Ireland · NCCA Curriculum Specifications
6th Year Economics.
This Leaving Certificate Economics curriculum for 6th Year students explores the principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics within an Irish and global context. Students will critically analyse economic policies, market behaviours, and sustainable development to prepare for their final examinations and future civic engagement.
01Market Mechanisms and Market Failure
An in-depth analysis of how prices are determined, the behaviour of firms, and instances where free markets fail to allocate resources efficiently.
Examining price, income, and cross elasticity of demand and their implications for businesses and government policy.
Comparing perfect competition, monopoly, monopolistic competition, and oligopoly in terms of efficiency and pricing.
Investigating public goods, externalities, and asymmetric information, and how they lead to inefficient market outcomes.
02Government Intervention and the Macroeconomy
Exploring the role of the Irish government in managing the economy through fiscal and monetary policy, and addressing economic inequality.
Analysing government revenue, expenditure, and the impact of budget deficits or surpluses on the Irish economy.
Understanding the role of the European Central Bank in setting interest rates and controlling inflation within the Eurozone.
Evaluating the principles of a fair taxation system and the economic impacts of direct versus indirect taxes.
03The Global Economy and International Trade
Examining Ireland's position as a small open economy, the benefits of international trade, and the impact of globalisation.
Exploring the theories of absolute and comparative advantage and their relevance to Ireland's export-driven economy.
Analysing how currency fluctuations impact import and export prices, and overall national competitiveness.
Assessing the impact of globalisation and foreign direct investment (FDI) on the Irish economy and employment.
04Sustainable Economics and Economic Evaluation
Evaluating economic performance using traditional and alternative indicators, with a focus on sustainable development and environmental economics.
Critiquing the use of GDP, GNP, and GNI* as measures of economic growth and standard of living in Ireland.
Distinguishing between quantitative economic growth and qualitative economic development, including the Human Development Index (HDI).
Investigating the economic implications of climate change, carbon taxation, and the transition to a circular economy.
Analysing demographic trends in Ireland, including migration, aging populations, and their impact on the labour market and public finances.