Economics

for Rwanda Schools

Senior Six

Teacher’s Guide

N. Bwebare
E. Mirembe

FOUNTAIN PUBLISHERS
www.fountainpublishers.co.ug
Fountain Publishers Rwanda Ltd
P.O. Box 6567 Kigali
E-mail: [email protected]

E-mail: [email protected]
[email protected]
Website: www.fountainpublishers.co.ug

© Fountain Publishers 2017

First published 2017

All rights reserved; no part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or
transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or
otherwise without the prior written permission from the publisher.

ISBN: 978-9970-19-434-6
 Contents

Part 1: General Introduction............................................................ xi

Basic information ......................................................................................... xii
Content map .............................................................................................. xxvi
The lesson plan template ......................................................................... xxxvi

Part 2: Development of Units......................................................... xli

Unit 1: International Trade Theories............................................... 1

Lesson 1: Difference between international trade
and domestic trade....................................................................... 6
Lesson 2: Forms and terminologies used in international trade... 9
Lesson 3: Need for international trade:.......................................11
Lesson 4: Arguments for and against international
trade and its limitations.............................................................. 13
Lesson 5: Rwanda’s international trade..................................... 16
Lesson 6: Theory of Absolute advantage................................... 17
Lesson 7: Theory of comparative advantage............................. 20
Lesson 8: Unit assessment......................................................... 24
Remedial activity.............................................................................. 32

Unit 2: Terms of Trade................................................................. 36

Lesson 1: Terms of trade and its forms...................................... 40
Lesson 2: Nature of terms of trade for LDCs and how to
improve it................................................................................... 43
Lesson 3: Balance of trade. (BOT)............................................ 45
Lesson 4: Causes of changes in terms of trade.......................... 48
Lesson 5: Unit assessment......................................................... 51
Remedial activity.............................................................................. 55

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 Unit 3: Free Trade and Trade Protectionism.................................. 58
Lesson 1: Free trade, its advantages and disadvantages............ 63
Lesson 2: Trade protectionism and its rationale......................... 66
Lesson 3: Tools of trade protectionism...................................... 68
Lesson 4: Arguments for and against trade protectionism......... 70
Lesson 5: Commercial policy.................................................... 72
Lesson 6: Unit assessment......................................................... 74
Remedial activity.............................................................................. 78

Unit 4: Balance of Payment (BOP).............................................. 80

Lesson 1: Balance of payment and the difference
between BOP and Balance of Trade........................................... 86
Lesson 2: Structure of BOP accounts......................................... 89
Lesson 3: Causes of BOP deficits.............................................. 92
Lesson 4: Effects and measures to correct
BOP disequilibrium.................................................................... 93
Lesson 5: BOP position in Rwanda........................................... 95
Lesson 6: Effects and measures to correct the adverse
BOP in Rwanda.......................................................................... 96
Lesson 7: Unit Assessment........................................................ 98
Remedial activity ........................................................................... 102

Unit 5: Exchange Rates............................................................. 105

Lesson 1: Terms used and sources of forex..............................111
Lesson 2: Factors that influence exchange rates.......................113
Lesson 3: Forms/ types of exchange rates................................115
Lesson 4: Foreign exchange liberalisation................................116
Lesson 5: Foreign exchange reserves........................................118
Lesson 6: Foreign exchange control.........................................119
Lesson 7: Reasons and necessary conditions for devaluation..121
Lesson 8: The Marshall-Lerner devaluation condition............ 123
Lesson 9: Effects of devaluation.............................................. 124
Lesson 10: Success of devaluation in LDCs............................ 127
Lesson 11: Unit assessment..................................................... 128
Remedial activity............................................................................ 132
iv
Unit 6: Economic Integration...................................................... 134
Lesson 1: Examples and objectives of
economic integrations.............................................................. 138
Lesson 2: Conditions necessary for successful
economic integration................................................................ 140
Lesson 3: Processes/ stages / levels of economic
integration................................................................................ 141
Lesson 4: Advantages and disadvantages of economic
integration................................................................................ 142
Lesson 5: Obstacles/ impediments to economic
integration in Africa................................................................. 144
Lesson 6: Case studies of economic integration- COMESA... 145
Lesson 7: Case studies of economic integration- EAC ........... 148
Lesson 8: Case studies of economic integration-CEPGL. ...... 151
Lesson 9: Unit assessment....................................................... 153
Remedial activity............................................................................ 160

Unit 7: Globalisation................................................................... 162

Lesson 1: Globalisation and its main features/
characteristics........................................................................... 167
Lesson 2: Types and causes of globalisation............................ 168
Lesson 3: Effects of globalisation............................................ 170
Lesson 4: Multinational Corporations, examples
and their effects........................................................................ 172
Lesson 5: Foreign Direct Investments, examples,
advantages and disadvantages.................................................. 175
Lesson 6: Measures of attracting foreign investments
and Hurdles and constraints of FDI’s in Rwanda.................... 178
Lesson 7: International Monetary Systems and
the Bretton Woods Conference................................................ 180
Lesson 8: International Monetary Fund................................... 181
Lesson 9: Structural Adjustment Programmes (SAPs)............ 184
Lesson 10: The World Bank (WB)........................................... 186
Lesson 11: Unit assessment..................................................... 189
Remedial activity............................................................................ 194
v
 Unit 8: Economic Growth, Development and
Underdevelopment......................................................... 196
Lesson 1: Economic growth, its calculations and its
determinants............................................................................. 201
Lesson 2: Benefits, costs and measures to promote
economic growth..................................................................... 203
Lesson 4: Balanced growth theory and its applicability in
Rwanda.................................................................................... 206
Lesson 5: Unbalanced growth theory and its applicability
in Rwanda................................................................................ 209
Lesson 6: Big push growth theory and its applicability
in Rwanda................................................................................ 212
Lesson 7: Rostow’s stages of growth and its applicability
in Rwanda................................................................................ 215
Lesson 8: Marxist theory of growth......................................... 219
Lesson 9: Dependence theory.................................................. 221
Lesson 10: Economic development, its measurement
and requirements...................................................................... 224
Lesson 11: Objectives and indicators of economic
development and comparison between economic
growth and development.......................................................... 226
Lesson 12: Economic underdevelopment, its indicators,
causes and policies to solve it.................................................. 229
Lesson 13: Poverty, its types, causes and ways of
reducing poverty...................................................................... 231
Lesson 14: Unit assessment..................................................... 234
Remedial activity............................................................................ 237

UNIT 9: Agricultural Development .............................................. 240

Lesson 1: Goals of development process and strategies.......... 246
Lesson 2: Agriculture development and characteristics of
agriculture in LDCs.................................................................. 248
Lesson 3: Arguments for and against agricultural
development............................................................................. 249

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 Lesson 4: Limitations of agriculture development and
ways of improving agriculture productivity in Rwanda.......... 252
Lesson 5: Approaches to agricultural development-
Transformation approach......................................................... 253
Lesson 6: Modernisation approach.......................................... 256
Lesson 7: Small scale subsistence production......................... 258
Lesson 8: Large scale commercial production......................... 261
Lesson 9: Agriculture specialisation........................................ 264
Lesson 10: Agriculture diversification..................................... 266
Lesson 11: Intensive agriculture.............................................. 268
Lesson 12: Extensive agriculture............................................. 270
Lesson 13: Agriculture mechanisation..................................... 272
Lesson 14: Commercialisation of agriculture.......................... 275
Lesson 15: Agriculture co-operatives...................................... 277
Lesson 16: Agriculture research............................................... 279
Lesson 17: Agriculture extension services............................... 281
Lesson 18: Land ownership and its forms............................... 284
Lesson 19: Land reforms in Rwanda....................................... 285
Lesson 20: Unit assessment..................................................... 287
Remedial activity............................................................................ 291

Unit 10: Industrial Development .................................................. 293

Lesson 1: Industrial development and classification
of industries in Rwanda........................................................... 298
Lesson 2: Advantages and disadvantages and problems
of industrial sector development.............................................. 299
Lesson 3: Industrial development approaches-
Capital intensive technology.................................................... 302
Lesson 4: Labour intensive technology................................... 304
Lesson 5: Intermediate technology.......................................... 307
Lesson 6: Appropriate technology........................................... 309
Lesson 7: Technological transfer............................................. 312
Lesson 8: Technology development......................................... 313

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 Lesson 9: Small scale industries.............................................. 315
Lesson 10: Large-scale industries............................................ 318
Lesson 11: Import substitution industrial strategy................... 321
Lesson 12: Export promotion industrial strategy..................... 323
Lesson 13: Unit assessment..................................................... 325
Remedial activity............................................................................ 331

Unit 11: Development Strategies ................................................ 333

Lesson 1: Education as an investment and a
consumer good......................................................................... 338
Lesson 2: Role of education to development........................... 340
Lesson 3: Problems faced and measures to promote the
education sector........................................................................ 341
Lesson 4: Features, forms and need for foreign aid................. 344
Lesson 5: Why donors give aid and the problems of
relying on foreign aid............................................................... 346
Lesson 6: Utilisation of aid, reasons why donor
countries are reluctant to give aid............................................ 347
Lesson 7: Role of infrastructure in economic
development............................................................................. 349
Lesson 8: Unit assessment....................................................... 351
Remedial activity............................................................................ 357

Unit 12: Planning ........................................................................ 359

Lesson 1: Characteristics of good development
planning & Pre-requisites for successful planning.................. 365
Lesson 2: Principles of economic development,
planning and the need for planning.......................................... 367
Lesson 3: The planning process, ways of financing
development plans and the problems met in the
planning process....................................................................... 369
Lesson 4: Classification of plans.............................................. 371
Lesson 5: Planning under different economic systems............ 373
Lesson 6: Current development plans in Rwanda-
Vision 2020.............................................................................. 376

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 Lesson 7: Economic development and poverty
reduction strategies (EDPRS 1)............................................... 378
Lesson 8. Economic development and poverty
reduction strategies (EDPRS 2)............................................... 382
Lesson 9: Unit assessment....................................................... 384
Remedial activity............................................................................ 388

Unit 13: Sectors of the Rwandan Economy ................................ 390

Lesson 1: Structure of Rwanda’s economy and
its implication........................................................................... 395
Lesson 2: Dual economy.......................................................... 398
Lesson 3: Economic dependence............................................. 401
Lesson 4: Structure of trade.................................................... 405
Lesson 5: Subsistence sector.................................................... 407
Lesson 6: Informal sector......................................................... 410
Lesson 7: Private sector........................................................... 412
Lesson 8: Public sector............................................................ 416
Lesson 9: Privatisation............................................................. 420
Lesson 10: Economic liberalisation......................................... 422
Lesson 11: Unit assessment..................................................... 425
Remedial activity............................................................................ 431

References ............................................................................... 433

ix
Part 1: General Introduction
 Basic information

Organisation of the book

This Teacher’s Guide is organised into two main sections or parts.
Part 1 is the general introduction section detailing pedagogical
issues.
Part 2 gives the details of the expected learning units as organised
in the Learner’s Book.
The main elements in this part are; topic area which details the
various subtopic areas and Unit headings that are accompanied
by some text in the Learner’s Book to motivate teachers. Also the
total number of lessons per unit is given.
Key unit competence: This is the competence, which will be
achieved once learners have met all the learning objectives in the
unit.
Learning Objectives: The content in this area is broken down
into three categories of learning objectives, that is, knowledge and
understanding; skills which relate to the upper level of Bloom’s
taxonomy, that learners have to apply in their learning and engage
in higher order thinking; attitudes and values that relate to the unit.

Rationale of Teaching and Learning Economics

Economic is concerned with the study of how scarce resources are
allocated, given the unlimited wants of a society.
Economics decisions significantly influence the quality of life
experienced by people throughout the world. The study of
economics can help individuals; groups and societies make choices
that assist them improve their quality of life.
Economics prepares learners for the real world of work through
career paths like Entrepreneurship, Management, Business,
Accounting and Finance, Marketing, Tourism, Statistics,
International Economics and policies, Agriculture Economics,
Environmental Studies, and Development Studies. It also gives

xii
 Introduction

learners the critical knowledge and skills to communicate ideas

using the language and tools of the discipline of economics.
Furthermore, it provides a useful foundation not only for further
study in Economics but also for study in other Social Science
subjects, including History, Entrepreneurship, Geography, Politics
and International Relations.

Types of competences and their acquisition

Competences are statements of the characteristics that learners
should demonstrate. It indicates their preparedness and the ability
to perform independently in professional practice.
A competence based learning takes learners to higher level by
providing them with challenging and engaging learning experiences
which requires them deep thinking rather than just on what they
know.
There are two types of competences in the competence based
curriculum: Basic competences and Generic competences.
Basic competences
Basic competences are main, key or vital competences identified
basing on the expectations and aspirations reflected in the national
policy documents. They are addressed in the stated broad subject
competences and in objective highlighted year on year basis and
in each of the units of learning. They include:

Literacy
• Reading a variety of texts accurately and quickly.
• Expressing ideas, messages and events through writing
legible texts in good hand-writing with correctly spelt words.
• Communicating ideas effectively.
• Listening carefully for understanding and seeking clarification
when necessary
Numeracy
• Computing accurately using the four mathematical operations
such as: manipulating numbers, mathematical symbols,
quantities, shapes and figures to accomplish a task involving
calculations, measurements and estimations.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• Use numerical patterns and relationships to solve problems

related to everyday activities like commercial context and
financial management.
• Interpreting basic statistical data and other information using
tables, diagrams, pie charts and graphs.
ICT and digital competences
• Locating, extracting, recording and interpreting information
from various sources.
• Assessing, retrieving and exchanging information via internet
or cell phones.
• Using cell phones and internet for leisure and for money
transactions.
• Using computer keyboard and mouse to write and store
information.
• Using information and communication technologies to
enhance learning and teaching (all subjects).
Citizenship and national identity
• Relating the impact of historical events on past and present
national and cultural identity.
• Understanding the historical and cultural roots of Rwandan
society and how the local infrastructure functions in relation
to the global environment.
• Demonstrating respect for cultural identities and expressing
the role of the national language in social and cultural context.
• Advocating for the historical, cultural and geographical
heritage of the nation with in the global dimension.
• Showing national consciousness and a strong sense of
belonging and patriotic spirit.
• Advocating for a harmonious and cohesive society and
working with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Entrepreneurship and business development
• Applying entrepreneurial attitudes and approaches to
challenges and opportunities in school and in life.
• Understanding the obligations of the different parties
involved in employment.

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 Introduction

• Planning and managing micro projects and small and medium

enterprises.
• Creation of employment and keeping proper books of
accounts.
• Risk-taking in business ventures and in other initiative.
• Evaluating resources needed for a business.

Generic competences
Generic competences are competences that involve and promote
the development of the higher order thinking skills. This boosts
subject learning as well as being highly valuable in themselves.
They are seen as generic competences because they apply across
all curricula and can be developed in all the subjects studied.
They must therefore, be emphasised and reflected in the learning
process. They are briefly described below and teachers must ensure
that learners are engaged in tasks that help them to acquire the
competences.
1. Critical thinking and problem solving skills: The
acquisition of such skills will help learners to think
ingeniously, innovatively and broadly and be able to
evaluate and find solutions to problems encountered in their
surroundings.
2. Creativity and innovation: The acquisition of such skills
will help learners to take initiatives and use imagination
beyond knowledge provided in classroom to generate new
ideas and construct new concepts.
3. Research skills: These will help learners to find answers to
questions based on existing information and concepts and
use it to explain phenomena from gathered information.
4. Communication in official languages: Teachers, irrespective
of being language teachers should ensure the proper use of
the language of instruction by learners. Teachers should
communicate clearly and confidently. They should convey
ideas effectively through spoken and written English by
applying appropriate grammar and relevant vocabulary.
5. Cooperation, interpersonal management and lifeskill:
This will help the learner to cooperate in a team in whatever
task assigned and to practice positive ethical moral values.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

6. Lifelong learning: The acquisition of such skills will help

learners to update knowledge and skills with minimum
external support. Learners will be able to cope with evolution
of knowledge advances for personal fulfilment in areas that
are relevant to their improvement and development.

Economics as a subject and developing the

competences
Competences cannot be taught directly like subject knowledge.
They are acquired over time through the cumulative effect of
a competence approach to learning which is mainly inquiry
oriented. They require students to practice and employ the generic
competences throughout the subjects that they study. They require
teachers to adopt approaches that not only develop deductive
and inductive skills but also encourage and enable students to
think critically, carry out research, solve problems, be creative
and innovative, communicate, cooperate and to become lifelong
learners. This deepens learners’ understanding of the subject and
build their ability to apply to their subject learning.

Cross-cutting issues to be infused during learning

These are emerging issues which need to be incorporated in the
learning process appropriately. Each of the cross-cutting issues has
its own important programme of learning reflecting key national
priorities. The eight cross-cutting issues are:
Peace and Values Education: The need for Peace and Values
Education in the curriculum is obvious. Peace is clearly critical for
society to flourish and for every individual to focus on personal
achievement and their contribution to the success of the nation.
Values education forms a key element of the strategy for ensuring
young people recognise the importance of contributing to society,
working for peace and harmony and being committed to avoiding
conflict.
Financial Education: Financial education makes a strong
contribution to the wider aims of education. It makes learning
relevant to real life situations. It aims at a comprehensive financial
education programme as a precondition for achieving financial
inclusion target and improves the financial capability of Rwandans.
Financial education has a key role of not only improving knowledge

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 Introduction

of personal but also transforming this knowledge into action. It

provides the tools for sound money management practices on
earnings, spending, saving, borrowing and investing. Financial
education enables people to take appropriate financial services
both formal and informal that is available to them and encourages
financial behaviour that enhance their overall economic well-being.
Standardisation culture: Standardisation culture develops
learners’ understanding of the importance of standards as a pillar of
economic development and in the practices, activities and lifestyle
of the citizens. It is intended that the adoption of Standardisation
culture should have an impact upon health improvement, economic
growth, industrialisation, trade and general welfare of the people.
While education is the foundation and strength of our nation,
standards are one of the key pillars of sustainable economic
development.
Genocide Studies: Genocide Studies provide young people with
an understanding of the circumstances leading to the genocide and
the remarkable story of recovery and re-establishing national unity.
Genocide studies help learners to comprehend the role of every
individual in ensuring nothing of the sort ever happens again. The
intent of a cross-cutting curriculum around the topic of genocide is
to fight against genocide, genocide denial, and genocide ideology;
and to equip learners with a more fundamental and comprehensive
understanding of the genocide, thereby preventing further human
rights violation in the future and enabling Rwanda’s population
of young people to more competently and thoughtfully enter the
workforce. So it needs to be emphasised.
Environment and sustainability: The growing awareness of the
impact of the human race on the environment has led to recognition
of the need to ensure our young people understand the importance
of sustainability as they grow up and become responsible for the
world around them. Hence environment and sustainability is a very
important cross-cutting issue. Learners need basic knowledge from
the natural sciences, social sciences and humanities to understand
and interpret principles of sustainability. They also need skills and
attitudes that will enable them in their everyday life to address the
environment and climate change issue and to have a sustainable
livelihood.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Gender education: There is a strong moral imperative to afford

every individual their basic human rights and gender inequality
results in women and girls being treated less favourably than men.
A strong negative impact of unequal treatment, which affects the
nation as a whole, is the fact that it results in women being held
back and their talents and abilities not being fully realised. With
a good understanding of the principles of gender equality, it is
intended that future generations will ensure that the potential of
the whole population is realised.
Comprehensive sex education (HIV and AIDS, STI, Family
planning, Gender equality and Reproductive health): Comprehensive
sex education, which is age appropriate, gender sensitive and life
skills based can provide young people with the knowledge and
skills to make informed decisions about their sexuality and life
style. Preparing children and young people for the transition to
adulthood has been one of humanity’s greatest challenges with
human sexuality and relationships at its core.
Few young people receive adequate preparations for their sexual
lives. This leaves them potentially vulnerable to coercion, abuse
and exploitation, unintended pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted
Infections (STIs) including HIV and AIDS. Many young people
approach adulthood faced with conflicting and confusing
messages about sexuality and gender. This is often exacerbated
by embarrassment, silence, disapproval and open discussion of
sexual matters by adults (parents, teachers) at the very time when
it is most needed.
Comprehensive sex education supports a rights-based approach
in which values such as respect, acceptance, tolerance, equality,
empathy and reciprocity are inextricably linked to universally
agreed human rights. A clear message concerning these dangers
and how they can be avoided, from right across the curriculum, is
the best way to ensure that young people understand the risks and
know how to stay healthy.
Inclusive education: Inclusive education involves ensuring all
learners are engaged in education and that they are welcomed by
other learners so that everyone can achieve their potential. Inclusive
practice embraces every individual regardless of gender or ability
including those with learning difficulties and disabilities. The
most focus of inclusive curriculum is on ensuring participation

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 Introduction

in education of learners with different learning styles and other

difficulties. To be successful, it entails a range of issues including
teacher’s positive attitudes, adapting the learning resources,
differentiation of teaching and learning methods and working
together. Overall, the benefits of an inclusive curriculum extend
to all learners.
Special needs education and inclusivity: All Rwandans have
the right to access education regardless of their different social
economic or political background. The undermining of this
provision would naturally hold that all citizens benefit from the
same menu of educational programmes. The possibility of this
assumption is the focus of special needs education. The critical
issue is that we have persons/learners who are totally different
in their ways of living and learning as opposed to the majority.
The difference can either be emotional, physical, sensory and
intellectual learning challenges traditionally known as mental
retardation. These learners equally have the right to benefit from
the free and compulsory basic education in the nearby ordinary/
mainstream schools. Therefore, the schools’ role is to enrol them
and also set strategies to provide relevant education to them. The
teacher therefore is requested to consider each learner’s needs
during teaching and learning process. Assessment strategies and
conditions should also be standardised to the needs of these learners.
Also ensure that you include learners with special education needs
in classroom activities as much as possible.
The special needs learners can fall in any of the following common
categories:
• Physical disabilities.
• Visual impairment.
• Hearing difficulties.
• Mental disabilities.
• Genocide traumatised learners. The teacher should identify
such cases and help facilitate the affected learner’s learning.
The following are some suggestions on how to support
special needs learners in your class.
Learners with physical disabilities: In this group of learners, the
affected areas are normally some body parts, especially the limbs.
There may be partial or total loss of use of the limbs. In case the
legs are affected, the learners will need assistance during activities

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

that involve movement. This could be during a nature walk and

other activities that learners have to stand for some reason. The
teacher should organise for the learner’s ease of movement around.
The learner should also be given time to catch up with the others.
In case the hands are affected, the learners should be given more
time to finish their work. In both cases, the learner should not be
pressurised to do things that can cause injury or mockery.
Learners with visual impairment: These learners normally have
problems with their eyesight. They should sit in a position where
they are able to see the chalkboard without straining. For example,
the learner could be long-sighted or short-sighted; the material to be
observed should be brought closer to the learner and a magnifying
lens used where necessary. You should use large diagrams, charts
and labels.
In some cases, the learner can be allowed to touch and feel whatever
they are looking at. Other learners can assist by reading aloud. The
lighting system in the classroom can also be improved. You should
read aloud most of the things he/she writes on the chalkboard.
Learners with hearing difficulties: The affected part in this case
is the ear. The learner should have hearing aids. You should use
as many visual aids as possible. They should also project their
voices and always talk while facing the learners. Use of gestures
and signs while talking helps the learner figure out what you are
saying as well.
Learners with speech difficulties: A common example in a normal
class is stammering. They always speak with a lot of difficulties.
You should be patient with them and encourage such learners to
express themselves in their own way. Such learners should be given
more written exercises.
Learners with mental disabilities: You should try to identify
the nature and level of the mental difficulty. Learners with mental
difficulties should then be given special assistance and attention at
an individual level. They can be given special tests or assignments.
In general, all the learners with difficulties should be reinforced
promptly. This encourages and motivates them. You and the rest of
the class should never ridicule learners with any of the disabilities.
Note that, generally, people with any kind of disability can be very

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 Introduction

sensitive to any kind of negative comments or criticism but remind

them that ‘disability is not inability’.
You should avoid giving privileges where the learners do not
deserve them. Treat them fairly but not with excessive favours.
In extreme cases it can be recommended for the learners to join a
special school.
As a teacher therefore, before the start of any lesson in every unit,
you need to identify and recognise cases that require special needs
education e.g. learners who have physical, visual, hearing, or
mental disabilities etc. and design appropriate means and measures
that consider each learner’s needs during the teaching and learning
process. Include them in classroom presentations and activities as
much as possible, and the assessment strategies and conditions
should be standardised to the needs of these learners.

Methods, techniques and strategies of teaching

Economics
Teaching methods are the approaches that the teacher employs
during a lesson. The two main teaching methods are teacher-
centered and learner-centered.
The learner-centered method or the activity-oriented is where
learners are active participants in the learning process, in other
words they are the doers of the activities. The teacher’s role in this
method is that of a guide and a facilitator in the learning process.
Learners are required to examine, find out, determine, give their
opinions (in discussions), draw comparisons and participate in
debates and projects among others. Learning is all about the learner
and the teacher’s role is to find out whether the learner has acquired
the required skills. He or she observes the learner’s participation
and evaluates them after the lesson. The teacher may also come
in to help the learner understand a concept or assist in explaining
some concepts. This method should be employed across all units.

Classrooms as a learning environment

Classroom generally refers to the place where learning takes place.
Learners learn from everything that happens around them, such as
the things that they hear, see, touch, taste, smell and play with. It is
therefore important for you as the teacher to make the classroom
an attractive and stimulating environment.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

A well-organised classroom is an asset to good Economics teaching.

However, there is no one correct style to suit all classrooms and
situations. Consider the following factors when organising the
classroom:
(a) Furniture should be well arranged so as to allow free
movement of learners and the teacher.
(b) Set a corner for storing materials so as not to obstruct learners
or distract them.
(c) The number of learners in the class, their gender and their
ages.
(d) Learners should be reasonably spread out so that they do not
interfere with one another’s activities.
(e) The series of lessons or activities going on for a number of
days or weeks such as individual or group work or whole
class.
(f) Classroom itself, that is, positions of windows, doors such
that learners face the lighted areas of the room.
(g) Personal preferences: These should be in the interest of
learners especially where you normally stand, you should
be able to communicate with all learners, and also have a
general view of all learners in class.

