PREPARATORY EXAMINATION
2025
MARKING GUIDELINES
ECONOMICS (PAPER 1) (10731)
23 pages
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Economics Grade 12 Paper 1 Gauteng Mock 2025 Memo (English)
Grade 12 Economics Paper 1 memorandum from the Gauteng Mock Exam 2025 (English), 24 pages. Read online or download the free PDF.
Economics · Grade 12 · Gauteng Mock Exam · 2025 · English. Memorandum, 24 pages. Read online or download the PDF.
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- 2025
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- Gauteng Mock Exam
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SECTION A (COMPULSORY)
QUESTION 1
1.1 MULTIPLE-CHOICE QUESTIONS
1.1.1 B (To avoid double counting.)
1.1.2 B (Upswing)
1.1.3 A (Regressive tax)
1.1.4 C (portfolio)
1.1.5 A (child malnutrition)
1.1.6 C (A desirable mix)
1.1.7 D (economic union)
1.1.8 B (Services to Business Process) (16)
1.2 MATCHING ITEMS
1.2.1 E characterised by too much paperwork and rules
1.2.2 I the key means of measuring a country’s economic and social
development
1.2.3 A encourages banks to act in a desirable manner
1.2.4 B spending by firms on capital goods
1.2.5 F restricts the flow of foreign currency
1.2.6 C aims to promote equal opportunities for all
1.2.7 D expanding the manufacturing sector of an economy
1.2.8 G the removal or reduction of trade restrictions on trade between
countries (8)
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1.3 GIVE THE TERM
1.3.1 Gross National income/National income/Net National income
1.3.2 Rent seeking
1.3.3 Disinvestment
1.3.4 Corridor/Growth Corridor
1.3.5 Industrial Policy Action Plan / Nasional industrial policy framework /
Industrial development policy
1.3.6 Demographics Demography (6 x 1) (6)
TOTAL SECTION A: 30
SECTION B
Answer TWO of the three questions in this section in the ANSWER BOOK.
QUESTION 2: MACROECONOMICS
2.1 Answer the following questions.
2.1.1 Name TWO types of business cycles. (2 x 1)
• Kitchin cycle
• Juglar cycle
• Kuznets cycle
• Kondratieff cycle
(2 x 1) (2)
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2.1.2 Why would a decrease in South African exports cause the value of the
rand to decrease?
• A decline in South African exports results in lower earnings in foreign
currencies, which reduces the demand for the Rand as exporters
convert less foreign income into the local currency.
• When exports decline, foreign buyers purchase fewer South African
goods, leading to a lower demand for the Rand in the foreign exchange
market.
• A drop in exports negatively impacts the trade balance, leading to a
deficit if imports remain high. A trade deficit puts downward pressure on
the currency.
• A decline in exports can signal economic weakness, causing investors
to withdraw capital or hesitate to invest in South Africa. This reduced
capital inflow leads to a depreciation of the Rand.
• Lower exports worsen the trade balance, increasing the current account
deficit, which puts downwards pressure on the Rand’s value.
(Accept any other correct relevant response.) (1 x 2) (2)
2.2 DATA RESPONSE
2.2.1 Identify the participant who owns the factors of production in the
model?
Households (1)
2.2.2 Name one real flow item that moves from households to firms in the
model.
• Factors of production (1)
2.2.3 Briefly describe the term induced consumption.
Induced consumption is the part of spending on goods and services that
changes with income levels.
(Accept any other correct relevant response.) (2)
2.2.4 How does an increase in government spending create a multiplier
effect in the economy?
• The additional spending will create multiplier effect because it circulates
multiple times through the economy.
• An increase in government spending injects more money into the
economy, boosting demand for goods and services which stimulate
economic activities.
• The increase in income from government spending encourages more
spending which expands the size of the multiplier.
(Accept any other correct relevant response.) (2)
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2.2.5 Explain how higher taxes on households will impact total spending in
the economy?
• An increase in taxation decreases individual disposable income, leaving
them with less money for spending on goods and services.
• A decrease in disposable income results in reduced consumer
spending, which is a key component of aggregate demand.
