Lesson Plan

• Describe the key definitions of employed, unemployed and labour force.
• Explain how the unemployment rate is calculated and why it matters.
• Apply the unemployment‑rate formula to real‑world data and interpret the result.

• Projector or interactive whiteboard
• PowerPoint/slide deck with definitions and formula
• Printed worksheet with sample data tables
• Calculator (or spreadsheet software)
• Exit‑ticket slips

Begin with a quick poll: “If you were looking for a job today, how would you know if the economy is helping you?” Connect responses to the idea of measuring unemployment. Review the three key terms (employed, unemployed, labour force) and state that today students will learn to calculate the unemployment rate and interpret its significance.

1. Do‑now (5'): Students complete a short matching activity on the three key definitions.
2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Present the unemployment‑rate formula, explain each component, and show the algebraic expression on the board.
3. Guided practice (12'): Work through the example from the notes step‑by‑step, projecting the data table and calculating together.
4. Independent practice (10'): Students use the worksheet to calculate the unemployment rate for a new set of figures, then round to one decimal place.
5. Interpretation discussion (8'): In pairs, students discuss what a high vs. low rate indicates for policy makers; share insights with class.
6. Formative check (5'): Quick poll or digital quiz to confirm understanding of the formula and its use.

Summarise the steps for calculating the unemployment rate and highlight its role in policy decisions. Ask each student to write one real‑world implication of a rising unemployment rate on an exit ticket. Assign homework: find the latest unemployment data for their country, compute the rate, and write a brief paragraph interpreting the result.