Sample of a general view setting in a classroom

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 Introduction

Grouping learners for learning

Most of the Economics activities are carried out in groups.
Therefore, have a group of 5-6 learners sitting around their desks. In
certain activities, the teacher may wish to carry out a demonstration.
In this case, learners should be sitting or standing in a semi-circle, or
arranged around an empty shape of letter “U” such that each learner
can see what the teacher is doing clearly and without obstruction or
pushing. If learners are involved in individual work, each learner
can work on the desk or a portion of the desk if they are sharing.
Learners can be grouped according to;
(a) Similar ability grouping
(b) Mixed ability grouping
(c) Similar interests grouping
(d) Needs grouping
(f) Gender grouping
Grouping learners has several advantages such as:
(a) The individual learner’s progress and needs can easily be
observed.
(b) The teacher-learner relationship is enhanced.
(c) A teacher can easily attend to the needs and problems of a
small group.
(d) Materials that were inadequate for individual work can now
easily be shared.
(e) Learners can learn from one another.
(f) Cooperation among learners can easily be developed.
(g) Many learners accept correction from the teacher more
readily and without feeling humiliated when they are in a
small group rather than the whole class.
(h) Learners’ creativity, responsibility and leadership skills can
easily be developed.
(i) Learners can work at their own pace.
The type of “grouping” that a teacher may chooses depends on:
(a) The topic or task to be tackled.
(b) The materials available.
(c) Ability of learners in the class (learners with extra abilities
or time takers).

xxiii
 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

As a teacher, you must be flexible enough to adjust or change types

of grouping to cope with new situations.

Sample of grouping in a classroom setting

There is no fixed number of learners that a group must have. This

again will be dictated by such factors as the task to be done, the
materials, characteristics of learners in your class, size and the
space available. However, groups should on average have between
four to seven learners. You can also resort to pairing depending
on the nature of the content being taught at the time.
There is no one method or approach to teaching that is appropriate
to all lessons. You should, therefore, choose wisely the method to
use or a combination of methods depending on the nature of the
topic or subtopic at hand.

Assessment and evaluation methods

In the new competence based curriculum, assessment process is
where a learner is confronted with a complex situation relevant to
his or her everyday life and asked to look for a solution by applying
what has been learned, (knowledge, skills and attitudes).

Types of assessment
There are 2 major types of assessment that will be engaged in the
teaching of economics in Senior Six. These include:

Formative or continuous assessment

This involves daily monitoring of learning to provide ongoing
feedback that teachers can use to improve their teaching and

xxiv
 Introduction

learners use to improve their acquisition of competences. It is

intended, among other things, to help you assess curriculum
learning objectives at short intervals of time. And provide effective
remedial instructions for time takers or enrichment activities for
learners with extra abilities.
You will use one or a combination of the following:
• Observation to judge the extent of skills acquisition.
• Written tests
• Oral questions Project work and
• Attitude change –this can be done by asking probing
questions and checking body language as learners respond
to the question.

Summative assessment
This is used to evaluate the student learning, skill acquisition and
academic achievement at the conclusion of a defined instructional
period. For example, a unit, course, term, programme or school
year. The main purpose of summative assessment is to evaluate
whether the learning objectives have been achieved and it uses
the results for the ranking or grading of learners for deciding
on progression, for promoting into the next level of education
or for certification. This assessment should have an integrative
aspect whereby a learner must be able to show a masterly of all
competences.

The Content Map

The content map is used to identify the competences to be developed
in each work unit and activities that enable the competences. It is
prepared for each unit in all sub-topic areas to be covered in Senior
Six Economics Syllabus. It contains the following components;
• Number of periods.
• Key unit competence.
• Number of lessons.
• Equipment and learning and teaching aids required.
• Activities/techniques.
• Generic competences practiced.
• Cross cutting issues to be addressed.
• Assessment strategies of the key unit competence.

xxv
 Content map

UNIT 1: UNIT 2: UNIT 3:

International trade Terms of trade Free trade and
policies trade protectionism
Number of 21 11 11
periods
Key unit Learners will be Learners will be Learners will be able
competence able to analyse able to describe the to analyse the impact
the importance of terms of trade in of free trade and
international trade to LDCs. trade protectionism
the development of in an economy
the economy.
Number of 8 5 6
lessons
Equipment Newspapers with Newspapers with Newspapers with
and economics issues, economic issues, economics issues,
learning economics text economics text economics text
and books, Economics books, Economics books, Economics
teaching journals, internet journals, internet journals, internet
materials access, Economics access, Economics access, Economics
required magazines etc. magazines etc. magazines etc.
Generic • Research skills • Research skills • Research
competences through research through research skills through
practiced on international activities on research tasks
trade aspects. terms of trade. on free trade and
• Communication • Communication protectionism.
through through • Communication
presentation of presentation of through
findings. findings. presentation of
• Critical thinking • Critical thinking findings.
through through • Critical thinking
analysing the analysing nature through analysing
importance of of terms of trade advantages and
international for LDCs. disadvantages
trade. • Lifelong of free trade
• Lifelong learning learning through and trade
through research research protectionism.
• Lifelong learning
through research

xxvi
 Introduction

Activities or • Take • Research on • Documentary

techniques documentary terms of trade. research on
research on • Distinguish international trade
international between income and distinguish
trade and discuss terms of trade between free
the gains from and barter terms trade and trade
international of trade. protectionism.
trade basing on • Calculate and • Debate on the
its various forms. interpret the advantages and
• Debate on the terms of trade disadvantages
advantages, for Rwanda. of free trade
disadvantages • Analyse a and trade
of international case study on protectionism.
trade. import and • Explain the
• Discuss the export prices different
limitations of in Rwanda and tools used in
international describe the international
trade. nature of terms trade.
of trade for
Rwanda.
• Suggest possible
solutions to
improve terms
of trade for
Rwanda.
Cross- Peace and values Finance education Standardisation
cutting education, and standardisation culture, peace and
issues to be environmental culture. values education,
addressed sustainability, environment
standardisation sustainability.
culture.
Assessment Analyse the Describe the terms Analyse the impact
strategies of importance of of trade in LDCs. of free trade and
the key unit international trade to trade protectionism
competence the development of in an economy.
the economy.

Unit 4: Balance of Unit 5: Exchange Unit 6: Economic

payment (BOP) rates. integration.
Number of
11 15 26
periods

xxvii
 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Key unit Learners will be Learners will be able Learners will be

competence able to analyse the to analyse the various able to explain
balance of payment forms of exchange the importance of
position of LDCs rate determination economic integration
and their impact on the development
on economic of the economy
development.
Number of
7 11 9
lessons
Equipment Newspapers with Newspapers with Newspapers with
and learning economics issues, economics issues, economics issues,
and teaching economics text economics text books, economics text
materials books, Economics Economics journals, books, Economics
required journals, internet internet access, journals, internet
access, Economics Economics magazines access, Economics
magazines etc. etc. magazines etc.
Generic • Research • Research skills • Research skills
competences skills through through research through research
practiced research tasks activities on activities on
about BOP. exchange rates. economic
• Communication • Communication integration.
through through • Communication
discussions and discussions and through
presentation of presentation of discussions and
findings. findings. presentation of
• Critical thinking • Critical thinking findings.
through through analysing • Critical thinking
analysing the the advantages and through analysing
structure of disadvantages of the reasons
BOP in LDCs. different exchange why countries
• Lifelong rate regimes. integrate.
learning through • Lifelong learning • Lifelong learning
research on through research through research
BOP. on exchange rates on economic
• Co-operation • Co-operation integration.
and and interpersonal • Co-operation
interpersonal management and interpersonal
management through teamwork, management
through group work/pair through
teamwork, work. teamwork, group
group work/pair work/pair work.
work.

xxviii
 Introduction

Activities or • Illustrate the • Documentary • In groups,

techniques components of research on learners assess
BOP. exchange rates. why countries
• Explain the • Discussions on integrate. Identify
causes of BOP various forms, the steps for
deficits. factors influencing integration.
• Analyse a case and advantages and • Analyse the
study on BOP disadvantages of conditions
accounts data exchange rates. necessary for
for Rwanda and • Analysing a economic
determine the case study on integration.
BOP position Rwandan exchange • Debate on the
for Rwanda. rates against advantages and
• Design other countries’ disadvantages
measures to currencies and of economic
Rwanda’s BOP determine the integration.
problem. value of their • Analyse a case
currency. study on different
economic
integrations and
discuss their
achievements and
challenges
Cross cutting • Finance • Finance education. Peace and values
issues to be education, education and
addressed Peace and Inclusive education
values
education.

Assessment Analyse the Analyse the various Explain the

strategies of balance of payment forms of exchange importance of an
the key unit position of LDCs. rate determination economic integration
competence and their impact on the development
in economic of his economy
development.

xxix
 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Unit 7: UNIT 8: UNIT 9:

Globalisation Economic Agricultural
growth, economic Development.
development and
underdevelopment.

Number of
21 37 26
periods
Key unit Learners will be Learners will be Learners will be able to
competence able to analyse able to analyse analyse the contribution
the impact of determinants of development
globalisation on the and indicators of strategies on the
Rwandan economy. economic growth economy
and development of
an economy.

Number of
11 14 20
lessons
Equipment Newspapers with Newspapers with Newspapers with
and economics issues, economics issues, economics issues,
learning economics text economics text economics text books,
and books, Economics books, Economics Economics journals,
teaching journals, internet journals, internet internet access,
materials access, Economics access, Economics Economics magazines
required magazines etc. magazines etc. etc.
Generic • Co-operation • Communication • Communication
competences and through through presentation
practiced interpersonal presentation of of findings.
management findings.
through • Critical thinking
discussions through analysing
in groups/pair the factors for
work. economic growth
• Communication and development.
through
discussions and
presentation of
findings.

xxx
 Introduction

• Critical thinking • Lifelong learning • Critical thinking

through through research through analysing
analysing the on indicators the appropriate
contribution of of growth and strategies that can
globalisation development. be undertaken to
on Rwanda’s • Research skills improve agricultural
economic through research development in
development. tasks on economic Rwanda.
• Lifelong development and • Lifelong
learning through underdevelopment. learning through
research on documentary
globalisation. research on
• Research skills agricultural
through research development in
activities on Rwanda.
globalisation • Research skills
aspects. through research
tasks on agricultural
development.
Activities • Identifying the • Discussing the • Discussing goals
or characteristics determining and strategies of
techniques of globalisation. factors for development.
• Examining economic • Discussing
the causes of growth and approaches of
globalisation. development. agricultural
• Brainstorming • Calculations development in
on contribution on economic Rwanda.
of MNC’s growth. • Analysing a case
and FDI’s • Explaining study on agricultural
on Rwanda’s the theories development.
economy. of economic • Brainstorming
• Analyse the growth. the importance
importance of • Brainstorming and limitations
Global financial the indicators of agricultural
institutions of economic development in
on Rwanda’s development in Rwanda.
economy. Rwanda. • Describing the land
• Illustrating the reforms that can be
vicious cycle of taken by Rwanda to
poverty. increase agricultural
development in
Rwanda.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Cross- Peace and values Standardisation Standardisation culture,

cutting education, culture, environment environment and
issues to be environmental and sustainability. sustainability
addressed sustainability and
finance education.

Assessment Analyse the impact Analyse the

strategies of globalisation on Analyse contribution of
of the Rwandan economy. determinants development strategies
key unit and indicators of on the economy.
competence economic growth
and development in
an economy.

UNIT 10: UNIT 11: UNIT 12:

Industrial Development Planning
development strategies

Number of 26 15 16
periods
Key unit Learners will be Learners will be Learners will be
competence able to analyse able to analyse able to analyse the
the contribution the contribution need for economic
of development of development planning in an
strategies on the strategies on the economy.
economy. economy.

Number of 14 8 12
lessons
Equipment Newspapers with Newspapers with Newspapers with
and learning economic issues, economic issues, economic issues,
and teaching economics text economics text books, economics text
materials books, economics economics journals, books, economics
required journals, internet internet access, journals, internet
access, economics economics magazines access, economics
magazines etc. etc. magazines etc.

xxxii
 Introduction

Generic • Co-operation • Co-operation • Co-operation

competences and and interpersonal and
practiced interpersonal management. interpersonal
management. • Communication management.
• Communication through • Communication
through discussions / through
discussions / presentation of discussions /
presentation of findings. presentation of
findings. • Critical thinking findings.
• Critical thinking through analysing • Critical
through the contribution thinking
analysing the of education to through
applicability the development analysing the
of different process of rationale and
industrial Rwanda. obstacles of
approaches. • Lifelong learning planning in
• Lifelong through research. LDCs.
learning through • Lifelong
research on learning
industrial through
development research.
Activities or • Discuss the • Discuss the • Discuss in
techniques advantages, contribution of groups the
disadvantages education to rationale, types
and limitations the economic and principles
of industrial development of of planning.
development in Rwanda. • Analyse the
Rwanda. • Discuss the obstacles of
• Compare and appropriate planning in
contrast the measures to LDCs.
applicability promote greater • Take
of different efficiency in documentary
industrial education in research on
approaches to Rwanda. vision 2020
Rwanda. • Debate on the and EDPRS
• Describe the contribution of programmes
problems of foreign aid to and discuss
industrial the development the objectives,
development in process of pillars and cross
Rwanda. Rwanda. cutting issues of
vision 2020 and
EDPRS.

xxxiii
 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• Illustrate the • Brainstorm the role • Assess the

difference of infrastructure contribution,
between capital on economic strategies, and
and labour development challenges of
intensive process of vision 2020
techniques of Rwanda. and EDPRS in
production. Rwanda.
• Analyse the
case study
on industrial
practices in
Rwanda.
Cross- Environment and Standardisation Standardisation
cutting sustainability. culture, finance and finance
issues to be education and Gender education.
addressed education.

Assessment Analyse the Analyse the Analyse the need

strategies of contribution of contribution of for economic
the key unit development development planning in an
competence strategies on the strategies on the economy.
economy. economy.

UNIT 13:
Sectors of the Rwandan economy.
Number of 16
periods
Key unit Learners will be able to describe the role of
competence various sectors of Rwandan economy.
Number of 7
lessons
Equipment Newspapers with economics issues, economics
and learning text books, Economics journals, internet access,
and teaching Economics magazines etc.
materials
required

xxxiv
 Introduction

Generic • Co-operation and interpersonal management

competences through group work (discussions).
practiced • Communication through presentation of
findings.
• Critical thinking through analysing the
achievements and weaknesses of private
sector in Rwanda.
• Lifelong learning through research sectors in
Rwandan economy.
Activities or • Discuss the advantages and disadvantages
techniques informal and substance sectors of economy.
• Brainstorm the forms, advantages and
disadvantages of economic dependence and
economic dualism and explain the various
causes of economic dependence in Rwanda.
• Discuss the role and objectives of public and
private sector and make comparison between
the two sectors, make presentation.
• Discuss the challenges, achievements,
weaknesses and policy measures to boost
private sector in Rwanda.
• Using case study on privatised companies of
Rwanda or elsewhere, learners in small groups
discuss the need and impact of Privatisation on
an economy and make presentation.
Cross cutting Gender education, environment and
issues to be sustainability
addressed
Assessment Describe the role of various sectors of Rwandan
strategies of economy.
the key unit
competence

xxxv
 The lesson plan template

Sample of a Competence – based Lesson Plan

School Name: G.S. Mulindi
Teacher’s name: MUHIRE Joseph

Term Date Subject Class Unit Lesson Duration Class

No No size

1 23 /01/ Economics S6 1 3 of 21 120mins 45

2018 MCE

Type of special educational needs to be 2 learners with hearing impairments.

catered for in this lesson and number of
learners in each category

Unit title International trade theories

Key unit Learners will be able to analyse the importance of international trade to
competence the development of the economy.

Title of the Forms and terminologies used in international trade

lesson
Instructional Using international trade photos in learners book, learners will be able
objective to explain the forms and different terminologies used in international
trade clearly.

Plan for The lesson will be conducted from the class room, where learners will
this Class be put in manageable groups.
(location: in The learners with visual impairments will sit in the groups that are
/ outside) located near the chalk board/in front.

Learning Economics journals, text books, flip charts/rice sack charts, internet,
materials projectors, newspaper articles on economics.
(for all
learners)
References Authorised economics textbooks and the internet

xxxvi
 Introduction

Timing for Description of teaching and learning activity Generic competences

each step In manageable groups through use of the internet, and
economics journals, text book and charts the Cross cutting issues
facilitator guides the learners to be able to explain to be addressed+
the different forms and terminologies used in a short explanation
international trade.
Teacher activities Learner activities
Introduction • Makes groups and • Join their groups • Cooperation
20 min asks the learners • Discuss on the task and team work
join their respective given and come through working
groups. up with a general in groups
• Gives an consensus and • Critical thinking
introductory task on present to the whole through analysing
international trade. class; the task given by
the teacher.
Task: In groups ask Expected answers
learners to discuss and (i) • Domestic Cross cutting issues
give findings on; production. to be addressed
• Buying from Inclusive education
(i) Write down where
other countries through catering for
you think Rwanda
• Asking for all learners in groups.
gets all she needs in
help from other
the country.
countries.
(ii) How do you
(ii) Through buying and
think do such
selling (exchange)
commodities
• Pay attention
reach those who
to the teacher’s
need them in the
explanation.
country?
• Moves in different
groups facilitating
them in the due
course of discussion
and after call upon
groups to present.
• Connects the task
with the day’s
lesson by showing
that the way we get
goods we cannot
produce on our
own is through
international trade.

xxxvii
 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Development Gives them a task Analyse the case study Generic competences
of the lesson in Activity 1 in the in activity 1 in the Communication
80 mins learner’s book about Learner’s Book page 4, through group work
international trade Mutangana, a business discussions
man in Muhanga sells
Asks the learners Critical thinking
his produce in different
to note down their through analysing
districts in Rwanda
findings for each the case study about
like Muhanga, Kigali,
group. international trade
Rubavu and Nyagatare.
Keeps on moderating He also crosses borders Lifelong learning
the discussions by and sells to outside through research on
passing through countries like Tanzania, international trade.
various groups helping Uganda and Kenya. Cooperation and
out where need arises.
Mutangana also buys team building
some commodities he through group work
cannot produce himself discussion
from different parts in Cross cutting issues
the country and as well addressed
as from outside the Standardisation
country. culture through
(i) How do we call emphasising that for
the act of selling Mutangana to get a
and buying by bigger market, his
Mutangana? commodities must be
(ii) What do we call the of better quality
selling and buying
of commodities Finance education
within the country? through emphasising
(iii) What do we call the that Mutangana must
selling and buying spare his earnings in
of commodities order to get what he
between or among doesn’t have in and
countries? outside the country
(iv) How do nations get
commodities they
cannot produce on
their own?
(v) …… are
commodities
bought from
other countries
while……. are
commodities sold
to other countries

xxxviii
 Introduction

(vi) What distinguishes

trade with in
Rwanda and
trade between
Rwanda and other
countries?

Writes down their

findings to be used in the
general class discussion.
General class group
presentation
Answering the questions
posed by fellow learners
and the facilitator.
Make notes of the
discussions conducted.
Expected answers
• Trade
• Domestic/ internal
trade
• International trade.
• Through exchange
with other countries
• Imports and exports
• Transactions in
domestic trade
involve use of home
currency while
international trade
they are different.

Conclusion Concludes the lesson Take important main Competences

15minutes by harmonising points emphasised by developed
summary findings of different the facilitator in the Listening skills
groups, ask relevant summary. through listening
questions depending attentively to the
on the discussion and teacher as he/she
or answer questions harmonises the points
from learners and gives from different groups
summary. and summary of the
lesson.

xxxix
 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Summary Cross cutting issue

• Where a country Inclusive education
fails to produce where every person’s
all it needs group’s view was
internally; it has to respected and
join international given value or due
trade. International consideration.
trade involves the
Peace and harmony
exchange of both
is a necessary
goods and services
value for countries
across borders.
to cooperate in
This is possible
international trade
through selling and
in order to exchange
buying by exporters
commodities.
and importers
respectively.
• -Give a homework
to research on the
question below
5 mins Why is it important for • Write down the
countries to participate homework question
Assessment.
in international trade? to research about.

xl
Part 2: Development of Units
 Topic Area 4: International Economics
Sub-topic Area 4.1: International Trade

Unit 1: International Trade Theories

Reference to learner’s text book pages 3-39

Key unit competence: Learners will be able to analyse the

importance of international trade to the development of the
economy.

Prerequisites for this unit

In Senior Five, we last tackled the unit of population, labour and
wages and this brings us the need to tackle international economics.
This is because high population growth rates in some countries
worldwide require labour mobility globally, due to the need to
acquire goods and services to cater for the alarming population
etc. This requires countries to work hand in hand through
international trade. This requires learners to have knowledge and
understanding, skills and values and attitudes on global issues.
Thus, the introduction of this unit in S.6.
This unit will introduce learners to international economics. It is
the first unit on international economics and therefore explains the
terminologies that will be used in this unit and other different units
ahead. Introduce it carefully to make sure that learners understand
it better. It introduces learners to international trade theories, a basis
of international trade, and thus analyse reasons why countries need
to trade with each other and appreciate why Rwanda herself trades
with different countries globally, and adapt to challenges therein.

Cross-cutting issues to be addressed

When teaching this unit, the following cross cutting issues should
be emphasised:

1
 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Peace and values education: Given the fact that countries have to
trade together, they must maintain a good relationship between or
amongst themselves so as to reap much from international trade.
Environmental sustainability: Emphasise to learners that as
much as countries need to a lot much from international trade,
they need to harmonise the need for increased exports through
increased exploitation of resources with the environment and its
sustainability.
Standardisation culture: Learners need to understand and
appreciate the culture of better quality products produced within
or imported from other countries for better health and standard of
living. Thus international trade should encourage better quality
products and efficient methods of production.

Generic competences
• Co-operation and interpersonal management through
research and group work.
• Communication through presentation of findings on the
theories of international trade.
• Critical thinking through analysing the importance of
international trade.
• Lifelong learning through research on the theories and
importances of international trade.
Vocabulary or key words or concepts in the unit
Absolute Advantage: Ability one country is said to have over
another in production of a commodity when an equal quantity of
resources can produce more of that commodity in the first nation
than the second.
Bi-lateral trade: This is trade between two countries.
Comparative Advantage: This is the basis of trade between nations
where opportunity cost of producing the good is lower than the
opportunity cost of producing the same good or service in other
trading nations.
Exports: These are goods/services produced within a country and
sold to other countries.

2
 International trade theories

Export incentives: These are favourable conditions put in place

to boost exports of a country.
Export potential: Refers to the amount of unused resources in a
country that can be exploited for the external market e.g. forest,
mineral etc.
Imports: Imports are goods/services which are produced in other
countries and brought into one country.
Import surplus: A situation that exists when the value of imports
exceeds that of imports (unfavourable trade balance).
Individualism: This is a belief that individuals are the best judges
of their own interests.
Invisible commodities: This refers to those things that we cannot
see e.g. insurance, tourist expenditures etc.
Invisible trade: Trade in services e.g. tourism, education, banking
etc.
Multi-lateral trade: Trade among several countries.
Trade gap: This occurs when the quantity of imported goods
exceeds that of visible exports. It is the amount by which visible
imports exceed visible exports.
Unrequited exports: These are exports that do not earn any foreign
exchange. Such exports arise out of a debt owed by a country to
another. Unrequired exports are used to pay off the debt.
Vent-for-surplus: This explains the view that exploitation of idle
domestic resources for exports can lead to national income.
Visible trade: Trade in goods.

Guidance on the problem statement

This involves the activity at the beginning of the unit that requires
learners to be inquisitive to know what happens or will happen in
the unit. For example, give them Activity 1 page 4 in the Learner’s
Book to discuss it and as they look for solutions on their own, it
will open them to international trade aspects. Put the learners in
groups of at least 4-5 learners and they work out Activity 1 page 4
in the Learner’s Book about Mutangana’s business in and outside

3
 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Rwanda. Guide different groups facilitating their discussion and

help out where you find it necessary.

Expected answers for Activity 1 Learner’s Book page 4

Refer to the answers on page 7-8 in the teacher’s guide.

Attention to special education needs

Learners with physical impairment
Learners with physical impairment may show challenges in using
their hands to write, sitting in class, using the toilet, walking or
climbing stairs, etc. Such learners may also display excessive
fatigue after performing light duties.
This category of learners can be helped in the following ways:
Ask other learners to help them to move around, sit the learner in
a place where they can move in and out of class easily, give them
more time and practice to write, copy important notes for them
on paper, if it takes them too much time to copy work. Ensure a
friendly school environment e.g., the building ramps on all entries
to rooms, network with organisations that can provide wheelchairs,
allow them more time to complete their tasks and encourage other
learners to treat them with respect and dignity.

Learners with extra abilities

This kind of learners understand concepts very fast because
they are extremely intelligent. They complete tasks faster than
others, get bored faster due to early completion of tasks and can
be disruptive due to idleness. Provide them with extra activities
so as to keep them occupied, assign them to assist other learners,
provide counselling sessions where necessary.

Time takers
Such learners take time to understand what has been taught. Do not
reprimand them or show them they are poor compared to others.
Give them more attention, be more patient with them, guide them
carefully and create time for them after the lesson. Tell them
they can do better, and ensure they understand a sub-topic before
teaching the next.

4
 International trade theories

Learners with visual impairment

Learners with visual impairment experience problems with their
vision. Some learners may experience low vision and others may
have no vision at all. You can notice such learners because they
display the following characteristics:
They write unusually large letters, often scratch their eyes, cannot
focus in bright light, and cannot focus on distant objects.
Use the following strategies to assist them:
Sit them in the place where they can see clearly ,write with yellow
chalk on a clean chalkboard, encourage them to sit at the front of
the class, use large and legible handwriting on the chalkboard, use
large charts and other visual aids, ensure good colour contrast on
learning aids, and give the learner real objects to use.

