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (Self Study) (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 2: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

• Product recognition and differentiation 
• Extended shopping and business hours 
• Doing business over the internet 
• After-sales service 
• Offering additional services (free travel insurance by banks) 
• Loyalty rewards for customers 
• Door-to-door deliveries 
• Building brand loyalty 
• Advertisements 
(Accept any other relevant forms from an approved source) (Any 3 x 2) [6]
QUESTION 3: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)
 Explicit collusion is usually illegal between firms within countries. 
 However, firms are still tempted to practise implicit collusion. In other words,
they act together to produce the profit maximising output but they do it in such
a way that it is very difficult to prove that they have colluded.  [8]
QUESTION 4: 6 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)
4.1 • Increase efficiency in the market 
• Improve equity in the markets 
• Contribute to developmental objectives 
• Prevent monopoly power / abuse of economic power 
• Regulate growth of acquisitions (takeovers) and mergers 
• Prevent restrictive practices 
• Promote competition 
• Exploit advantages of scale to benefit society in general 
• Eliminate price fixing 
(Accept any other relevant response) (Any 2 x 2) (4)
4.2 Grant the order / confirm the penalty (order) imposed on the company by the
Competition Commission.        (3)
4.3 Competition Appeal Court. 
       (3)
[10]

QUESTION 5: 5 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)

• Oligopolists do not compete with each other on price because price wars will not benefit
them. 
• Prices are determined by mutual agreement. 
• They compete with each other on product differentiation and efficient service. 
• Convenience shopping 
• E.g. extended shopping hours 
• Firms make use of advertisements to increase awareness and to lure customers towards
their products. 
• E.g. Pick 'n Pay use extensive advertising to increase market share. 
• Non-price competition builds brand loyalty and product recognition. 
• E.g. after sales service, loyalty rewards. 
(Accept examples for maximum of 2 marks) (Any 4 x 2) [8]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (Self Study) (TEACHER NOTES)

SECTION C: HOMEWORK

TOPIC 1: IMPERFECT MARKET – MONOPOLY

QUESTION 1: 20 minutes (Source: Economics for all Grade 12)

1.1 Complete the following table.

Price (R) Quantity (Q) Total revenue (TR) Marginal revenue (MR)
50 1
45 2
40 3
35 4
30 5
(20)

1.2 Name four characteristics of a monopoly. (8)

1.3 Explain profit maximisation. (4)
[32]

TOPIC 2: IMPERFECT MARKET - OLIGOPOLY

QUESTION 1: 16 minutes (Source: Economics for all Grade 12)

1.1 Name two examples of products that are oligopolies. (4)

1.2 Name the two types of collusions that take place amongst oligopolies (4)
1.3 Explain a cartel. (6)
1.4 Explain non-price competition. (12)
[26]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 4 (Self Study) (TEACHER NOTES)

SECTION D: SOLUTIONS TO HOMEWORK

TOPIC 1: IMPERFECT MARKET – MONOPOLY

QUESTION 1: 20 minutes (Source: Economics for all Grade 12)

1.1 Complete the following table.
Price (R) Quantity (Q) Total revenue (TR) Marginal revenue (MR)
50 1 50 50
45 2 90 40
40 3 120 30
35 4 140 20
30 5 150 10
(20)

1.2 No competition – one business controls the supply of a good or service. 

 No substitutes – no substitutes on the market for the consumer to choose from. 
 Price makers – one business controls the price of the goods or services. 
 Barriers to entry – e.g. technology or patents, may keep new companies out. 
 Imperfect information – the consumer doesn‘t have all the information, e.g. profit
margin. 
 No homogenous products – they will produce only one product or different varieties.

 Large amount of starting capital is needed. 
 Legal considerations – new inventions are protected by patent rights. 
(Any 4 x 2) (8)
1.3 Profit maximisation occurs when marginal revenue (MR)  is equal to marginal
cost (MC).  (4)
[32]

TOPIC 2: IMPERFECT MARKET - OLIGOPOLY

QUESTION 1: 16 minutes (Source: Economics for all Grade 12)

1.1 Cell phones, cigarettes, banking services, etc. (any 2) (4)

1.2 Explicit and implicit (4)
1.3 A cartel is a group of producers whose goal is to fix prices, to limit supply
and to limit competition.  (6)
1.4 Product differentiation:  product is slightly different from the others. 
o Product proliferation:  different range of products to cater for many different
markets. 
o Advertising:  oligopoly firms advertise their products heavily.  (12)
[26]

The SSIP is supported by

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 5 (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 1: MARKET FAILURE

Teacher Note: Ensure that the learners can do a production possibilities curve.

LESSON OVERVIEW

1. Review Homework & Self Study 15 minutes

2. Briefly introduce topics: 5 minutes
3. Learners answer the questions: 40 minutes
4. Go through Solutions and Hints with the learners: 25 minutes
5. Preview Homework 5 minutes

SECTION A: TYPICAL EXAM QUESTIONS

QUESTION 1: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

A monopoly is a good example of a market where profit maximisation implies under
provisioning and overcharging of goods and services. This type of market is usually an
unregulated market that fails to produce an ideal state of affairs.
Write an essay explaining in detail the reasons for market failures. [50]

QUESTION 2: 12 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

Study the graphs below and answer the questions that follow.

2.1 Define the concept externality. (3)

2.2 Which ONE of the above graphs indicates a negative externality? (3)
2.3 Give TWO examples of positive externalities. (6)
2.4 Which demand curve in GRAPH B represents the social benefit? (2)
2.5 Explain the impact of positive externalities on costs/prices and quantities of goods.
Refer to the relevant graph above. (6)
[20]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 5 (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 3: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb/March 2009)

Discuss merit and demerit goods as a reason for market failures. [16]

QUESTION 4: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2009)

List any THREE examples of negative externalities caused by industrial development.
(3 x 2) [6]

TOPIC 2: COST BENIFIT ANALYSIS

Teacher Note: The main purpose of cost-benefit analysis is to assist us in deciding how to
use our scarce resources.

QUESTION 1: 12 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb/March 2009)

Study the table below and answer the questions that follow.

COST AND BENEFITS IN THE SUPPLY OF CLEAN WATER TO A COMMUNITY

Alternatives Economics Costs Economic Benefit
A 1 000 000 500 000
B 1 500 000 2 000 000
C 1 200 000 2 000 000
D 800 000 100 000

1.1 Define the term cost-benefit analysis. (3)

1.2 Use the information in the above table, draw a well-labelled bar graph, indicating
cost and benefits for each alternative:
Vertical axis: Costs R (million). Scale: 1 cm = 200 000
Horizontal axis: alternatives (8)
1.3 Calculate the cost-benefit ratio of A and B by using the following formula:
Present value of economic benefits
BCR
A(B)
= /Present value of economic costs

Which alternative should the community adopt? (5)

1.4 Draw a comparison between a cost-benefit analysis done by government and the
private sector. (4)
[20]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 5 (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 1: MARKET FAILURE

QUESTION 1: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

INTRODUCTION
 Sometimes free markets fail to produce quantities of goods and services that people
want at prices that reflect marginal utilities and relative scarcities – known as market
failure 
 Market failure means that best available or optimal production outcome has not been
achieved – failure of markets to achieve optimum resource allocation  (Max. 3)

BODY
REASONS:
1. Externalities 
 Sometimes in ideal market conditions some people gain or others suffer due to
prevailing of externalities 
 Are costs and benefits that convert private costs and benefits to social costs and
benefits 
 4 concepts:
- Private costs (internal costs)  costs consumers incur when buying goods, e.g. price of
bicycle of R990 
- Private (internal) benefits  benefits of those who buy and produce goods, like joy to the
consumer or profit for the producer 
- Social costs  cost to producers and society at large – includes additional costs like
disposing waste products, decreasing appeal of area 
- Social benefits  positive externalities like clean water leading to few illnesses, healthier
workforce, and higher productivity 
 Private costs and benefits have price – externalities do not have a price – is cost or
benefit to third parties
 Externalities are difference between social costs and benefits and private costs and
benefits 
2. Public goods 
 Markets incomplete – do not meet demand for certain goods – public sector provides
these goods known as public goods, divided into community (water drainage and light
houses) and collective goods (parks, pavements) 
 Features of public goods:
- Non-rivalry  consumption by one person does not reduce consumption by another
individual, e.g. lighthouse 
- Non-excludability  consumption of public goods cannot be confined to those who pay for
them (free riders, e.g. radio and television licenses) 
- Social benefits outstrip private benefits  large social benefits relative to private benefits,
e.g. health care and education 
- Infinite consumption  once provided, marginal cost of supplying one more individual is
zero (traffic lights) 
- Non-reject ability  individuals may not be able to abstain from consuming them even if
they want to (e.g. street lighting) 

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 5 (TEACHER NOTES)

 Public goods not provided by price mechanism – producer cannot withhold goods for
non-payment 
 State finance public goods through taxation and provide it themselves 
 In SA – most goods and services private goods – have rivalry in consumption and
excludability 
3. Merit and demerit goods 
MERIT GOODS:
 Some goods highly desirable for general welfare – not highly rated by market – leads
to too little consumed – market failed 
 E.g. health care and education, safety – merit goods – special form of private goods

 Few people would pay for education if they had to meet full cost – results in market
failure 
 In pure market system – consumers‘ spending on merit goods determined by private
benefits 
 Merit goods have positive externalities – social benefits derived from their consumption
exceed private benefits 
 Common method to overcome eminent market failure – for state to provide them 
 Options:
- provide them in part (focus on primary health care and education in general) ;
- Statutory requirements (youth compelled to stay in school until age of 15) ;
- Outsourcing: contract private sector to provide some merit goods (some education
and training and health care services) 
DEMERIT GOODS:
 E.g. cigarettes, alcohol and non-prescription drugs – over-consumed 
 Consumer unaware of true cost of consuming them = negative externalities 
Government can ban their consumption or reduce it through taxation and provide
information about their harmful effects 
4. Imperfect competition 
 Competition often impaired by power in market economies – power lies with
producers 
 Conditions of imperfect competition: restrict output, raise prices where price exceeds
marginal cost, prevent new businesses from entering, prevent full adjustment to
changes in demand 
 Modern market does not allow for price negotiations 
 Advertising promotes producer sovereignty – encourages consumer to buy products –
delays products from market until they are in businesses‘ financial interest 
e.g. businesses had technology to produce long-life light bulbs, allows cars to be
driven by fuels other than fossil fuels, cure for common cold 
5. Lack of information 
 Lack of information to make rational decisions
 Consumers  maximise their utility – need detailed information – technology
increases information 
 Workers  unaware of job opportunities, advantages and disadvantages, health risks
of current jobs 

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 Entrepreneurs  lack of information about costs, availability and productivity of some

factors of production – operating on basis of incorrect info about reliability and life span
of machines in use 
6. Immobility of factors of production 
 Most markets do not adjust rapidly to changes in supply and demand – due to lack of
information, resources not mobile 
 Labour  takes time to move occupationally and geographically – adjust slowly and
inadequately 
 Unskilled workers  not able or willing, or have no time to gain necessary skills 
 Physical capital  infrastructure like telephone lines – can move from one location to
another at irregular intervals 
 Structural changes  occur slowly – demand increases or decreases – technology
used like robots – takes time for labour-intensive textile production to be switched to
computer assisted production 
7. Imperfect distribution of income and wealth 
 Market system neutral to issue of income distribution 
 Discrimination distorts earnings of women, minority groups and disabled persons and
those subject to illnesses and incapacity  (Max. 40)
CONCLUSION
Any suitable conclusion. NOT a repetition of any facts from above.  (Max. 2) [50]