• Indirect tax increases the price of goods and will reduce demand.
(Accept any other correct relevant response) (2 x 2) (4)
2.3 DATA RESPONSE
2.3.1 Identify one debit item in the current account of the Balance of
Payments
• Merchandise imports
• Imports of goods
• Imports of services
(also includes credit items)
(Accept any other correct relevant response) (1)
2.3.2 Name the current account item that records donations.
Current transfers (1)
2.3.3 Briefly describe the term Direct Investment.
An investment in fixed property or the acquisition of a significant 10% or
more shares in a business.
(Accept any other correct relevant response.) (2)
2.3.4 How can a current account surplus benefit to the South African
economy?
• It indicates that a country is exporting more that it is importing,
contributing to a positive trade balance.
• A current account surplus results in higher foreign exchange earnings,
boosting the country’s foreign reserves and enhancing financial
stability.
• When a country is exporting more, it can be interpreted as a sign of high
productivity.
(Accept any other correct relevant response.) (2)
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2.3.5 Explain the impact of changes in the trade balance on the current
account balance.
• When a country exports more goods than it imports, it experiences a
trade surplus, which positively impacts the current account.
• Conversely, if imports exceed exports, the country faces a trade deficit,
negatively affecting the current account.
(Accept any other correct relevant response.) (2 x 2) (4)
2.4 Briefly discuss the necessity of the public sector in the economy.
• The government provides subsidies to encourage the production and
consumption of merit goods such as education and healthcare, as they offer
social benefits.
• To conserve resources, government must intervene to protect the environment
if the environment is exposed to insensitive and even careless use it may be
damaged. E.g. the oceans for fishing, the air we breathe, natural
scenery.
• To conserve resources, the government intervenes to protect the environment
from careless and harmful use, preventing damage to natural resources such as
oceans, air, and scenic landscapes.
• The public sector promotes policies that ensure equal opportunities for all
members of society.
• Community goods, such as streetlights, are provided free of charge, ensuring
that everyone benefits and no individual is excluded.
• The government imposes taxes to discourage the production and consumption
of demerit goods like cigarettes, as they are harmful to society.
• It is the responsibility of the government to manage the collective interests of its
citizens.
• The public sector supports infrastructure development, including roads, schools,
and hospitals, which contribute to economic growth.
• By implementing relevant policies, the public sector helps stabilise the
economy.
(Accept any other correct relevant response)
(Allocate a maximum of 4 marks for mere listing of facts) (4 x 2) (8)
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2.5 What are the economic consequences of rising import prices for South
African consumers?
• Increased import prices lead to higher prices for goods and services, especially
for essential imported items like fuel, food, and electronics.
• Consumers can afford fewer goods and services as their income does not
stretch as far due to rising prices.
• Higher import prices contribute to overall inflation, increasing the cost of
necessities and reducing affordability.
• Lower demand for Imported goods – consumers may shift towards locally
produced alternatives if imported products become too expensive.
• The South African Reserve Bank may increase interest rates to control inflation,
making credit and loans more expensive for consumers.
• Low-income households are more affected by rising import prices as they spend
a larger portion of their income on necessities.
(Accept any other correct relevant response)
(Allocate a maximum of 2 marks for the mere listing of facts/examples) (4 x 2) (8)
[40]
QUESTION 3: ECONOMIC PURSUITS 40 MARKS – 30 MINUTES
3.1 Answer the following questions.
3.1.1 Name any TWO fiscal policy instruments to promote growth.
• Progressive personal income tax
• Wealth taxes
• Cash benefits
• Natural benefits
• Land redistribution
• Land restitution
• Property subsidies
(Accept any other correct relevant response) (2 x 1) (2)
3.1.2 How does the WTO influence tariffs and taxes on imported goods?
• The WTO influences tariffs and taxes on imported goods primarily by
setting the rules for global trade and providing a forum for countries to
negotiate lower trade balances.
• The WTO promotes trade liberalisation by encouraging the removal of
restrictions that limits the free flow of goods and services between
member countries.
(Accept any other correct relevant response) (1 x 2) (2)
3.2 DATA RESPONSE
3.2.1 Identify the main action plan of the NDP from the information above.
The Medium-Term Strategic Framework (1)
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3.2.2 Which government body is responsible for the NDP?
