Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 18/01/2026
Subject: Economics
Lesson Topic: Reasons why birth rates, death rates and net migration rates can vary between countries
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe key factors influencing birth rates, death rates and net migration rates across countries.
  • Analyse how economic development, education, health, culture and policy affect each demographic rate.
  • Apply the population change formula ΔP = (B‑D)+M to calculate net population growth.
  • Compare and contrast demographic patterns using real‑world examples.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • PowerPoint presentation with charts and diagrams
  • Handout summarising factors and comparative table
  • World map or country case‑study cards
  • Worksheets for population change calculations
  • Markers and flip chart
 Introduction:
Begin with a striking image of two contrasting population pyramids and ask students what they notice about the shapes. Prompt recall of prior lessons on population concepts and the formula ΔP = (B‑D)+M. Explain that today they will explore why the underlying rates differ between nations and how to interpret those differences. Success will be measured by their ability to explain factors and calculate population change.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Students examine the pyramids and list observed differences.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Present key determinants of birth, death and migration rates using slides.
  3. Guided analysis (12'): In pairs, students use the handout to match factors to each rate for two case‑study countries.
  4. Calculation practice (10'): Students apply ΔP = (B‑D)+M on a worksheet with provided data.
  5. Whole‑class discussion (8'): Groups share findings, highlighting how economic development and policy shape rates.
  6. Exit ticket (5'): Write one factor that most influences each rate and justify in one sentence.
Conclusion:
Summarise how economic, social and political contexts drive variations in birth, death and migration rates. Reinforce the population change formula as a tool for quantifying overall impact. For the exit ticket, students submit their key factor statements, and homework is to research a country of their choice and prepare a brief report on its demographic rates.