QUESTION 2: 12 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

2.1 Externalities are benefits or costs resulting from the production of goods that are not
reflected in the price.
Accept any other definition from an approved source  (3)
2.2 Graph A  (3)
2.3 • Pollination of fruit trees by bees 
• Public enjoyment of views of private buildings 
• Flu injections affect those who do not pay for inoculation. 
• Accept any other relevant example (Any 2 x 3) (6)
2.4 D1D1 / D1 (2)
2.5 DD represents the demand from individuals, i.e. the private benefits gained from
purchasing particular goods or services, and SS represents the direct cost of
providing those goods or services. The market equilibrium is given where So and
Do intersect  / If it were possible to quantify the external benefit associated with
the provision of these goods or services, the social benefit accruing to society could be
represented by D1D1 / D1  / If the external benefit were to be taken into account,
the equilibrium would be with output Q1 selling at P1 
Accept any relevant example  (3 x 2) (6)
[20]

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 5 (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 3: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb/March 2009)

Merit goods:
1. Goods highly desirable for general welfare but not highly rated by the market 
2. If people had to pay market prices for them relatively too little would be consumed – the
market will fail 
3. E.g. health care, education, radio and TV-broadcasting, skills training, safety, inoculations
and car seat belts 
4. Is a special form of private goods, because few people would pay for education if they had
to meet the full cost
5. The reason for undersupply of merit goods is that the market only takes the private costs
and benefits into account and not the social costs and benefits 
(Any 4 x 2)
Demerit goods:
1. Regarded as socially harmful for consumption 
2. Governments often take steps to discourage consumption and ban use of demerit
goods 
3. While the market is willing to supply demerit goods, it tends to oversupply demerit
goods 
4. E.g. addictive drugs, tobacco, alcohol and gambling 
5. These items may be taxed to reduce consumption or may be banned 
Some consumers may be unaware of the true cost of consuming them, i.e. their
negative externalities / demerit goods are regarded as bad for us and we should
use less of these goods  (Any 4 x 2) [16]

QUESTION 4: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2009)

 Air pollution 
 Water pollution 
 Noise pollution 
 Environmental / Land pollution / Light pollution 
 Global warming 
 Social illnesses 
 Traffic increases / congestion / Road damages 
 Habitats of plants and animals are destroyed / environmental degradation / less land
available for agriculture 
 Informal settlements / squatting / overpopulation
 Housing resettlement 
 Blockages of routes  (Any 3 x 2) [6]

TOPIC 2: COST BENIFIT ANALYSIS

QUESTION 1: 12 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb/March 2009)

1.1 A technique for enumerating and evaluating the total social cost and total social benefits
associated with an economic project. 
OR
It is a standard method used to compare the social costs and benefits of alternative projects
or investments.  (3)

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1.2

(8)

1.3 BCR = Present value of economic benefits

A
Present value of economic costs 
= _500 000_
1 000 000
= 0.5 
BCR = 2 000 000
B
1 500 000
= 1.33 
Alternative B  (5)
1.1 • In the private sector a comparison needs to be made between the expected
private cost and benefits over the estimated time span of a new project 
• In the public sector a comparison needs to be made between the expected
social cost and benefits over the estimated time span of a new project  (4)
[20]

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 5 (TEACHER NOTES)

SECTION C: HOMEWORK

TOPIC 1: MARKET FAILURE

QUESTION 1: 17 minutes (Source: The Answer Series)

Tabulate 7 reasons and explain each one, for market failure. [28]

TOPIC 2: COST BENIFIT ANALYSIS

QUESTION 1: 16 minutes (Source: The Answer Series)

2. Before building a school government will do a CBA. Answer the questions that follow,
related to this project.
2.1 Describe the process that economists use to conduct a cost-benefit analysis.
(10)
2.2 List three items under costs that will need to be measured. (6)
2.3 List three items under benefits that will need to be measured. (6)
2.4 Show the programme calculation used to calculate CBA. (4)
[26]

SECTION D: SOLUTIONS TO HOMEWORK TOPICS 1 AND 2

TOPIC 1: MARKET FAILURE

QUESTION 1: 17 minutes (Source: The Aswer Series)

(14 x 2) [28]

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 5 (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 2: COST BENIFIT ANALYSIS

QUESTION 1: 16 minutes (Source: The Answer Series)

1.1
 Cost-benefit analysis (CBA) is a standard method used to compare the social cost and
benefits of alternative projects or investments.
 Cost and benefits are measured and then weighed up against each other in order to
generate criteria for decision-making.
 The numerator of this ratio is defined as the present value of all of the expected economic
benefits attributable to a proposed undertaking.
 E.g. to calculate the monetary value for a public park or an art museum, shadow prices
(benefits) may be used to calculate the value of the enjoyment of these facilities.
 The denominator of the CBR is defined as the present value of the cost of undertaking and
operating the project. If it is a large capital investment project, there are 2 types of costs:
capital cost and operation, maintenance and repair cost.
(10)

1.2
 Rubble – environment will be affected
 Time – traffic
 Cost of conducting the school building (6)
(Learner must make up their own costs)
1.3
 Job creation
 Sports grounds
 Education – merit good (6)
(Learner must make up their own costs)
1.4
CBR = Present value of economic benefits
Present value of economic costs (4)
[26]

The SSIP is supported by

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 1: ECONOMIC GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

Teacher Note: GDP is defined as the total market value of all final goods and services
produced within the boundaries of a country in a particular period of time.

LESSON OVERVIEW

1. Review Homework 10 minutes

2. Introduction: 5 minutes
3. Learners answer the questions: 40 minutes
4. Go through Solutions and Hints with the learners: 25 minutes
5. Preview Self Study topics & Homework 10 minutes

SECTION A: TYPICAL EXAM QUESTIONS

TOPIC 1: ECONOMIC GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

QUESTION 1: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

Analyse the information in the table below and evaluate South Africa's growth and
development policies in terms of international best practice in a formal letter to the
Minister of Finance. [50]

QUESTION 2: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2008)

Compare South Africa's growth policies in terms of international benchmarks. (4 x 4) [16]

QUESTION 3: 5 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2010)

Discuss the difference between economic growth and economic development. [8]

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 2: NORTH-SOUTH DIVIDE

Teacher Note: This is the economic and human divide that exists between the developed
and developing countries.

QUESTION 1: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

Tabulate the major differences between the developed countries in the North and the
developing countries in the South (North-South divide). [16]

QUESTION 2: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2008)

List any THREE characteristics of developing countries. (3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 3: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2009)

List any THREE reasons why the countries in the Northern Hemisphere are more
developed than those in the Southern Hemisphere. (3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 4: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2010)

Give any THREE reasons for the unequal standard of living between the developed and
developing countries. (3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 5: 6 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2010)

5.1 Briefly explain the North-South divide as illustrated in the above cartoon. (4)
5.2 Explain the negative effects of globalisation on South Africa. (6)
[10]

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (TEACHER NOTES)

SECTION B: SOLUTIONS AND HINTS TO SECTION A

QUESTION 1: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

(The candidate should be able to give a little background on the growth and
development policies of South Africa as part of the first paragraph)
Since 1994, the South African government has pursued international mainstream economic
and development policies, making use of both demand-side and supply-side approaches. If
the outcomes of these policies are satisfactory, the approaches used in pursuing them would
also be satisfactory. 
The market approach could also be followed where,  Demand factors such as: Consumer
spending, Investment spending, Government spending, Exports and imports and 
Supply factors such as: Natural resources, Labour, Capital, Technology and
entrepreneurship are being discussed.  (Any 4 marks) (4)
(In the following paragraphs the candidate should be able to describe the specific
policy and then evaluate it against international best practice)
Growth policies: (Any FOUR policies)
Economic growth: 
South Africa is a developing country; in terms of the World Bank a lower-middle income
country. 
The average economic growth rate was 3.1 % per year between 1994 and 2005, in
comparison to an average of 1 % per year over the previous decade. 
After the implementation of GEAR (1996), the budget deficit reduced to less than 3% of the
GDP was accepted as benchmark. 
Inflation: 
Inflation decreased continuously from 9 % in 1994 to 3,4 % in 2005. 
The SARB dropped monetary targets and adopted inflation targets, initially in a
3%-6% range. 
Interest rates, based on the repo rate, are the main instrument used in the stabilisation
policy. 
The consistently stable budget deficit also had a stabilising effect on the inflation rate. 
Employment: 
Employment in the non-agricultural sector of the economy decreased. 
The GEAR strategy suggested that a climate was needed that was conducive to employment
creation by private sector. 
Labour productivity in the formal economy increased by 4.2 % per year over the 10 years
period until 2005. 
The unemployment rate Increased from 14 % in 1994 to 26.5 % in 2005, yet employment
increased – mainly because of informal sector activities. 
Exchange rate stability: 
The South African currency depreciated considerably between 1994 and 2002.
Then from 2005 it appreciated. 
International reserves increased from 3 % of GDP in 1994 to 18.7 % in 2005. 
The SARB switched from managed floating to a free-floating exchange rate system. 
2 Marks - Heading
2 Marks - Discussion
(16)

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Development Policies: (Any FIVE policies) (Any 5 x 2) (10)

Macroeconomic policies: 
The successful implementation of macroeconomic policies is as much important for the rich
as for the poor. 
The per capita GDP increased from 1,6 % in 1998 to 3,5 % in 2005.- the standard of living of
the whole population improved. 
Redistribution through the tax system was also successful and has made possible a
substantial increase in the distribution of benefits in cash and kind; macro-economic policy
benefits, housing and service benefits. 
Microeconomic policies: 
Employment in the formal and informal sector increased by about 32 %, (3,6 % per
year) from 1996 to 2005, which was higher than the average real growth rate of
3,2 %.
Social Policies: 
Almost 34,1 % of the South African population are poor in terms of the international
benchmark poverty line income ($2 a day) 
Poverty reduction is, therefore, a serious policy matter for the government, with the result that
a number of policies focus on basic needs for the poor. 
Such as :
 Social security grants
 Benefits in kind
 Services
 Primary Health care
 Education
Redress: 
International organisations such as the UN articulate the importance of the empowerment of
the indigenous peoples of developing countries. 
The South African government passed both empowerment and affirmative action acts and
has introduced a range of other measures to ensure redress takes place. 
Black Economic Empowerment (BEE): 
The Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment Act, No.53 of 2003, provides the legal basis
for the transformation of the South African economy. 
The speed and extent of empowerment and transformation were agreed upon in terms of
so-called charters between government and various industries. 
The DTI published a scorecard that is used to measure progress of businesses and industries
which include some of the following elements: 
Management and control 
Employment equity 
and social responsibility 
Land redistribution and restitution: 
The government aims to redistribute 30% of agricultural land to previous disadvantage
individuals and groups. 
By 2004 some 1,5 % of agricultural land had been redistributed. 
Some 61 % of claims for land restitution had been finalised. 
Affirmative action: 
Affirmative action rules are described in the Employment Equity Act, no 55 of 1998,  and
apply to employers with 50 or more employees or those with an annual income of,
e.g., R2 million in agriculture, and R10 million in industry. 
2 Marks – Heading 2 Marks - Discussion (20) [50]

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 2: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2008)