The National Planning Commission (1)
3.2.3 Briefly describe the term Gini-coefficient.
The Gini coefficient is a statistical measure of income or wealth inequality
within a population, ranging from 0 (perfect equality) to 1 (maximum
inequality)
(Accept any other correct relevant response) (2)
3.2.4 Explain the aim of the NDP.
• The aim of the National Development Plan is to ensure a decent
standard of living in for all by 2030.
• The aim of the National Development Plan (NDP) in South Africa is to
eliminate poverty and reduce inequality by 2030 through sustainable
economic growth, job creation, and social development.
(Accept any other correct relevant response) (1 x 2) (2)
3.2.5 How can the National Development Plan (NDP) reduce poverty in
South Africa?
• Promoting business investment and expansion can create more job
opportunities, allowing people to earn an income.
• Ensuring quality education and job training equips individuals with skills
for better employment prospects and higher wages.
• Government assistance through grants and financial aid helps alleviate
poverty by reducing hunger and hardship.
• Developing infrastructure such as roads, housing, hospitals, and clean
water improves living conditions and generates employment
opportunities.
• The NDP promotes economic growth and supports industries that create
employment, helping people earn a sustainable income.
• Investing in quality education and vocational training equips individuals
with skills for better job opportunities and higher wages.
• Expanding infrastructure such as roads, housing, and public transport
improves access to jobs, markets, and essential services, boosting
economic participation.
• Strengthening social security systems, such as child support and old-
age grants, helps reduce poverty and improve living standards.
• Providing funding, training, and resources to small businesses fosters
economic growth and self-employment.
• Promoting land redistribution and supporting small-scale farmers can
enhance food security and create rural employment.
(Accept any other correct relevant response) (2 x 2) (4)
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3.3 DATA RESPONSE
3.3.1 Identify the province where the Coega is located, from the extract
above.
Eastern Cape province (1)
3.3.2 Name one other SEZ other than Coega.
Richards Bay SEZ
East London SEZ
Saldanha Bay SEZ
DUBE TRADEPORT SEZ.
Maluti-A-Phofung SEZ.
OR Tambo SEZ.
Musina/Makhado SEZ
Atlantis SEZ
Nkomazi SEZ
The Tshwane Automotive SEZ
(Accept any other relevant correct response) (1)
3.3.3 Briefly describe the term special economic zone.
A Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is a geographically demarcated area
where specific economic activities have been identified to be
developed.
(Accept any other correct relevant response) (2)
3.3.4 Explain ONE advantage of the Coega SEZ for a business such as
Trucks SA.
• Coega provides modern and well-maintained infrastructure, including
reliable utilities, advanced telecommunications, and efficient road and
rail networks. This robust infrastructure supports seamless business
operations.
• Its proximity to the deep-water Port of Ngqura and the port of Port
Elizabeth offers excellent access to international shipping routes. This
facilitates efficient import and export activities
• Companies operating within the Coega SEZ can benefit from various
government incentives, including tax breaks and customs duty relief,
which significantly reduce operational costs.
• Having Customs Controlled Area’s within the Coega SEZ allows for duty
and VAT suspension, which is very advantageous for import and export-
oriented companies.
• Coega offers a range of support services, streamlining administrative
processes and assisting companies with various aspects of their
operations, from regulatory compliance to labour management.
(Accept any other correct relevant response) (1 x 2) (2)
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3.3.5 How does foreign direct investment (FDI) from FAW Trucks SA
contribute to South Africa’s economic growth?
• FDI leads to the establishment of businesses and industries, creating
employment opportunities for South Africans.
• Foreign investors bring in financial resources that help expand
infrastructure, industries, and businesses, boosting economic
productivity.
• FDI introduces advanced technologies, skills, and innovation,
improving local industries' efficiency and competitiveness.
• Multinational companies often produce goods for export, increasing
South Africa’s trade revenues and strengthening the balance of
payments.
• FDI contributes to infrastructure projects such as roads, ports, and
energy supply, which support economic growth.
