Lesson Plan

Resources → Subject Notes → Economics → Notes
Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 05/03/2026
Subject: Economics
Lesson Topic: Drawing and interpretation of diagrams illustrating national minimum wages
Learning Objective/s:
  • Draw a labour‑market diagram that shows the effect of a national minimum wage set above equilibrium.
  • Explain how a binding minimum wage creates an unemployment surplus and a dead‑weight loss.
  • Analyse the impact of the policy on wages, employment and total surplus using the diagram.
  • Evaluate arguments for and against a national minimum wage in a developing economy.
Materials Needed:
  • Whiteboard or interactive whiteboard
  • Projector and screen
  • Printed worksheet with diagram template
  • Graph paper and coloured pens
  • Calculator (optional)
  • Sample exam‑style question handout
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick poll: “What determines the wage you earn?” Link responses to supply and demand in the labour market. Explain that today’s focus is on how a government‑set price floor – the national minimum wage – alters that market, and outline the success criteria: students will correctly draw and interpret the diagram and discuss its economic effects.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5’) – Students answer a short question on factors influencing wages; teacher collects responses.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Review labour‑supply and demand curves, equilibrium, and introduce the concept of a price floor.
  3. Guided diagram drawing (15’) – Step‑by‑step on the board using the source guide; students replicate on graph paper.
  4. Interpretation activity (10’) – In pairs, label the unemployment surplus and dead‑weight loss, then discuss implications.
  5. Class discussion (10’) – Evaluate pros and cons of minimum wages, linking back to the diagram.
  6. Exam‑style practice (10’) – Students attempt a past paper question; teacher provides immediate feedback.
Conclusion:
Summarise that a binding minimum wage raises wages for some workers but creates unemployment and efficiency loss, as shown in the diagram. Ask students to write one key takeaway on a sticky note (exit ticket). Assign homework to complete the worksheet’s extra question on policy arguments.