Learners with hearing impairment

These learners have a problem with their ability to hear. They
may be partially or completely unable to hear. They display signs
such as:
Turning their heads towards the source of sound, shout when
talking, regularly consult those sitted next, delay to respond, have
irrelevant responses, pay less attention, and they always look at
the lips of the person talking to them.
Refer such learners to an ear specialist, and assist them in the
process of learning. You can look at the learner when speaking,
speak clearly and loudly, write instructions on the chalkboard,
be audible enough, encourage the learner to sit at the front in
class and regularly check their notes to ensure they are writing
the right things. Give the learners a slate (urubaho) to help them
communicate, speak slowly and use simple words.

Learners with communication disorders

These learners cannot communicate effectively because of speech
and language difficulties e.g. inability to interpret simple statements
easily giving up on description tasks due to frustration, stammering
and difficulty in explaining things.
Refer them to a speech therapist, avoid interrupting them when
they are talking, display high level of patience, pay attention to
all their needs, demonstrate various concepts and give them clear
instructions.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Learners with behavioural disorders

Learners with behavioural disorders do not conform to the expected
kind of behaviour laid down in school rules and regulations. They
may show behaviour disorder such as: truancy, stealing, failure
to complete tasks, disrupting lessons through playing, fighting
others, etc.
To assist such learners; reinforce their positive behaviour through
rewards, involve parents or guardians in correcting such behaviours,
and refer them to a counsellor if necessary.

List of lessons/ lesson map on international trade theories

Lesson 1: Difference between international trade and domestic trade.
Lesson 2: Forms and terminologies used in international trade.
Lesson 3: Need for international trade.
Lesson 4: Arguments for and against international trade and its limitations
Lesson 5: Rwanda’s international trade.
Lesson 6: Theory of Absolute advantage.
Lesson 7: Theory of Comparative advantage.
Lesson 8: Unit assessment.

Lesson development

Lesson 1: Difference between international trade
and domestic trade

Learner’s Book pages 6-7.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
(i) Contrast internal trade with international trade.
(ii) Appreciate the need for internal and international trade.

6
 International trade theories

Prerequisites/introduction for the lesson

Since it is a first lesson of the first unit in Senior Six, you can
start up with brief questions to stimulate learners towards the new
lesson. For example;
In groups, ask learners the following questions:
(i) Man’s wants are insatiable, what does it mean?
(ii) How do you think one can get all that he/she needs?
(iii) Explain what would happen if what one wants is not produced
in any part of the country.
Expected answers
(i) “Man’s wants cannot be satisfied”, they are endless.
(ii) Through own production and or exchange with other people
in the country who produce what one wants but cannot
produce on his or her own.
(iii) It would require one to cross boarders and get it from other
countries’ producers.
This will open the learner’s mind towards international trade
aspects. It’s from here that the learners are introduced to the day’s
lesson by assigning them Activity 1 page 4 in the Learner’s Book
about Mutangana’s trade.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Put learners in groups and assign them a task to go in the
library and research on international trade and answer questions
using Activity 1 on page 4. Moderate their discussions in groups.
Step 2: Invite different groups one at a time to present their findings
to the rest of the class. As they present, the rest listen attentively
for further understanding and note down what they didn’t have in
their respective groups.

Expected answers for Activity 1 page 4 Learner’s

Book
(i) Trade.
(ii) Domestic/ internal trade.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

(iii) International trade.

(iv) Through exchanging with other countries which have them
via import trade.
(v) Imports and exports.
(vi) Trade within Rwanda is different from trade between Rwanda
and other countries in the following ways:
• Transactions in domestic trade involve the use of
one currency, normally the national currency or legal
tender.
• Trade within a country is not subjected to barriers
restricting the movement of goods internally.
• Goods exchanged in domestic trade tend to be more
standardised than goods in international trade.
• The paper work involved in domestic trade is
normally less voluminous compared to that involved
in international trade.
• International trade is typically costlier than domestic
trade.
• Factors of production such as more costly and labour
are typically more mobile within a country than across
countries.
Synthesis
Refer to the content in the Learner’s Book page 6-7 and harmonise
the learners’ findings and give a clear stand for all learners to have
common understanding of the day’s lesson. Entertain questions
from them for clarity purposes. Thereafter, let learners note down
the main points from summary of the lesson. Emphasise the
importance of international trade as well as domestic trade.
Assessment of the lesson
Give a concluding task to learners on the day’s lesson to check the
attainment of the stated learning objectives.
For example;
(i) Mr. Rwakarengwa from Kirehe district, grows and supplies
his rice to Rusumo High School and Ecole de Science
Musanze in Musanze district. What type of trade can we
call that?

8
 International trade theories

(ii) What if he decides to cross to Tanzania, how would we call

that type of trade?
(iii) What requirements would be different for Mr. Rwakarengwa
in the two types of trade?
Expected answers
(i) Internal trade.
(ii) International trade.
(iii) In internal trade it would require him Rwandan francs but
in international trade it would require Tanzanian shillings.
• No much paper work in internal trade which is more
in international trade.
• Kinyarwanda would probably be the language mostly
used in exchange but he would be required to either
use Kiswahili or English in international trade.
• Etc

Lesson 2: Forms and terminologies used in
international trade

Learner’s Book pages 8-10.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
(i) Explain the different terminologies used in international
trade.
(ii) Contrast the different terms used in international trade.
Prerequisites/introduction for the lesson
Basing on the previous lesson, learners will have understood
the concept of international trade. Ask them questions related to
internal trade and international trade. Refer them to the case study
in Activity 1 about Mutangana as you ask probing questions about
it. This will bring out some of the terms used in international trade.
For example, ask them the following questions;
(i) How would you call the act of selling and buying by
Mutangana?
(ii) What economic term would you call the selling and buying
of commodities between or among countries by Mutangana?

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

(iii) ………… are commodities bought from other countries

while ……. are commodities sold to other countries?
Expected answers
• Trade.
• International trade.
• Imports and exports.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet,
newspapers and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Organise learners in groups and assign them to research
on international trade and answer questions in Activity 2 on page
8. Moderate their discussions in groups.
Step 2: Invite different groups to present their findings to the
rest of the class. As they present, let the rest listen attentively for
further understanding and note down what they didn’t have in
their respective groups. Learners can ask you questions for clarity.
Expected answers for Activity 2 Learner’s Book
page 8
(a) Bilateral trade, Multilateral trade.
(b) Goods and Services.
(c) Coffee, tea, pyrethrum, wheat, tourism, health, education,
transport.
(d) If countries are not at peace with one another it’s difficult for
movement of goods and services and factors of production
from one country to another. This limits consumer’s choice
hence worsening their living standards.
Synthesis
Refer to the forms and terminologies used in international trade in
the Learner’s Book page 8-10 to harmonise the learners’ findings
and give a clear explanation of the terminologies used in trade and
international trade. Entertain questions from learners for purposes
of clarity. Guide learners to note down the main points from the
summary.

10
 International trade theories

Assessment of the lesson

In order to check whether the learning objectives have been
attained, ask learners questions related to the lesson, for example:
(i) What examples can you give for bilateral trade or multilateral
trade?
(ii) How does a closed economy differ from an open economy?
(iii) The act of selling commodities to other countries is
called……. while the buying of commodities from other
countries is called…...
(iv) Rwanda bought cars from Japan with an intention of selling
them to EAC countries. What economic term do we call that?
Expected answers
(i) Let learners give different examples of bilateral trade e.g.
Rwanda and Uganda, etc. and multilateral trade e.g. Rwanda
with SADDC countries, etc.
(ii) A closed economy is assumed not to take part in international
trade while an open economy does.
(iii) Exportation and importation.
(iv) Entrepot trade.

Lesson 3: Need for international trade:

Learner’s Book pages 10-15

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Analyse the need for international trade.
• Appreciate Rwanda’s move to international trade.
Prerequisites/introduction for the lesson
Having seen the difference between internal and international trade
and the different terms used in international trade, learners can use
the knowledge gained to explain the reasons for their country’s
need of international trade.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, the internet.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Learning activities
Step 1: Pose a question to the class and learners in different pairs
discuss the need for international trade. (Refer to the question in
Activity 3 Learner’s Book page 11).
Step 2: Learners discuss in pairs and note down their points.
Step 3: A number of pairs present their findings to the class. All the
given points from different pairs are then discussed by the class.
Moderate the discussion.

Expected answers for Activity 3, Learner’s Book

page 10
Why countries need to join international trade
• Differences in natural resource endowments.
• Lack of self-sufficiency.
• Need to dispose-off surplus goods.
• Lack of co-operant factors.
• Differences in skills.
• Differences in technology.
• Need to acquire Foreign exchange
• Need to strengthen political ties.
• Need to increase competition and efficiency.
• Need to reduce subsistence sector.
• Need to promote employment opportunities.
• Vent for surplus argument.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.
Synthesis
Refer to the learner’s Book page 10, the need for international trade
and harmonise learners’ findings. Give a clear stand for all learners
to have a common understanding of the day’s lesson. Emphasise to
learners that international trade is a profitable venture and a sign
of development basing on the objectives. Entertain questions from
them for purposes of clarity. Thereafter, let learners note down the
main points from the summary of the lesson.
Assessment of the lesson
Base on the general discussions on the need for international trade
and ask learners to brainstorm the reasons for Rwanda to join
international trade. (Refer to the content in Learner’s Book page

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 International trade theories

11). But let learners specifically rely on the case study of Rwanda in
their explanations. Emphasise that Rwanda like any other country,
cannot do without international trade.

Lesson 4: Arguments for and against international
trade and its limitations

Learner’s Book pages 15-20.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of international
trade.
• Examine the limitations of international trade in Rwanda.
Prerequisites/introduction for the lesson
Having seen the reasons countries join international trade, more
specifically Rwanda, ask learners to use Activity 4 and 5 pages 15
and 18 respectively to brainstorm the advantages and disadvantages
and limitations of international trade.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet,
newspapers and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Group the learners into 2 different groups and then prepare
them for a debate on arguments for and against international trade.
Step 2: Group learners into 2 different groups and fold small papers
for them to pick which will tell the side where they belong as either
proposers or opposers.
Step 3: Allow them to carry out discussions within 2 groups and
note down their points. Guide them to generate points.
Step 4: Learners present their findings to the class through debate
on the motion “Rwanda’s participation in international trade has
been more beneficial than harmful to her economic development”.
(Activity 4, Learner’s Book page 15). All the given points from
different groups are then discussed together as a class. Allow them
to ask questions in relation to what was debated.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Expected answers for Activity 4, Learner’s Book

page 15
Arguments for international trade.
• It permits and fosters international specialisation in order to
maximise output and minimise costs of production.
• It overcomes shortages.
• It encourages market expansion.
• It is a vent for surplus.
• It provides revenue to the government from import and
export duties.
• It encourages creation and maintenance of employment.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.
Arguments against international trade.
• Encourages dumping which causes price instabilities in the
domestic country/ market.
• Loss of social economic and political sovereignty or
independence especially by LDCs.
• International trade may result into over exploitation of
domestic resources due to wider markets.
• Development of local industries is retarded.
• BOP position may worsen where import expenditure may
exceed export revenue.
• It may limit employment opportunities in the country.
Domestic people are outcompeted by foreigners who might
have superior skills over locals.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.
Step 4: Through class discussions learners brainstorm the
limitations of international trade in Rwanda, by show of hands.
(Refer to Activity 5 in the Learner’s Book page 18). Note the points
given by learners on the chalkboard and have a general consensus
with the class.
Expected answers for Activity 5 Learner’s Book page 18.
Limitations of international trade:
• Rapid depletion of exhaustible natural resources.
• Import of harmful goods.
• It may exhaust resources.

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 International trade theories

• Overspecialisation.
• Danger of starvation.
• One country gains at the expense of others.
• May lead to war.
• Language diversity.
Note: Be open minded to other correct answers.
Synthesis
Base on the learners’ discussions and refer to the Learner’s Book
page 15-20 and give a detailed explanation on the advantages and
disadvantages as well as the limitations of international trade. Find
out from their discussions what is not clear and emphasise it by
asking the ones who seem to have clearly understood in the course
of the lesson. Finally agree on a common stand.
Assessment of the lesson
Use the lesson’s content and ask particularly on Rwanda’s situation
the following:
(i) What evident advantages and disadvantages are in
international trade? (refer to advantages and disadvantages
of international trade page 15-20 in the Learner’s Book).
(ii) What is limiting Rwanda’s international trade? (refer to the
limitations of international trade page 19 in the Learner’s Book).
Expected answers
(i) • Market expansion.
• Variety of goods produced and consumed.
• Production of better quality due to exposure to outside
completion.
• Development of local industries has been retarded due
to foreign competition.
• There is dumping of commodities in the country
leading to price instabilities.
• Etc.
(ii) Exhaustion of natural resources.
• Language diversity
• Differences in laws and regulations
• Etc

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Lesson 5: Rwanda’s international trade

Learner’s Book pages 20- 23.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Analyse Rwanda’s trade position.
• Contribute towards the improvement of Rwanda’s trade
position.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Ask learners to describe the general international trade picture of
Rwanda in relation to imports and exports. Let them discover that
Rwanda as a developing country still has international trade issues
where imports exceed exports.

Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.

Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups carry out library/internet research on
the Rwanda’s international trade position.
Step 2: In their respective groups, learners describe Rwanda’s
international trade as you moderate their discussions.
Step 3: Call upon different groups to make presentations to the
class.

Expected answers
• Rwanda’s total trade has been increasing from the past, for
example, 2014 it increased by 3.4% to US$ 2,356.6million
from US$ 2,278.9million in 2013.
• There was an increase in both exports and imports from 2013
to 2014 i.e. from US$ 622.0million to US$ 652.2million and
US $1,658.0 million to US$1704.4 million respectively.
• However, imports are still above exports for example in
2014 import were USD 1,704.4 million while exports were
652.2 million.

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 International trade theories

• Rwanda’s main source of imports are EAC, EU, China, India

and Unites Arab Emirates.
• The main domestic exports included ores, slag and ash;
coffee, tea, mate and spices; products of industry, raw hides
and skins; iron and steel and natural or cultured pearls; which
accounted for 84.2 percent.
• Rwanda re-exports commodities like fuel, minerals, fats,
vehicles etc. to other countries.
Synthesis
Having discussed the international trade of Rwanda, generally give
a broad picture of Rwanda’s trade by referring to the Learner’s
Book page 20. Harmonise learners’ findings by giving a general
trade picture of Rwanda’s international trade.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask questions related to the lesson to check whether the lesson
objectives were attained. For example;

(i) What is the trade position of Rwanda? (referring to the

Learner’s Book page 20-24)
(ii) What can be done to improve Rwanda’s trade position?
Expected answers
(i) Imports are greater than exports thus Rwanda is having a
trade gap (deficit).
(i) • Undertake import substitution industrial strategy.
• Export promotion industrial strategy.
• Devalue the currency.
• Attract both local and foreign investors.

Lesson 6: Theory of Absolute advantage

Learner’s Book pages 24-28.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the theory of Absolute advantage.
• Describe the gains from international trade basing on the
theory of absolute advantage.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• Interpret any given economic information on international

trade using the theory of absolute advantage.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Generally, give an introductory exercise to motivate learners to the
day’s lesson. Link the exercise with the day’s lesson by stressing
that most countries in the world produce similar commodities given
same resources. But because one can produce better than the other,
it requires specialisation and exchange. Thus a theory of absolute
advantage in international trade.
Exercise: Suppose you have 2 commodities that your resources
can produce. For example, maize and beans. Your neighbour too,
can also produce the same commodities using equal resources.
However, you produce maize better than your neighbour just like
he/she can produce beans better than you.
(i) How would you go about it to enjoy the benefits out of your
production?
(ii) What would happen after the above decision you took.
(iii) Describe the nature of output produced after your decision.
Expected answers
(i) I would give up beans production for maize production so
as to produce it and exchange with my neighbour for maize
as he/ she gives up maize production for beans production.
(ii) We would exchange between us.
(iii) The output will increase in quantity and quality because
the two of us shall specialise and divert our resources to
production of a commodity we are good at.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.

Learning activities
Step 1: Put learners in groups and basing on the introductory
exercise, assign them a task on absolute advantage. Let them
do Activity 6 in the Learner’s Book page 24. Moderate their
discussions.
Step 2: Call upon some groups to present their findings to the class
as the rest pay attention and ask questions for clarity.

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 International trade theories

Expected answers for Activity 6 Learners Book page

24
(a) Theory of Absolute advantage
(b) The theory states that “Given two countries and same amount
of resources, a country is said to have an absolute advantage
over another in production of a given commodity if it can
produce that commodity more efficiently at a lower input
cost”
(c) Gicumbi farmers in Rwanda should specialise in maize
production because they have absolute advantage (1000
tons) over Kabale farmers in Uganda (800 tons) while
Kabale farmers in Uganda should specialise in Irish potatoes
(2000 tons) because they have absolute advantage in their
production than Gucumbi farmers (500 tons).
(d) If the two countries specialise in commodities where they
have an absolute advantage, they would exchange those
commodities among themselves.
Step 3: Entertain questions from learners and ask different questions
as per the lesson and finally harmonise learners’ presentations.
Synthesis
Refer to the theory of absolute advantage in Learner’s Book
page 24. After the learners have presented their views, explain in
summary the lesson, for example, absolute advantage is therefore
the ability of a country to produce more of a commodity than its
competitors using the same amount of resources. And the law
as put forward by Adam Smith, which states that “Given two
countries and same amount of resources, a country is said to
have an absolute advantage over another in production of a given
commodity if it can produce that commodity more efficiently at a
lower input cost”. The theory works on the assumptions that labour
is the only factor of production; and that labour is mobile within
the country but immobile between countries. Therefore, given the
above assumptions, an exchange of goods will occur (assuming
a two-country two-commodity case), if each of the two countries
can produce one commodity at an absolutely lower labour cost of
production than the other.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Assessment of the lesson

Ask questions to ensure that the lesson objectives were achieved.
For example:
(i) What do we base on to say a country has absolute advantage
in production of a given commodity?
(ii) What are the benefits of this theory?
Expected answers
If a country produces more of a commodity than the other using
less input costs.
(i) It encourages specialisation.
(ii) It increases world production.
(iii) There is efficient use of resources.

Lesson 7: Theory of comparative advantage

Learner’s Book pages 28-37.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Differentiate between absolute advantage and comparative
advantage theories of international trade.
• Examine the benefits and costs of comparative cost advantage
in international trade.
• Analyse the determining factors of comparative advantage
theory.
• Use calculations from production schedule to explain the
theory of comparative advantage.
• Analyse the applicability of the comparative advantage
theory in LDCs/Rwanda.
• Advocate for efficient use of available resources to increase
gains from international trade.
Prerequisites for the lesson
First reflect on the absolute advantage theory, and then give a
situation of a possibility of a country having an absolute advantage
in production of both commodities than her counterpart. Ask
learners what would happen between the two countries. Give a
small exercise to stimulate their interest in the lesson. Like in the
theory of absolute advantage, ask them, “What if you produce both

20
 International trade theories

beans and maize more efficiently than your neighbour, show how
you would go about it”.
Expected answers
We can first calculate and see who has a least opportunity cost and
base on it for specialisation.
(Remind them that in this case absolute advantage ceases to be
based on, instead its comparative advantage that helps them
specialise.). Thus the basis of the day’s lesson.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning Activities
Step 1: Put learners in groups of at least 4-5 learners and assign
them a task on Activity7 in the Learner’s Book page 28.
Step 2: Learners in their respective groups discuss Activity 7 as
given. Move around groups and guide them in different issues.
Step 3: Call upon different groups to present their findings and
facilitate the discussion.
Expected answers for Activity 7 page 28 Learner’s
Book
(a) The theory of absolute advantage.
(b) Kabale farmers in Uganda should specialise in carrot
production because of less units of oranges foregone
compared to Gicumbi farmers (1.8 tons of oranges of Kabale
farmers than 2 tons of Gicumbi farmers in Rwanda).
(c) The theory of comparative advantage states that “Given
2 countries and 2 commodities, with a given amount of
resources, a country should specialise in producing a
commodity where it has a least opportunity cost compared
to another country”.
(d) The theory of comparative advantage is relevant on the
grounds that:
• LDCs tend to specialise in producing primary products
where they have a least opportunity cost e.g. Rwanda
exports raw materials.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• LDCs still have barter trade arrangements among

themselves.
• LDCs use labour intensive technology while MDCs
use capital intensive technology so the assumption of
no change in technology is realistic.
• There is some degree of mobility of factors of
production among LDCs especially labour.
• LDCs import manufactured commodities where they
have a high opportunity cost.
• There are some cases of free trade among LDCs
especially in economic integrations.

The theory of comparative advantage is criticised on the grounds that:

• The model deals only with the situation in which trade takes
place between two countries and in two commodities.
• The theory assumes that people all over the world have
similar tastes. But this is not true. People belonging to
different levels of income have different tastes.
• The theory does not recognise the role of technological
innovations in international trade.
• The theory rests upon the assumption that there is complete
specialisation or division of labour.
• It is wrong to assume the existence of free world trade.
• In his theory, Ricardo shows no consideration for transport
costs, which play an important role in determining the
profitability and pattern of international trade.
• The conditions of perfect competition cannot be achieved
in the real world.
• The assumption that all units of factors of production are
equally efficient is too simplistic. It is very difficult to find
factors of production, which are equally efficient.
Synthesis
Basing on the learners’ discussions in their respective groups, bring
out a general conclusion about the lesson by emphasising that the
theory of comparative advantage is a basis for international trade
where counties specialise according to the comparative advantage
even if they have absolute advantage in all commodities. This

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 International trade theories

theory is determined by different factors as seen in the Learner’s

Book page 36 and once they are favourable a country specialising
gains much from international trade (see benefits of comparative
advantage page 35 in Learner’s Book) than the other whose
conditions are not favourable.
Assessment of the lesson
Give an assessment on the lesson to assess the achievement of the
objective e.g.
(a) Use the figure below to answer the questions that follow.

Tea

100
Uganda
80

Rwanda

0 70 150 Rice

(i) Which theory of international trade is portrayed in the

above figure and why?
(ii) Who should specialise in what commodity, and why?
(b) How does the entire world gain using the theory of
comparative advantage?
Expected answers
(i) The theory of absolute advantage, because Uganda
produces both tea (100 units) and Rice (150) efficiently
than Rwanda 80 and 70 respectively.
(ii) Opportunity cost= Alternative foregone/actual
production
Thus for Uganda to produce tea = 150 = 1.5
100
Uganda to produce Rice = 100 =0.67
150
Rwanda to produce tea = 70 =0.875
80
Rwanda to produce rice = 80 = 1.1
70

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Thus Uganda should specialise in production of rice

since it incurs a least opportunity cost (0.67 units of
tea foregone) than Rwanda (1.1 units of tea foregone).
Rwanda should specialise in tea production since it
foregoes less units of rice (0.875 units of rice foregone)
than Uganda (1.5 units of rice foregone).
(b) As countries specialise basing on comparative advantage theory,
they divert all their resources to the production of that commodity
of their specialisation thus increasing worlds’ total output.

Lesson 8: Unit assessment

Learner’s Book page 37

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to analyse the
importance of international trade to the development of the economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Organise learners and provide an end of unit assessment by referring
to the Learner’s Book page 38. Guide them to do the assessment.
Teaching aids
Classroom environment, printed assessment sheets and answer
sheets etc.
Learning activities
Step 1: Distribute preprinted/ written assessment sheets and answer
sheets to learners.
Step 2: Learners answer the questions given individually or in
groups and the teacher supervises them.
Step 3: When time is over, collect their written work for marking.
Synthesis
Refer to end of unit assessment in the Learner’s Book on page 37
to have a general discussion with the rest of the class of what was
required in the questions provided.

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 International trade theories

Assessment of the lesson

To check whether the learning objectives were achieved, ask more
related questions and refer to the answers to the end unit assessment
at the end of unit 1 in this Teacher’s Guide.

End of unit

Summary of the unit

This unit introduces the learner to international trade aspects.
The learner is helped to understand and master the terminologies,
the need, arguments for and against international trade (refer to
Learner’s Book pages 3 to 39).
According to the theories of absolute and comparative advantage,
basing on the problem statement of the unit, a country will have
to cross boarders to acquire what it does not produce but is being
produced by other countries. This is possible through import and
export trade. Rwanda is involved in this trade.
Additional information for the teacher
Learners need to know that it is the World Trade Organisation
(WTO) that deals with global rules of trade between nations. Its
main function is to ensure that trade flows as smoothly, predictably
and freely as possible.

End of Unit 1 assessment answers (Learner’s Book page 37)

1. (a) The theory of comparative advantage states that “Given 2

countries and 2 commodities, with a given amount of resources,
a country should specialise in producing a commodity.
(b) Rwanda in production of;
i. maize = alternative foregone/actual production
=15,000/20,000= 0.75
ii. sugar = alternative foregone/actual production
=20,000/15,000= 1.33
(c) Tanzania in the production of;
maize = alternative foregone/actual production
= 5000/15,000= 0.33
sugar = alternative foregone/actual production
=15,000/5000= 3

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Therefore, basing on the above calculations, Rwanda should specialise

in production of sugar because of the least opportunity cost in maize
production than Tanzania (i.e. 1.33 units of maize foregone in Rwanda
than 3 units in Tanzania). While Tanzania should specialise in maize
production because of the least opportunity cost in sugar production
than Rwanda i.e. 0.33 units of sugar foregone in Tanzania than 0.75
units in Rwanda.
2 Why we buy goods from abroad yet we can make them locally:
• Domestic production might be expensive than importing thus
basing on comparative advantage we have to import such
commodities where we face a high opportunity cost.
• Imported goods might be of good quality than domestic ones
because those imported might be from a technologically
developed nation. Thus on health grounds and living standards
of citizens we need to import however much we can produce
that commodity.
• A country would be limited to the goods and services within its
borders thus the need to increase the consumer’s choice through
increased variety.
• To increase efficiency in domestic producers by exposing them
to competition with foreign commodities.
• Our home made commodities might be of higher value/grade
thus the need to export them and import the same but less value
commodities, the difference in price is a lot to the country in
form of exchange.
• Sometimes a country would import raw materials even if they
have them in their country so that they don’t use up their supply.
This helps in periods when other sources around the world dry
up or become inaccessible.
• For environmental protection and sustainability i.e. it might be
like a mineral where a country may import that mineral it has
in order not to damage her environment while trying to get that
mineral, instead let other countries damage their environment.
3. (a) Explain the contribution of international trade to the economic
development.