• Foreign companies provide training and development programs,
enhancing the skills of the local workforce.
• Businesses established through FDI pay corporate taxes, which the
government can use to fund public services and development
projects.
• Strong FDI inflows signal economic stability and attract further
investments, fostering long-term growth.
(Accept any other correct relevant response.) (2 x 2) (4)
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3.4 Briefly discuss the following supply side policies, business efficiency and
reducing the cost of doing business.
Business efficiency:
• Rigid labour laws and regulations applying to businesses should be relaxed so
that more people can be employed, and entrepreneurs will be encouraged to
start businesses.
• Taxes: both corporate and personal income taxes have been reduced over the
past years. The effect of bracket creeping on personal income tax has been
attended to.
• Capital: depreciation of capital goods used by the businesses has been
revised to encourage investment. Government through DTIC and the IDC also
provides capital and loans to SMMES and bigger businesses.
• Human resources. Education receives proportionally, the biggest slice of
budget expenditure. SETAs were established to facilitate post-school, work-
related training.
• Free-advisory services. These services include the development of export
markets, the management and running of SMMES, agricultural production and
weather forecasts. Max. 4
Cost of doing business:
• The availability, reliability and cost of infrastructure services play an important
role in the financial viability and profitability of businesses.
• Transport costs: transport costs within South Africa, and between South
Africa and its export destinations are expensive due to the long distances
involved. Government has committed itself to improving the efficiency and
reliability of its rail transport services and to making it more affordable.
• Communication cost: cable communication in South Africa is among the most
expensive in the world but reasonably efficient.
• Energy costs: Government announced substantial investments in new
electricity capacity recently. Max. 4
(Accept any other relevant correct response)
(Allocate a maximum of 4 marks for mere listing of facts/examples) (2 x 4) (8)
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3.5 How can developing economies use import substitution to stimulate
economic growth?
• Developing countries can use tariffs, quotas, and subsidies to protect emerging
domestic industries from competition with established foreign producers. This
allows these "infant industries" to grow and mature.
• Import substitution encourages the development of domestic manufacturing
capabilities, reducing reliance on imported goods. This can lead to increased
employment and industrial growth.
• By reducing imports, developing countries can conserve valuable foreign
exchange reserves, which can then be used to invest in other areas of the
economy.
• Import substitution can create a larger domestic market for locally produced
goods, stimulating demand and further driving economic growth.
• The growth of domestic industries can create backward linkages (demand for
inputs from other domestic industries) and forward linkages (supply of inputs to
other domestic industries), fostering broader economic development.
• Import substitution can increase a nation’s self-sufficiency, making it less
vulnerable to international market fluctuations.
• The government can provide subsidies to key industries, to reduce the cost of
production, and therefore make the domestic products more competitive.
• Tariffs on imported goods, and increased taxation on other items, can generate
funds that are then able to be used to subsidise the growth of domestic
industry.
• Developing economies can prioritise the production of essential goods, such as
food, clothing, and basic manufactured products, to meet the needs of their
populations.
(Accept any other correct relevant answers)
(Allocate a maximum of 2 marks for the mere listing of facts/examples)
(4 x 2) (8)
[40]
QUESTION 4: MACROECONOMICS AND ECONOMIC PURSUITS
4.1 Answer the following questions.
4.1.1 Name TWO features of public sector failure.
• Ineffectiveness
• Inefficiency
(2 x 1) (2)
4.1.2 How do export subsidies impact government expenditure?
Export subsidies increase government spending. It involves the
government directly spending its revenue on providing finance to
businesses which increases government spending.
(Accept any other correct relevant response) (1 x 2) (2)
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4.2 DATA RESPONSE
4.2.1 Identify the trade law that gives South African producers favourable
access to markets in the United States (US) from the table above.
AGOA (African Growth and Opportunity Act) (1)
4.2.2 Name one other country, besides South Africa, that is a member of
SACU.
Botswana
Eswatini (Swaziland)
Lesotho
Namibia (1)
4.2.3 Briefly describe the term trade protocol.
A trade protocol is an agreement between countries that sets rules and
guidelines for international trade.
