The Business Studies and Economics Syllabuses require students to achieve a number
of common skills-based outcomes. For example, a student:

• selects, organises and evaluates information from a variety of sources
• communicates ideas, information and concepts in appropriate forms
• works independently and in groups to achieve appropriate goals in set time frames.

To achieve these skills-based outcomes, teachers could direct some teaching and learning strategies toward using the media and, in particular, newspapers. To effectively incorporate the media into teaching programs for the Stage 6 syllabuses, content could be directed at the achievement of knowledge outcomes.

In the Economics Syllabus, such knowledge outcomes could include:

• P7: identifies the nature and causes of economic problems and issues for individuals, firms and governments
• H7: evaluates the consequences of contemporary economic problems and issues on individuals, firms and governments.

In the Business Studies Syllabus, knowledge outcomes could include:

• P4.1: explains the interrelationship between the internal and external factors on business
• H1.2: critically analyses the role of business in Australia.

What are the benefits of newspapers?
Newspapers are a great source for educational material. They provide an inexpensive and up-to-date source of information on current issues, world and local news. They reflect what is happening politically, economically, socially and artistically, and are an excellent resource for all students of Economics and Business Studies. They empower students to gather knowledge and understandings and to develop skills in organising and evaluating information, whilst working with actual facts or data.

As teachers, we should provoke students to be curious about what is taking place in our world, and encourage learners to enjoy reading the daily newspaper, so that they become discerning readers who are motivated to participate more fully in the community through their awareness of important issues.

All enquiries and applications to:
EBE NSW
PO Box 67
Leichhardt NSW 2040
Phone: (02) 9564 5007
Fax: (02) 9564 5309