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 International trade theories

The advantages of trade

International trade brings a number of valuable benefits to a country,
including:
• The exploitation of a country’s comparative advantage, which
means that trade encourages a country to specialise in producing
only those goods and services which it can produce more
effectively and efficiently, and at the lowest opportunity cost.
• Producing a narrow range of goods and services for the domestic
and export market means that a country can produce in higher
volumes, which provides further cost benefits in terms of
economies of scale.
• Trade increases competition and lowers world prices, which
provides benefits to consumers by raising the purchasing power
of their own income, and leads to a rise in consumer surplus.
• Trade also breaks down domestic monopolies, which face
competition from more efficient foreign firms.
• The quality of goods and services is likely to increases as
competition encourages innovation, design and the application
of new technologies. Trade will also encourage the transfer of
technology between countries.
• Trade is also likely to increase employment, given that
employment is closely related to production. Trade means that
more will be employed in the export sector and, through the
multiplier process, more jobs will be created across the whole
economy.
The disadvantages of trade
Despite the benefits, trade has disadvantages which include:
• Trade can lead to overspecialisation; with workers at risk of
losing their jobs should world demand fall or when goods
for domestic consumption can be produced more cheaply
abroad. Jobs lost through such changes cause severe structural
unemployment.
• Certain industries do not get a chance to grow because they
face competition from more established foreign firms, such as
new infant industries which may find it difficult to establish
themselves.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• Local producers, who may supply a unique product tailored

to meet the needs of the domestic market, may suffer because
cheaper imports may destroy their market. Over time, the
diversity of output in an economy may diminish as local
producers leave the market.
(b) Why most LDCs today benefit little from international trade
• Most LDCs export primary products which fetch low
prices in foreign markets thus failure to raise their export
earnings.
• Unfavourable terms of trade i.e. terms of trade are
always going against LDCs due to the absence of proper
infrastructure, and the quality enhancement initiative
which worsens the terms of trade for them.
• The growth of developmental imports which include
machinery and equipment for various types of industries
as well as maintenance imports.
• There is higher import intensity in industrial development
resulting from import intensive industrialisation to meet
elitist consumption.
• Mushrooming imports and sluggish growth in exports
results in growing deficit in its BOP position.
• There is lack of coordination among LDCs through promotion
of integration economic groupings, formation of union etc.
which would increase trade benefits amongst them.
• There is depleting forex reserves as a result of growing
volume of imports and continuous BOP crisis thus shorter
import cover for the countries.
• Steep depreciation of the LDCs currencies with dollar
and other convertible currencies has resulted into a
considerable increase in the value of imports which
ultimately has led to huge deficit in its balance of trade.
• High prices of oil and petroleum products charged by the
oil producing countries especially since the gulf war.
• International liquidity problem i.e. deficiency of capital
and technology resulting into heavy dependence on
developed countries for their scarce resources.

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 International trade theories

4. (a) Distinguish between comparative advantage and absolute

advantage.
Absolute advantage is the ability one country is said to have over
another in production of a commodity when an equal quantity of
resources can produce more of that commodity in the first nation
than the second. While comparative advantage is the basis of
trade between nations where opportunity cost of producing the
good is lower than the opportunity cost of producing the same
good or service in other trading nations.
(b) “The principle of comparative advantage is an outmoded
concept”. Do you agree?
Basing on the criticisms of the principle of comparative
advantage, it is an out moded concept because of the following
reasons;
• The theory assumes that people all over the world have
similar tastes which is not the case because people
belonging to different levels of income have different
tastes. In addition, the tastes also change according to
the growth of an economy and with the opening of world
markets and development of trade relations.
• The theory does not recognise the role of technological
innovations in international trade.
• The theory rests upon the assumption that there is complete
specialisation or division of labour yet in the real world,
complete specialisation is not possible.
• The model deals only with the situation in which trade
takes place between two countries and in two commodities.
However, this is a hypothetical situation which does not
exist in real life.
• The assumption that all units of factors of production are
equally efficient is too simplistic. It is very difficult to
find factors of production, which are equally efficient, etc.
However, the principle still holds because of its
applicability as supported in the following points;

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• LDCs have tended to specialise in producing primary

products where they have a least opportunity cost e.g.
Rwanda exports raw materials.
• LDCs still have barter trade arrangements among
themselves.
• LDCs use labour intensive technology while MDCs use
capital intensive technology so the assumption of no
change in technology is realistic.
• There is some degree of mobility of factors of production
among LDCs especially labour.
• LDCs import manufactured commodities where they have
a high opportunity cost.
• There are some cases of free trade among LDCs especially
in economic integrations.
(c) Discuss the view that where there is not comparative advantage
there is nothing to gain from international trade.

Benefits of comparative advantage

• It encourages competition and improvement in efficiency
so as to reduce costs of production.
• It encourages specialisation and exchange.
• It increases global output of commodities.
• It encourages economic cooperation and free trade among
countries.
• It encourages mass production and reaping of economies
of scale.
• It discourages duplication of industries i.e. setting up of
industries which already exist in other countries.
• It widens market for exports.
• It enables countries to get commodities which they cannot
produce.
• It enables countries to get foreign exchange.
• Specialisation results into effective utilisation of resources
some of which would be idle.

30
 International trade theories

However, it has got costs which include;

• Transport costs may outweigh any comparative advantage.
• Increased specialisation may lead to dis-economies of
scale.
• Governments may restrict trade.
• It measures static advantage but not any dynamic advantage
e.g. in the future a country may become good at producing
another commodity if it made necessary investment.
• It reduces self-sufficiency and independence among
countries.
5. Consider the view that gains from international trade are biased in
favour of advanced industrial countries.
Gains from international trade are in form of high prices on exports,
low prices for imports and improving terms of trade. LDCs gain less
from international trade than industrial economies because of;
• Declining price/value of exports due to low quality products
which cannot compete favourably in the world market.
• Increasing prices of imports due to increased demand for capital
goods and tariffs on imports increases prices further.
• Declining volume of exports reduce income terms of trade due
to protection by MDCs and low production as a result of lack
of capital and skills.
• High rates of inflation in LDCs which reduces demand for their
exports.
Poor investment climate in LDCs encourages people to invest
in MDCs thus continuous capital outflow
• Natural calamities in most LDCs has caused agricultural failure
and led to low agricultural export earnings.
• Most LDCs are landlocked thus the high transport costs reduce
the gains from trade by LDCs.
• Poor infrastructure like storage facilities and air transport in
most LDCs make export of delicate products like fruits and
flowers difficult.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• Weak economic integration among developing countries.

• Monopoly power of MNCs pay less for raw materials and charge
high prices for final commodities. etc.

Remedial activity
Exercise 1
If Mukunzi and Mwiza, both traders in Rwanda, decided to trade
amongst themselves without crossing boarders:
(i) How would we call that?
(ii) What are the likely effects?
Expected answers
(i) Internal trade.
(ii) Likely effects (it’s a variety of them this is just some of what
they can give).
• Reduces possible costs engaged in cross border trade.
• Encourages consumption of local commodities.
• Enhances local production.
• Increases local entrepreneurs.
• Locals may be subjected to low or poor quality
commodities.
• Might lead to scarcity inflation where demand exceeds
supply.
• Doesn’t encourage competition and efficiency in the
local producers as they are not subjected to foreign
pressure.
Exercise 2: (Extended activity)
How would you call the form of trade where:
(i) Rwanda receives tourists from the UK or hires teachers from
Kenya?
(ii) Rwanda sells her coffee to Namibia or buys cars from Japan?
(iii) How would you distinguish the two forms of trade in (i) and
(ii) above?
(iv) Which of the two forms of exchange mentioned in (iii) above
do you think benefits Rwanda most?

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 International trade theories

Expected answers
(i) Invisible trade (trade in services).
(ii) Visible trade (trade in goods).
(iii) Exchange in (i) is not seen or touched but in (ii) it is visible,
seen and touched.
(iv) Whether visible or invisible trade, they all equally benefit
Rwanda’s economy as long as they contribute to her foreign
exchange earnings and to the production process of the
country both in the short run and long run.
Consolidation activities
1. (a) Suppose Rugwiro a Rwandan and Muhaya a Tanzanian
were exchanging commodities; how would you call
that in relation to the notion of forms of international
trade?
Expected answers
(a) Bilateral trade
(b) Rugwiro and Muhaya have now diversified and exchange
their commodities with other countries’ traders; how would
you call that in relation to forms of international trade?
Expected answers
1. Multilateral trade
2. Ntaganda and Mulisa are two farmers who produce same
commodities i.e. maize and beans respectively. It is assumed
that they all have equal resources but Ntaganda produces 60
tons of maize and 90 tons of beans per season while Mulisa
produces 40 tons of maize and 80 tons of beans per season.
Given this situation and using the knowledge gained from
the theories of international trade in this unit;
(i) Which theory of international trade is explained in the above
case study, and why?
Expected answers
(i) It is absolute advantage theory because Ntaganda has the
ability to produce more of the two commodities using less
input costs than Mulisa.
(ii) If they are to specialise, who should specialise in what and why?

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Expected answers
Trader Maize Beans
Ntaganda 60 (maize) 90 (beans)
Mulisa 40 (maize) 80 (beans)
Opportunity cost = alternative foregone/alternative
undertaken (actual production).
Ntaganda: Maize=90/70 = 1.5 Beans= 60/90 = 0.67.
Mulisa: Maize-=80/40 = 2 Beans= 40/80= 0.5.
This implies that to produce maize, Ntaganda foregoes 1.5
tons of beans while Mulisa foregoes 2 tons of beans therefore
Ntaganda who foregoes less tons of beans than Mulisa should
specialise in production of maize alone and Mulisa should
leave it.
To produce beans, Ntaganda foregoes 0.67 tons of maize
while Mulisa foregoes 0.5 tons of maize this means that
Mulisa foregoes less than Ntaganda and therefore should
specialise in beans production. This helps the two producers
to produce efficiently and exchange between themselves.
This theory of comparative advantage requires that even if a
person or country has a capacity to produce both commodities,
it should specialise in the production of a commodity where
one incurs less opportunity cost. This explains rather than
produce it, even if it has the capacity to do so.

3. (a) What do you call trade within Rwanda?

(b) What do you think are the advantages and disadvantages
of trade without crossing Rwandan borders?
Expected answers
(a) Domestic or internal trade.
(b) Advantages of domestic trade.
• Lower transport costs.
• Prevention of traffic restrictions.
• Tax benefits in terms of customs duties.
• Avoidance of doubt and structure of expenditure
by currency guarantees all costs and revenues in

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 International trade theories

• the same currency.

• Use of local raw materials and market players.
• Protection of business know how.
Disadvantages
• More expensive to start-up companies in the country.
• Its riskier i.e. its more confronted with political
influence.
• Lack of stiff competition from foreign producers leads
to inefficiency.

35
 Topic Area 4: International Economics
Sub-topic Area 4.1: International Trade

Unit 2: Terms of Trade

Reference to learner’s text book pages 43-70

Key unit competence: Learners will be able to describe the

terms of trade in LDCs.

Prerequisites for this unit

Having taught in Unit 1, the international trade theories and
why countries participate in international trade and the need for
exchange between or among countries, we need also to enlight
learners on the relationship between prices of goods and services
exchanged. This unit will therefore explain to learners how and
why some countries benefit in international trade than others and
the measures some countries need to take in order to gain as much
as possible like others in the race.

Cross-cutting issues to be addressed

When teaching this unit, the following cross cutting issues have
to be addressed:
Financial education where learners need to know and appreciate
that one needs to export more, and earn much and import less hence
spend less. This teaches them financial discipline.
Also, standardisation culture needs to be stressed in here because
learners need to know that as one plans to produce more, he/she
should not compromise the quality of products produced. Learners
come to understand that high quality products are sold at high prices
thus fetching favourable terms of trade for the economy.

36
 Terms of trade

Generic competences
• Co-operation is gained as learners do group discussions
about different tasks on terms of trade.
• Communication skills are achieved through presentation
of findings.
• Critical thinking is developed through analysing nature
of terms of trade for LDCs.
• Lifelong learning is generated as learners research
about different aspects as per teacher’s instructions.
Vocabulary or key words or concepts in the unit
Balance of trade: The difference between the value of visible and
invisible exports and imports.
Barter terms of trade: The ratio of the quantity index of exports
to the quantity index of imports.
Deteriorating terms of trade: When a country experiences
unfavourable terms of trade for year after year.
Favourable terms of trade: Where a country’s export prices are
higher than her import prices.
Income terms of trade: The ratio of income earned from exports
to the price of imports.
Terms of trade: The measure of import purchasing power of a
country’s export or the relationship between the price of a country’s
export and its expenditure on imports.
Unfavourable terms of trade: When a country’s import prices are
higher than her export prices.
Visible balance: Is the difference in value of a country’s physical
imports and exports over a period of time.

Guidance on the problem statement

This involves the activity at the beginning of the unit which makes
learners to be inquisitive or curious about the unit. For example,
ask learners to explain when trade is favourable and when it is
not. Link this to Activity 1, on page 44 in the Learner’s Book. As
they discuss, it will open them to more issues on the terms of trade
especially the nature of the terms of trade in Rwanda and other

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

LDCs at large. As learners are guided to calculate the terms of

trade, they will be enlighted more on the proceedings of the unit.
Refer to the expected answers in this Teacher’s Guide page 41.

Attention to special education needs

Learners with physical disabilities
Learners with physical disabilities may show challenges in using
their hands to write, sitting in class, using the toilet, walking or
climbing stairs, etc. Such learners may also display excessive
fatigue after performing light duties.
This category of learners can be helped in the following ways:
Ask other learners to help them to move around, sit the learner in
a place where they can move in and out of class easily, give them
more time and practice to write, copy important notes for them
on paper, if it takes them too much time to copy work. Ensure a
friendly school environment e.g,the building ramps on all entries
to rooms, network with organisations that can provide wheelchairs,
allow them more time to complete their tasks and encourage other
learners to treat them with respect and dignity.

Learners with extra abilities

This kind of learners understand concepts very fast because they are
extremely intelligent. They complete tasks faster than others, get
bored faster due to early completion of tasks and can be disruptive
when idle. Provide them with extra activities so as to keep them
occupied, assign them to assist other learners, provide counselling
sessions where necessary.

Time takers
Such learners take time to understand what has been taught. Do not
reprimand them or show them they are poor compared to others.
Give them more attention, be more patient with them, guide them
carefully and create time for them after the lesson. Tell them
they can do better, and ensure they understand a sub-topic before
teaching the next.

Learners with visual impairment

Learners with visual impairment experience problems with their
vision. Some learners may experience low vision and others may
have no vision at all. You can notice such learners because they
display the following characteristics:

38
 Terms of trade

They write unusually large letters, often scratch their eyes, cannot
focus in bright light, and cannot focus on distant objects.
Use the following strategies to assist them:
Sit them in the place where they can see clearly, write with yellow
chalk on a clean chalkboard, encourage them to sit at the front of
the class, use large and legible handwriting on the chalkboard,
use large charts and other visual aids, ensure good colour contrast
on learning aids, and give the learner real objects to use.

Learners with hearing impairment

These learners have a problem with their ability to hear. They
may be partially or completely unable to hear. They display signs
such as:
Turning their heads towards the source of sound, shout when
talking, regularly consult those sitted next, delay to respond, have
irrelevant responses, pay less attention, and they always look at
the lips of the person talking to them.
Refer such learners to an ear specialist, and assist them in the
learning process. You can look at the learner when speaking,
speak clearly and loudly, write instructions on the chalkboard,
be audible enough, encourage the learner to sit at the front in
class and regularly check their notes to ensure they are writing
the right things. Give the learners a slate (urubaho) to help them
communicate, speak slowly and use simple words.

Learners with communication disorders

These learners cannot communicate effectively because of speech
and language difficulties e.g. inability to interpret simple statements
easily giving up on description tasks due to frustration, stammering
and difficulty in explaining things.
Refer them to a speech therapist, avoid interrupting them when
they are talking, display high level of patience,pay attention to
all their needs, demonstrate various concepts and give them clear
instructions.

Learners with behavioural disorders

Learners with behavioural disorders do not conform to the expected
kind of behaviour laid down in school rules and regulations. They
may show behaviour disorders such as: truancy, stealing, failure

39
 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

to complete tasks, disrupting lessons through playing, fighting

others, etc.
To assist such learners; reinforce their positive behaviour through
rewards, involve parents or guardians in correcting such behaviours,
and refer them to a counsellor if necessary.
List of lessons/lesson map
Lesson 1 Terms of trade and its Forms.
Lesson 2 Nature of terms of trade for LDCs and how to improve it.
Lesson 3 Balance of trade.
Lesson 4 Causes of changes in terms of trade.
Lesson 5 Unit assessment.

Lesson development

Lesson 1: Terms of trade and its forms

Learner’s Book pages 44-51.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain terms of trade
• Differentiate the two forms of terms of trade.
• Calculate and interpret the two forms of trade.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Basing on the last unit on the Rwanda’s international trade i.e on
the import and export situation, through whole class discussion,
introduce the lesson by assuming situations where;
(i) Exports are less but expensive and Import are many but cheap
(ii) Exports are less and cheap and Imports are many and
expensive.
Then guide learners to interpret what would happen.

40
 Terms of trade

Expected answers
(i) Favourable trade situation
(ii) Unfavourable trade situation.
Connect the situation to the day’s lesson explaining that the
relationship between the price of imports and exports is called
terms of trade.
Teaching aids
Economics textbooks related to the unit, internet access, relevant
newspapers with economics related issues, and relevant economics
journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Organise learners in different groups and assign them a task
on Activity 1 page 44 in the Learner’s Book. Guide them to discuss,
as you move in different groups and guide them if necessary.
Step 2: Guide learners in their groups to present their findings to
the rest of the class. Encourage all groups to present their views.
Facilitate the discussions and harmonise their presentations. You
may have to do calculations together as they follow step by step.
Expected answers for Activity 1 in the Learner’s Book
page 44
(a) Terms of trade
(b) In 2015 = price of exports × 100
Price of imports
= 800 × 100 = 47
1700
The next year (2016) coffee prices fell by 20% i.e. 20% of 800
= 20 × 800 = 160
100
Thus = 800-160= 640
= 640 × 100 = 37.6
1700
(c) The terms of trade in 2015 were unfavourable because they are
below 100% while the terms of trade in 2016 deteriorated because
they continuously fell below 100%
(d) Terms of trade can be expressed as;
(i) Barter/commodity terms of trade.
(ii) Income/monetary terms of trade.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Step 3: Encourage learners to ask for clarity in case of anything

which is not well understood concerning the lesson. In this case
you can clarify accordingly.
Synthesis
Refer to the meaning and forms of terms of trade in the Learner’s
Book pages 44-51 and clearly connect learners’ discussion with
the available content. Then let them take note of the discussed
summary of the lesson.
Assessment of the lesson
To check well whether the learning objectives have been attained,
assess learners’ mastery of the competences with in the lesson.
For example;
If in 2017 Rwanda exports 1000 tons of coffee to china each at
US$ 500 in exchange for 20 cars each at US$2000
(i) What are we aiming at in looking at prices of imports and
exports plus their quantities?
(ii) Describe the relationship between Rwanda’s export and
import values.
(iii) Calculate the income terms of trade and barter terms of trade
in 2017 and interpret your findings.
Expected answers
(i) Terms of trade for Rwanda.
(ii) Its unfavourable because prices of exports are less than prices
of imports.
(iii) Barter TOT = Px × 100
Pmx
= 500 × 100
2000
= 25
It’s unfavourable terms of trade because Rwanda’s TOT is
less than 100.
Income TOT = PxQx = 500 × 1000 × 100
Pm 2000
= 250

42
 Terms of trade

Lesson 2: Nature of terms of trade for LDCs and
how to improve it

Learner’s Book pages 51-57

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Describe the nature of terms of trade in LDCs.
• Identify factors for improving terms of trade in LDCs.
• Analyse the ways of improving terms of trade in LDCs.
• Take part in improving terms of trade in LDCs/Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Through brainstorming, refer to the previous lesson where learners
calculated and interpreted the terms of trade for Rwanda. This is
done to introduce the new lesson of why LDCs have deteriorating
terms of trade. Refer to Activity 2 in Learner’s Book page 51.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, the internet, newspapers, magazines and economics
journals covering issues of trade/terms of trade in LDCs.
Learning activities
Step 1: Pair up learners and ask them to share their views about
the causes of the deteriorating terms of trade in LDCs, Rwanda
inclusive using Activity 2 page 51.
Step 2: Sample out some pairs to share their views with the rest of
the class. Pairs that have points which are not yet mentioned should
present them for further discussion. Moderate the discussions and
harmonise the presentations.
Expected answers for Activity 2 Learner’s Book
page 51
Causes of deteriorating terms of trade in Rwanda/LDCs;
• Less developed countries are mainly primary producing
countries.
• Producers in the poor countries, on the other hand operate
under competitive conditions both domestically and
internationally.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• Less developed countries use backward technology as

compared to developed countries.
• Most of the less developed countries experience
overpopulation and high population growth.
• Rwanda being a land locked country and without cheap air
or railway links to regional or international markets make it
difficult for trade development in the country.
• Most LDCs produce more less the same products which leads
to limited market among themselves.
• Most LDCs lack a considerable manufacturing sector as a
result of political instability and insecurities.
Note: Be open minded to other correct answers.
How to improve terms of trade for Rwanda/LDCs:
• LDCs should carry out market research so as get enough
information to widen markets for their commodities.
• LDCs should develop a strong human resource through
education and training.
• LDCs should ensure peace and security in all parts of their
countries.
• LDCs should ensure good governance to fight against trade
malpractices and financial indiscipline like corruption and
embezzlement of government funds.
• LDCs should form economic groupings and trade among
themselves in order to avoid exploitation by MDCs.
• LDCs should promote the development of private sector so
as to promote efficiency.
• There should be establishment of the trade points which will
provide all trade related information.
Step 3: Attend to general questions in case any, for clear
understanding.
Synthesis
Refer to Learner’s Book page 51-57 and harmonise learners’
discussions. Make the lesson very clear by connecting learner’s
points with what is given in the Learner’s Book.

44
 Terms of trade

Assessment of the lesson

Check whether the learning objectives have been achieved by
encouraging learners to brainstorm the causes of unfavourable
terms of trade in relation to Rwanda and how best Rwanda can
go in as far as improving her TOT. (Refer to the causes of terms
of trade in LDCs and ways of improving TOT in LDCs in the
Learner’s Book page 51-57).
Note: You can write answers on the chalkboard as learners
brainstorm them. Thus time-takers can copy them for easy revision
of the lesson.

Lesson 3: Balance of trade (BOT)

Learner’s Book pages 57-64.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain what Balance of trade is.
• Demonstrate the terms of trade and balance of trade in LDCs
through calculations and make interpretation.
• Show the relationship between BOT and TOT.
Prerequisites for the lesson
With reference to lesson 2 of Unit 1 about terminologies used
in international trade, pose provoking questions that will guide
learners to:
(i) Define BOT.
(ii) Compare and contrast BOT and TOT.
Expected answers
(i) BOT is the relationship between a county’s visible exports
and visible imports in a given period of time.
(ii) Both BOT and TOT show the strength of a country’s
economy in regard to international trade especially when
they are favourable. When they are unfavourable, a country’s
position is weak.
(iii) On contrast, TOT shows the relationship between prices of
both imported and exported goods and services while BOT
shows only the relationship between imported and exported
goods only in a given period of time.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Connect the day’s lesson basing on the introduction of BOT.

Teaching aids
Economics textbook related to the lesson, internet access,
newspaper with economic related issues and relevant economics
journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Put learner’s in groups and assign them a task in Activity
3 Learner’s Book page 57. Monitor the different groups as they
discuss and give them any guidance.
Step 2: Invite a sample of groups to discuss their findings to
the rest of the class. Encourage the rest to pay attention and ask
questions where necessary. Any member from the group should
be in position to answer any question that may arise from anybody
not in the group. Facilitate and regulate presentations depending
on the time allocated.

Expected answers for Activity 3 Learner’s Book

page 57
(a) Balance of trade or visible trade balance.
(b) Invisible balance of trade.
(c) Balance of trade is favourable when the value of exported
goods is greater than the value of imported goods.
(d) Difference between balance of trade and balance of payment.
Balance of Trade Balance of Payment
Balance of Trade includes only visible The Balance of Payments
imports and exports, i.e. imports and exports includes all those visible and
of merchandise, the difference of imports and invisible items exported from
exports is called Balance of Trade. If imports and imported into the country in
are more than exports, it is unfavourable addition to exports and imports of
balance of trade. If exports exceed imports, it merchandise.
is favourable balance of trade.
Balance of Trade includes revenues received Balance of Payments includes all
or paid on account of imports and exports of revenue and capital items whether
merchandise. It shows only revenue items. visible or invisible. Balance of
Trade thus forms a part of Balance
of Payments.

46
 Terms of trade

Balance of Trade can be favourable or Balance of Payment is always

unfavourable. If imports are more than exports, balanced just like Trading, Profit
it is unfavourable balance of trade. If exports and Loss A/c of a business.
exceed imports, it is favourable balance of trade.
In case of Balance of Trade, there is no In case of Balance of Payment,
deficit or surplus balance. The balance shows any balance, deficit or surplus is
favourable or nonfavourable. So, external to be financed by external source
assistance is not required. or assistance or be utilised.