(Accept any other correct relevant response)
(2)
4.2.4 Explain how trade liberalisation influences the volume of trade
between countries.
• Trade liberalisation increases the volume of trade between countries
by reducing or eliminating barriers such as tariffs, quotas, and import
restrictions, making it easier and more cost-effective for countries to
exchange goods and services.
(Accept any other correct relevant response) (2)
4.2.5 What are the potential benefits of AfCFTA membership for South
African businesses?
• It allows South African businesses to trade more easily with other
African countries, increasing exports and economic influence through
the removal tariffs.
• The agreement lowers tariffs and simplifies trade regulations, making
South Africa a key gateway for goods and services.
• Improved trade routes and transport networks position South Africa as
a major hub for regional and international trade.
• With easier access to raw materials and markets, South Africa can
strengthen its manufacturing sector and supply chains.
• As a financial powerhouse, South Africa can expand its banking,
insurance, and trade financing services across the continent.
(Accept any other relevant correct response) (2 x 2) (4)
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4.3 DATA RESPONSE
4.3.1 Identify the main source of tax revenue for the national government
from the chart above.
Personal income tax (1)
4.3.2 Name the tax system that South Africa uses for personal income tax.
South Africa uses a progressive tax structure for personal income tax. (1)
4.3.3 Briefly describe the term budget.
It refers to a document that details the expected revenue and projected
expenditure.
(Accept any other correct relevant response) (2)
4.3.4 Explain the importance of excise duties on products like alcohol and
tobacco.
• To discourage the consumption of these goods and services.
• To discourage producers from producing them.
• To increase state revenue.
(Accept any other correct relevant response) (2)
4.3.5 How does government taxation impact consumer spending?
• Higher taxes reduce the amount of income consumers have available
to spend.
• As disposable income decreases, households may cut back on
spending, leading to lower demand for goods and services.
• Consumers may prioritise essential goods over luxury items when
taxes are high, affecting different sectors of the economy
differently.
• High taxation can slow economic activity by reducing spending, while
tax cuts can stimulate demand and boost growth.
(Accept any other correct relevant response) (2 x 2) (4)
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4.4 Differentiate between economic growth and economic development.
Economic growth
• Refers to an increase in the productive capacity of the economy to produce
more goods and services over time.
• Economic growth is measured by means of a percentage change in real Gross
Domestic Product.
• It focuses on production and consumption of goods and services. Max 4
Economic development
• Economic development refers to an improvement in the standard of living of
population overtime.
• Economic development is measured in terms of the per capita Real GDP.
• The Human Development Index is a commonly used tool for measuring
economic development.
• Economic development focuses on increasing citizens’ freedom of choice by
providing them with opportunities which will ultimately improve their
welfare. Max 4.
(Accept any other correct relevant response) (2 x 4) (8)
4.5 How does the System of National Accounts help governments make
economic policy decisions?
• It provides data on GDP, national income, and expenditure, helping
governments assess economic growth and stability.
• The SNA allows us to see how an economy performs year to year and make
internationally comparisons.
• Policymakers use SNA data to adjust taxation, government spending, and
interest rates to manage inflation, unemployment, and economic growth.
• The SNA identifies which industries contribute most to the economy, allowing
targeted policies for growth and development.
• It helps governments analyse income inequality and implement policies to
reduce poverty and promote social welfare.
• The standardised system allows governments to compare their economy with
others, shaping trade, investment, and global policy decisions.
• It includes environmental and social factors, helping policymakers design
strategies for sustainable economic development.
(Accept any other correct relevant response.)
(A maximum of 2 marks may be allocated for the mere listing of facts/
examples) (4 x 2) (8)
[40]
TOTAL SECTION B: 80
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SECTION C
Answer ONE of the two questions in this section in the ANSWER BOOK.
Your answer will be assessed as follows:
MARK
STRUCTURE OF ESSAY
ALLOCATION
Introduction
The introduction is a lower-order response.
• A good starting point would be to define the main concept related to
the question topic.
Max. 2
• Do NOT include any part of the question in your introduction.
• Do NOT repeat any part of the introduction in the body.
• Avoid mentioning in the introduction what you are going to discuss in
the body.