Economic growth 
• South Africa is a developing country where a 3% growth rate is acceptable for a developing
country; in terms of the World Bank a lower-middle income country. 
• Government abandoned anti-cyclical demand management in favour of structural reform in
1996 as guiding principle in fiscal policy. 
• After the implementation of GEAR (1996), the budget deficit reduced to less than 3% of the
GDP - accepted as benchmark, in line with international best practice. 
• Government reduced deficit; limiting public debt – internationally acknowledged for
exceptional fiscal discipline.  (Max. 4)
Inflation 
• Inflation decreased continuously from 9% in 1994 to 3,4% in 2005. The SARB dropped
monetary targets and adopted inflation targets, initially in a 3% - 6% range. 
• Interest rates, based on the repo rate, are the main instruments used in the stabilisation
policy. 
• The consistently stable budget deficit also had a stabilising effect on the inflation rate. 
(Max. 4)
Employment 
• Employment in the non-agricultural sector of the economy decreased. 
• The GEAR strategy suggested that a climate was needed that was conducive to
employment creation by private sector. 
• Private sector need to be more efficient to compete internationally 
• Labour productivity in the formal economy increased by 4,2% per year over the 10 year
period until 2005.  (Max. 4)
Exchange rate stability 
• The South African currency depreciated considerably between 1994 and 2002 - from 2005 it
appreciated. 
• International reserves increased from 3% of GDP in 1994 to 18.7% in 2005. The SARB
switched from managed floating to a free-floating exchange rate system. 
• International benchmark: whether market forces determine rates – SA complies. 
(Max. 4)
Accept applicable current economic examples or statistics. [16]

QUESTION 3: 5 minutes (Taken from DoE No.v 2010)

 Economic growth consists of growth of real GDP  and implies an increase in

capacity of economy to produce more goods and services  It requires policies
that empower the economy 
 Economic development consists of growth of per capita real GDP  and implies an
increase in standard of living / capacity of population to produce more goods and
services.  It requires policies that empower people 
(2 x 4) [8]

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 2: NORTH-SOUTH DIVIDE

QUESTION 1: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

[8]

QUESTION 2: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

• Low standards of living / poverty 

• High levels of unemployment 
• Low levels of productivity 
• High birth rates / overpopulation / 
• Dependence on primary sector / agriculturally-based economy 
• Deficient infrastructure 
• High mortality rate 
• Illiteracy / low levels of skill (education) 
• Low social mobility 
• Low per capita income 
• Malnutrition 
• Strong attachment to tradition 
• History of colonialisation  (3 x 2) [6]

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 3: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2009)

• Per capita Income is higher 

• Life expectancy is higher 
• Education (literacy) is higher 
• Poverty is lower 
• Economic growth is higher 
• Higher level of productivity 
• Trade is controlled by the Northern Hemisphere (80%) 
• High technical skills 
(Any 3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 4: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2010)

• Per capita income 

• Life expectancy 
• Education 
(Accept any other relevant reason.) (3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 5: 6 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2010)

5.1 The socio-economic and political division, which exists between wealthy developed
countries collectively known as the North and the poorer developing countries,
collectively known as the South, is referred to as the North-South Divide. 
Any relevant example        (Any 2 x 2) [4]

5.2 PovertyThere is a growing gap between the rich and the poor. 
GrowthSouth Africa is unable to attract adequate FDI, to ensure sustainable
economic growth / unemployment 
TradeRich countries continue to subsidize agricultural production, making it difficult
for South Africa to compete on the global market / dumping 
Environmentdumping of nuclear waste 
Imported inflationleads to an increase in production costs inimport country 
(Any 2 x 3) [6]

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (TEACHER NOTES)

SECTION C: HOMEWORK

TOPIC 1: ECONOMIC GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

QUESTIONS: 20 minutes (Source: Focus Study Guide)

1 Explain the difference between economic growth and economic development. (12)
2 List the FIVE major policy programmes in the RDP. (10)
3 List FIVE aims of GEAR. (10)
[32]

TOPIC 2: NORTH-SOUTH DIVIDE


QUESTION 1: 18 minutes (Source: Focus Study Guide)

1.1 Explain what is meant by the following terms, giving an example of each.
1.1.1 Developing countries (6)
1.1.2 Developed countries (6)
1.1.3 Newly industrialised countries (6)

1.2. List the most common characteristics of developing countries. (12)

[30]

SECTION D: SOLUTIONS TO HOMEWORK SESSION 8

TOPIC 1: ECONOMIC GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

QUESTIONS: 20 minutes (Source: Focus Study Guide)

1
Economic growth: Economic development:

 takes place when a country  is concerned with human

produces and consumes more development.
goods and services than before.  deals with issues such as
 is usually measured as the employment, education, health and
percentage change in real GDP. environmental sustainability.
 is a necessary condition for  requires more than just the
economic development to take production of more goods and
place, but there is no guarantee that services.
economic growth will ultimately lead  to take place, the fruits of economic
to economic development. progress must lead to an
improvement in the living standards
of the majority of people.
(12)

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (TEACHER NOTES)

2.
1. Meeting basic needs
2. Developing human resources
3. Building the economy
4. Democratising the state and society
5. Implementing the RDP (10)

3.
 A renewed focus on budget reform
 A faster fiscal deficit reduction programme
 An exchange rate policy
 A consistent monetary policy
 A reduction in tariffs
 Tax incentives
 To Introduce more flexibility into the labour market
 Expansion of trade and investment flows in South Africa
(any 5 x 2) (10)
[32]

TOPIC 2: NORTH-SOUTH DIVIDE


QUESTION 1: 18 minutes (Source: Focus Study Guide)

1.1.1 Developing countries - A developing country is a country with less advanced

technology and lower levels of per capita income than the advanced industrial
countries of the world. E.g. South Africa (6)
1.1.2 Developed countries - The term developed countries is used to refer to the richest
countries in the world with the higher per capita incomes. E.g. USA
(6)
1.1.3 Newly industrialised countries - Between the extreme of developed countries and
developing countries known as newly industrialised countries. E.g. Hong
Kong. (6)

1.2 Low per capita income figures

High rates of illiteracy
Agriculturally based economy
Short life expectancy
Low degree of social mobility
Strong attachments to tradition (12)

[30]

The SSIP is supported by

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (self study) (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 1: SOUTH AFRICA’S INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT POLICIES

Teacher Note: Industrial policy refers to any government regulation or law that encourages
the ongoing operation of , or investment in, a particular industry. Industrial strategy refers to
an action plan or method for achieving something.
SECTION A: TYPICAL EXAM QUESTIONS

QUESTION 1: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2009)

Discuss Spatial Development Initiatives (SDI) by highlighting the concept, key objectives,
examples and the alleviation of poverty as part of the government's policy to stimulate
economic activities in specific areas. [16]

QUESTION 2: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2009)

Discuss the suitability of South Africa's national industrial development policy. [16]

QUESTION 3: 12 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2010)

Study the extract on the following page and answer the questions that follow.

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (self study) (TEACHER NOTES)

3.1 What does the abbreviation IDC stand for? (2)

3.2 Which benefit in kind has been provided by the private sector? (3)
3.3 What has been the major advantage of a public-private partnership (PPP) to the
farming community in Mpumalanga? (3)
a. Give an example from the extract that shows government involvement in the
agricultural sector. (3)
3.5 Which positive effect will this PPP have on the balance of payments? (3)
3.6 Which redress policy is addressed through this PPP scheme? (2)
3.7 State any TWO advantages of this PPP. (4)
[20]

QUESTION 4: 6 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2010)

Study the extract below and answer the questions that follow.

4.1 What does the abbreviation IDZ mean? (2)

4.2 State any THREE aims of the IDZs in the South African economy. (6)
4.3 What is the purpose of the EIDD? (2)
[10]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (self study) (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 2: FREE TRADE AND PROTECTIONISM

Teacher Note: This makes up part of South Africa‘s foreign trade policy.

QUESTION 1: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

List any THREE arguments in favour of a policy aimed at protecting local industries.
(3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 2: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

'The opening up of foreign trade … sometimes works a sort of industrial revolution in a

country whose resources were previously underdeveloped.' (John Stuart Mill)

Discuss the arguments in favour of a policy of protection, and critically evaluate the South
African international trade policies and major protocols regarding free trade.
[50]

QUESTION 3: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2010)

Discuss the arguments in favour of free trade. (8 x 2) [16]

QUESTION 4: 5 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2010)

Discuss dumping as an argument in favour of protectionism. [8]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (self study) (TEACHER NOTES)

SECTION B: SOLUTIONS AND HINTS TO SECTION A

TOPIC1: SOUTH AFRICA’S INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT POLICIES

QUESTION 1: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2009)

1. Concept SDI refers to national government initiative programme aimed at unlocking

inherent and underutilised economic development potential  of certain specific spatial
locations in SA  / regional development initiative in SA to attract infrastructure and
business investments  to neglected and underdeveloped areas 
(max 2)
2. Involves strategic initiatives by government and its key objectives are:
• Stimulate economic activity in selected strategic locations throughout SA 
• Generate economic growth and foster sustainable industrial development 
• Create long-term employment in underdeveloped areas with high poverty and
unemployment 
• Develop projects of infrastructure in certain areas and finance them by way of
lending and private sector investment 
• Develop the inherent economic potential of certain areas 
• Ensure rapid planning and delivery 
• Restructure the apartheid-space economy 
• Maximise various types of private sector investment 
• Exploit SA underutilised location and economic advantages for export-orientated
growth of SDIs 
• Establish private—public partnerships (PPPs)  (max 3 x 2)
3. Examples:
• Maputo Development corridor 
• Lubombo Corridor
• Richards Bay SDI
• KwaZulu-natal
• Wild Coast SDI
• Fish River SDI
• West Coast Investment Initiative
• Platinum SDI
• Phalaborwa SDI
• Coast-2-Coast Corridor (max 2 x 2)
4. To foster sustainable industrial development in areas where poverty
and unemployment are the highest, the SDI focuses on:
• High-level support in areas where socio-economic conditions require concentrated
government assistance 
• Where inherent economic potential exists  (2 x 2) [16]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (self study) (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 2: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2009)

• Promoting investment in physical and human capital  – human capital and sound skills
base crucial for attracting global business to SA and ensure long-term economic
growth creates strong base for productivity sensitivity because skilled workers are more
productive 
• Encouraging Research and Development (R & D) and promoting innovation  protected
intellectual property ensures more effective use of patents and copyright  encourages
businesses to develop new products and commit themselves to intensive and focused
research 
• Supporting technology  encourages enterprises to apply scientific and technical
knowledge to improve products and production processes  government has established
technology incubators – these products and production processes give enterprises a
comparative advantage and open up export opportunities 
• Enforcing competitiveness  enhances market efficiencies and ensures that businesses
are lean and mean 
• Investing in physical infrastructure  includes maintenance, improvement and expansion
of infrastructure 
• It is clear that countries that industrialised the most rapidly, have implemented large-scale,
robust and conditional industrial policies which were closely integrated with related
policies 
The successes South Africa experienced were:
• Market access for SA producers was secured through re-entry into the WTO and 2 major
trade agreements with EU and the SADP 
• SA has a vibrant automotive industry due to the motor industry Development Programme
with substantial multiplier effects on associated sectors 
• Black economic empowerment has become a fundamental reality of doing business in
South Africa 
• The country‘s technology has enjoyed substantial success, such as the Support
Programme for Industrial Innovation and the Technology and Human Resources for Industry
Programme 
• Development financing by the Industrial Development Corporation has played an invaluable
role, in the most job-creating projects 
The industrial policy needs to be strengthened in the following areas:
• Industrial financing is required to meet SA‘s investment and industrialisation challenges 
• Sectors: identify opportunities and challenges faced by sectors, outline how the sector
strategies address the challenges and maximise the opportunities to take development
forward 
• Trade policy needs to be more closely informed by industrial policy considerations 
• Pricing and competition policy needs to be strengthened in order to deal better with the
challenges posed by high levels of industry concentration and anti-competitive
behaviour 
• Promotion of SDIs does not yet appear to bring about dramatic economic transformation in
their areas 
• Establishment of IDZs has been slow 
• As far as industrial development is concerned, the focus has shifted to SMMEs which are
often more suited for local conditions (Any 8 x 2) [16]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (self study) (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 3: 12 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2010)

