Critically discuss the macroeconomic performance of an economy (excluding Ireland) since 2017. Focus on three of the following macroeconomic issues: Gross Domestic Product Gross National Product Inflation Unemployment Balance of Payments In discussing these indicators, critically analyse the influence of any fiscal, monetary policy or international trade policies that have impacted on the observed trends (where relevant). In your final discussion consider the implications of COVID-19 on your findings. Data sources As this assignment refers to changes in trends over time you will be expected to support your findings with relevant data. Particular attention should be paid to the use and representation of this data – unclear or incorrectly used data will result in marks being lost. It is important to note that this data should only be used to support your argument and should not completely dominate your assignment (see marking breakdown further on). Some data links: Eurostat: http://ec.europa.eu/eurostat (Links to an external site.) OECD: http://stats.oecd.org/ (Links to an external site.) Trading Economics https://tradingeconomics.com/ (Links to an external site.) Marking Scheme Data Sources – Clear and correct use of data and analysis of trends since 2017 (25 marks) Content – Clear outline and critical discussion of issues surrounding these trends. (50 marks) Content – Reflections on findings/recommendations and well-defined conclusions including consideration of the potential impacts of COVID-19 (15 marks) Layout – Structure (logical format with introduction, paragraphing, conclusion), appropriate use of language with minimal spelling mistakes etc. and correct referencing (10 marks) Instructions The report should be between 2000 words (maximum). Please state word count on the front page of submission. Include page numbers. Reports are to be word-processed, Times New Romans with size 12 font and 1.5 spacing. A front page is required with each student’s name, student number and the title of the assignment. Please reference any material using Harvard referencing style. A reference list must be provided at the end of the assignment. Good research and a varied amount/type of references will result in higher marks. The assignment will be submitted through canvas and Ouriginal. Assignment will be checked through Ouriginal for plagiarism. Note penalties will apply on Late Submissions as per MTU guidelines (10% penalty if a week late, 20% penalty if two weeks late, no marks awarded if submitted later than 2 weeks). Support Material Details available in following word document: ECON8004 – Assignment 1 – outline for written report.docx Sample cover sheet: Sample Cover Page.docx General marking guideline: Marking guideline 8004.doc Additional support regarding appropriate referencing is available here: University of Leicester – referencing.pdf Online referencing tool: https://www.qub.ac.uk/cite2write/harvard3l.html Some additional support on critical writing and essay writing: University of Leicester – writing an essay.pdf University of Leicester – what is critical writing.pdf The following website may provide additional support in terms of academic writing: http://www.phrasebank.manchester.ac.uk/