Body
Main part: Discuss in detail/In-depth discussion/Examine/Critically
discuss/Analyse/Compare/Evaluate/Distinguish/Differentiate/Explain/Draw
Max. 26
a graph and explain/Use the graph given and explain/Complete the given
graph/Assess/Debate
A maximum of 8 marks may be allocated for headings/examples.
Additional part: Critically discuss/Evaluate/Critically evaluate/Debate/
Deduce Compare/Distinguish/Interpret/How?/Suggest Max. 10
A maximum of 2 marks may be allocated for mere listing of facts.
Conclusion
Any higher-order conclusion should include:
• A brief summary of what has been discussed without repeating facts
already mentioned
Max. 2
• Any opinion or value judgement on the facts discussed
• Additional support information to strengthen the discussion/analysis
• A contradictory viewpoint with motivation, if required
• Recommendations
TOTAL 40
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QUESTION 5: MACROECONOMICS
• Discuss in detail the features underpinning forecasting. (26 marks)
• How can monetary policies be used to smooth-out fluctuations business
cycles? (10 marks)
INTRODUCTION
• Accurate forecasting helps businesses, investors, and policymakers make informed
decisions by anticipating economic trends.
• Various methods, such as economic indicators, statistical models, and historical
data analysis, are used to predict future business cycles and manage economic
risks effectively.
(Accept any other relevant introduction) (Max. 2)
Extrapolation
• Past data used, where predictions are made about future based on assumptions
related to trends.
• Extrapolation means estimating something unknown from the facts and
information that is known.
• Extending a trend into the future may provide information on what is likely to
happen.
• If a business cycle has passed through a trough and entered a boom phase,
forecasters may predict that the economy will grow in the months to follow.
• Extrapolation techniques are sometimes used to predict future share prices.
Amplitude
• It is the difference between the value of total output between the peak and through
measured from the trend line to the peak and through.
• Amplitude reflects the intensity of the upswing and downswing in economic
activity.
• The amplitudes show the underlying power forces, e.g., interest rate.
• The larger the amplitude during an upswing signifies strong underlying forces,
which results in longer cycles.
Trend line
• The trend line indicates the general direction in which the indexes that were used
in the business cycles moves.
• When the economy is growing, there is an upwards trend but when the economy
is decreasing, there is a downwards trend.
• The trend line will change when the time series change their behaviour patterns
of the past.
• Resistance points indicate forces in the economy preventing it from repeating the
performance.
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Length
• Length is measured from peak to peak or from trough to trough.
• Longer cycles show strength and shorter cycles shows weakness regarding
economic activities.
• Cycles may overshoot with the effect that some composite indicators increase to
beyond its normal.
Moving averages
• Moving averages are used to analyse the change in series of data over a certain
period.
• To eliminate the effect of sharp fluctuations in the business cycle, economists use
moving averages to smooth out the business cycle.
Leading indicator
• Leading indicators give consumers, business and the state a glimpse of the direction
in which the economy is heading.
• When these indicators rise, the level of economic activities will also rise a few
months later.
• Examples of leading indicator are job advertisement vacancies.
Co-incident indicator
• Coincident indicators move at the same time as the economy.
• They indicate the actual state in the economy.
• Examples of these indicators include the value of sales.
Lagging indicator
• Lagging indicators change direction after the economy has changed.
• Example of lagging indicator include hours worked in a construction.
Composite indicator
• A composite indicator is formed when different indicators of the same type are
compiled into a single index.
• The single figure forms a norm for a country’s economic performance.
(Allocate a maximum of 8 marks for mere listing of facts/examples) (Max. 26)
ADDITIONAL PART
• In response of economic boom, the reserve bank can increase interest rate to restrict
the economy through loans.
• Open market transactions: By buying government securities, the central bank injects
money into the economy, encouraging growth. Selling securities does the opposite,
helping to slow inflation.
• In response to economic recession the reserve bank can lower interest rate to
encourage borrowing.
• The reserve bank can influence the supply of money by changing the compulsory
percentage of deposits that banks must keep as reserve therefore increasing or
limiting the supply of money. /Cash reserve requirements: Reducing reserve
requirements allows banks to lend more, increasing money supply in tough times.