3.1 Industrial Development Corporation  (2)

3.2 Production of the pipe line (costs in production)   (3)
3.3 Efficient and reliable water supply  (3)
3.4 "In 1998 the Water Act came into force" 
"… pipeline costs, running at R2.3 m. per year, is covered by government" 
(Any 1 x 3) (3)
b. Exports will increase (positive effect on current account in BoP) – production will
increase – more wildlife estates (increase in tourism – increase in services
rendered to foreigners – current account).   (3)
3.6 BEE  land/water redistribution  (Any 1 x 2) (2)
3.7 Growth of real GDP 
• Increase in produce of goods and services 
• Income can be redistributed 
• Employment increased  (Any 2 x 2) (4)
[20]

QUESTION 4: 6 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2010)

4.1 Industrial Development Zone  (2)

4.2 Attract new investment in export-driven industries. 
• Encourage economic growth by attracting foreign investment in industrial
development. 
• Duty free importation of production-related raw materials and inputs. 
• A zero rate of VAT on supplies procured from South African sources. 
• Government incentive schemes. 
• Reduced taxation and exemption for some activities or products. 
• Promote exports 
• Job creation 
• Enhance competitiveness of local industries (immediate environment) 
• Promote and develop links between domestic and zone-based industries 
• Enable exploitation of resource-intensive industries   (Any 3 x 2) (6)
[8]

TOPIC 2: FREE TRADE AND PROTECTIONISM

QUESTION 1: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

 Raising revenue for the government 

 Protecting the whole industrial base 
 Protecting particular industries 
 Protecting domestic standards 
(Any other relevant facts) (Any 3 x 2) [6]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (self study) (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 2: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2008)

DEFINITION: Protection is the application of a trade policy whereby the state discourages
importing of certain goods and services with a view to protecting home industries against
unequal competition from abroad.  (3)
ARGUMENTS IN FAVOUR OF PROTECTION
1. Raising revenue for the government: 
• In developing countries the tax base is more often limited because of low incomes of
individuals and businesses 
• Low incomes do not provide much in form of income taxes 
• Customs duties on imports – significant source of revenue 
2. Protecting the whole industrial base: 
FOUR considerations relevant for protecting industrial base of country:
• Maintaining domestic employment / reduce unemployment and provide more job
opportunities 
- countries with high levels of unemployment – pressurised to stimulate employment
creation 
- protectionist policies used to stimulate industrialisation 
- domestic employment encouraged through imposing import restrictions 
• Protecting workers 
- countries with low wages represent unfair competition and threaten the standard of living of
more highly paid workers 
- protection necessary to prevent local wage levels from falling 
- helps protect local businesses from closing down or becoming unprofitable 
• Diversifying the industrial base 
- protectionism helps countries not to over-specialise 
- import restrictions may be imposed on range of products in order to ensure that number of
domestic industries develop 
• Developing strategic industries 
- certain industries of strategic importance, e.g. agriculture and energy 
- developing countries need to develop these industries to become self sufficient 
3. Protecting particular industries: 
• Dumping 
- due to government subsidies enterprises are permitted to sell at very low prices –
leads to price discrimination 
- products can be exported to dispose of accumulated stocks – importing country will
benefit 
- objective can also be to drive out domestic producers and gain strong market position
– consumers will lose out due to reduction in choice 
• Infant industries / Industrial development 
- newly established industries suffer to survive due to higher average costs
- competition in the early days makes growth possible, they can take advantage of
economies of scale, lower average costs and become competitive – protection can
now be removed 

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (self study) (TEACHER NOTES)

• Declining industries 
- structural changes in demand and supply may influence industry negatively 
- these businesses must leave business gradually – possible if protection is granted –
gives factors of production time to move to other industries
- they lost their comparative advantage – may lead to large scale unemployment 
4. Protecting domestic standards 
• Trade restrictions like food safety, human rights and environmental standards 
• Stabilising exchange rate and balance of payments 
• Protecting natural resources from being exploited 
• Economic self-sufficiency 
• Greater economic stability 
• Natural resources not depleted  (Max 35)

CRITICAL EVALUATION OF SA FREE TRADE:

• SA part of customs union since 1910 – various protocols now replaced by SADC protocol –
progress made towards strengthening bilateral ties with main trading partners – has taken
form of free trade area (FTA) protocols. 
• South African Customs Union – members currently jointly negotiate FTAs with the rest of the
world like European Free Trade Association. 
• South African Development Community (SADC) presently has status of FTA – 97% qualifies
for duty-free access to SA – should be fully liberalised by 2010. 
• African Union is developing continent into economic and monetary union – adopted
Nepad as strategy – first phase to develop 5 regional FTAs – SADC is one of the FTAs. 
• European Union-SA FTA entails freeing of tariffs – 95 % of EU imports from SA by 2010 and
86 % free of tariffs on imports from EU over 12 year period. Trade, Development and
Cooperation Agreement implemented in 2000 established free trade between SA and
EU. 
• Mercusor – SA signed a Framework Agreement with Mercusor in 2000, to expand trade and
create free trade area between parties (Latin America) – eventually FTA will include all
SACU members 
• WTO promotes free trade – persuades countries to abolish import tariffs 
• Trade with Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (trade with India,
Malaysia and Japan increased) 
• SA signing Marrakesh Agreement to liberalise international trade by lowering import tariffs
and barriers 
• Cotonou Agreement – SA member of ACP (Africa, Caribbean and Pacific) Group
• International Trade and Economic Development Division of Department of Trade and
Industry increase SA access to markets worldwide – on preferential terms 
(Any 5 x 2)(10)
[50]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (self study) (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 3: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2010)

Free trade occurs when there are no barriers to trade, such as taxes on imported goods or
bans on imports. 
Specialisation 
• The theory of comparative advantage shows that world output can be increased if countries
specialise in what they are relatively best at producing. 
• Specialisation will cause world trade and consumption to be maximised 
Economies of scale 
• Trade causes economies of scale to be maximised and costs to be reduced. 
• It's a source of comparative advantage. 
Choice 
• Trade allows consumers the choice of what to buy from the whole world, and not only
domestically produce 
• Consumer welfare is increased. 
Innovation 
• free trade implies competition and a lack of free trade often leads to domestic markets
being dominated by a few enterprises who avoid competition among themselves. 
• provides a powerful incentive to innovate. 
• It leads to better production methods which enable producers to cut costs and
improve the quality and the reliability of goods.  (8 x 2) [16]

QUESTION 4: 5 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2010)

• Foreign enterprises may engage in dumping because government subsidies permit them to
sell goods at very low prices or below cost  or because they are seeking to raise profits
through price discrimination 
• In the latter case the initial reason for exporting products at a low price may be to dispose of
accumulated stocks of goods. 
• In the short term, consumers in the importing country will benefit. 
• However, their long-term objective may be to drive out domestic producers and gain strong
market position. 
• In this case consumers are likely to lose out as a result of the reduction in choice and the
higher prices that the exporters will be able to charge. 
• Protectionism prevents foreign industries from dumping their surpluses and out-of-season
goods at low prices, which may be harmful to home industries 
(Any 4 x 2) [8]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (self study) (TEACHER NOTES)

SECTION C: HOMEWORK

TOPIC1: SOUTH AFRICA’S INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT POLICIES

QUESTION 1: 17 minutes (Source: Economics For All)

1.1 Define industrial policy. (3)

1.2 Explain the complex challenge facing South Africa‘s industrial development policies.
(3)
1.3 List three SDIs. (6)
1.4 Name and explain FOUR financial incentives. (16)
[28]

TOPIC 2: FREE TRADE AND PROTECTIONISM

QUESTION 1: 20 minutes (Source: The Answerseries)

1. Discuss four arguments in favour of protectionism. (16)

2. Discuss four arguments in favour of free trade. (16)
[32]

SECTION D: SOLUTIONS TO HOMEWORK

TOPIC1: SOUTH AFRICA’S INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT POLICIES

1.1 Industrial policy can be defined as targeting measures (any government regulations
of law) aimed at promoting specific industrial activities. (3)
1.2 To revitalise growth and employment creation in the manufacturing sector and
adjust simultaneously to changing international environment. (3)
Richards Bay;  Coast to coast;  Gauteng (6)
1.3
 Small Medium Enterprise Development Programme (SMEDP) 
o Businesses must be competitive in their own right without protection or
subsidies. 
 Skills Support Programme (SSP) 
o Cash grant of up to 50% of costs of training new staff resulting from an
expansion or new project. 
 Critical Infrastructure Facility (CIF) 
o Financial incentives to large enterprises whose projects require
infrastructure. 
 Duty Free Incentives 
o Import initiatives given to businesses established within an IDZ. 
(16)
[28]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (self study) (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 2: FREE TRADE AND PROTECTIONISM

QUESTIONS: 20 minutes (Source: The Answerseries)

1.1
 Protection of infant industries – new and upcoming businesses
 Prevent dumping (by other countries) - Dumping: prices of export goods must not
be viewed as ―dumping‖ i.e. selling goods in a foreign market at prices that are below
their cost of production.
 National defence – there must be some minimum level of local production, and also
to provide protection against an interruption of supply.
 Employment – prevent people from losing their jobs
 Maintain a favourable balance of payments. [16]
1.2
 Promotes competition and improves resource allocation and economies of scale
where a country has competitive advantage. 
 Promotes increased efficiencies, product improvements and technological
advances and, therefore, lowers costs of production. 
 Accelerates overall economic growth. (Increase in the production of the
country) 
 Developing countries can take advantage of foreign expertise. 
 Generates foreign exchange.  [16]

The SSIP is supported by

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (self study) (TEACHER NOTES)

SELF STUDY:
TOPIC 3: IMPORT SUBSTITUTION AND EXPORT PROMOTION
Teacher Note: Import substitution is used to develop local industries. Export promotion is an
economic development strategy.

SECTION A: TYPICAL EXAM QUESTIONS

QUESTION 1: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

List any THREE advantages of export promotion. (3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 2: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2009)

Name any THREE advantages of import substitution. (3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 3: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2009)

"Dismantling barriers to trade, especially those facing South African exporters, are a
critical component of any economic strategy that promotes sustainable growth."
[Source: 2006/07 SA Yearbook]

Discuss export promotion as part of the South African international trade policies,
briefly highlighting the effectiveness of the methods through which exports are
promoted. [50]

SECTION B: SOLUTIONS AND HINTS TO SECTION A

TOPIC 3: IMPORT SUBSTITUTION AND EXPORT PROMOTION

QUESTION 1: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

 No limitations 
 Cost and efficiency 
 Increased domestic production 
 Exchange rates 
(Any other relevant facts) (3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 2: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2009)

Increased employment 
Bigger variety of products produced / diversification / broader industrial base 
Decrease in imports / Positive effect on BoP 
Industrial development encouraged 
Easy to implement through imposition of tariffs and quotas  (Any 3 x2) [6]

QUESTION 3: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov. 2009)

INTRODUCTION
Export promotion is when governments pay incentives to encourage production of
goods and services that can be exported  (Max. 3)

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (self study) (TEACHER NOTES)

BODY
REASONS
• Achieve significant export-led economic growth 
• Export enlarges production capacity of country because more and larger manufacturing
industries are established 
• The first step to export-led economic growth is to implement policies that encourage the
establishment of industries to produce goods and services for export markets 

