Materials

• Economic systems chart (Attachment A)
• Economic freedoms chart (Attachment B)
• Internet access

Instructional Activities

NOTE: The following Web sites will be helpful in the study of the economies of China, Vietnam, and Japan:

• <http://www.asianinfo.org/asianinfo/china/pro-economy.htm>
• <https://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/index.html>
• <http://www-1.gsb.columbia.edu/japan/>

1. Review the content from the previous session.
   
   
2. Explain that there are three basic economic systems. Emphasize that the amount of government involvement in the economy determines a country’s economic system.
   
   
3. Refer students to the chart in Attachment A.
   
   
4. Review the chart with the students. Provide examples of each type of economic system based on research conducted on the economies of China, Vietnam, and Japan, or arrange for students to research the economies of these countries and prepare a report for the class. Discuss the impact competition has in each of these types of economies. Remind students that competition often contributes to better quality products. Ask students to suggest reasons for this.
   
   
5. Distribute the economic freedoms chart found in Attachment B, and instruct students to complete it. Provide access to research materials or make this a long-term assignment.
   
   
6. Assign a teacher-selected reading, worksheet, or other reinforcement activity.