Raising them restricts lending when the economy risks overheating.
• The reserve bank can use a free floating or managed exchange rate to allow market
forces to intervene in the value of the currency.
• A central bank might appeal to commercial banks to limit lending during times of
inflation instead of immediately raising interest rates.
(Accept any other correct higher order, relevant response)
(A maximum of 2 marks may be allocated for the mere listing of facts/examples)
(Max. 10)
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CONCLUSION
Policy makers should closely watch all these indicators because external factors
are very significant for South African business cycle.
(Accept any other correct higher order, relevant conclusion) (Max. 2) [40]
QUESTION 6: ECONOMIC PURSUITS
• Discuss the economic indicators in detail. (26 marks)
• What can governments do to reduce the pressure of high population growth on
social services? (10 marks)
INTRODUCTION
Governments use different statistical data to predict economic trends and formulate
suitable developmental strategies to influence the direction that the economy should
take.
(Accept any other relevant introduction) (Max. 2)
MAIN PART
Inflation rate
Inflation may be defined as a significant and continual rise in the general price level of
goods and services over a given time, with the result that the purchasing power of money
will decrease.
Consumer price index (CPI)
This is an indicator that measures the change in the cost of a fixed basket of goods and
services that an average household will purchase.
• It shows changes in the general purchases of a currency (e.g. rand)
• It is also used for inflation targeting
• Pertains to cost of living
• Capital and intermediate goods are excluded
• Prices include VAT
• Interest rates are considered
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Producer Price Index (PPI)
This is the indicator of changes in the price of manufactured goods as they leave the
factories and imported goods as they enter the country.
• It includes capital and intermediate goods, but not services
• Prices exclude VAT
• Interest rates are excluded
• It measures the cost of production and not the cost of living
• It also serves as an indicator to predict consumer inflation (CPI)
The formula to determine inflation:
• (CPI year 2-CPI year 1)/ (CPI year 1) x 100/1
• South Africa experienced double digit inflation for many years until the government, and
the South African Reserve Bank introduced the inflation target of 3% – 6%.
Employment indicators
• It is not so easy to measure employment as there are a lot of people employed in the
informal sector; they are not registered or recorded.
The economically active population (EAP)
• The economically active population figures are used (this was done in grade 11) All the
people willing and able to work between 15 and 64 in a country and includes:
o Workers in the formal sector
o Workers in the informal sector
o Employers award a maximum of 1 mark for all
o Self-employed persons
Unemployed persons
Employment
• Refers to the number of employed persons expressed as a percentage of the EAP
gives the employment rate.
• Employment indicators are important because:
• They calculate trends in employment in different sectors or industries – shows
structural changes.
• Show the success of the economy in utilising its full potential
• Full employment or high levels of employment is an indicator of a strong economy
with high levels of growth and development
• High levels of unemployment are normally a sign of deep-seated problems in an
economy
• lack of domestic and foreign direct investment, low levels of labour productivity and
rigid labour laws or high levels of poverty
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Unemployment
• Unemployed are all the EAP, they were actively looking for work 7 days prior to the
investigation and can start work 7 days after the investigation.
• The unemployment rate is expressed as the percentage of unemployed persons out of
the total number of people willing and able to work, in other words the labour force
• Stats SA obtains labour data from the Quarterly Labour Force Surveys to calculate
unemployment
There are various methods of calculating the number of unemployed:
• Census – questionnaires are distributed to respondents and included in the
questionnaires are questions relating to the work status of people
• Surveys - Every year Statistics South Africa undertakes a workforce survey to calculate
the unemployment rate
• Registration - The unemployed can register with the Department of Labour - registered
unemployed persons may receive payments from the unemployment insurance fund
and registration is the most accurate method of calculating the unemployment rate
because not all unemployed persons are registered
Foreign trade indicators
Terms of trade
• The Terms of Trade looks at the relationship between the price received for exports and
the number of imports we can buy with that money.
