Lesson Plan

• Describe the factors that cause an extension (right‑hand shift) in the demand curve.
• Explain the factors that cause a contraction (left‑hand shift) in the demand curve.
• Analyse how changes in income, related‑good prices, population, expectations and government policy affect demand.
• Apply the concepts to real‑world examples and exam‑style questions.

• Projector or interactive whiteboard for slides/diagrams
• Printed handout of the summary table of demand‑shifting factors
• Whiteboard and markers
• Sticky notes or index cards for student examples
• Worksheets with practice exam question
• Calculator (optional)

Today we’ll explore why demand curves move left or right, building on your understanding of how price changes cause movements along the curve. By recalling the law of demand, you’ll see how income, related‑good prices, population and expectations can shift the entire curve. By the end of the lesson you will be able to identify and explain each factor and predict its effect on market demand.

1. Do‑now (5’) – Quick quiz on the law of demand and movements along the curve.
2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Introduce extensions and contractions; display diagram of demand‑curve shifts.
3. Group activity (15’) – Students receive cards with different factors, place them on a large demand‑curve poster indicating right or left shift and justify.
4. Whole‑class discussion (10’) – Review each factor, link to real‑world examples from the handout.
5. Exam practice (10’) – Individually answer the provided question; peer‑check using the answer outline.
6. Check for understanding (5’) – Exit ticket: write one factor that would shift demand right and one that would shift it left, with brief explanations.

To recap, we examined how income, preferences, prices of substitutes and complements, population, expectations and government policy shift demand either right (extension) or left (contraction). Your exit tickets show you can match each factor to its direction. For homework, complete the worksheet that asks you to classify additional scenarios and sketch the resulting demand curves.