Synthesis
Refer to Balance of trade on page 57- 65 to harmonise learners’
discussions. Make a clear connection with what learners have
discussed during the lesson. State clearly that BOT and TOT in
LDCs Rwanda inclusive are in most cases unfavourable.
Assessment of the lesson
At the end of the lesson, assess learners to check whether the
learning objectives have been achieved. For example, give them
Exercise 1 in the Learner’s Book page 64.
Expected answers
(a) Visible balance = Value of exported goods minus value of
imported goods.
For 2014 = 100,000,000 − 90,000,000
=10,000,000 FRW
For 2015 = 50,000,000 − 120,000,000
= -70,000,000 FRW
In 2014, the country enjoyed favourable trade balance.
In 2015, the country experienced unfavourable (adverse)
visible trade balance.
(b) Invisible balance = value of exported services minus value
of imported services.
Services
For 2014 = 50,000,000 − 150,000,000
= -100,000,000 FRW
For 2015 = 180,000,000 − 100,000,000
= 80,000,000 FRW
In 2014, the country imported more than it exported.
In 2015, the country exported more services than it imported.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

(c) Net capital inflow (BOP on capital account) = Capital inflow-

capital outflow.
For 2014 = 20,000,000 − 30,000,000
= -10,000,000 FRW.
For 2015 = 350,000,000 − 40,000,000
= 310,000,000 FRW.
(d) Net transfers = transfers into the country – transfers out of
the country.
For 2014 = 10,000,000 – 5,000,000
= 5,000,000 FRW.
For 2015 = 10,000,000 −20,000,000
= -10,000,000 FRW.
(e) Current balance = visible balance + invisible balance + net
transfers
For 2014 =10,000,000 + -100,000,000 + 5,000,000
= -85,000,000 FRW.
For 2015 = -70,000,000 + 80,000,000 + -10,000,000
= 0 FRW.
(f) balance on monetary account
= visible balance + invisible balance + net transfers
+balance on capital account.
= current balance + balance on current account.
For 2014 = -85,000,000 + -100,000,000
= -95,000,000 FRW.
For 2015 = -70,000,000 + 80,000,000 + -10,000,000
+ 310,000,000
= 0 + 310,000,000
= 310,000,000 FRW.

Lesson 4: Causes of changes in terms of trade

Learner’s Book pages 65-69.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Assess the causes and consequences of changes in terms of
trade.
• Take part in improving terms of trade in LDCs/Rwanda.

48
 Terms of trade

Prerequisites for the lesson

Give an instruction that opens learners to the lesson. For example,
refer to Lesson 2 of this unit on the nature of terms of trade (causes
of deteriorating TOT) and ask learners to brainstorm the causes
of change of prices of exports and imports over time. From there,
connect to the day’s lesson.
Expected answer
TOT would also change accordingly.
Teaching aids
Economics textbook related to the unit, internet, newspapers with
economic related issues and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Organise learners in their groups and assign them a task to
discuss on the causes and consequences of TOT. Refer to Activity
4 in the Learner’s Book page 65. Move in different groups to guide
learners in all possible ways.
Step 2: Invite groups to present their findings to the rest of the
class. Encourage learners to answer questions from the rest of the
class regarding their presentations. Regulate the discussions to
manage time.
Expected answers for Activity 4 Learner’s Book
page 65
(a) Causes of changes in terms of trade for LDCs:
• In the short-run, changes in relative prices of imports
and exports is caused by fluctuations in exchange rates,
particularly where countries operate a floating exchange
rate system.
• Also in the short-run, there may be considerable fluctuation in
the prices of commodities which will affect the terms of trade.
• Development of synthetic substitutes which has lessened the
demand for several raw materials from LDCs thus affecting
their terms of trade.
• Low income elasticity of demand for primary commodities.
• Compounding the problem of falling export prices, demand
for primary commodities tends to be price inelastic.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Decreases in prices bring about less than proportionate

increases in the quantity demanded.
• Changes in factor endowments may increase exports or
reduce them. With tastes remaining unchanged, they may
lead to changes in terms of trade.
• Devaluation raises the domestic prices of imports and reduces
foreign price of exports of a country devaluing its currency
relative to the currency of another country.
• The changes of a country’s national product or income
overtime (economic growth) affects the terms of trade of a
country.
(b) Consequences of changes in the terms of trade on balance of trade:
• An improvement in the terms of trade means that export
prices are increasing faster than import prices which
might cause balance of trade deficit since exports might be
expensive and lose market.
• If a country experiences deterioration in the balance of trade
(value of imports increases faster than value of exports) then
it may impact upon the terms of trade. i.e. cheaper exports
and more expensive imports thus deterioration in the terms
of trade.
Synthesis
Harmonise the learners’ discussions by basing on the content in
Learner’s Book on causes and consequences of changes in TOT
pages 65- 69.
Assessment of the lesson
Check learners’ achievement of the competences by asking
questions on the lesson. For example;
What do we base on to conclude that:
(a) Terms of trade are favourable or unfavourable?
(b) Terms of trade are improving or deteriorating?
(c) BOT is favourable or unfavourable?
Expected answers
(a) TOT are favourable when prices of exports are greater than
prices of imports and they are unfavourable when prices of
imports are greater than prices of exports.

50
 Terms of trade

(b) TOT are improving when the prices of exports are

continuously rising above the prices of imports and TOT
are deteriorating when the prices of exports continuously
fall below the prices of imports.
(c) BOT is favourable when the value of exported goods is
greater than the value of imported goods and its unfavourable
when the value of imported goods is greater than the value
of exported goods.

Lesson 5: Unit assessment

Learner’s Book page 69

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Detect masterly of the unit competences.
• Forge a way forward.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Sit learners individually and provide an end of Unit 5 assessment
by referring to the Learner’s Book page 69. Give instructions on
how to do the assessment. Guide them on the arrangement of the
class (sitting arrangement).
Teaching aids
Classroom environment, printed assessment sheets and answer
sheets, etc.
Learning activities
Step 1: Distribute preprinted/ written assessment sheets and answer
sheets to learners.
Step 2: Learners answer the questions given individually and the
teacher supervises them.
Step 3: When it’s time, collect their written work and do corrections.
Revise the work with learners.

Synthesis
Refer to end unit assessment in the Learner’s Book on page 69 to
have a general discussion with the rest of the class of what was
required of the questions provided.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Assessment of the lesson

To check whether the learning objectives were achieved basing
on the lesson synthesis, ask more related questions and refer to
the answers to the end unit assessment at the end of Unit 2 in this
teacher’s guide.

End of unit

Summary of the unit

This unit explains and covers the terms of trade in LDCs, Rwanda
in particular. The terms of trade in LDCs are generally deterioting
and ever changing. This is mainly because they produce primary
products, they operate under competitive conditions, and use
backward technology, to mention.
Referring to the problem statement, terms of trade of a country are
favourable when its export prices are higher than her import prices.
Additional information for the teacher
Any improvement in TOT of a country is beneficial to the economy
because it means that the country can purchase more imports for
the particular level of exports. When TOT fall below 100% they
are said to be improving and when they fall below 100% they are
said to be worsening. This has a beneficial effect on domestic cost
push inflation as an improvement indicates falling import prices
relative to export prices.

Answers to End of Unit 2 assessment (Learner’s Book page

69)

1. (a) Barter/commodity terms of trade is the relationship between

export prices and import prices. While Income/monetary terms
of trade refer to the ratio of the value of exports (revenue from
exports) to the price index of imports.
(b) (i) the terms of trade for
export price index
2013 = × 100.
import price index
= 142/108 = 131.

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 Terms of trade

export price index

2014 = × 100.
import price index
= 120/114 = 105.
export price index
2015 = × 100.
import price index
= 128/132= 96.9.
export price index
2016 = × 100.
import price index
= 154/173 = 89.

In 2016 the terms of trade were deteriorating because

the figure is continuously falling below 100. This means
export price increased by 54% while imports increased
by 73% causing terms of trade fall by 11%. Import prices
continuously rose above export prices.
2. (a) Why terms of trade have tended to move against developing
countries’ economies.
• Discovery of synthetic fibers which compete with LDCs
primary products.
• Competition among many members who produce primary
products.
• Low quality of products which cannot compete favourably
on the world market.
• Attempts to increase exports through devaluation.
• Decline in demand in MDCs due to low population growth.
• General trend in price increase of industrial products.
• High demand for imports due to increase in population.
• Increased demand for capital goods.
• Low production due to lack of capital and skills.
• Protectionism by MDCs on commodities from LDCs.
• Little trade among developing countries.
• Improvement in technology in MDCs where less raw
materials are used.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

(b) The effects of deteriorating terms trade in Rwanda:

• Worsening of the country’s BOP position.
• Persistent forex shortages.
• Depreciation of the Rwandan currency.
• It leads to unemployment.
• Loss of government political support and popularity.
• Inflation in the country.
• Low production.
3. Does favourable terms of trade mean favourable balance of trade?
Favourable terms of trade imply that:
(i) One unit of export, buys more than one unit of imports.
(ii) There is an increase in the purchasing power of exports.
Favourable balance of trade is where value of exported goods
is greater than value of imported goods in a year.
Favourable terms of trade doesn’t necessarily mean that a country
would enjoy favourable balance of trade, for example;
Favourable terms of trade may come as a result of high prices
of exports. However, if quantities exported are low, the country
can have unfavourable balance of trade.
Favourable terms of trade may be as a result of low prices of
imports but if quantities of imported goods are high, the country
can have unfavourable balance of trade. Balance of trade depends
on quantities and prices of goods exported and imported. Terms
of trade is about prices of imports and exports.
Terms of trade consider both prices of goods and services
whereas balance of trade considers only the value for goods.
A country can enjoy favourable terms of trade because of low
prices of imported services which outweigh the high prices of
imported goods and low prices of exported goods. Such a country
is likely to experience unfavourable balance of trade. So balance
of trade depends on the value (quantities and prices) of only
goods. Whereas terms of trade depend on prices of exported and
imported goods and services.

54
 Terms of trade

However, a country which has favourable terms of trade stands

a chance of enjoying favourable balance of trade though this is
not necessarily the case.

Remedial activity
Exercise 1 (Remedial activity)
Calculate the terms of trade index given the index of export prices
as 90 and the index of import prices as 120. Interpret your answer.

Expected answer
Terms of trade index = index of export prices/index of import X
100.
= 90/120 X 100 = 75.
This means that export prices reduced by 10% (90-100) and import
prices increased by 20% (120-100) so the country experienced
unfavourable terms of trade during the year.

Exercise 2 (Remedial activity)

2. Study the table below showing the terms of trade for country A
(2011-2015) and answer the question that follow;

Year Export price index Import price index Terms of trade

2011 100 100 100
2012 420 370
2013 250 210
2014 180 230
2015 160 190

(i) Calculate the terms of trade for the years 2012-2015.

(ii) Describe the terms of trade for country A in 2014.
Expected answers
(i) Px/Pm*100 .
Terms of trade for 2012 = 420/370*100 =113.5
Terms of trade for 2013 = 250/210*100 = 119

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Terms of trade for 2014 = 180/230*100 = 78

Terms of trade for 2015 = 160/190*100 = 84
(ii) Terms of trade for country A deteriorated because import
prices were greater than export prices.
Extended activities
1. Given that in 2016 the price of exports is 140, price of imports
is 240 and quantity of exports is 90, calculate;
(i) Barter terms of trade.
2. (ii) Income terms of trade.

If in the following year prices of exports increased to
200 holding prices of imports constant, calculate the
barter terms of trade and interpret the terms of trade.

Expected answers
1. (i) Px/Pm X100 =140/240X100 = 58.3
(ii) PxXQx/Pm = 140x90/240 = 52.5
2. Px/Pm X 100 =200/240X100= 83.3 this implies that the
terms of trade deteriorated because the prices of exports
continuously fell below import prices. And the terms of trade
figure is below 100.
Consolidation activities
1. (a) Distinguish between favourable terms of trade and
unfavourable terms of trade.
(b) How would you advise your country to have her terms
of trade favourable year after year?
Expected answers
(a) Favourable terms of trade is where export price index
is greater than import price index and the terms of trade
figure is above 100. While unfavourable terms of trade
is where the export price index is less than import price
index and the terms of trade figure is less than 100.
(b) How to make terms of trade favourable?
• Process primary products into finished products
so as to increase export value.
• Develop appropriate technology so as to reduce
inappropriate technology.

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 Terms of trade

• Carry out market research so as to produce

according to demand.
• Strengthen international commodity agreement
by improving the bargaining power.
• Form economic groupings and trade among
themselves in order to avoid exploitation by
MDCs.
• Promote the development of private sector so as
to promote efficiency.
• Establishment of the trade points which will
provide all trade related information.
2. What conditions do you think are in place for:
(i) favourable terms of trade.
(ii) unfavourable terms of trade.
Expected answers
(i) • Prices of exports are raising.
• Prices of imports are falling.
• Increase in the volume of exports at constant prices.
• Reduction in the volume of imports at constant prices.
• Increase in the value of the exporting country’s
currency.
(ii) • Prices of exports are falling.
• Prices of imports are raising.
• Reduction in the volume of exports at constant prices.
• Increase in the volume of imports at constant prices.
• Decrease in the value of the exporting country’s
currency.

57
 Topic Area 4: International Economics
Sub-topic Area 4.1: International Trade

Unit 3: Free Trade and Trade Protectionism

Reference to learner’s text book pages 73-97

Key unit competence: Learners will be able to analyse the

impact of free trade and trade protectionism in an economy.

Prerequisites for this unit

Basing on the knowledge learners have on the terms of trade for
Rwanda and other LDCs. They can interprete the relationship
between export and import price indices. We can now introduce
the need to improve Rwanda’s gains from trade, i.e. whether
to exchange freely or to impose some restrictions. In this unit
therefore, we will tackle free trade versus trade protectionism. It
will help learners to gauge which policy to take if Rwanda is to
benefit more from international trade. This will be explained in the
advantages and disadvantages of each trade policy.

Cross-cutting issues to be addressed

When teaching this unit, intergrate the following cross cutting
issues:
Standardisation culture: Learners should be made to know
that however much trade may be free, producers need to take
into consideration the quality of commodities they produce and
consumers should not just consume commodities because they are
cheap irrespective of the quality.
Peace and values education: This should be emphasised
where people still need to value their culture and maintain the
consumption habits of their country which maintains national
identity and dignity. On top of that, producing countries should
export harmful commodities which might destabilise the socio-

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 Free trade and trade protectionism

economic and political climate of other countries thus maintain

peace and harmony.
Environment sustainability: Discuss with learners the statement
that, “With the desire to reap much from free trade as a result of
expanded markets, producers should not overutilise and exhaust
resources at the expense of environmental sustainability.”
Generic competences
• Co-operation is generated as learners handle tasks
together e.g in group discussions and debate.
• Communication skills are generated through
presentation of findings about free trade and trade
protectionism.
• Critical thinking through analysing advantages and
disadvantages of free trade and trade protectionism.
• Lifelong learning is achieved through research activites
on the lesson.
Vocabulary or key words or concepts in the unit
Anti-dumping duty: This is a tariff imposed to restrict dumping.
Beggar-my-neighbour policy: This is a policy adopted by a country
to benefit its own economy but harmful to other economies e.g.
import restriction, devaluation etc.
Drawback: This occurs when a duty imposed on certain imports
not destined for domestic consumption and subsequently exported,
is refunded. This repayment of duty is what is called drawback.
Effective tariff rate: This refers to the tax charged on any imported
commodity expressed as a percentage of the value added by the
exporting country.
Export quota: The maximum amount of the product that may be
exported in a given period of time.
Free Trade: Trade in which goods can be exported or imported
without any form of restrictions by the state.
Import quota: The maximum amount of the product that may be
imported in a given period of time.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Nominal rate of tariff: This is a tax charged on any commodity

expressed as a percentage of the price of the commodity.
Non-tariff barriers: These are devices other than tariffs that
are devised to reduce the flow of imports e.g. quotas, total ban,
sanctions etc.
Tariff war: This refers to competitive use of tariff by countries to
change the pattern of international trade in order to gain individual
advantage.
Tariffs: These are taxes or duties imposed on imports or exports
either for revenue purposes or for protection or both.
Trade Barriers: Any number of protectionist devices by which
governments discourage imports. Tariffs and quotas are the most
visible barriers, but in recent years, nontariff barriers such as
burdensome regulatory proceedings, have replaced more traditional
measures.
Protectionism: Advocacy of policies designed to protect domestic
industries from foreign competition, usually in the form of tariffs,
import quotas, or export subsidies.
Quota: A quota is a legal restriction on the quantity of a good that
may be imported or exported.

Guidance on the problem statement

Let learners discuss whether Rwanda should trade freely with
other countries or put restrictions or laws in her trading activities.
Depending on their different views, tell learners that either way,
there are merits and demerits as it will be discovered later in the
unit.
This will tickle their minds to research and find more about free
trade and trade protectionism.

Attention to special education needs

Learners with physical disabilities
Learners with physical disabilities may show challenges in using
their hands to write, sitting in class, using the toilet, walking,

60
 Free trade and trade protectionism

climbing stairs, etc. Such learners may also display excessive

fatigue after performing light duties.
This category of learners can be helped in the following ways:
Ask other learners to help them to move around, sit the learners in
a place where they can move in and out of class easily. Give them
more time and practice to write, copy important notes for them
on paper, if it takes them too much time to copy work. Ensure a
friendly school environment e.g the building ramps on all entries
to rooms, network with organisations that can provide wheelchairs,
allow them more time to complete their tasks and encourage other
learners to treat them with respect and dignity.

Learners with special abilities

This kind of learners understand concepts very fast because
they are extremely intelligent. They complete tasks faster than
others, get bored faster due to early completion of tasks and can
be disruptive due to boredom. Provide them with extra activities
so as to keep them occupied, assign them to assist other learners,
provide counselling sessions where necessary.

Time takers
Such learners take time to understand what has been taught. Do
not reprimand them or show them that they are poor compared to
others. Give them more attention, be more patient with them, guide
them carefully and create time for them after the lesson. Tell them
they can do better, and ensure they understand a sub topic before
teaching the next.

Learners with visual impairment

Learners with visual impairment experience problems with their
vision. Some learners may experience low vision and others may
have no vision at all. You can notice such learners because they
display the following characteristics:
They write unusually large letters, often scratch their eyes, cannot
focus in bright light, and cannot focus on distant objects.
Use the following strategies to assist them:
Sit them in the place where they can see clearly, write with yellow
chalk on a clean chalkboard, encourage them to sit at the front of
the class, use large and legible handwriting on the chalkboard,

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

use large charts and other visual aids, ensure good colour contrast
on learning aids, and give the learner real objects to use.

Learners with hearing impairment

These learners have a problem with their ability to hear. They
may be partially or completely unable to hear. They display signs
such as:
Turning their heads towards the source of sound, shout when
talking, regularly consult those sitted next, delay to respond, have
irrelevant responses, pay less attention, and they always look at
the lips of the person talking to them.
Refer such learners to an ear specialist, and assist them in the
process of learning. You can look at the learner when speaking,
speak clearly and loudly, write instructions on the chalkboard,
be audible enough, encourage the learner to sit at the front in
class and regularly check their notes to ensure they are writing
the right things. Give the learners a slate (urubaho) to help them
communicate, speak slowly and use simple words.

Learners with communication disorders

These learners cannot communicate effectively because of speech
and language difficulties e.g. inability to interpret simple statements
easily giving up on description tasks due to frustration, stammering
and difficulty in explaining things.
Refer them to a speech therapist, avoid interrupting them when
they are talking, display high level of patience, pay attention to
all their needs, demonstrate various concepts and give them clear
instructions.

Learners with behavioural disorders

Learners with behavioural disorders do not conform to the expected
kind of behaviour laid down in school rules and regulations. They
may show behaviour disorder such as: truancy, stealing, failure to
complete tasks, disrupting lessons through playing, fighting, etc.
To assist such learners; reinforce their positive behaviour through
rewards, involve parents or guardians in correcting such behaviours,
and refer them to a counsellor if necessary.

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 Free trade and trade protectionism

List of lessons/lesson map

Lesson 1 Free trade, its advantages and disadvantages.
Lesson 2 Trade protectionism and its rationale.
Lesson 3 Tools of trade protectionism.
Lesson 4 Arguments for and against trade protectionism.
Lesson 5 Commercial policy.
Lesson 6 Unit assessment.

Lesson development

Lesson 1: Free trade, its advantages and
disadvantages

Learner’s Book pages 74-78

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain what is meant by free trade.
• Evaluate the impact of free trade on Rwanda’s economy.
• Critically analyse whether free trade is the appropriate trade
system for economic development of Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Reflect on the previous unit about causes of deteriorating terms
of trade and to stimulate learners’ interests in the lesson. Through
class discussion, task learners to give their views about a situation
where a country adopts a policy where it allows commodities to
freely enter and leave without any restriction. Task them to express
how this would improve her terms of trade position.
Expected answers
• There will be competition from other countries which
increases supply of imports and thus reduce their prices.
• It would encourage domestic production and increase the
volume of exports at constant prices

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• There would be a reduction in the volume of imports due to

increased investments in the country thus reduce expenditure
on imports
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.
Connect their views with the introductory case study of the day’s
lesson on advantages and disadvantages of free trade.
Teaching aids
Economics textbooks that cover free trade, internet access,
newspaper with articles on trade policies, magazines with
economics related issues on the lesson and relevant economics
journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Organise learners into 2 different groups and ask them to
agree amongst themselves on the sides of opposers and proposers.
Give them a motion in Activity 1 Learner’s Book page 74 to debate
on: “Free trade should be adopted between or among countries if
they are to gain more from international trade”.
Step 2: Give them time to generate points depending on the side
taken. Each group selects amongst themselves main speakers or
presenters. Guide them to generate sound and strong points and
enable them manage time.
Step 3: Convine the debate session and moderate it. Selected
members present on behalf of their groups. The audience is
encouraged to defend and ask questions in the course of the debate.
Expected answers
Advantages of free trade:
• Free international trade avails consumers in a particular
country with a wider choice of goods, as they find imported
as well as domestic goods on display in the shops.
• Domestic businesses may also have a chance to reduce costs
by buying imported raw materials from abroad or importing
new technology without restriction.
• It promotes access to imported products that do not exist on
the domestic market by both individuals and businessmen.

64
 Free trade and trade protectionism

• It permits an allocation of resources, and manpower in

accordance with the principle of comparative advantage
which is just an extension of division of labour.
• Countries may then export those goods or services that they
are most efficient in producing and importing the items which
other countries may produce more efficiently.
• It increases competition as domestic industries must compete
with foreign firms in the same industry as well as other firms
in their own country.
Note: Be open minded to other correct answers.
Disadvantages of free trade:
• It involves some risks for a country because the international
market conditions are out of control of any government and
are often unpredictable and liable to fluctuation.
• A country may become too dependent on the export of a
particular commodity.
• The distribution of income between or among countries may
be more uneven as a result of free international trade.
• Free international trade may increase the gap between the
rich and the poor because those who benefit most from
international trade may be the rich elites who own the main
assets of the country.
• The inflow of international goods into a country may cause
other problems such as erosion of the national culture.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.
Synthesis
Base on advantages and disadvantages of free trade in Learner’s
Book page 74-78 to harmonise learner’s findings. Conclude the
lesson by entertaining questions about the lesson from learners
in general.
Assessment of the lesson
Give questions to learners to assess the achievement of the learning
objectives.
For example:
(i) What are the arguments for and against free trade zone in
Rwanda from the EAC?

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

(ii) Would you recommend this trade policy for Rwanda, why?
Expected answers
(i) Expanded market for Rwanda’s exports.
• Increased employment for the citizens.
• Increased exploitation of domestic idle resources.
• Over exploitation of resources
• Out competition of local industries due to limited co-
operant factors.
Note: Be open minded to other correct answers.

(ii) Advantages and disadvantages of free trade in Rwanda.

Refer to the Learners Book pages 75-78 and page s 64-65 of this
guide.

Lesson 2: Trade protectionism and its rationale

Learner’s Book pages 78-80

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners should be able to:

• Distinguish between free trade and trade protectionism.

• Analyse the need for trade protectionism in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Refer to Lesson 1 on free trade to clearly explain the concept
of trade protectionism. For example, task learners to imagine a
situation where there is no free trade. Let them brainstorm what
would happen to the terms of trade and balance trade position for
a country. Connect the discussion to the day’s lesson about trade
protectionism and its rationale.

Expected answers
• Exports of a country may be given qoutas by the importing
country and this causes unfavourable BOT.
• More exports would be encouraged in case a country pursues
export promotion strategy and this leads to favourable BOT
(BOT surplus).
• Imports may be restricted and this leads to favorable trade
balance (BOT surplus)

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• Imports may become expensive and this leads to unfavourable

TOT.
• Exports may become cheap and this leads to unfavourable TOT.
Note: Be open minded to other correct answers.
Teaching aids
Economics textbooks that cover trade protectionism, internet
access, newspapers, magazines, documentaries with economics
related issues on the lesson and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Through general class discussions, learners brainstorm
the definition of trade protectionism and the need for trade
protectionism in an economy. Write down the pointed out issues by
learners on board or flip chart. Refer to Activity 2 in the Learner’s
Book pages 78-79.
Step 2: Organise a general discussion. Ask learners to explain the
points by show of hands. Clarify after learners’ explanation. You
can refer them to the Learner’s Book, pages 78-79 for more reading.

Expected Answers for Activity 2

(a) Trade protectionism.
(b) Reasons countries restrict trade:
• To protect infant industries against unfair competition
from low cost products from abroad.
• To discourage dumping through tariffs on cheap and
expired commodities into the country.
• To increase employment opportunities at home by
reducing imports and stimulation of domestic demand
for local products.
• To reduce external economic dependence and promote
self-sufficiency.
• To increase government revenue through import and export
duties.
• To prevent importation of undesirable commodities
and thus protect the health of citizens.
• To encourage full utilisation of domestic resources
especially for import substitution industrial strategy.
• Etc.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

(c) From the scenario, examples of trade barriers that can be

imposed on international trade include; tariffs, quotas,
standardisation measures, border checks, embargos/sanctions,
total ban, import and export licenses and bureaucratic delays.
(d) Other measures that countries use to restrict trade with other
countries in international trade include:
• Import and export prohibition.
• Exchange rate manipulation.
• Import monopolies.
• Preferential treatment. etc.
Synthesis
Refer to the Learner’s Book pages 79-80 and link it to the discussed
points.
Give a statement that there is need for countries to take up policies
of trade protectionism for them to avoid exploitation.
Assessment of lesson
To assess learners on the achievement of the learning objectives,
pose to them a few questions related to the lesson. For example;
(i) Why do you think it’s necessary for your country to protect
her trade with other countries? You can ask them time to
brainstorm or give them homework to be done after the
lesson.
Expected answers
Refer to reasons for trade protectionism in the Learner’s Book
pages 79-80.