METHODS
Exports are promoted through:
• Incentives  export incentives include information on export markets, research with
regard to new markets, concessions on transport charges, export credit and export credit
guarantees and publicity commending successful exporters  this will encourage
manufacturers to export an increased volume of their production 
• Direct Subsidies  Include cash payments to exporters, refunds on import tariffs,
employment subsidies, and competitiveness of exporting company  Aims: reduce cost of
production  increase competitiveness of exporting company  explore and establish
overseas markets  affected government expenditure 
• Indirect subsidies  influence government income  e.g. general tax rebates, tax
concessions on profits earned from exports or on capital invested to produce export goods,
refunding of certain taxes  allows companies not to pay certain taxes to lower their prices
and enables them to compete in international markets 
• Challenge for governments to design incentives and subsidies in such a way that prices of
export goods can‘t be viewed as dumping prices 
1) Trade neutrality  can be achieved if incentives in favour of export production are
introduced up to point that neutralises the impact of protectionist measures in place 
e.g. subsidies equal to magnitude of import duties can be paid 
2) Export processing zones (EPZs)  is free-trade enclave within a protected area – is
fenced and controlled industrial park that falls outside domestic customs area, and usually
located near harbour or airport 
Note: For the response with regard to the effectiveness of export promotion methods, a
maximum of 5 marks can be allocated.
ADVANTAGES
• No limitations on size and scale  since world market is very large 
• Cost and efficiency of production  based on this and organised along lines of
comparative advantage 
• Increased domestic production  will expand exports to permit more imports and
may result in backward linkage effects that stimulate domestic production in
related industries 
• Creates employment opportunities 
• Increase in exports has positive effect on balance of payments 
• Increase in production leads to lower domestic prices, which benefit local consumers 
DISADVANTAGES
• Real cost of production  subsidies and incentives reduce total cost of production which
must be met from sales  real cost is thus concealed by subsidies  products cannot
compete in open market 
• Lack of competition  businesses charge prices that are so low that they force competitors
out of the market 

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 6 (self study) (TEACHER NOTES)

• Increased tariffs and quotas / can be against spirit of provisions of WTO  overseas
competitors retaliate with tariffs and quotas  goods are sold domestically below their real
cost of production (export subsidies and dumping) 
• Protection of labour-intensive industries  developed countries maintain high levels of
effective protection for their industries that produce labour-intensive goods in which
developing countries already have or can achieve comparative advantage 
• Withdrawal of incentives often leads to closure of effected companies 

• Incentives often lead to inefficiencies in the production process, since companies don‘t have
to do their best to compete 
 Can be seen as dumping  (Max. 40)
CONCLUSION
From the above discussion it is clear that protection still plays a significant role in the
South African international trade policy. 
(Any other relevant conclusion must be accepted.) [50]

SECTION C: HOMEWORK

TOPIC 3: IMPORT SUBSTITUTION AND EXPORT PROMOTION

QUESTION 1: 20 minutes (Source: The Answer Series)

1.1 Discuss the disadvantages of export promotion. (16)

1.2 Discuss the disadvantages of import substitution. (16)
[32]

SECTION D: SOLUTIONS TO HOMEWORK

TOPIC 3: IMPORT SUBSTITUTION AND EXPORT PROMOTION

QUESTION 1: 20 minutes (Source: The Answer Series)

1.1
 Real cost of production – subsidies and incentives reduce the cost of
production.
 Lack of competition – low prices can force competitors out of the market.
 Increased tariffs and quotas – overseas competitors may retaliate.
 Protection of labour-intensive industries.
 Dumping. (16)

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1.2.
 Capital and entrepreneurial talent are dawn away from the areas of competitive
advantage to areas with higher profits due to protection. 
 Technology from abroad may not be feasible locally. 
 Lowers competitiveness and efficiency. 
 Leads to more demands for protection. 
 Protection does not promote backward linkages to other industries that aren‘t
protected.  (16)
[32]

The SSIP is supported by

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 7 (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 1: BALANCE OF PAYMENTS

Teacher Note: The balance of payments account is a statement of all the transactions
undertaken by the citizens of a country with people and institutions in the rest of the world,
usually for a period of three months or a year. It also records the value of the country‘s
transactions. The value is given in terms of the currency of the country.

LESSON OVERVIEW

1. Review Self Study questions & Homework 15 min

2. Brief introduction: 5 min.
3. Learners answer the questions: 40 minutes
4. Go through Solutions and Hints with the learners: 20 minutes
5. Introduce Self Study questions & Homework 10 minutes

SECTION A: TYPICAL EXAM QUESTIONS

TOPIC 1: BALANCE OF PAYMENTS

QUESTION 1: 4 minutes 6 marks (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

List any THREE subaccounts/components of the balance of payments. (3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 2: 12 minutes 20 marks (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

Study the table below and answer the questions that follow.
BALANCE OF PAYMENTS
SOUTH AFRICA – AN EXTRACT
2006
(R millions)
Current account
Merchandise exports 398 532
Merchandise imports 476 545
Net gold exports 35 470
Service receipts 81 353
Payment for services 96 950
Income receipts 40 234
Income payments 75 990
Current transfers (net receipts) - 18 494
Balance on current account ?
Financial account
Direct investments - 47 350
Portfolio investments 130 583
Other investments 19 278
Balance on the financial account 102 511
Unrecorded transactions 39 466
[Source: SARB Quarterly Bulletin, June 2006]

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 7 (TEACHER NOTES)

2.1 Define the term balance of payments. (3)

2.2 Name ONE other sub-account or component of the balance of payments. (3)
2.3 Name the item in the financial account which will contain shares bought by
foreigners. (3)
2.4 Why is gold entered as a separate item on the current account and not as part of
merchandise exports? (3)
2.5 Calculate the balance on the current account. (Show ALL calculations.) (8)
[20]

QUESTION 3: 12 minutes 20 marks (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2009)

Study the extract of the balance of payments (BOP) below and answer the questions that
follow.

3.1 Define the term balance of payments. (3)

3.2 Name ONE other account that forms part of the BOP. (2)
3.3 Which item captures the effect of a foreigner purchasing shares on the
JSE Securities Exchange? (2)
3.4 Why is gold exports listed as a separate item in the BOP? (3)
3.5 Calculate the trade balance on the current account for 2006. (5)
3.6 What negative impact will the recent trend in the current account have on
the BOP? (3)
3.7 Name ONE way in which the BOP deficit can be reduced or eliminated. (2)
[20]

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 7 (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 4: 30 minutes 50 marks (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2010)

Analyse the components of the balance of payments and suggest ways in which the
government can correct a sustained deficit. [50]

TOPIC 2: FOREIGN EXCHANGE MARKET

Teacher Note: Countries trade with one another in order to take advantage of the price
differences of goods and services that exists between countries. Foreign currency is traded
in the foreign exchange market. A foreign exchange market is defined as a market in which
one currency can be exchanged for another currency.

QUESTION 1: 4 minutes 6 marks (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

Name THREE types of foreign exchange rate systems. (3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 2: 4 minutes 6 marks (Taken from DoE Nov 2009)

List any THREE factors influencing demand for foreign exchange. (3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 3: 6 minutes 10 marks (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)

Study the table below and answer the questions that follow.

Terms of Trade
Year Index of export Index of import Terms of trade
prices prices
2005 100 100 100
2010 105 101 A

3.1 Calculate the terms of trade for A. Show ALL calculations. (3)
3.2 What does a decrease in the terms of trade mean? (2)
3.3 What is the base year according to the table? (2)
3.4 Describe the movement in the terms of trade from 2005 – 2010. (3)
[10]

QUESTION 4: 10 minutes 16 marks (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2009)

Explain any FOUR supply factors that cause international trade. [16]

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 7 (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 5: 6 minutes 10 marks (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)

Study the graph below and answer the questions that follow.

5.1 At what point on the graph does equilibrium for foreign exchange originally occur?
(2)
5.2 What happens to the demand for dollars when DD shifts to D D ?
1 1
Give ONE reason. (4)
5.3 What happens to the value of the rand when DD shifts to D D ?
1 1
Motivate your answer. (4)
[10]

SECTION B: SOLUTIONS AND HINTS TO SECTION A

TOPIC 1: BALANCE OF PAYMENTS

QUESTION 1: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Exemplar 2008)

 Current account 
 Capital transfer account 
 Financial account 
 Official reserve account  (3 x 2) [6]

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 7 (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 2: 12 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

2.1 Balance of payments is a record of the value a country's transactions with the rest
of the world for a specific period/ A record of a country‘s imports and
exports for a specific period (3)
2.2 • capital transfer account / capital account 
• reserves account   (Any 1 x 3) (3)
2.3 Portfolio investments        
 (3)
2.4 Historical importance of gold to South Africa / a major earner of
foreign exchange.        (Any 1 x 3) (3)
2.5 Inflows:
398 532 m 
+ 35 470 m 
+ 81 353 m 
+ 40 234 m 
= 555 589 m (Max 4)
Outflows:
476 545 m 
+ 96 950 m 
+ 75 990 m 
+ 18 494 m (Max 3)
= 667 979 m
555 589 m - 667 979 m = -112 390 m 
OR
398 532 m 
+ 35 470 m 
+ 81 353 m 
+ 40 234 m 
- 476 545 m 
- 96 950 m 
- 75 990 m 
- 18 494 m
= -112 390 m (Maximum 4 marks, if all amounts have been added)(8 X 1) (8)
[20]

QUESTION 3: 12 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2009)

a. It is a record of all transactions between one country and the rest of the world or
record of all transactions relating to goods, services and money across
international borders.  (3)
3.2 Capital transfer account
Reserves account (Any 1 x 2) (2)
3.3 Portfolio investment (2)
3.4 Because it is a key export commodity in earning foreign exchange (3)
3.5 Merchandise exports + gold exports – Merchandise imports
(R 399 030 m + R 35 470 m)  - R 476 545 m = - R 42 045 (5)

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 7 (TEACHER NOTES)

3.6
• Reduction of gold and foreign reserves. 
• Increase in liabilities related to reserves/borrowing money to offset the deficit. 
• Exerts pressure on the financial account in that net inflows of money are required. 
(Any 1 x 3) (3)
3.7
 Depreciate a country‘s currency. 
 Decrease in aggregate demand.  (Increase interest rates, increase in tax rates,
and reduction in government spending, Increase tariffs on imports).
 Borrowing from IMF (Any 1 x 2) (2)
[20]

QUESTION 4: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2010)

INTRODUCTION
The balance of payments is a record of all transactions between one country and
the rest of the world.  (Accept any other relevant introduction) (Max 3)
BODY
It consists of FOUR accounts: viz.
1. The Current Account
• Merchandise (goods) imports and exports 
- It includes transactions in movable goods that change ownership between S.A.
residents and non-residents. 
• Net Gold exports 
- Shows net foreign gold sales + the change in gold of the SARB. 
- It is indicated as a separate item because of its importance to SA in earning foreign
exchange and is the world‘s largest producer of gold
• Services receipts and payments 
- This includes transportation, travel, financial, insurance, professional, technical,
recreational etc. services between South African residents and non-residents. 
• Income receipts and payments 
- Income receipts refers to income earned by South African residents in the rest of the
world and income payments income earned by non-residents from South African, e.g.
salaries, dividends etc. 
• Current transfers 
- This involves transfers from SA residents to non-residents and vice versa.
- They include donations gifts, social benefits and taxes. 
- This figure can be negative or positive. 
A surplus or deficit may occur on the current account balance, depending
on outflows and inflows of money.  (Max 12)

2. The Capital Transfer Account

- The balance shown reflects the net amount. This amount can be either negative
or positive. 
The capital transfer account includes:
• Transactions and grants relating to the ownership of fixed assets and other asset
transfers by migrants.  (Max 3)

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 7 (TEACHER NOTES)

3. The Financial Account

THREE categories in the Financial Account:
• Direct investments: 
- Include transactions relating to investments in foreign businesses (10%+) and fixed
property. 
• Portfolio investments: 
- Consist of equities (ordinary shares) and debt securities (bonds or gilt-edged shares)
that are not part of direct investments. 
- These investments are mainly affected through stock exchanges.
• Other investments: 
- Consist of transactions that cannot be classified as direct investments, portfolio
th
Investments or reserves (4 account of BoP). E.g. trade credits, loans, currency
and deposits. 
- With regard to each of the above liabilities, assets and net amounts are shown.  -
Liabilities that are obtained from abroad, e.g. loans are positive on the South African
BoP because it means that money flows into the country. 
- If assets are obtained abroad it is a negative because it means that money flows out of
South Africa. 
- However, it would be the opposite effect on the BoP if foreigners obtained assets
(positive) in South Africa.  (Max 10)
Unrecorded transactions : This is an entry that is used to capture the effects of errors,
omissions and timing differences (Max 3)

4. The Reserves Account

• South African foreign reserves include gold, Special Drawing Rights (SDRs), the
reserve position at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and foreign exchange
currencies. 
• These are liquid assets available for financing deficits due to BoP transactions. 
• South Africa's reserves are not shown in BoP account because it represents a
stock. 
• The BoP shows flows only; therefore only changes to gold and foreign reserves are
shown. 
• Deficits due to BoP transactions decrease reserves and surpluses
increase reserves.  (Max 5)
q Body maximum: 30

Correction of Balance of payments deficit

Using methods, which will reduce imports and promote exports, can reduce deficits. The
following ways can be considered:
1. Borrowing money from the IMF
2. Policies of export promotion an import substitution
3. Increase in aggregate supply will reduce prices. Exports are promoted through cheaper
prices. 
4. Higher interest rates help to decrease spending on imports. Increase in import tariffs
and controls, although SA complies with policies of the WTO to reduce its import controls.
(Trade liberalisation) 
5. Exchange control that allows central banks to ration foreign exchange. 

