Active learning ideas
International business is a cornerstone of the Canadian economy. This topic covers why Canada trades with other nations, the mechanics of imports and exports, and the barriers that can hinder global trade. Students will explore Canada's major trading partners, such as the United States, China, and the European Union, and the impact of agreements like the CUSMA.
Activity 01
Assign countries with different resources (paper, scissors, markers). Students must trade finished 'goods' to earn points, experiencing firsthand how tariffs and resource inequality affect wealth.
Why do countries engage in international trade?
Activity 02
Students bring in labels from items at home. They map these on a world map in the classroom, discussing why certain items are produced in specific regions and the logistics of getting them to Ontario.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of importing goods?
Activity 03
Provide a list of trade barriers (tariffs, quotas, sanctions). Pairs discuss how each might protect a Canadian farmer but hurt a Canadian consumer, then share their conclusions with the class.
How does globalization affect local Canadian businesses?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Importing goods is always bad for the Canadian economy.
Students often think only exports matter. Through a collaborative investigation, show how imports provide consumers with variety and lower prices, and how Canadian manufacturers rely on imported raw materials.
Trade only involves physical products.
Many students forget about services. Use a station rotation to highlight Canadian exports in tech, education, and tourism to broaden their definition of international trade.
Methods used in this brief
Needs, Wants, and the Economic Problem
An introduction to how businesses satisfy consumer needs and wants while navigating scarcity, supply, and demand.
8 methodologies
Types of Businesses and Ownership
An examination of different business structures, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations, and franchises.
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Ethics and Social Responsibility
A look into how businesses balance profitability with ethical decision-making and corporate social responsibility (CSR).
8 methodologies