Lesson 3: Tools of trade protectionism

Learner’s Book pages 80-84

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:

• Identify the different tools that can be used to restrict

international trade in Rwanda.
• Assess the use of the different tools of trade protectionism
in an economy.

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 Free trade and trade protectionism

Prerequisites for the lesson

To start this lesson, revise with learners the reasons for trade
protectionism. Pose a question to learners on the various ways
through which a country can restrict her international trade.
Facilitate the sharing of ideas and be time conscious.
Expected answers
• Tariffs.
• Quotas.
• Total ban.
• Standardisation.
• Trade embargo.
Note: Accept all correct answers.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, internet, newspaper articles, magazines,
documentaries and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Organise learners in groups and give them a set of tools
of protectionism to group and discuss about.
Guide learners to research and discuss the following tools:
Import duties, export duties, import and export prohibition,
exchange rate manipulation, quotas, preferential treatment. Etc.
Learners use internet, Learner’s Book etc. to research and discuss
on trade protectionism tools.
Step 2: Groups present their views to the class as you moderate.

Expected answers
Group them as tariff and non-tariff barriers trade.
• Tariff barriers include import duties and export.
• Non-tariff barrier includes; import and export prohibition,
exchange rate manipulation, quotas, preferential treatment.
Synthesis
Refer to tools of protectionism in Learner’s Book, pages 80-84 and
clearly explain the different tools of protection that a country can
employ in restricting her trade with other countries.
Recommend the best tools for Rwanda’s economy in particular.

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Assessment of the lesson

Assess learners on the achievement of the lessons objectives by
asking them to explain in writing how the different tools are used
to control trade in Rwanda.

Lesson 4: Arguments for and against trade
protectionism

Learner’s Book pages 84-88.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:

• Discuss the impact of trade protectionism on an economy.

• Choose the appropriate trade system for economic
development.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Refer to the previous lesson on tools of trade protectionism and task
learners to brainstorm the usefulness of the tools to any economy.
Connect the discussion to the day’s lesson (the impact of trade
protectionism on economy).
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, internet, newspaper articles, relevant economics
journals.

Learning activities
Step 1: Group learners into two groups for a debate on trade
protectionism i.e the opposition and proposition side.
Step 2: Guide learners to generate points for and against
trade protectionism respectively. Learners select their group
representatives/main speakers who will present on their behalf.
Regulate the discussions to properly manage time.
Step 3: Convine the debate and allow speakers to present on behalf
of their groups as per the discussions. The audience defend their
members from their respective sides. Moderate the debate. (Refer
to Activity 3 Learner’s Book page 84).
Learners note down points for both sides as the debate goes on.

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 Free trade and trade protectionism

Expected answers for Activity 3

Arguments for trade protectionism:
• Protection reduces unemployment.
• Preserves certain class of population or certain occupation.
• Diversification of Industries.
• It assists new industries to grow.
• Protection guards against dumping.
• Keeps money at home.
• Protection increases government revenue.
Note: Accept all correct answers.
Dangers of protectionism:
• Market distortion and loss of allocative efficiency.
• It may lead to inflation due to high import tariff.
• Trade barriers between countries can spoil the relationship
between them.
• It encourages smuggling which reduces government revenue.
• It promotes monopoly i.e. protected domestic industries will
become monopolies.
• It may increase prices for consumers both domestically and
globally.
• Reduction in market access for producers.
• Loss of economic welfare.
• Extra costs for exporters.
• Regressive effect on the distribution of income.
• Results into trade wars.
Note: Accept all correct answers.
Synthesis
Refer to arguments for and against trade protectionism in the
Learner’s Book pages 84-88 to harmonise learner’s discussion.
Explain clearly the different points and allow them take a summary
of the points discussed.
Assessment of the lesson
You can check the learners’ achievement of the lesson objectives
by asking questions about the lesson. For example;
(i) Why would you advocate for trade protectionism in your
country?

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

(ii) Suggest the best trade policy suitable for your country, and
why?
Expected answers
(i) Refer to advantages of trade protectionism in the Learner’s
Book pages 84-86.
(ii) A learner chooses either free trade or protectionism by
giving its advantages over the other. Refer to advantages
and disadvantages of free trade and trade protectionism in
the Learner’s Book pages 74-84.

Lesson 5: Commercial policy

Learner’s Book pages 89-95

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain commercial policy.
• Identify the objectives and tools of commercial policy in
Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Basing on the background of the previous lessons, introduce the
lesson by tasking learners to share their views as a whole class on
what can be done to improve on the economic welfare of Rwanda.
Connect their views to the day’s lesson on commercial policy.
Expected answers
• Attract investors in the country.
• Subsidise infant industries.
• Improve on infrastructure.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, internet access, newspapers, documentaries on
commercial policy and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1. Divide learners in groups of atleast 4-5 and ask them to do
research in the library / internet and present their findings to the
class on commercial policy. Facilitat their research and discussions
in their groups. Refer to Activity 4 in the Learner’s Book page 89.

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 Free trade and trade protectionism

Step 2: Harmonise learners’ discussions by explaining clearly the

meaning, tools, benefits and costs of commercial policy in relation
to Rwanda.
Learners can ask some questions for clarification.
Clarify their questions.
Expected answers for Activity 4
(a) Commercial policy.
(b) The main objectives of commercial policy are:
• To increase the quantity of trade with foreign nations.
• To preserve, the essential raw materials for encouraging
the development of domestic industries.
• To stimulate the export of particular products with a
view to increasing their scale of production at home.
• To prevent the imports of particular goods for giving
protection to infant industries or developing key
industry or saving foreign exchange, etc.
• To restrict imports for securing diversification of
industries.
• To encourage the imports of capital goods for speeding
up the economic development of the country.
(c) Tools of commercial policy in Rwanda:
• Basic infrastructure policy.
• Foreign exchange control.
• Import substitution strategy.
• Devaluation.
• Economic integration.
• Trade agreements.
• Direct restrictions on imports.
(d) Benefits of commercial policy:
• Domestic industries have been protected from foreign
competitors.
• It has helped new domestic industries to develop.
• It has helped to do away with dumping and its negative
effects.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Costs of commercial policy:

• Increased cost to consumers.
• Increased costs to domestic suppliers.
• Less competition.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.
Synthesis
Refers to commercial policy in the Learner’s Book pages 89-95
and harmonise learners’ findings. Allow learners to ask different
questions related to the lesson for clarity.
Assessment of the lesson
Use remedial and extension activities to assess the lesson. You
can pose random questions about commercial policy and guage
learners’ response.

Lesson 6: Unit assessment

Learner’s Book page 95.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Analyse the impact of free trade, trade protectionism and
commercial policy on an economy like Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Organise learners for end of unit assessment by referring to the
Learner’s Book page 95. Give them clear instructions on how to
do the assessment.

Teaching aids
Classroom environment, Learner’s Book page 95 or printed
assessment sheets and answer sheets.

Learning activities
Step 1: Distribute preprinted/ written assessment sheets and answer
sheets to learners.
Step 2: Learners answer the questions given individually and the
teacher supervises them.

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Step 3: At the end of the assessment, collect their written work

for marking.
Note: You can also give assessment in form of question and answer
technique.
Synthesis
Refer to end of Unit 3 assessment in the Learner’s Book on page
95 to have a general discussion with the rest of the class.
Assessment of the lesson
To check whether the learning objectives of the unit were achieved,
base on the lesson synthesis and ask more related questions. Refer
to the answers of the end of Unit 3 assessment at the end of Unit
3 in this Teacher’s Guide.

End of unit

Summary of the unit

In this unit, learners are availed the policies of free trade, trade
protectionism and commercial policy (refer to Learner’s Book
pages 73-97)
Considering the advantages and disadvantages of the above
policies, LDCs and Rwanda in particular need some degree of
protection to save them from being exploited by MDCs. Thus
the need for commercial policy.
Addition information for the teacher
Free trade also called laissez-faire, is a policy by which a
government does not discriminate against imports or interfere with
exports by applying tariffs (to imports) or subsidies (to exports).
A free trade policy does not necessarily imply, however, that a
country abandons all control and taxation of imports and exports.
Despite the arguments in favour of free trade, and increasing trade
openness, protectionism is still widely practiced. Countries want
to win the game of international trade by exporting more than they
import so as to protect their domestic industries from imports that
will hinder their growth thus worsen their balance of trade leading
to negative balance of trade. This implies that countries need to

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

avoid more money going out than what is coming in by pursuing

a policy of trade protectionism.
Commercial policy are regulations and policies that determine
how a country conducts trade with other countries. A country’s
commercial policy includes the use of tariffs and other trade
barriers, such as restrictions on what goods can be imported and
which countries are allowed to import or export goods to the home
country.
For example, countries that are in an economic union often have a
single commercial policy that determines how member countries
can interact with non-member countries.
Commercial policies are a point of contention in international trade,
and are a reason for the existence of such organisations as World
Trade Organisation (WTO).

End of Unit 3 assessment answers (Learner’s Book page 95)

1. (a) Tariff barriers are trade restrictions in form of taxes on goods

and services entering the country (import duties) or leaving
the country (export duties) while non-tariff barriers are trade
restrictions that are not in form of taxes like quotas, total ban,
quality requirements, licenses etc.
(b) Tools used to restrict trade include the following:
• Tariffs.
• Quotas.
• Devaluation
• Import/export licenses.
• Total ban.
• Sanctions.
• Transport discrimination.
• Preferential treatment.
• Forex control.
• Administrative control.
• Subsidies.
• Etc.

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2. (a) Why some countries adopt protectionism as an international

trade policy:
(i) To protect infant industries against unfair competition from
low cost products from abroad.
(ii) To discourage dumping through tariffs on cheap and
expired commodities into the country.
(iii) To increase employment opportunities at home by
reducing imports and stimulating domestic demand for
local products.
(iv) To reduce external economic dependence and promote
self sufficiency.
(v) To increase government revenue through import and
export duties.
(vi) To prevent importation of undesirable commodities and
thus protect health of citizens.
(vii) To encourage full utilisation of domestic resources
especially for import substitution industrial strategy.
(b) The problems that may arise from protectionist policies:
• Market distortion and loss of allocative efficiency.
• It may lead to trade diversion in case trade protectionism
is in form of regional integration.
• It may lead to inflation due to high import tariff.
• Trade barriers between countries can spoil the relationship
between them.
• It encourages smuggling which reduces government
revenue.
• It promotes monopoly i.e. protected domestic industries
will become monopolies.
• It may result into higher prices for consumers both
domestically and globally.
3. (a) Trade liberalisation is the removal of all transactions on the
trade formerly imposed by government in order to allow more
participation of the private sector in economic development.
(b) I would advocate for trade liberalisation because of its benefits
which include:

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

(i) Increased employment opportunities.

(i) Increased tax revenue by widening the taxable capacity.
(ii) Attracts foreign capital and investments in the country.
(iii) Eliminates monopoly tendencies in the economy.
(iv) Reduced corruption and embezzlement of public funds.
(v) Promotes international relations with trading partners.
(vi) Reduced government expenditure.

Remedial activity
Think of a situation where Rukundo and Tumusiime are participating
in international trade but they are to freely exchange their
commodities to and from other countries; and in another situation
Murenzi and Berimana are also participating in international trade
but they face restrictions as they exchange with other countries.
(a) How would you term each of the two situations in the case
study above?
(b) Which of the two situations do you think is more beneficial
to the traders and why?
Expected answers
(a) Free trade and trade protectionism.
(b) Use advantages and disadvantages of free trade and trade
protectionism and compare the two. Refer to Learner’s Book
pages 74-84.
Consolidation activity
1. If you were asked to advise the minister of trade and
commerce for Rwanda over which policy to undertake in
order to gain more from international trade, which one would
you advise and why?
Expected answers
Let learners mention any policy either free trade or trade
protectionism and support it with its advantages over the other.

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 Free trade and trade protectionism

Extended activity
To what extent does trade protectionism benefit a country more
than free trade in international trade.

Expected answers
(Use advantages and disadvantages of trade protectionism over
free trade).

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 Topic Area 4: International Economics
Sub-topic Area 4.1: International Trade

Unit 4: Balance of Payment (BOP)

Reference to learner’s text book pages 101-130

Key unit competence: Learners will be able to analyse the

balance of payment position of LDCs.

Prerequisites for this unit

Having seen the merits and demerits of free trade and trade
protectionism, learners are in position to determine whether
Rwanda should open up for other countries, commodities to enter
freely or to restrict her international trade. Whichever the trade
policy undertaken, it requires to examine the relationship between
earnings from and expenditures abroad in terms of exporting and
importing goods and services. This will help learners make analysis
on whether Rwanda is gaining or loosing from international
trade and thus they come up with the spirit of working towards
development of the country in one way or the other. In Unit 2 about
Terms of Trade, we had developed the attitude of improving the
terms of trade of Rwanda which when connected with this unit,
learners design the possible measures towards improving Rwanda’s
trade position in global trade, the reason behind teaching this unit.

Cross-cutting issues to be addressed

When handling this unit, a cross cutting issue of finance education
should be emphasised where learners need to understand, practice
and appreciate the value of balancing their transactions so as to
avoid recurring problems in their daily lives.
Peace and values education needs also to be stressed because as
a country faces a surplus on any of the accounts, it should plan to
assist other countries in need by e.g. giving aid. Such a country
might run for help from such countries in case it gets a deficit on

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the BOP accounts. This serves as a lesson to them in their daily

life experience.

Generic competences
• Co-operation and interpersonal management is
generated through group discussions, debate and any
kind of group work.
• Communication through presentation of findings.
• Critical thinking through analysing the structure of
BOP in LDCs.
• Lifelong learning through research.
Vocabulary or key words or concepts in the unit
Absorption approach: Refers to the analysis in the BOP based on
comparing expenditure with domestic output.
Accommodating items in BOP: This refers to the different items
on the BOP account that are used to curb short term deficits.
Autonomous items: These are items/measures to offset a BOP
surplus on the BOP account.
Balance of payment: This is a relationship between a country’s
foreign exchange expenditure and her foreign exchange earnings
in any given year.
Balance of payment accounts: This refers to a summary record
of a country’s transactions that involve payments or receipts of
foreign exchange.
Balance of trade: This is the relationship between a country’s
visible exports and visible imports.
Balancing item: Is one which appears in figures of BOP explaining
the discrepancy between the current and long term capital account
and the net change in reserves, overseas holdings and other items
that make up the balance of monetary movements.
BB line: This is a locus of levels of the interest rate and real national
income for which the desired current account Balance of Payment
surplus just equals the desired capital account deficit.
Capital account: This refers to the record of international
transactions related to movement of long and short term capital.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Capital movement: Movement of money capital from one country

to another.
Capital account: It is the part of the balance of payment accounts
which shows the movement of capital over a period of time.
Capital stock: It is the total amount of physical goods existing at
a particular time period which have been produced for use in the
production of other goods.
Current account: It is the portion of a balance of payments which
shows the market value of a country’s visible and invisible exports
and imports with the rest of the world.
Economic sanction: Coercive measures of an economic nature
adopted in international affairs to enforce collective decisions.
Embargo: Any prohibition imposed by government upon
commerce or freight.
Exports: Goods and services produced in one country and sold to
another country. They are a source of foreign exchange.
Export promotions: An outward-looking policy. It refers to
deliberate government policies to expand the volume of exports.
Favourable balance of trade: This is when the value of visible
goods exported by a country is higher than that of the goods
imported.
Import surplus: A situation that exists when the value of imports
exceeds that of imports (unfavourable trade balance).
Individualism: This is a belief that individuals are the best judges
of their own interests.
Official financing: This means items that represent international
transactions involving the central bank of a country whose BOP
are being recorded.
Price- specie-mechanism: This refers to automatic BOP
adjustments mechanism under gold standard.
Trade gap: This occurs when the quantity of imported goods
exceeds that of visible exports. It is the amount by which visible
imports exceed visible exports.

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 Balance of payment (BOP)

Unfavourable balance of trade: This is when the visible goods

imported by a country are greater in value than those exported.

Guidance on the problem statement

Give a definition of balance of payment as the relationship between
a country’s foreign exchange expenditure and her foreign exchange
earnings in any given year.
Task learners to differentiate BOP from BOT. As they get engaged
in the activity they discover answers to most of the questions about
the unit. Assign them another activity in this unit. As they discuss
about it, it will help them to know some issues about international
trade aspects.
In this case, the problem statement would be: At any moment, an
economy is either facing Balance of Payment deficit, or surplus
or equilibrium. Where does the economy of Rwanda lie and why.

Expected answers
Rwanda like any other LDCs faces a balance of payment problems.
Reasons for BOP problems include:

• Protectionism in form of high taxes by MDCs.

• Decline in world demand for agricultural products due to
discovery of synthetic fibers by MDCs.
• High capital outflows in LDCs due to poor investment climate
in most LDCs.
• Increase in prices of imports especially necessities like fuel.
• Political instability in most LDCs.
• Natural calamities in some parts of LDCs.
• High transport costs in most LDCs.
• Inadequate infrastructure like storage facilities and air
transport.
Attention to special education needs
Learners with physical impairment
Learners with physical impairment may show challenges in using
their hands to write, sitting in class, using the toilet, walking or
climbing stairs, etc. Such learners may also display excessive
fatigue after performing light duties.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

This category of learners can be helped in the following ways:

Ask other learners to help them to move around, sit the learner in
a place where they can move in and out of class easily, give them
more time and practice to write, copy important notes for them
on paper, if it takes them too much time to copy work. Ensure a
friendly school environment e.g, the building ramps on all entries
to rooms, network with organisations that can provide wheelchairs,
allow them more time to complete their tasks and encourage other
learners to treat them with respect and dignity.

Learners with special abilities

This kind of learners understand concepts very fast because
they are extremely intelligent. They complete tasks faster than
others, get bored faster due to early completion of tasks and can
be disruptive due to idleness. Provide them with extra activities
so as to keep them occupied, assign them to assist other learners,
provide counselling sessions where necessary.

Time takers
Such learners take time to understand what has been taught. Do not
reprimand them or show them they are poor compared to others.
Give them more attention, be more patient with them, guide them
carefully and create time for them after the lesson. Tell them
they can do better, and ensure they understand a sub-topic before
teaching the next.

Learners with visual impairment

Learners with visual impairment experience problems with their
vision. Some learners may experience low vision and others may
have no vision at all. You can notice such learners because they
display the following characteristics:
They write unusually large letters, often scratch their eyes, cannot
focus in bright light, and cannot focus on distant objects.
Use the following strategies to assist them:
Sit them in the place where they can see clearly ,write with yellow
chalk on a clean chalkboard, encourage them to sit at the front of
the class, use large and legible handwriting on the chalkboard,
use large charts and other visual aids ,ensure good colour contrast
on learning aids, and give the learner real objects to use.

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 Balance of payment (BOP)

Learners with hearing impairment

These learners have a problem with their ability to hear. They
may be partially or completely unable to hear. They display signs
such as:
Turning their heads towards the source of sound, shout when
talking, regularly consult those sitted next, delay to respond, have
irrelevant responses, pay less attention,and they always look at the
lips of the person talking to them.
Refer such learners to an ear specialist, and assist them in the
process of learning. You can look at the learner when speaking,
speak clearly and loudly, write instructions on the chalkboard,
be audible enough ,encourage the learner to sit at the front in
class and regularly check their notes to ensure they are writing
the right things. Give the learners a slate (urubaho) to help them
communicate, speak slowly and use simple words.

Learners with communication disorders

These learners cannot communicate effectively because of speech
and language difficulties e.g. inability to interpret simple statements
easily giving up on description tasks due to frustration, stammering
and difficulty in explaining things.
Refer them to a speech therapist, avoid interrupting them when
they are talking, display high level of patience,pay attention to
all their needs,demonstrate various concepts and give them clear
instructions.

Learners with behavioural disorders

Learners with behavioural disorders do not conform to the expected
kind of behaviour laid down in school rules and regulations. They
may show behaviour disorder such as: truancy, stealing, failure
to complete tasks, disrupting lessons through playing, fighting
others etc.
To assist such learners; reinforce their positive behaviour through
rewards, involve parents or guardians in correcting such behaviours,
and refer them to a counsellor if necessary.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

List of lessons/lesson map on Balance of payment (BOP)

Lesson 1: Balance of payment and the difference between BOP and Balance
of Trade.
Lesson 2: Structure of BOP accounts.
Lesson 3: Causes of BOP deficits.
Lesson 4: Effects and measures to correct BOP disequilibrium.
Lesson 5: BOP position in Rwanda.
Lesson 6: Effects and measures to correct the adverse BOP position in Rwanda.
Lesson 7: Unit Assessment.

Lesson 1: Balance of payment and the difference
between BOP and Balance of Trade

Learner’s Book pages 102-104.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able:
• Explain the meaning of BOP.
• Distinguish BOP from BOT.
• Explain the terminologies used in BOP.
• Distinguish between BOP equilibrium and disequilibrium.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Introduce the lesson by posing questions for learners to brainstorm.
For example,
(i) How does free trade affect earnings and expenditure in
international trade?
(ii) What happens if expenditures are greater or less than
earnings?
After the questions have been answered by learners, connect the
introduction to the day’s lesson on BOP.
Expected answers
(i) • Free trade increases free movement of goods and
services from the country in form of exports and this
increases forex earnings.

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 Balance of payment (BOP)

• Free trade attracts investors into the country which

increases domestic production and reduces imports
thus reducing expenditure abroad.
(ii) • Trade protectionism reduces import expenditure and
increases export earnings.
(iii) If expenditures are greater or less than earnings from abroad,
there is a disequilibrium in the economy.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, internet, newspaper articles with economics related
issues on the lesson and relevant economics journals, reports on
BOP accounts in LDCs, etc.
Learning activities
Step 1: Instruct learners in their groups to perform task on Activity
1 in the Learner’s Book page 102.
Step 2: Learners research and discuss about BOP and BOT using
the Learner’s Book or internet or other library books.
Step 3: Groups present their findings as others ask or complement
other members’ views.
Moderates the lesson and regulates time accordingly.

Expected answers for Activity 1 Learner’s Book

page 102
1. (a) Balance of Payment (BOP).
(i) When earnings are equal to expenditures, we call
it BOP equilibrium, when they are not equal we
call it BOP disequilibrium.
(ii) The difference between balance of trade and
balance of payment is given in the table,
following:

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

1. Definition
Balance of Trade (BOT) Balance of Payment (BOP)
BOT is the difference between the BOP is the difference between the
values of exports and imports of only values of exports and imports of both
physical items (goods) of a country visible and invisible items (goods and
during a given period of time (usually services) of a country during a given
one year). period of time (usually one year).

2. Surplus or Deficit
Balance of Trade Balance of Payment
If the value of visible exports is greater If the value of the total receipts is
than value of visible imports, the greater than the total payments, the
balance of trade is said to be favourable BOP is termed as favourable and vice
and vice versa. versa.

3. Goods and Services

Balance of Trade Balance of Payment
It includes only (visible) goods. It includes both (visible and invisible)
goods and services.

4. Revenue and Capital

Balance of Trade Balance of Payment
It includes all revenue receipts and The BOP includes all revenue and
payments on account of imports and capital items.
exports.

5. Relationship
Balance of Trade Balance of Payment
The BOT does not include the BOP. It The BOP includes BOT also
is the part of BOP. Accordingly, it is equal to the BOT
plus import & export of services.

6. Economic Position
Balance of Trade Balance of Payment
It does not show the actual economic Balance of payment shows the real
position of a country. economic position of a country.

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Synthesis
After the learners’ presentations, harmonises their points by
referring to the content in the Learner’s Book pages 102-105.
Assessment of the lesson
In assessing whether the learning objectives have been attained,
task learners to explain what would happen;
(i) If Rwanda’s exports are cheaper compared to her imports
from outside the country.
(ii) In case the revenues from abroad are equal to expenditures
abroad.
Expected answers
(i) There would be a BOP deficit because export earnings would
be less than import expenditure.
(ii) There would be a BOP equilibrium since revenues are equal
to expenditures abroad.

Lesson 2: Structure of BOP accounts

Learner’s Book pages 105-113

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Describe the structure of BOP accounts.
• Design BOP accounts.
• Design measures to offset BOP deficit/surplus on the BOP
accounts.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review with learners the different terminologies used in BOP.
Connect it with the day’s lesson i.e BOP accounts. Guide learners
to do library or internet research on BOP accounts. (Refer to Activity
2 in the Learner’s Book page 105).
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, internet, newspaper articles on BOP accounts,
and relevant economics journals, resource person e.g accountant/
economists.

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Learning activities
Step 1. Learners join their respective groups and discuss their
findings on BOP accounts.
Step 2: Learners in their groups present their findings to the rest
of the class. All learners contribute to the discussion. As a teacher,
moderate and facilitate presentations. Give a clarification on the
BOP accounts.
Expected answers for Activity 2 Learner’s Book page
105
(a) The balance of payments account of a country is constructed
on the principle of double-entry book-keeping. Each
transaction is entered on the credit and debit side of the
balance sheet.
(b) The structure of balance of payments account is broken down
into the current account, the capital account and the official
settlements balance.
(c) Using the card sort game.

Debit items Credit items

Imports of goods and services Exports of goods and services.
Transfer (or unrequited) payments to Unrequited (or transfer) receipts in the
foreigners as gifts, grants, etc. form of gifts, grants etc. from foreigners.
Lending to foreign countries. Borrowings from abroad.
Official purchase of reserve assets Official sale of reserve assets.
or gold from foreign countries and
international agencies.
Investments by residents to foreign Investments by foreigners in the country.
countries.

Synthesis
Refer to the content in the Learner’s Book page 105-114 to
harmonise learners’ presentations and to explain thoroughly the
structure and nature of BOP accounts.
You can demonstrate or illustrate how the BOP accounts work.