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 7 (TEACHER NOTES)

6. Currency depreciation/devaluation makes imports expensive (reduction) exports cheaper

for foreign countries.(increase exports) 
7. Increase in tax which reduces disposable income which decreases demand in imports. 
8. Reduction of reserves by SARB to correct deficits if we adopted a managed floating
exchange rate.  (Max 10)
Conclusion
The Balance of Payments will always play an important role in the economy of our country,
because it clearly shows the contribution of each component (account) and in case of a
deficit, which problem we will have to address.  (Max 2)
[50]

TOPIC 2: FOREIGN EXCHANGE MARKET

QUESTION 1: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2008)

• Fixed 
• Free floating / flexible 
• Managed floating / Controlled floating  (2 x 3) [6]

QUESTION 2: 4 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2009)


• Importing goods / purchasing of foreign goods
• Services from foreign countries to the country concerned e.g. shipping, insurance 
• Payment of interest and dividends on foreign capital 
• Transfer of capital to foreign countries/ Foreign investments / Placing a deposit with a
foreign bank 
• Foreign currency speculations by local residents 
• Tourists' / officials spending money in foreign countries 
• Payment of instalments on repayments of overseas loans 
• Primary income outflows 
• Purchase of ZAR by the SARB 
• Other payments to foreign countries (Any 3 x 2) [6]

QUESTION 3: 6 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)

3.1 Export prices X 100

Import prices
105  x 100 = 103,9  / 104 
101 (3)
b. Indicates that a country is poorer since greater volumes of exports to be produced
to afford the same value of imports / A decrease in export prices / an increase in
import prices  (2)
3.3 2005           (2)
3.4 The terms of trade increased from 2005 – 2010An increase in the terms of
trade indicates an improvement in the welfare of the country since fewer exports
are needed to buy the same amount of imports. 
Accept any other relevant facts. (Max 3) (3)
[10]

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 7 (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 4: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Feb-March 2009)

1. Natural resources - are not evenly distributed over the surface of the earth, therefore,
they can be traded with countries that lack such resources. 
e.g. South Africa is well endowed with natural resources such as gold, platinum,
diamond etc. 
2. Climate - many crops can only be cultivated in certain climatic conditions and in certain
types of soil 
e.g. Brazil is the largest producer of coffee in the world 
3. Labour resources - are not the same everywhere 
Some individuals have greater ability and aptitude for certain tasks
Some countries have developed and perfected a particular skill and aptitude for the
production of a certain commodity, therefore, their skills will be imported 
4. Technology / Capital - is not always easily obtained in every country 
Developed countries usually enjoy an advantage over underdeveloped countries 
Owing to lack of capital, countries cannot produce all products they wish to produce /
Underdeveloped countries import capital from developed countries 
5. Mass production / Specialisation - Because of specialisation countries take advantage of
economies of scale  and produce at a lower unit cost 
6. Cost differences / opportunity cost – Goods and services can be produced at a lower
cost in one country in relation to another 
The law of comparative cost states that nations will find it profitable to trade with other
countries when they have different alternative cost ratios
Countries tend to trade when it appears that the cost of the trade is less than the
benefits gained  (Any 4 x 4) [16]
QUESTION 5: 6 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov 2010)
5.1 At point e / e / at the point where DD intersects SS / at a price of R10 and a
quantity of 100  (2)
5.2 Increased 
Reasons:
• Increase in the number of South African's visiting USA
• South Africans buy more American financial assets. 
• Increased imports from the USA. 
• Increased exports to South Africa. 
• Services (shipping, insurance) from USA. 
• Payments of interest and dividend on foreign capital. 
• Payment of instalments on repayments of overseas loans. 
• Other payments to foreign countries, which take place from time to time. 
• Foreign currencies speculations 
• (Accept any other country using the dollar as currency) (Any 1 x 2) (4)
5.3 Depreciated/Decreased 
Motivation:
• Increased demand for dollars  OR
• Decreased demand for rand 
• More rand for dollars 
• More expensive to buy dollars 
• One dollar cost R12,00 instead of R10,00 (Any 1 x 2)(4) [10]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 7 (TEACHER NOTES)

SECTION C: HOMEWORK

TOPIC 1: BALANCE OF PAYMENTS

QUESTION 1: 14 minutes

Study the table below and answer the questions that follow:

Current account
Merchandise exports 380 950
Net gold exports 25 340
Service receipts 85 050
Income receipts 29 300
Less: Merchandise imports 420 600
Less: Payments for services 75 000
Less: Income payments 55 300
Current transfers (net receipts) -11 350
Balance on current account ?

1.1 Calculate the trade balance. (8)

1.2 Calculate the balance on the current account. 3)
1.3 What is the purpose of the balance of payments? (3)
1.4 What does SDR stand for? (3)
1.5 Name three items that are reflected under direct investments. (6)
[23]

QUESTION 2: 16 minutes (Source: Focus Study Guide)

2.1 Define the term ‗Balance of Payments Account‘. (8)

2.3 Explain what is meant by the term ‗trade balance‘. (6)
2.4 Explain the financial account. (8)
[26]

TOPIC 2: FOREIGN EXCHANGE MARKET

QUESTION 1: 5 minutes

Calculate the terms of trade for the following periods.

Year Index of export prices Index of import prices

2006 104 96
2007 103 98
(4 x 2) [8]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 7 (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 2: 9 minutes (Source: X-kit Economics)

Assume the following exchange rates are applicable:

Rands Dollars Yen Pounds Euros

R8 $1 ¥12 000 £0,5 €3

The following prices are quoted to you in South Africa:

 One motherboard costs $2 in the USA
 One motherboard costs £1,50 in the UK
 One motherboard costs ¥20 000 in Japan

From which country would South Africa import motherboards? Show all your calculations.
[14]

QUESTION 3: 10 minutes (Source: X-kit Economics)

Define the following:

3.1 Floating exchange rate (4)
3.2 Nominal rates of exchange (4)
3.3 Revaluation (4)
3.4 Depreciation (4)
[16]

SECTION D: SOLUTIONS TO HOMEWORK

TOPIC 1: BALANCE OF PAYMENTS

QUESTION 1: 14 minutes

1.1 Trade balance:

Merchandise exports 380 950 
Add Net gold exports 25 340 
Less Merchandise imports (420 600) 
-14 310  (8)
1.2 -41 610  (3)
1.3 The balance of payments is a record of all transactions between one country and
the rest of the world.  (3)
1.4 Special Drawing Rights  (3)
1.5 Assets, Liabilities and Net direct investments (6)
[23]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 7 (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 2: 16 minutes (Source: Focus Study Guide)

2.1 The balance of payments is a record of all transactions between one country
and the rest of the world.  (4)
2.2 The current account includes 3 main sets of transactions:
o trade in goods
o trade in services
o primary income flows
 Merchandise exports – includes the trade of all physical goods. 
 Net gold exports – only gold-producing countries
 Service receipts – various kinds of services. 
 Income receipts – income earned by SA residents in the rest of the world. 
 Merchandise imports, payments for services and income payments
 Current transfers – money, goods or services transferred without receiving
anything tangible.  (Any 2 x 4) (8)
2.3 Trade balance:
Merchandise exports
Add net gold exports
Less merchandise imports (6)
2.4 International transactions in assets and liabilities are recorded in the financial
account.  3 flows are included in the financial account:
o direct investment flows (e.g. establishment of new businesses) 
o portfolio investment flows (purchase of assets like shares or bonds) 
o hot money OR other investments (e.g. loans, currency, deposits)  (8)
[26]

TOPIC 2: FOREIGN EXCHANGE MARKET

QUESTION 1: 5 minutes

2006: Index of export prices x 100

Index of import prices
104 x 100 
96
= 108  (4)
2007: Index of export prices x 100
Index of import prices
103 x 100 
98
= 105  (4)
[8]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 7 (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 2: 9 minutes (Source: X-kit Economics)

USA:
$1 = R8 
$2 x R8 = R16 
UK:
£0,5 = R8
£1 = R16 
£1,50 x R16 = R24 
Japan:
¥12 000 = R8
R1 = ¥1 500 
¥20 000/¥1 500 = 13, 33
R13, 33 
South Africa will import from Japan  [14]

QUESTION 3: 10 minutes (Source: X-kit Economics)

Define the following:

3.1 The value of a currency under floating exchange rates can change continuously. 
It is determined by the forces of supply and demand on the foreign exchange
market.  (4)
3.2 These are rates given at a specific time,  for example $1 = R7,65 at 3 pm on
15 November 2000.  (4)
c. It is a measure enforced by the state to increase the exchange value of its
currency.  (4)
3.4 Depreciation
It is a decrease in the value of a currency because of supply and demand.  (4)
[16]

The SSIP is supported by

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 7 (self study) (TEACHER NOTES)

TOPIC 1: ECONOMIC INDICATORS

Teacher Note: Economic indicators indicate the way in which the economy is moving and is
broadcast doily on television and the radio.