• Terms of Trade = Average Price of Export/by average price of imports X 100/1
• Changes in the terms of trade serve as an indicator of changes that may likely spill over
into the balance of payment account, and a deficit may follow this will lead to a
depreciation in the currency.
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Exchange rates
• Exchange rate is the rate at which one currency can be exchanged for another
currency.
• Exports and imports are strongly influenced by the exchange rate of the domestic
currency.
Productivity indicators
• Productivity measures the relationship between input and outputs
• The more outputs one can produce for the same or less inputs the more productive one
will be.
• Productivity is linked to cost – the more productive you are the lower costs are.
• Example, if one labourer can produce more than another labourer the cost of labour will
be reduced
• Productivity will increase the Real GDP per Capita. This will increase economic
growth.
Production indicators
• An economy’s productive capacity is the maximum output that can be produced with
existing resources in each period.
• GDP can be measured in terms of Nominal GDP, Real GDP and Per Capita GDP.
Nominal GDP
• Refers to the GDP where the effects of inflation have not been considered therefore,
Nominal values are not adjusted for inflation.
• Nominal values with therefore appear higher than Real GDP values because
inflation has not been accounted for.
Real GDP
• Refers to the GDP where the effects of inflation have been considered.
• The growth and performance of an economy is measured in terms of the real GDP
figures.
• An increase in Real GDP will cause economic growth resulting in a decrease in
unemployment, establishment of more businesses and higher profit margins.
Per Capita GDP
• Is measured by dividing the real GDP by the total population of a country.
• Per capita GDP is used for the following purposes: to indicate the standard of living,
compare the standard of living and to indicate economic development.
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Labour productivity
• A simple formula to measure labour productivity is to divide real GDP by the number of
workers employed.
Remuneration per worker
• If labour productivity increases by less than real wages, inflationary pressures will occur,
and the business cycle may turn unfavourable.
• The relationship between productivity and wages is important for the following reasons:
• Employers relate it to profits
• Workers relate it to improvements in the standard of living
Interest rates
• Interest as the main instrument in the monetary policy play a key role in the economy
and would therefore be vitally important in measuring economic growth
Repo rate
• Repo rate is the rate at which the SARB lends money to commercial banks.
Prime Rate
• The rate at which commercial banks lend money to households and business.
• If interest rates move upward, the debt of households and business require bigger
repayment instalments.
• This may indicate that the business cycle could be heading for a downward cycle,
businesses might have to cut down production, unemployment may increase, and
economic growth will decline.
Money supply
• The money supply indicates the money in circulation in the economy and how fast it
moves from one person to another as this indicates high or low inflation.
• Money supply is divided in three categories:
• M1: This includes coins and notes.
• M2: Includes M1 and other short-term and medium-term deposits of the domestic
private sector with monetary institutions
• M3: Includes M2 plus all long-term deposits of the domestic private sector with
monetary institutions.
• Too much money in circulation could lead to more spending and higher inflation.
• Too little money in circulation leads to under-spending, which leads to reduction in
production, leads to unemployment and decline in economic growth.
(Accept any other relevant correct response)
(Allocate a maximum of 8 marks for headings/subheadings/examples) (Max. 26)
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ADDITIONAL PART
• Family Planning Programs, promote and provide access to contraception and
reproductive health education.
• Education and Awareness, educate citizens, especially women, on the benefits of
smaller families and family planning.
• Economic development, create job opportunities and improve income levels to
reduce dependency on social services.
• Healthcare expansion, strengthen healthcare infrastructure to cater to growing
populations effectively.
• Legislation and Policy Implementation, enforce policies that support sustainable
population growth, such as child welfare laws.
• Immigration and Decentralisation Strategies encourage settlement in less populated
areas to ease pressure on major cities.
• Creating More Job Opportunities, economic policies that promote job creation reduce
poverty and improve living standards for a growing population.
(Accept any other correct higher order, relevant response)
(A maximum of 2 marks may be allocated for the mere listing of facts/examples)
(Max. 10)
CONCLUSION
Economic indicators are some of the most important and powerful tools that the
government can use to influence the direction that the economy should take.
(Accept any correct relevant response) (Max. 2) [40]
TOTAL SECTION C: 40
TOTAL: 150
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