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Assessment of the lesson

Check whether the learning objectives have been achieved by
tasking learners to do Activity 3 in the Learner’s Book page 111.

Expected answers for Activity 3 Learner’s Book page

111
(a) The measures that should be taken to
(i) Offset a BOP deficit:
• Selling gold or holdings of foreign exchange,
such as US dollars, yen or euros.
• Borrowing from other Central Banks or the
International Monetary Fund (IMF).
• Using of foreign exchange reserves available.
• Sale of public assets abroad.
• Seeking aid and grants from other countries.
• Attracting foreign investments into the country.
• Import substitution strategy.
• Restrictive monetary policy i.e. reduces the
amount of money in circulation.
• Improving the service industry e.g. tourism.
(ii) How to offset a BOP surplus:
A BOP surplus is a situation where aggregate supply
of foreign exchange exceeds aggregate demand for
it. A surplus will be disposed off by:
• Buying gold or currencies.
• Paying off debts.
• Building a stock of foreign exchange reserves.
• Lending to foreign countries.
• Providing aid and grants to other countries.
(b) Accommodating items are measures used to correct BOP
deficit while autonomous items are items used to offset BOP
surplus.
(c) Establishing BOP balance by using accommodating items is
called accommodating BOP. While the expenditure aiming
at getting rid of the BOP surplus through the above means
is known as autonomous expenditure.

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Lesson 3: Causes of BOP deficits

Learner’s Book pages 114-118.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Analyse the causes of BOP deficit in LDCs
• Show continual desire to control BOP problems in LDCs
and Rwanda in particular.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Refer to the structure of BOP accounts and ask learners to examine
the causes of BOP deficit on the BOP accounts.
Expected answers
Low exports, increased imports, high capital outflow in form of
debt repayment, profit repatriation by foreign investors etc.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, internet, newspaper articles on BOP, relevant
economics journals, sample books of accounts etc.
Learning activities
Step 1: Through general class discussions’ learners brainstorm
on the likely causes of BOP deficits in LDCs as the teacher notes
them on board or flip chart. Refer to the question in Activity 4 in
the Learner’s Book page 114
Step 2: Request learners by show of hands to explain the presented
points one by one. Refer to the question in Activity 4 in the Learner’s
Book page 114
Answers for Activity 4 Learner’s Book page 114
Causes of BOP deficits in LDCs:
• Protectionism in form of high taxes by MDCs.
• Decline in world demand for agricultural products.
• High capital outflows in LDCs.
• Increase in prices of imports.
• Political instability in most LDCs.
• Natural calamities in some parts of LDCs.
• High transport costs in most LDCs.

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• Inadequate infrastructure e.g. storage facilities and air

transport.
Synthesis
Refer to content in the Learner’s Book pages 114-117 to harmonise
learner’s presentations. Explain causes of BOP deficit in LDS to
make all learners understand.
Assessment of the lesson
To check whether the learning objectives have been achieved by
using a one big circle tactic in class and sample out some learners
to explain at least one cause of BOP problems in LDCs. (refer to
the answers above.)
You can give remedial and extended activities depending on the
needs of the learner.

Lesson 4: Effects and measures to correct BOP
disequilibrium

Learner’s Book pages 118-120.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Analyse the effects of BOP disequilibrium in LDCs.
• Show continual desire to control BOP problems in LDCs
and Rwanda in particular.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Through question and answer technique, learners reflect on the
causes of BOP problems in LDCs. Through think, pair and share,
learners give their views about effects of BOP problems in LDCs.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, internet, newspaper articles on BOP problems,
and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Organise learners to have a round table discussion on the
effects and possible solutions to BOP problems in LDCs. Every
learner is expected to write an answer on a paper and passes it to
the next team member. Refer to the Activity in the Learner’s Book
4 page 114.

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Step 2: Call upon representatives from different tables to present

their views to the class members.
Expected answers
Effects of BOP on LDCs:
• If a country runs a BOP deficit on the current account, it
means that it needs to run a surplus on the financial/capital
account.
• A current account deficit may imply that you are relying on
consumer spending, and are becoming uncompetitive.
• A balance of payments deficit may cause foreign investors
to lose confidence in the country.
• A trade deficit can lead to currency weakness and higher
imported inflation which worsens the BOP position.
• Deficit countries need to import financial capital to achieve
balance.
• Countries may run short of vital foreign currency reserves.
Solutions to reduce BOP problems in LDCs:
• Export promotion strategy.
• Import substitution strategy.
• Devaluation.
• Ensure political stability.
• Seeking for donation from friendly countries.
• Forming economic integrations among themselves.
• Borrowing from IMF.
• Encouraging tourism which brings in forex.
• Privatisation which leads to efficiency.
• Checking on population growth through family planning.
• Wage freeze so as to reduce aggregate demand for imports.
• Open market operation so as to get access to selling financial
assets/securities thus earn forex.
• Reduced government expenditure through privatisation
of inefficient parastatals which increases efficiency and
increased productivity thus earning forex through exports.
• Controlled printing and minting of currencies which reduces
demand pull inflation thus reducing aggregate demand for
exports.

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• Encouraging both local and foreign investments through

provision of economic incentives like tax holidays.
• Liberalisation of the economy so as to increase the volume
of goods and services.
• Increased rate of taxation to reduce people’s disposable income.
• Forex control by the government so as to regulate its outflow
and inflow.
Synthesis
Refer to the content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 119-120 to
harmonise learner’s findings and conclude the lesson. Endevour
to give a thorough explanation on the solutions to BOP problems
especially how they work in LDCs.

Assessment of the lesson

Teacher throws the ball to learners by asking them on the effects
and solutions of BOP problems in LDCs. Whoever gets the ball
gives the answer as it is passed on to others.
This is done to check whether learning objectives have been
achieved as stated.

Lesson 5: BOP position in Rwanda

Learner’s Book pages 120-121.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Account for the BOP problems in Rwanda.
• Show continual desire to control BOP problems in LDCs
and Rwanda in particular.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Refer to the causes of BOP problems in LDCs covered in the
previous lesson and ask learners to share their views on the causes
of BOP problems in Rwanda specifically.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, internet access, newspapers on Rwanda’s BOP
articles if any, resource person to moderate on BOP in Rwanda
and relevant economics journals.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Learning activities
Step 1: Through general class discussions, task learners to examine
the causes of BOP problems in Rwanda. Refer to Activity 5 in the
Learner’s Book pages 121-123. Note down the points given on
board or flip chart.
Step 2: Task learners to explain the generated points one by one.

Synthesis
Refer to the content on BOP position in Rwanda in Learner’s Book
pages 120-121 to harmonise learners’ findings during the lesson.
Assessment of the lesson
To check whether the learning objectives have been achieved. Ask
learners to brainstorm the causes of BOP problems in Rwanda.
Refer to the discussed points.

Lesson 6: Effects and measures to correct the
adverse BOP in Rwanda

Learner’s Book pages 124-127

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Analyse the effects of BOP problems in Rwanda.
• Suggest possible solutions to BOP problems in Rwanda.
• Show continual desire to control BOP problems in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Learners are now familiar with the causes of BOP problems in
LDCs. Task learners in pairs to share their views on the effects of
such a problem in Rwanda.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, internet, newspaper articles on effects of BOP
problems in Rwanda and relevant economics journals.
Step 1: Guide learners to have a round table discussions on the
effects and possible solutions to BOP problems in Rwanda. Every
learner is expected to contribute to these discussions. Refer to
Activity 5 in the Learner’s Book page 121.

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Step 2: Guide learners to present their news from different tables.

Generate points as you write them on the chalkboard or flip board.
Expected answers for Activity 5 the Learner’s Book
page 121
Effects of adverse BOP on Rwanda:
• If Rwanda runs a BOP deficit on the current account, it means
it needs to run a surplus on the financial/capital account.
• A current account deficit may imply that Rwanda relying on
consumer spending, and is becoming uncompetitive.
• A balance of payments deficit may cause foreign investors
to lose confidence in the Rwanda government.
• A trade deficit can lead to currency weakness and higher
imported inflation which worsens the BOP position.
• Deficit in Rwanda means that it needs to import financial
capital to achieve balance.
• Rwanda may run short of vital foreign currency reserves.
Solutions to reduce BOP problems in Rwanda:
• Export promotion strategy.
• Import substitution strategy.
• Devaluation.
• Ensure political stability.
• Seeking for donation from friendly countries.
• Forming economic integrations with other countries.
Synthesis
Refers to the content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 124-127 to
harmonise learner’s findings and conclude the lesson. Conclude by
explaining to learners that Rwanda’s BOP position is not different
from the rest of LDCs and give reasons for that.
Assessment of the lesson
Throw the ball to learners by asking on the effects and solutions of
BOP problems in Rwanda. This is done to check whether learning
objectives have been achieved as stated.
You can use remedial and consolidated activities to assess learners.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Lesson 7: Unit Assessment

Learner’s Book page 127

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to analyse the balance
of payment position in LDCs.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Organise and prepare learners for end of unit assessment. Refer
them to the Learner’s Book page 127. Give them clear instructions
on how to do the assessment.
Teaching aids
Classroom environment, printed assessment sheets and answer
sheets etc.
Learning activities
Step 1: Distribute preprinted/ written assessment sheets and answer
sheets to learners.
Step 2: Learners do the assessment exercise under the teacher’s
supervision.
Step 3: After the assessment, collect their written work for marking
and correction or evaluation.

Synthesis
Refer to end of unit assessment in the Learner’s Book on page 127
with the rest of the class.
Assessment of the lesson
To check whether the learning objectives were achieved, ask more
related questions and attend to their responses.

End of unit

Summary of the unit

This unit gives the truth about BOP position of Rwanda. The
BOP position of Rwanda like any other LDC is unfavourable or
deterioting (refer to Learner’s Book pages 120-127).

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 Balance of payment (BOP)

However the BOP problems in Rwanda can be corrected

through export promotion strategy, import substitution strategy,
devaluation, political stability, seeking foreign aid and forming or
joining economic integrations. The advantages and disadvantages
of the above strategies are well elaborated in the unit.

Additional information for the teacher

BOP is a method countries use to monitor all international monetary
transactions at a specific period of time. Usually, it is calculated
every quarter and every calendar year. All trade conducted by
private and public sectors are accounted for in the BOP in order
to determine how much money is going in and out of a country.
If a country has received money, this is known as credit and if
it has paid or given money, the transaction is counted as debit.
Theoretically, BOP is zero, meaning that assets (credits) and
liabilities (debits) should balance, but in practice this is rarely the
case. Thus BOP can tell the observer if a country has a deficit or
a surplus and from which part of the economy the discrepancies
are stemming.

End of Unit 4 assessment answers (Learner’s Book page

127)

1. (a) To a great extent inflation has caused BOP problems in the

following ways:
• Increase in prices of domestically produced commodities
making exports expensive and discouraging buyers from
other countries.
• Inflation has discouraged the export of services in most
LDCs because of high structure of goods and services
which leads to low earnings from invisible trade.
• Inflation has caused uncertainty and fear of loss of value
of money making people prefer to keep their money in
foreign currencies and in other countries which increases
capital outflows than inflows hence BOP problems.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• Inflation has discouraged the production of exports which

are sold in foreign markets where prices are stable. People
would prefer to produce for domestic markets where prices
are always increasing which reduces the volume of exports
and earnings from them.
• Peasant farmers have been discouraged because inflation
favours traders and disfavours farmers who produce
commodities whose prices increase less than increase
in prices of imported inputs and consumer goods. Much
effort has shifted from agriculture as a major export sector
to trade.
• Inflation has led to increase in wages, interest and rent
which has led to increase in costs of production of exports,
thus people would rather buy commodities from other
countries where costs and prices are lower than producing
those commodities domestically.
Other than inflation there are other causes of BOP problems in
LDCs which include the following:
• Protectionism in form of high taxes by MDCs.
• Decline in world demand for agricultural products due to
discovery of synthetic fibers by MDCs.
• High capital outflows due to changes in climate.
• Increase in prices of imports especially necessities like
fuel.
• Political instability.
• Natural calamities.
• High transport costs in most LDCs.
• Inadequate infrastructure like storage facilities and air
transport.
(b) Policy measures to reduce BOP problems in LDCs:
• Export promotion strategy.
• Import substitution strategy.
• Devaluation.
• Ensure political stability.

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 Balance of payment (BOP)

• Seeking for donation from friendly countries.

• Forming economic integrations among themselves.
2. (a) Fiscal and monetary policies employed to reduce inflationary
pressures on the external BOP should be two-way; i.e. tight
monetary or fiscal policies so as to reduce import expenditure
and expansionary so as to encourage exports thus earn forex
from them, therefore solving BOP problems.
(b) The relationship between domestic economy and BOP can be
explained in one or the following ways:
If a country’s economic activities are high, holding other factors
constant, the volume of output for domestic and foreign market
(export) is high which increases export earnings in return. This
would imply that a country can produce more for her population
and rely less on external trade (imports) for what they cannot
produce on their own using their natural resources.
However, if the economic activities are low, other factors
constant, the volume of output is low, thus domestic and export
amount is low as well. This would imply that a country is not in
position to satisfy her population using her resources therefore
depending much for her survival on external sources (imports,
borrowing and its negative effect).
In another way, if a country is stable politically, investors (both
local and foreign) are attracted to invest in that country which
increases, domestic production thus increased exports and forex
earnings.
If there is instability, investors are scared away, reducing the
production capacity of that country which affects her local
production and external trade due to high forex expenditure.
Therefore, the relationship between domestic economy and BOP
is in such a way that, if the domestic economy is stable socially,
economically and politically, a country, holding other factors
constant experiences favourable BOP and if otherwise, it faces
unfavourable BOP.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

3. Balance of Payment must always balance because:

• It is based on double entry accounting system where total credit
accounts to total debit accounts.
• What is received from exports should be equal to forex expenditure.
• In case of a BOP deficit on the current or capital account, the
BOP account provides for balancing item (monetary account).
• In case of a BOP surplus on the current or capital account, the
BOP account shows how this surplus can be disposed off using
the monetary account.
• In case of statistical errors, the BOP account provides for errors
and omissions account, therefore BOP should always balance.
However, during transactions, a country may register a surplus
or deficit for successive years which become a problem to have
a balanced BOP.
Rwanda, has registered unfavourable BOP for successive years due
to the following reasons:
• Narrow export base.
• Consumption oriented society.
• Poor technology in less developed countries.
• Rwanda produces and exports primary products which are both
price and income inelastic.
• Rwanda faces stiff competition from the foreign value added
goods.
• Foreign debts servicing.

Remedial activity
1. As we sell outside Rwanda we earn money from our sales
and as we buy, we spend money outside our country.
(i) What do we call the relationship between what we earn
and what we spend on outside countries?
(ii) When do you think we are in a better position and when
we are in a worse situation?
(iii) If you earned more than what you spent, how would
you use the surplus of what you earned?

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(iv) If you earned less than what you needed to spend, how
would you go about it to get what you want?
Expected answers
(i) BOP.
(ii) We are in a better position when earnings exceed expenditures
and worse off when expenditures exceed earnings.
(iii) Use methods to offset a BOP surplus (in the Learner’s Book
page 112).
A BOP surplus is a situation where aggregate supply of foreign
exchange exceeds aggregate demand for it. A surplus will be
disposed off by:
• Buying gold or currencies.
• Paying off debts.
• Building a stock of foreign exchange reserves.
• Lending to foreign countries.
• Providing aid and grants to other countries.
(iv) Use methods to offset a BOP deficit. (in the Learner’s Book
page 111)
• Selling gold or holdings of foreign exchange,
such as US dollars, yen or euros.
• Borrowing from other central banks or the
International Monetary Fund (IMF).
• Using of foreign exchange reserves available.
• Sale of public assets abroad.
• Seeking aid and grants from other countries.
• Attracting foreign investments into the country.
• Import substitution strategy.
• Restrictive monetary policy i.e. reduces the
amount of money in circulation.
• Improving the service industry e.g. tourism.
Consolidation activity
Using the knowledge and understanding on BOP, what do you think
is the position/nature of BOP in Rwanda and why?
Expected answers
Use the points on causes of BOP deficit in Rwanda (Learners Book
pages 114-118).

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Extended activity
Is it always the case that whatever you earn must equal what you
spend? Support your answer.
Expected answers
Refer to question 3 in the Unit 4 assessment, page 95 of the
Learner’s Book.

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 Topic Area 4: International Economics
Sub-topic Area 4.1: International Trade

Unit 5: Exchange Rates

Reference to learner’s text book pages 133-168

Key unit competence: Learners will be able to analyse the

various forms of exchange rates determination and their impact
in economic development.

Prerequisites for this unit

The gains from international trade have to be seen in different
aspects i.e., prices of exports vis a vis prices of imports, volume
of exports vis a vis imports, earnings from exports vis a vis
expenditures on imports and the value of the exporting vis a vis
importing countries’ currencies. Therefore, having seen the first
three i.e. prices, volume and earnings and expenditures abroad, we
need to see the role of foreign exchange in determining the gains
from trade by a country. This unit will help learners analyse and
thus appreciate the value of the Rwandan currency in respect to
other countries’ currencies in the region and the entire world. This
encourages them to advocate for its stability to promote economic
development.
Cross-cutting issues to be addressed
When addressing this unit, a cross cutting issue of financial
education should be emphasised in a sense that learners should be
able to know and appreciate the value of their country’s currency
in relation to other countries’ currencies.
Generic competences
• Co-operation and interpersonal management is developed
as learners work in groups/teams to discuss issues regarding
exchange rates.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• Communication skills are gained as learners do presentation

of their findings on exchange rates and related issues.
Learners communicate both verbaly and in writing and this
improves their language skills.
• Critical thinking is gained through analysing the advantages
and disadvantages of different exchange rate regimes.
• Lifelong learning is gained through research on various forms
of exchange rates and their impact on economic development.
Vocabulary or key words or concepts in the unit
Appreciation: An increase in the value of a currency against other
currencies under a floating exchange rate system.
Bureau de change: A business whose customers exchange one
currency for another.
Competitive devaluation: This refers to a situation where
several countries devalue their currencies in an attempt to gain a
competitive advantage over one another.
Currency pair: The quotation of a relative value of a currency unit
against the unit of another currency in the foreign exchange market.
Digital currency exchange: Market makers which exchange fiat
currency for electronic money.
Depreciation: Capital consumption wearing out of capital stock
during production. It is the cost of replacing equipment worn-out
in production.
Devaluation: Reduction in the official exchange rate, which results
into the reduction of the price of domestic currency to the foreign
countries and increase in the price of the foreign currency.
Exchange control: Government regulations relating to the buying
and selling of foreign exchange. It is normally in order to prevent
a worsening balance of payments position.
Exchange rate: A price of one national currency in terms of another.
Fixed exchange rate: System in which exchange rates between
trading countries are pegged at a certain rate. It is maintained
through reserve flow action by the central banks, and domestic
inflation or deflation.

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Floating exchange rate: Flexible exchange rate; a situation in

which a country’s foreign exchange rate is determined entirely by
the market forces of demand and supply for currencies, without
intervention by central banks or governments. The result is usually
much greater fluctuations in exchange rates than under a fixed
exchange rate.
Foreign exchange: These are claims on a country by another
country. Foreign exchange system enables one currency to be
exchanged for another. It can also be defined as is a transaction
involving exchange of one currency for another at a specified
exchange rate.
Foreign exchange company: A broker that offers currency
exchange and international payments.
Foreign exchange controls: Controls imposed by a government
on the purchase/sale of foreign currencies.
Foreign exchange market: This is a market where foreign
currencies are traded at a price that is expressed by the exchange
rate.
Foreign exchange rate: The rate, or price, at which one country’s
currency is exchanged for the currency of another country. A
country has a fixed exchange rate if it ‘pegs’ its currency at a
constant, predetermined exchange rate, and then stands ready to
defend that rate. An exchange rate which is not fixed is said to
‘float’.
Foreign reserves: Stock of foreign currencies and special drawing
rights (SDRs) held by the county’s central bank as both reserve and
a fund from which international payments can be made.
Foreign exchange risks: Risks that arise from the change in price
of one currency against another.
Gold standard: Is when and where the currency of a country is
completely backed by gold.
Gold standard currencies are defined in terms of a given weight
of gold. Exchange rates remain fixed.
Managed floating exchange rates: Determination of foreign
exchange rates by the interaction of demand and supply modified

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on occasion by government intervention for domestic, political

and economic progress.
Par exchange rate: This is a price of one country’s currency in
terms of another by IMF.
Parallel exchange rate: This occurs when the official exchange rate
does not reflect the true market rate, such that unofficial exchange
rate tends to operate side by side with the official one.
Purchasing power parity: This refers to a situation where the
exchange rate between two currencies is such that the equivalent
amounts of the currencies have the same purchasing power in their
respective countries.
Retail foreign exchange platform: Speculative trading of foreign
exchange by individuals using electronic trading platforms.
Revaluation: It is the increase in the official exchange rate. It has
the effect of increasing the price of the domestic currency to the
foreigner and decreasing the price of foreign currency.

Guidance on the problem statement

Task learners at the beginning of the unit or lesson with an activity
that requires them to be inquisitive or curious about the content.
This helps them to be eager to know by the end of the unit/lesson
what they thought was not possible at the beginning.
In this case, the problem statement would be.
What causes countries or companies to exchange or trade in
their currencies? Can international trade servive without foreign
exchange rates? And who determines and controls these exchange
rates?
As they discuss, it will help them know some issues and facts
concerning international trade aspects in relation to exchange rates.

Attention to special education needs

Learners with physical disabilities
Learners with physical impairment may show challenges in using
their hands to write, sitting in class, using the toilet, walking or

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climbing stairs, etc. Such learners may also display excessive

fatigue after performing light duties.
This category of learners can be helped in the following ways:
Ask other learners to help them to move around, sit the learner in
a place where they can move in and out of class easily, give them
more time and practice to write, copy important notes for them
on paper, if it takes them too much time to copy work. Ensure a
friendly school environment e.g,the building ramps on all entries
to rooms, network with organisations that can provide wheelchairs,
allow them more time to complete their tasks and encourage other
learners to treat them with respect and dignity.

Learners with extra abilities

This kind of learners understand concepts very fast because
they are extremely intelligent. They complete tasks faster than
others, get bored faster due to early completion of tasks and can
be disruptive due to boredom. Provide them with extra activities
so as to keep them occupied, assign them to assist other learners,
provide counselling sessions where necessary.

Time takers
Such learners take time to understand what has been taught. Do not
reprimand them or show them they are poor compared to others.
Give them more attention, be more patient with them, guide them
carefully and create time for them after the lesson. Tell them
they can do better, and ensure they understand a sub-topic before
teaching the next.

Learners with visual impairment

Learners with visual impairment experience problems with their
vision. Some learners may experience low vision and others may
have no vision at all. You can notice such learners because they
display the following characteristics:
They write unusually large letters, often scratch their eyes, cannot
focus in bright light, and cannot focus on distant objects.
Use the following strategies to assist them:
Sit them in the place where they can see clearly, write with yellow
chalk on a clean chalkboard, encourage them to sit at the front of
the class, use large and legible handwriting on the chalkboard, use
large charts and other visual aids, ensure good colour contrast on
learning aids, and give the learner real objects to use.

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Learners with hearing impairment

These learners have a problem with their ability to hear. They
may be partially or completely unable to hear. They display signs
such as:
Turning their heads towards the source of sound, shout when
talking, regularly consult those sitted next, delay to respond, have
irrelevant responses,pay less attention,and they always look at the
lips of the person talking to them.
Refer such learners to an ear specialist, and assist them in the
process of learning. You can look at the learner when speaking,
speak clearly and loudly, write instructions on the chalkboard,
be audible enough, encourage the learner to sit at the front in
class and regularly check their notes to ensure they are writing
the right things. Give the learners a slate (urubaho) to help them
communicate, speak slowly and use simple words.

Learners with communication disorders

These learners cannot communicate effectively because of speech
and language problems e.g. inability to interpret simple statements
easily giving up on description tasks due to frustration, stammering
and difficulty in explaining things.
Refer them to a speech therapist, avoid interrupting them when
they are talking, display high level of patience,pay attention to
all their needs,demonstrate various concepts and give them clear
instructions.

Learners with behavioural disorders

Learners with behavioural disorders do not conform to the expected
kind of behaviour laid down in school rules and regulations. They
may show behaviour disorder such as: truancy, stealing, failure
to complete tasks, disrupting lessons through playing, fighting
others etc.
To assist such learners; reinforce their positive behaviour through
rewards, involve parents or guardians in correcting such behaviours,
and refer them to a counsellor if necessary.
List of lessons/lesson map on Exchange rates
Lesson 1: Terms used and sources of forex.
Lesson 2: Factors that influence exchange rates.

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 Exchange rates

Lesson 3: Forms/ types of exchange rates.

Lesson 4: Foreign exchange liberalisation.
Lesson 5: Foreign exchange reserves.
Lesson 6: Foreign exchange control.
Lesson 7: Reasons and necessary conditions for devaluation.
Lesson 8: The Marshall-Lerner devaluation condition.
Lesson 9: Effects of devaluation.
Lesson 10: Success of devaluation in LDCs.
Lesson 11: Unit assessment.

Lesson 1: Terms used and sources of forex

Learner’s Book pages 136-137

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the meaning of foreign exchange.
• Identify different sources of forex in an economy.
• Suggest how to diversify sources of forex in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Based on the knowledge of international trade in Unit 1 in S.6.
Ask learners to pair up, share and present the following questions
to the class;
(a) As countries participate in international trade what do they
use to settle their payments?
(b) Use questions (a) of Activity 1 pages 134-135 in the Learner’s
Book, to identify the different currencies of different
countries.
(c) Explain the meaning of forex.
Expected answers
(a) Countries which participate in international trade use
currencies of those countries they are trading with or any
other currency internationally accepted.