SECTION A: TYPICAL EXAM QUESTIONS

QUESTION 1: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov.2009)

Discuss GDP and employment as economic indicators. [16]

QUESTION 2: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov.2010)

Discuss and assess the economic indicators as depicted on the following page, in
terms of the state of the South African economy. [50]

QUESTION 3: 12 minutes (Taken from DOE Exemplar 2008)

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3.1 What role does the person talking in the cartoon play in the South African economy?
(3)
3.2 Name any TWO institutions responsible for publishing statistics in South Africa. (4)
3.3 Why, in your opinion, was there a change in the way the economy is measured? (3)
3.4 Who is involved in the international standardisation of economic indicators? Name
any TWO organisations. (4)
3.5 State any TWO uses of real per capita GDP figures. (6)
[20]

QUESTION 4: 30 minutes (Taken from DOE Exemplar 2008)

Analyse the information in the table below and evaluate South Africa's growth and
development policies in terms of international best practice in a formal letter to the
Minister of Finance. [50]

QUESTION 5: 12 minutes (Taken from DOE Nov 2008)

5.1 Define the term economic indicator. (3)

5.2 Which economic indicator can be used by the South African Reserve Bank to curb
private consumption expenditure? (2)

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5.3 Name ONE institution in South Africa that publishes regular detailed data on some
of the most important economic indicators. (2)
5.4 From December 2002 to December 2006 a big difference between consumption
and production occurred. What impact did this phenomenon have on imports? (3)
5.5 The current account of the balance of payments shows a very strong resemblance
(mirror image) to private consumption expenditure (PCE). Give a reason for this. (3)
5.6 Which production-related economic indicator can be used to establish the
performance of the economy in terms of growth? State any TWO uses of this
indicator. (7)
[20]

SECTION B: SOLUTIONS AND HINTS TO SECTION A

TOPIC 1: ECONOMIC INDICATORS

QUESTION 1: 10 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov.2009)

GDP:
• GDP is total value of all final goods and services produced within the borders of a country in
one year 
• Measures total production of an economy 
• Formula: GDPt – GDPo X 100
GDPo 1 
• Increased GDP will cause economic growth 
• Gives an indication of:
- economic growth 
- relative importance of different sectors in economy 
- South Africa‘s economic growth in relation to growth of other countries 
- Real GDP measures growth performance of economy  / GDP adjusted with price
increases 
- Real GDP used in forecasting  real GDP used to describe business cycles 
- Per capita real GDP used to indicate economic development, indicate living
standards and compare living standards  (Max. 4 x 2)
Employment:
• Full employment refers to aim of providing everyone who is willing to work at current
wage rate with a job 
• Increase employment to decrease loss of production – produce more goods and
services 
• Unemployment is calculated by expressing number of people who are willing and
able to work, but do not have a job, as a percentage of the total number of people
that are willing and able to work (EAP) 
•Employment rate – calculated by expressing the number of employed people as a
percentage of the EAP  / labour force participation rate 
• Employment is important for the forecasting of trends – employment in the
various sectors 
• As well as the calculations of productivity / unemployment / employment rate 
• To ascertain economic successes  Max. (4 x 2) [16]

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QUESTION 2: 30 minutes (Taken from DoE Nov.2010)

INTRODUCTION
A statistic that shows the behaviour of one or other economic variable / Any suitable
introduction.  (Max. 3)
BODY
1. Real Gross Domestic Product (Production)
 Definition: The GDP is the total value of all final goods and services produced within
the borders of a country in one year. 
 The GDP measures the total production of an economy. 
 An increase in the Real GDP will cause economic growth, which is defined as the
annual rate of increase in total production. 
 Nominal GDP cannot be used because its magnitude is partly caused by price
increases and not by an increase in the physical numbers. 
 The real GDP is obtained when the effect of inflation is removed from the data. (GDP-
Deflator) 
 RGDP is used to describe business cycles. 
 An important use of the RGDP is, therefore, to express real aggregate economic
activity and to describe the movement of business cycles. 
 It is also used in forecasting, e.g. if the index of leading indicators starts to increase
after a continuous decrease, it is an indication that the cycle has turned. 
Assessment:
• The total value of production decreased with 4% over the period 2008/2009. 
• It is a clear that South Africa‘s economy was trapped into a recession. (negative growth for
two consecutive quarters) 
• As a result one will find the following:
- Increase in the unemployment rate/ layoffs 
- Increase number of bankruptcies / debt 
- Poor profit margins etc.  (Max. 5 X 2) (10)

2. Per Capita Real Gross Domestic product (Standard of living)

 If the population grows at a faster rate than the economy, everybody may be seen
worse off despite increases in the quantities of goods and services.  (For this
reason the per capita RGDP is calculated)
 Calculation: per capita RGDP = RGDP / population number 
 The per capita figures are used for three purposes:
- To indicate economic development 
- To indicate living standards 
- To compare living standards 
Assessment:
• As a result of the global and domestic recession, we find our self in the position where
many people have been laid off and are without income, 
• This will have a negatively impact on the GDP and also on the per capita RGDP. 
• That will indicate a drop in the standard of living and contributes to our growing poverty
problem.  (Max. 5 X 2) (10)

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3. Consumer Price Index (Price changes)

 Consumer price indexes show price changes of a representative basket of goods and
services that consumers buy. 
 The index covers metropolitan and other urban areas. 
 It is an overall index, and the weights are obtained from the expenditures of different
income categories of households. 
 It is the most comprehensive indicator measuring consumer inflation in
South Africa. 
 It shows changes in the general purchasing power of the rand. 
Assessment:
• The CPI decreases to within the inflation target of 3-6% over the period
• That means that inflation is, for the time being, under control because of strict monetary
measures by the SARB and
• The negative perception from consumers of the economy due to the global recession. 
(Max. 5 x 2) (10)
4. Repo rate (Monetary conditions)
 Interest rates are the main determinant of investment on a macroeconomic scale. 
 The key rate of interest, on which all other interest rates are founded, is the
repo rate. 
 Interest rates are very important indicators: if they move up, the debt of households
and businesses require bigger repayments. 
 This includes hire purchases and housing and other property loans. 
 It may be a signal that a downturn in the business cycle is pending. 
 Means that household incomes may fall as some workers lose their jobs. 
Assessment:
• Against the background of a slowing global and domestic economy and the improved
medium-term outlook for inflation, the MPC has decided to reduce the repurchase rate
(Repo Rate)  (Max. 5 x2) (10)
5. Gini Coefficient (Distribution of income)
 The Gini coefficient is calculated from the information provided by a Lorenz curve. 
 A Lorenz curve shows the distribution of income among proportions of the
population. 
 The Gini coefficient is, therefore, the ratio of the proportion of the population who live
on less than the proportional income. 
 The value of the Gini coefficient can vary between 0 and 1. 
 The higher the value the more unequal the distribution of income is. 
Assessment:
• Gini coefficients for countries with highly unequal distribution are typically between
0.50 and 0.70. It is, therefore, clear that South Africa can be classified as a country,
which is highly unequal.  (Max. 5 x 2) (10)
(Any 4 x 10) (40)
CONCLUSION
Any suitable conclusion        (Max. 2) [50]

QUESTION 3: 12 minutes (Taken from DOE Exemplar 2008 )

3.1 Minister of Finance  (3)
3.2 SARB 

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Department of Labour 
Stats SA
(Any other relevant institutions) (2 X 2) (4)
3.3 Relative performance of country can be measured (in comparison with
other countries) 
A complicated economy changes throughout – makes measurement changes
necessary 
Method of statistical calculation revised
(Any 1 x 3) (3)

3.4 IMF 
World Bank 
United Nations  (2 X 2) (4)
3.5 Indicate economic development 
Indicate living standards 
Used to compare living standards  (3 X 2) (6)
[20]

QUESTION 4: 30 minutes (Taken from DOE Exemplar 2008)

(The candidate should be able to give a little background on the growth and
development policies of South Africa as part of the first paragraph)
Since 1994, the South African government has pursued international mainstream economic
and development policies, making use of both demand-side and supply-side approaches. If
the outcomes of these policies are satisfactory, the approaches used in pursuing them would
also be satisfactory. 
The market approach could also be followed where, demand factors such as: consumer
spending, investment spending, government spending, exports and imports and 
supply factors such as: natural resources, labour, capital, technology and entrepreneurship
are being discussed.  Any 4 marks [4]
(In the following paragraphs the candidate should be able to describe the specific
policy and then evaluate it against international best practice)
Growth policies: (Any FOUR policies)
Economic growth: 
South Africa is a developing country; in terms of the World Bank, a lower-middle income
country. 
The average economic growth rate was 3.1 % per year between 1994 and 2005, in
comparison to an average of 1 % per year over the previous decade. 
After the implementation of GEAR (1996), the budget deficit reduced to less than 3 % of the
GDP; was accepted as benchmark. 
Inflation: 
Inflation decreased continuously from 9 % in 1994 to 3,4 % in 2005. 
The SARB dropped monetary targets and adopted inflation targets, initially in a 3%-6%
range. 
Interest rates, based on the repo rate, are the main instrument used in the stabilisation
policy. 
The consistently stable budget deficit also had a stabilising effect on the inflation rate. 

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Employment: 
Employment in the non-agricultural sector of the economy decreased. 
The GEAR strategy suggested that a climate was needed that was conducive to employment
creation by private sector. 
Labour productivity in the formal economy increased by 4.2 % per year over the 10 years
period until 2005. 
The unemployment rate Increased from 14 % in 1994 to 26.5 % in 2005, yet employment
increased – mainly because of informal sector activities. 

Exchange rate stability: 

The South African currency depreciated considerably between 1994 and 2002. Then from
2005 it appreciated. 
International reserves increased from 3 % of GDP in 1994 to 18.7 % in 2005. 
The SARB switched from managed floating to a free-floating exchange rate system. 
2 Marks – Heading 2 Marks – Discussion [16]

Development Policies: (Any FIVE policies)

Macroeconomic policies: 
The successful implementation of macroeconomic policies is as important for the rich as for
the poor. 
The per capita GDP increased from 1,6 % in 1998 to 3,5 % in 2005.- the standard of living of
the whole population improved. 
Redistribution through the tax system was also successful and has made possible a
substantial increase in the distribution of benefits in cash and kind; macro-economic policy
benefits, housing and service benefits. 
Microeconomic policies: 
Employment in the formal and informal sector increased by about 32 %. (3,6 % per year).
from 1996 to 2005, which was higher than the average real growth rate of 3,2 %.
Social Policies: 
Almost 34,1 % of the South African population is poor in terms of the international benchmark
poverty line income ($2 a day) 
Poverty reduction is, therefore, a serious policy matter for the government, with the result that
a number of policies focus on basic needs for the poor. 
Such as:
�Social security grants
�Benefits in kind
�Services
�Primary Health care
�Education
Redress: 
International organisations such as the UN, articulate the importance of the empowerment of
the indigenous peoples of developing countries. 
The South African government passed both empowerment and affirmative action acts and
introduced a range of other measures to ensure redress takes place. 
Black Economic Empowerment (BEE): 
The Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment Act, No.53 of 2003, provides the legal basis
for the transformation of the South African economy. 

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The speed and extent of empowerment and transformation were agreed upon in terms of so
called charters between government and various industries. 
The DTI published a scorecard that is used to measure progress of businesses and industries
which include some of the following elements: management and control 
employment equity  and social responsibility  (Any 1x2)

Land redistribution and restitution: 

The government aims to redistribute 30% of agricultural land to previous disadvantage
individuals and groups. 
By 2004 some 1,5 % of agricultural land had been redistributed. 
Some 61 % of claims for land restitution had been finalised. 
Affirmative action: 
Affirmative action rules are described in the Employment Equity Act, no 55 of 1998, 
and apply to employers with 50 or more employees or those with an annual income of,
e.g., R2 million in agriculture and R10 million in industry. 
2 Marks – Heading 2 Marks – Discussion [20]
TOTAL: 50

QUESTION 5: 12 minutes (Taken from DOE Nov 2008)

5.1 Economic indicator is a statistic (figure) that shows the behavior of one or other
economic variable / economic indicator is a statistic that measures some aspect
of the economy  Accept any other definition. (3)

5.2 Interest rates / repo rate / prime rate  (2)

5.3 Statistics SA/Stats SA 
South African Reserve Bank/SARB/central bank  (Any 1 x 2) (2)
5.4 An increase  (3)
5.5 Private consumption expenditure increases beyond the level of
GDP – the graphs mirror each other in this aspect because an excessive demand
for goods and services will lead to increased imports to meet that demand  (3)
Any other relevant explanation.
5.6 Real GDP  / GDP 
• used to describe business cycles 
• used in forecasting 
• indicate the importance of different sectors 
• to compare economic growth with different countries  Any (2 x 2 = 4) + 3 (7)
[20]

SECTION C: HOMEWORK

TOPIC 1: ECONOMIC INDICATORS

QUESTION 1: 17 minutes (Source: Economics For All)

1.1 List three economic indicators used to measure the performance of the economy.
(6)
1.2 Distinguish between real and nominal GDP. (6)

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1.3 Name 5 factors that have had a negative impact on South Africa‘s labour market.
(10)
1.4 Distinguish between CPI and CPIX. (6)
[28]

QUESTION 2: 15 minutes (Taken from The Answer Series)

2.1 Name THREE economic indicators. (6)

2.2 Discuss GDP and Full employment as economic indicators. (16)
[22]

SECTION D: SOLUTIONS TO HOMEWORK

TOPIC 2: ECONOMIC INDICATORS

QUESTION 1: 17 minutes (Source: Economics For All)

1.1 GDP
Monetary conditions
Inflation
Productivity
(Any 3 x 2) (6)

1.2 Nominal GDP includes inflation and Real GDP excludes inflation. (6)

1.3
a. Slow economic growth
b. A drop in the rate of capital formation
c. Oversupply of unskilled labour
d. Net emigration of skilled labour
e. Restructuring of the economy
f. Relatively high wages (as compared to inflation) 
g. Labour legislation
h. Influence of the unions
i. Labour unrest and strikes
(Any 5 x 2) (10)

1.4 CPI includes interest rates on mortgage bonds and CPIX excludes the
interest rates on mortgage bonds.  (6)
[28]

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QUESTION 2: 15 minutes (Taken from The Answer Series)

2.1 GDP
Full employment
Inflation rate
Foreign trade
Productivity
Monetary conditions
(Any 3 x 2) (6)

2.2 GDP (Gross Domestic Product)

 GDP: Total value of all final goods and services produced within the borders of a
country in one year.
 An increase in GDP will cause economic growth.
 GDP gives us an indication of:
o Economic growth
 High economic growth is one of the main economic objectives
of a country.
 An increase in GDP is not always an indication of economic
growth. It could be because of a rise in prices (inflation).
 Therefore, instead of working with GDP at current prices we
need to adjust GDP to constant prices (Real GDP).
 Calculate GDP per capita to calculate whether an increase in
economic welfare has occurred, i.e. if an increase in real GDP
has kept up with population growth. (4 x 2)
Full Employment
 The aim of providing everyone who is willing to work at the current wage rate
with a job.
 Unemployment rate = Number of unemployed X 100 
EAP
 Factors that have impacted negatively on the South African labour market:
o Slow economic growth
o A drop in the rate of capital formation
o Oversupply of unskilled labour
o Net emigration of skilled labour
o Restructuring of the economy
o Relatively high wages (as compared to inflation)
o Labour legislation
o Influence of the unions
o Labour unrest and strikes (4 x2)(16)
[22]

The SSIP is supported by

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SOCIAL INDICATORS
Teacher Note: The learners must understand that it is just as important to know the current
statistics for each of these indicators as it is to know them. They must, therefore, read
business newspapers and watch news.

SECTION A: TYPICAL EXAM QUESTIONS

Teacher Note: The learners must understand that it is just as important to know the current
statistics for each of these indicators as it is to know them. Learners must, therefore, read
business newspapers and watch news.

QUESTION 1: 12 minutes (Taken from DOE Feb-March 2009 )

Read the following and answer the questions.

ESKOM INSISTS ON 10% CUT FOR HOMES, OFFICES

Heavy consumers, especially mining groups, have expressed concern about the effects of
the power shortages on their operations, and warned of resulting job cuts. Eskom restricted
mines to 90% of their power need to stabilise the national grid as it teetered on the brink of
collapse. To avert a total blackout in January, mining groups ceased operations for five
days, sparking threats of job losses. Gold mines of 3 kilometres and deeper, use 60% of
their electricity for ventilation, cooling and pumping activities, meaning that only 40% is
used for production. A serious concern is the safety of workers in the mines. Restructuring
of mining activities can lead to a reduction of 7 000 job opportunities. Anglo Gold Ashanti,
the third largest gold producer in the world, expects a reduction in production of 7%.
According to Anglo Platinum, the largest platinum producer worldwide, structural changes
are needed over time to incorporate new equipment – the only long-term solution.
Threats are coming from different industrial groups. BHP Billiton was considering reducing
production by closing part of its smelter in Bayside, Richards Bay, a move that is expected
to cost hundreds of permanent and contract jobs. Further increases in the cost of electricity
seem inevitable. After talks with Eskom, the regulator has approved a 14,2% electricity
price increase. Industry alone should not have to bear brunt of shortages, the utility says.
Power utility Eskom could force residential and commercial users to cut their electricity
usage unless they voluntarily reduce consumption by 10%, Eskom CEO said yesterday.
[Adapted from: Business Day, 14 March 2008 and Sake-Rapport, 2 March 2008]

1.1 Which social indicator will mostly be affected by power outages? Explain. (4)
1.2 Which index will mostly be affected by the electricity price increase of 14,2 %? (3)
1.3 Why do gold mines experience a bigger problem in reducing their electricity
consumption by 10% compared to coal mines in South Africa? (3)
1.4 Why did BHP Billiton threaten to close part of their plant in Richards Bay? (3)
1.5 What is the main reason for Eskom's decision to target households and offices,
regarding electricity consumption? (3)
1.6 What impact does load shedding have on South Africa's economic growth and the
balance of payments? (4)
[20]

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QUESTION 2: 30 minutes (Taken from DOE Feb-March 2010)

''The aim of the Department of Social Development is to ensure the provision of

comprehensive, integrated, sustainable and quality social-development services, and to
create an enabling environment for sustainable development.'' [2006/07 SA Yearbook]

Analyse and discuss the South African key social performance indicators and their uses.
[50]

QUESTION 3: 6 minutes (Taken from DOE Nov 2010)

3.1 Define the term life expectancy. (3)

3.2 Which province has the highest life expectancy? (3)
3.3 Give TWO possible reasons for a low adult literacy rate. (4)
[10]

SECTION B: SOLUTIONS AND HINTS

QUESTION 1: 12 minutes (Taken from DOE Feb-March 2009 )

1.1 Services 
Eskom provides a service in the provision of electricity  (4)
1.2 Consumer Price index  (3)
1.3 Gold mines are deeper than coal mines; therefore they use a greater % of electricity
for ventilation cooling and pumping activities  (3)
1.4 Lack of structural changes which are needed to sustain production. 
OR Increased production costs. (3)
1.5 They are the largest consumers of electricity.  (3)
1.6 Economic growth will decline due to interrupted production.  Reduction in export
goods, e.g. gold, can lead to a deficit on the BoP  (4)
[20]

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QUESTION 2: 30 minutes (Taken from DOE Feb-March 2010)

Introduction
Social indicators are statistics that measure the level of social development and human
welfare within a country.  OR (Any other relevant definition.) (Max 3)
Body
• The level of a country's wealth and social development can be measured by means of the
Human Development Index (HDI)
• Income distribution of a country is generally measured by the Gini coefficient 
• If the coefficient is zero, then there is perfect income equality, and if it is one, it is an
indication of perfect income inequality 
• This inequality is related to unequal skills distribution and a high level of unemployment 

1. Infant mortality 
• Measured in terms of number of infants who die before reaching one year of age per
thousand live births in a given year. 
• In SA in 2002 it was 59 per thousand. 

2. Under-five mortality 
• Measured in terms of probability that a newborn baby will die before reaching the age of five
years if subject to present age-specific mortality rates. 
• Probability expressed as number per thousand – in SA 95 per thousand in 2002. 

3. Health expenditure
• Measured in terms of amount of public and private health expenditure on health care as
percentage of GDP. 
• In 2001 SA‘s expenditure was 8.6% compared to 10.8 in high income countries. 

4. Access to safe drinking water 

• Measured in terms of percentage of population that has reasonable access to safe drinking
water treated or uncontaminated. 
• In 2002 87% of SA population had access compared to 64% in Africa. 

5. Access to sanitation facilities 

• Measured in terms of percentage of population with at least adequate sanitation facilities
that can effectively prevent human, animal and insect contact. 
• In 2002, 67% of South African population had access to improved sanitation. 
 It is an important indicator for the well-being of infants and young children. 
 Two opposite nutrition conditions are relevant, i.e. child malnutrition and overweight
children – both important for children under five years of age. 
6. Child malnutrition 
• Expressed in 2 ways: weight for age (underweight) and height for age (stunting or
dwarfism). 
• Proportion of children underweight is most important indicator of malnutrition. 
• Important to monitor weight because being underweight increases the risk of death and
inhibits cognitive development in children. 

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ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 7 (self study) (TEACHER NOTES)

7. Overweight children 
• Growing concern – there exists an association between obesity in childhood and high
prevalence of diabetes, respiratory disease, high blood pressure and psychological and
orthopedic disorders. 
• Being overweight can lead to numerous adverse health conditions which affect people‘s
ability to work and take care of themselves.  (Max 12)
Education:
• A higher ratio of literacy, knowledge and skills among the population is necessary. 
• This can be achieved by means of effective and appropriate education and training. 
• This will ultimately lead to increased productivity, competitiveness, national wealth and a
higher standard of living per capita of the population. 
• Spending on education makes up the largest percentage of total government expenditure in
South Afric, and is clearly a priority. 
Housing and services:
• Housing: A significant proportion of South Africans are poor and cannot afford to buy
residential property. 
• The government facilitates home ownership by means of a subsidy system and loans from
the private sector. 
• Factors hindering housing delivering and home ownership in South Africa include: high
levels of unemployment and a very skew income distribution. 
• Services: The General Household Survey was developed to measure the level of
development and performance of various government programmes and projects. 
• One of the purposes of the GHS is to measure development indicators in the country ,
e.g. access to basic services such as piped water, electricity, refuse removal. 
• A number of services are vital to enhance people‘s lifestyles namely:
- Electricity – increased from 50% in 1995. 
- Refuse disposal – households in SA have access to refuse removal by local authorities
once a week. 
- Water supply – some 86% of households had access to clean water in 2004. 
- Sanitation – some 57.1% of households in SA had access to flush or chemical
facilities in 2004. 
Urbanisation:
• Can be described as a worldwide process of transformation whereby communities change
from a rural to an urban place of residence. 
• Urban areas are usually faster growing and are normal feature of economic
development. 
• More employment opportunities exists, higher wages and other perceptions of a better
life in the city. 
• Urbanisation points out to governments and developers that land has to be provided
for a variety of purposes and services.  (Max 40)
Conclusion
From the above discussion it is clear that social indicators play a significant role in South
Africa. It is, therefore, of the utmost importance that we should study their uses in depth. 
(2)
[50]

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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SENIOR SECONDARY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

ECONOMICS GRADE 12 SESSION 7 (self study) (TEACHER NOTES)

QUESTION 3: 6 minutes (Taken from DOE Nov 2010)

3.1 Life expectancy is the expected number of years a person would live  (3)
3.2 Western Cape  (3)
3.3 • Lack of education and training 
• Ignorance 
• Apartheid regime 
• Poverty trap 
Any other relevant reason. (4)
[10]

SECTION C: HOMEWORK

TOPIC 3: SOCIAL INDICATORS

QUESTION 1: 15 minutes (Taken from The Answer Series)
1.1 Name THREE social indicators. (6)
1.1 Discuss Education and Urbanisation as social indicators. (16)
[22]
SECTION D: SOLUTIONS TO HOMEWORK

QUESTION 1: 15 minutes (Taken from The Answer Series)

1.1 Demographics
Health and nutrition
Education 
HDI
Housing and services
Urbanisation
Income distribution
(Any 3 x 2) (6)
1.2 Education
 Adult literacy rate 
 School enrolment ratios
 Average number of years of schooling
 Public expenditure percentage
 Compared to other , South Africa‘s education expenditure percentage is high
(4 x 2)
Urbanisation
 Urbanisation: Increase in population numbers of cities and towns. 
 Happens because of:
o natural growth of population
o migration
o establishment of new towns
 Important indicator to highlight land allocation and availability of workers
(4 x 2)(16)
[22]

The SSIP is supported by

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