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(b)
Country Currency
Uganda Shillings
Rwanda Francs
Japan Yen
USA Dollars
South Africa Rand
Britain Pound sterling
Denmark Krone
European Union Euro

(b) Foreign exchange is the exchange of one currency for another

or the conversion of one currency into another currency.
Teaching aids
Learner’s book, internet access, types of currencies e.g pounds,
shillings, dollars etc (pictures or real objects).
Learning activities
Step 1: From their research findings, learners in their groups refer to
sub question (c) (d) and (e) in Activity 1 page 134-135 and discuss
the different terminologies and sources of forex in an economy.
Step 2: Groups present their findings on sources of foreign
exchange and the related terminologies. Moderates every step i.e
research, discussions and presentations.
Expected answers for Activity 1 Learner’s Book page
134-135
(c) Akaliza never used Rwandan francs for her travel because
Rwandan francs are not internationally acceptable in the
world market. They are not easily convertible to other
currencies.
(d) Sources of foreign exchange:
• Export of goods and services.
• Transfer payments e.g. grants and aid.
• Remittances and transfers of nationals working abroad.
• Selling of public assets abroad.

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• Capital inflow through direct and foreign investments.

• Profits, dividends and interests repatriated from
investments abroad.
• Funds from charitable organisations e.g. UNICEF.
• Private foreign bank deposits in the local banks.
• Borrowing from international countries, companies
and individuals.
Synthesis
Basing on the content notes on pages 136-137 Learner’s Book,
harmonise learner’s findings. Learners note the summary of what
has been agreed upon.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess whether the learning objectives of the lesson have been
achieved by probing. For example, ask:
(a) Why do you think countries don’t use their local currencies
to transact their businesses?
(b) How do countries get other countries’ currencies used on
transactions in international trade?
Expected answers
(a) Different countries’ currencies have different values so they
have to be exchanged to the accepted currencies.
(b) Through forex markets.
(c) Through increased exports
• Seeking for aid and grants from other countries
• Attracting more foreign investors
• Investing more in other countries.
Note: Be open minded ans accept all correct answers.

Lesson 2: Factors that influence exchange rates

Learner’s Book pages 138-139.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Examine the factors influencing exchange rates.
• Appreciate the exchange rate of Rwandan currency in terms
of other currencies.

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Prerequisites for the lesson

Basing on the sources of forex in an economy covered in Lesson 1
of this unit, ask learners to explain the factors that may influence
forex rates in any given economy.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, internet, real objects of different forms of
currencies etc.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups go to the library or computer laboratory
and do search on the factors that determine exchange rates of any
given economy. They refer to Activity 2 in the Learner’s Book
page 138 for their research. Teacher monitors their research and
discussions.
Step 2: Learners do presentations guided by teacher.

Expected answers for Activity 2 Learner’s Book page

138
Factors that determine the strength of a currency over other
countries’ currencies in the forex market:
• Inflation Rates.
• Interest Rates.
• Balance of Payments.
• Public Debt.
• Political Uncertainty and Economic Instability.
• Government Intervention.
• Speculation.
Synthesis
Basing on the content notes in the Learner’s Book page 138-139,
harmonise learners’ findings.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess learning objectives by asking probing questions on the
lesson and correct any misunderstanding on the lesson. Refer to
Activity 2 above.

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Lesson 3: Forms/ types of exchange rates

Learner’s Book pages 140-150.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Identify the various forms of exchange rate systems.
• Make comparison of the various exchange rate systems.
• Analyse the effects of exchange rate on the prices of
commodities on the market in Rwanda.
• Justify the choice of the appropriate exchange rate system
in economic development.
• Appreciate the exchange rate of Rwandan currency in terms
of other currencies.
• Explain the impact of each exchange rate system on the economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Based on the factors that affect forex rates in an economy. Guide
learners on the discussion of the forms of exchange rates. Group
learners and give them different forms of forex rate systems to
discuss and present to the rest of the class.
Teaching aids
Learner’s book, internet access, newspaper articles, and relevant
economics journals etc.
Learning activities
Step 1: Each group is given its form of forex and choose amongst
themselves a person to present on their behalf. Refer to task in
Activity 3 Learner’s Book page 140.
Step 2: Each group is given time to present its findings. Learners
take note of what each group is presenting and ask for clarity from
the group members. Each of the group members’ presenting should
be in position to defend their presentation once asked to.
Expected answers
Some of the major types of foreign exchange rates are as follows:
1. The gold standard exchange rate system.
2. Fixed Exchange Rate System (or Pegged Exchange Rate
System).

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3. Flexible Exchange Rate System (or Floating Exchange Rate

System).
4. Managed Floating Rate System.
Rwanda adopts
Fixed Exchange Rate System (to a system in which exchange
rate for a currency is fixed by the government at a specific rate in
relation to a specific foreign currency for a period of time.) (Give
its advantages and disadvantages), (refer to the Learner’s Book
pages 143-144).
Managed Floating Rate System (a system in which foreign
exchange rate is determined by market forces and central bank
influences the exchange rate through intervention in the foreign
exchange market.) (Give its advantages and disadvantages), (refer
to the Learner’s Book page 150).
Flexible/floating/free/market/fluctuating Exchange Rate System
(Flexible exchange rate system refers to a system in which exchange
rate is determined by forces of demand and supply of different
currencies in the foreign exchange market.) (Give its advantages
and disadvantages), (refer to the Learner’s Book page147).
Synthesis
Base on the content in the Learner’s Book pages 140-150 to
harmonise learner’s findings and presentations for the general
consensus. Compare and contrast the major types of foreign
exchange rates that Rwanda adopts.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the lesson’s learning objectives by asking different questions
to different groups on the systems of foreign exchange rates. You
can give a roleplay, or simple multiple choice questions to test
learner’s development performance.

Lesson 4: Foreign exchange liberalisation

Learner’s Book pages 150-151.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Analyse the reasons behind forex liberalisation.

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• Explain the arguments for against forex liberalisation in an

economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Basing on the different forms of foreign exchange tasked in the
previous lesson, ask learners to explain what they understand
by the term forex liberalisation. Refer to the definition of forex
liberalisation on page 151 in the learner’s book. Connect to the
day’s lesson by tasking learners to do Activity 4 in Learner’s Book
page 150.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, internet, newspaper articles, and relevant
economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Paired learner’s share their views about the task given in
Activity 4.
Step 2: Pairs present their findings to the rest of the class to relate
to their views, ask some questions or supplement the presenting
group.
Expected answers
(On this question give advantages and disadvantages of forex
liberalisation), refer to the Learner’s Book page 151.

Synthesis
Harmonise learners’ discussions by referring to the content notes
on forex liberalisation pages 150-151.
Assessment of the lesson
Asses the achievement of the learning objectives of the lesson
by asking learners why they think some countries don’t normally
liberalise their forex market. (refer to the disadvantages of forex
liberalisation)
You can use brainstorming method.

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Lesson 5: Foreign exchange reserves

Learner’s Book pages 152-153

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the importance of forex reserves in an economy.
• Account for the forex shortages in LDCs.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Basing on the knowledge about foreign exchange, learners can
reason what forex reserves are. Through general class discussions,
ask learners what forex reserves are. Let them do pair and share on
the importances of forex reserves as the day’s lesson.

Expected answers
Foreign exchange reserves refer to the money or claims in foreign
exchange, gold or Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) kept in the
Central bank and other international financial institutions.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, internet access, related magazines, resource
persons etc.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in their groups, based on Activity 5 from the
Learner’s Book page 152, discuss on the importance of forex
reserves and causes of forex shortages in LDCs. Move in different
groups to check their progress.
Step 2: Organise groups to present their findings. As the rest listen
attentively and ask or contribute where possible.

Expected answers for Activity 5 Learner’s Book page

152
(i) The importance of forex reserves in an economy:
• They help in stabilising exchange rates e.g. buying of
excess domestic currency.
• They are used in making international payments such
as national obligations abroad debt servicing.

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• They are used to back the issue of local currency.

• They can be used in periods of economic hardships
such as disasters wars etc.
• They can be used to upset the BOP deficit.
• They can be used to finance foreign investments and
diplomatic missions abroad.
• They can be used to purchase essential inputs or
commodities.
• They are used to show the country’s economic strength
in international market.
(ii) Causes of forex shortages in Rwanda include:
• Exportation of low value primary products which fetch
little foreign exchange.
• Importation of expensive commodities.
• High marginal propensity to import due to demonstration
effect.
• High foreign debt problems hence high debt servicing
ratio.
• Capital outflow by multinational corporations and
profit repatriation by foreign investors.
• LDCs have few investments abroad.
Synthesis
Base on the content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 152-153
and harmonises learner’s discussions. Tell learners that, like other
LDCs, Rwanda faces forex shortages at times.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess learners’ masterly of the lesson objectives by probing. Ask
for example specifically why Rwanda has forex shortages. Refer
to the general causes of forex shortages in LDCs.

Lesson 6: Foreign exchange control

Learner’s Book pages 153-156

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the meaning of foreign exchange control.

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• Analyse the reasons behind forex control.

• Examine the advantages and disadvantages of forex control
in an economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Put learners into pairs and ask them to share their views on forex
control. By sampling a few pairs, they all agree on what forex
control is. Connect the discussion to the day’s lesson on foreign
exchange control, its rationale and effects.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, internet, newspaper articles on foreign exchange
control, related financial reports, and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step1:Ask learners to join their groups and task them with Activity
6 in the Learner’s Book page 153. Move around as they discuss in
groups and offer any necessary assistance.
Step 2: Guide learners to present their findings. Attend to any
challenging situation in the due course of the discussion. Make
sure that time is managed well.
Expected answers for Activity 6 Learner’s Book page
153
Rationale for foreign exchange control:
• Stabilisation in the rates of exchange.
• Check capital flight.
• Ensure availability of foreign exchange.
• Acquire foreign exchange to service debt.
• Protecting home industries.
• Raising government revenue.
Advantages of foreign exchange control. The following are some
of the advantages of foreign exchange control:
• It helps in preventing erratic capital outflows.
• It helps in correcting the disequilibrium in the balance of
payments by restricting imports.
• It makes the imports of essential capital goods possible.
• It helps in the prevention of imports of non-essential
consumer goods.

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• It helps in protecting domestic industries from foreign

competition:
• It maintains exchange rates stability.
Disadvantages of foreign exchange control. Exchange control is
associated with the following disadvantages among others:
• It reduces the volume as well as the value of international
trade.
• It creates inefficiency, red tape and corruption among people
connected with its administration.
• It entails huge expenses because many people have to be
employed for its smooth functioning.
• It leads to inequities because in some cases the restrictions
are very low from which some countries gain more while
other loose.
• It gives rise to smuggling and the creation of ‘black markets’
in foreign exchange.
Synthesis
Refer to the content notes in the Learner’s Book page 154-156
and harmonises learner’s views on the reasons and effects of forex
control. Conclude by telling learners that forex control is vital and
healthy for any economy.
Assessment of the lesson
Through brainstorming, ask learners to identify reasons for forex
control in any given economy and what the likely effects may be.
Refer to the answers in Activity 6 above.

Lesson 7: Reasons and necessary conditions for
devaluation

Learner’s Book pages 157-160.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain what is devaluation and when its carried out.
• Explain the reasons and necessary conditions for successful
devaluation.

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• Advocate for devaluation to increase the level of economic

activities.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Through brainstorming, let learners explain what they think
devaluation is and when it should be carried out. Clearly explain
devaluation and relate to the day’s lesson on reasons and necessary
conditions for devaluation.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, internet access, and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Put learners in groups and task them to go to the library or
computer laboratory and research on devaluation in LDCs. With
the use of Activity 7 in the Learner’s Book page 157, learners
research and go back to class for presentations. Move around in
different groups checking the progress of discussions and assist
where need arises.
Step 2: Organise groups to have presentations on their findings.
Each group is allowed to present in case the points given are not
the same as the others.
Expected answers for Activity 7 Learner’s Book page
157
(a) The economic term given to such act by the government of
making her country’s currency lose value in respect to other
countries’ currencies is called devaluation.
(b) The conditions necessary for the success of such action by
the government include the following:
• The demand for exports must be price elastic.
• The demand for imports should be price elastic.
• The supply of export in the devaluation country should
be elastic.
• The supply of imports should be price elastic.
• There should be no inflation in the devaluing country.
• There should be no restrictions on exports from the
devaluing countries.
• There should be no counter devaluation or other
countries should not retaliate.

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• There should not be trade union to put pressure on

wages and increase the cost of production.
• There should be excess capacity in the devaluing
country.
(c) A country should devalue her currency when it is facing
severe BOP problems in order to increase exports and
increase earnings from them and reduce import expenditure
by making them expensive thus lose market in the domestic
country thereby solving BOP problems.
Synthesis
Refer to content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 157-160 and
harmonise learner’s views on the reasons and necessary conditions
for devaluation.
Assessment of the lesson
Put learners in one big circle and base on the lesson and ask learners
what was covered in the lesson. As they keep rotating in the circle,
ask for example:
(i) Why would it be necessary for Rwanda to devalue her
currency?
(ii) What should be in place for Rwanda to devalue her currency?
Expected answers
(i) Refer to reasons for devaluation (but let them be discussed
in Rwandan context).
(ii) Refer to conditions necessary for successful devaluation (but
let them be discussed in Rwandan context).

Lesson 8: The Marshall-Lerner devaluation
condition

Learner’s Book pages 160-161.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Analyse the Marshall-Learner devaluation condition and
relate it to the devaluation process.
• Interpret the Marshall-Learner devaluation condition.

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Prerequisites for the lesson

Through class discussions, refer to conditions necessary for
successful devaluation, refer to Lesson 7 of this unit and learners
reflect and brainstorm them. Connect it to the day’s lesson on
Marshall-Learner devaluation condition.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other textbooks, internet, newspapers with related
issues and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Put learners in groups of about 4-5 members, they analyse
the Marshall-Learner devaluation condition.
Step 2: Guide learners in groups to explain their views on Marshall-
Learner devaluation condition. Moderate their presentations.
Explain the points that are not elaborated well.

Expected answers
Refer to the Marshall-Learner devaluation condition in Learner’s
Book pages 160-161.

Synthesis
Explain the learners’ findings with reference to the Marshall-
Learner devaluation condition in Learner’s Book pages 160-161.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask learners probing questions about the lesson to check whether
the learning objective was achieved e.g tell them by show of hands
(question and answer) to answer questions on devaluation. You can
give Remedial activity and extension activities.

Lesson 9: Effects of devaluation

Learner’s Book pages 161-162.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Identify the effects and limitations of successful devaluation
in LDCs.
• Advocate for devaluation to increase the level of economic
activities.

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Prerequisites for the lesson

Through class discussions, refer to reasons for devaluation, refer
to Lesson 7 of this unit and let learners reflect and brainstorm them.
Connect it to the day’s lesson on effects of devaluation in LDCs.
Teaching aids
Learner’s book, other recommended economics textbook, internet
access, and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Put learners into 2 groups and fold small pieces of paper
and call a member from each side to pick a folded paper which will
tell the side to where they belong, either i.e. opposers or proposers.
Refer to Activity 7 sub question (d).
Step2: Allow each group to carry out discussions as they note
down their points.
You can guide them to generate points of both the proposition and
opposition.
Step 3: Learners present their findings through a debate on a motion
that, “For Rwanda to benefit more from international trade, it should
devalue her currency.” Moderate the debate in case some points
are not well elaborated. Do it so that there are misunderstandings
about the lesson.
Expected answers for Activity 7 sub question (d)
effects of devaluation
Positive effects
• It increases the volume of exports by making them cheap.
• It increases the volume of foreign exchange earnings.
• It increases the capital inflow.
• It improves balance of payment position.
• It increases domestic investments.
Negative effects
• It worsens the balance of payment position of the country.
• It leads to imported inflation.
• It leads to capital flight by nationals.
• Due to inflation that may result from devaluation, imported
inputs become expensive.

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• It increases borrowing rate and debt servicing burdens by

LDCs.
Synthesis
With reference to content notes on effects of devaluation in the
Learner’s Book page 161-162, use the given points from different
groups and then have them discussed together as a class. Allow
them a chance to ask, for clarity on the harmonised views.
Assessment of the lesson
Base on the general class discussions and probe to assess the
achievement of the lesson’s objectives and acquisition of cross
cutting issues. For example;
• How has devaluation affected LDC’s environment?
• With reference to the effects of devaluation, identify the effect
of devaluation on living standards of people.
Expected answers
(i)
• Devaluation has increased exploitation of the would
be idle resources
• It has led to some extent over utilisation of some
resources to supply the expanded market.
• It has led to proper allocation of resources to the desired
commodities thus reduction of resource wastage.
• Etc.
(ii)
• Devaluation reduces competition with domestic infant
industries which leads to production and consumption
of poor quality goods.
• It reduces consumers’ choice due to limited imports as
they become expensive.
• May lead to scarcity inflation thus leading to high costs
of living thus worsening living standards of people in
the devaluing country.
• Etc.

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Lesson 10: Success of devaluation policy in LDCs

Learner’s Book page 163.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Identify and explain the limitations of successful devaluation
in LDCs.
• Advocate for devaluation to increase the level of economic
activities.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Through class discussions, refer to conditions necessary for
successful devaluation, (refer to Lesson 7 of this unit) and learners
reflect and brainstorm them. Use it to introduce the day’s lesson
on the success of devaluation in LDCs.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Through general class discussions, guide learners by show
of hands, to generate reasons devaluation has not been successful
in LDCs. Take note of the mentioned points on the chalk board.
Step 2: Explain each of the points listed on the board one by one.
You can add on the list of the points that were not raised.

Synthesis
With reference to the content notes in the Learner’s Book page 163,
conclude the lesson by harmonising and clarifying the learners’
views.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess learners to check on the achievement of the learning
objectives. Ask learners to explain;
• Why devaluation failed in Rwanda particularly.
• How best can Rwanda succeed in devaluation without
harming the environment and the living standards of citizens.

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Expected answers
(i) Refer to the general limitations for successful devaluation in
LDCs. Guide learners to specifically explain in the Rwandan
context.
(ii) • Due to increased demand for her exports should
increase export level but by regulating the exploitation
of resources and overtaxing those who may be using
exhaustible resources to increase production.
• Produce for both local and domestic consumption to
avoid all commodities being exported and leaving little
for domestic use.

Lesson 11: Unit assessment

Learner’s Book page 164

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson learners will be able to:
• Analyse various forms of exchange rates.
• Answer the questions in the problem statement of the unit.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Sit learners in groups of 4-5 members and provide an end of unit
assessment by referring to the Learner’s Book page 164. Give clear
instructions on how to do the assessment.
Teaching aids
Classroom environment, printed assessment sheets and answer
sheets.
Learning activities
Step 1: Distribute preprinted/ written assessment sheets and answer
sheets to learners in their groups.
Step 2: Learners in their groups start discussing and answering the
questions given and the teacher supervises them.
Step 3: When time is over, collect their written work for marking.

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Synthesis
Refer to end of unit assessment in the Learner’s Book on page 164
to have a general discussion with the rest of the class of what was
required of the questions provided.
Assessment of the lesson
To check whether the learning objective was achieved, based on
the lesson synthesis, ask more related questions and refer to the
answers to the end unit assessment at the end of Unit 5 in this
Teacher’s Guide.

End of unit

Summary of the unit

This unit covers foreign exchange rates, forms of exchange rates/
regimes, foreign exchange liberalisation, reserves, controls, as well
as devaluation (refer to Learner’s Book pages 133-168)
Learners are availed with understanding on the sources of forex and
factors that determine exchange rates e.g inflation rates, interest
rates, balance of payment, public debt, speculation, government
intervention and political uncertainity.
Devaluation is normally used in LDCs to collect the BOP problems.
Trade can not survive without foreign exchange rates as discussed
in the unit.
Additional information for the teacher
Foreign exchange market is a global decentralised market for
trading currencies. It includes all aspects of buying, selling and
exchanging currencies at a current or determined price. The main
participants in this market are larger international banks.
Foreign exchange works through financial institutions and operates
on several levels. It assists international trade and investments by
enabling currency conversion.
The forex market is unique because of the following reasons:
• Its huge trading volume representing the largest asset class
in the world leading to high liquidity.
• Its geographical dispersion.
• Its continuous operation – 24 hours a day.

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• The variety of factors that affect exchange rates.

• The low margins of relative profit compared with other
markets of fixed income.
• The use of force to enhance profit and loss margins and with
respect to the account size.

End of Unit 5 assessment answers (Learner’s Book page

164)

1. (a) Devaluation is carried out when a country is faced with severe

BOP problems and for the following reasons:
• To increase exports by making the currency and
commodities cheaper.
• To reduce imports by making foreign currencies expensive.
• To reduce BOP deficit by reducing imports and increasing
exports.
• To increase nominal income of exporters who would get
more local currency from the foreign currencies which
they earn from abroad.
• To counter balance inflation by making domestically
produced commodities cheaper.
(b) Devaluation is supposed to cure an economy’s BOP current
account deficit by:
• Increasing exports and thus earnings from them.
• Reducing imports and thus forex expenditure on them.
• Simultaneously increase in exports and reduction on
imports.
• Increasing production of export commodities by increasing
their demand.
• Increasing incomes of exporters and producers of export
commodities who get more of local currency from the
foreign currencies which they earn from exports.
• In short, devaluation lowers the value of the country’s
currency in relation to foreign currencies which makes the
devaluing country’s exports cheaper and more attractive
or competitive.

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• n the other hand, imports become relatively more

O
expensive. The effectiveness of devaluation is to increase
the volume of exports and discourage imports. An increase
in exports and a reduction in imports improves a country’s
BOP position.
2. (a) Given that exchange rate is 1US $=850 Rwf. Calculate the new
exchange rate after devaluation of the francs by 20%.
New exchange rate= 850 + (20/100 x 850)
= 850 +170
= 1,020 frw.
(b) Circumstances under which devaluation may fail to solve BOP
problems in an economy:
• When imports have inelastic demand such that a rise in
their prices don’t reduce their demand.
• When demand for a country’s exports in foreign markets is
inelastic such that the quantity purchased remains almost
the same even at lower prices.
• When other competing countries retaliate by devaluing
their currencies by the same rate or higher as there would
be no comparative advantage gained by devaluation.
• When other countries protect their domestic producers by
use of tariffs and nontariff barriers e.g. quotas.
• When the supply of exports is elastic e.g. due to structural
bottlenecks.
• When the country is experiencing inflation as it erodes
away competitive advantage secured by devaluation.
• When there is a decline in the world demand for a country’s
exports.
• When there is existence of parallel forex markets.
• When a country is experiencing political instability as this
discourages domestic production and supply of exports.
3. Fluctuations in exchange rate impact the economy of a country in the
following ways:
• A weaker currency will stimulate exports and make imports more
expensive thereby decreasing a nation’s trade deficit (increasing
surplus) over time.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• Conversely a significantly stronger currency can reduce export

competitiveness and make imports cheaper which can cause the
trade deficit to widen further eventually weakening the currency
in self adjusting mechanism.
• High value of net exports leads to high nation’s GDP and the
reverse is true.
• Currency fluctuations deter foreign capital inflow since it does
not guarantee profitability of overseas investors.
• Exchange rate fluctuations especially with depreciation or
devaluation can lead to inflation especially imported inflation
for countries that are substantial importers.
• A strong domestic currency exerts a drag/strain on the economy
achieving the same end result as tighter monetary policy (higher
interest rates, may attract foreign investors who may want to set
up higher yielding investments which would further push up the
domestic currency.

Remedial activity
1. You have gone to the nearest shop in your home trading
centre, which currency do you pay and why?
2. You want to exchange your goods with a person in Uganda,
which currency would you need? And how would you get
it?
3. Why do you think Rwandan francs cannot be used in other
countries other than Rwanda?
Expected answers
1. Rwandan francs.
2. Ugandan shillings.
3. Rwandan francs are inconvertible currencies therefore are
not internationally acceptable.
Consolidation activity
1. Which currency would you pay everywhere in the world in
case you don’t have that country’s currency and why?
2. Who determines the rates of currencies in your country?

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Expected answers
1. US dollars, pound sterling, Euros etc.
2. It’s a mixed exchange rate system where forces of demand
and supply work under the influence of the government.
Extended activity
1. Why do you think Rwanda should liberalise forex markets
and what are the likely dangers?
2. How does devaluation solve BOP problems in an economy?
Expected answers
1. (Use points in the Learner’s Book on advantages and
disadvantages of forex liberalisation, on page 151.)
2. As a country devalues her currency, her exports become
cheap which increases demand for them thus more exports
leaving the country leading to more forex earnings. While
as imports become more expensive due to devaluation, their
demand falls drastically leading to reduced expenditure
on them. Therefore, a country’s BOP position improves as
earnings from exports increase and import expenditures
reduce.

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 Topic Area 4: International Economics
Sub-topic Area 4.1: International Trade

Unit 6: Economic Integration

Reference to learner’s text book pages 171-202

Key unit competence: Learners will be able to explain the

importance of economic integration on the development of the
economy.

Prerequisites for this unit

In the previous unit we have seen how different countries’
currencies differ. This therefore indicates that some countries
gain more while others gain less. Mostly LDCs gain less than
MDCs, a reason most of them have decided to integrate so as
to trade amongst themselves and thus avoid being cheated by
MDCs. Also LDCs want to increase their bargaining power and
promote economic development. This unit will tackle the reasons
behind economic integration and the likely benefits and dangers
or limitations. Learners will therefore develop a positive attitude
towards integration of countries an important aspect that will help
them appreciate the current urge by Rwanda to join several other
groupings and work towards supporting the Rwandan economy as
far as economic issues are concerned in order to bring Rwanda to
the economy they want.

Cross-cutting issues to be addressed

While teaching this unit, the cross cutting issue of peace and
values education need to be emphasised because for countries
to successfully integrate, they need to have social, economic and
political harmony and will to work together. This brings greater
gains from the integration.
Inclusive education needs also to be emphasised making it clear
that as countries integrate, they need to consider that they all do

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not have the same level of development. They need not to have
individualistic tendencies thus work towards their own development
as well as their partner states.

Generic competences
• Co-operation is generated through discussions in
groups, debates, presentations, roleplays, research
work etc.
• Communication skills are gained through presentation
of findings.
• Critical thinking is developed through analysing the
reasons countries integrate.
• Lifelong learning can be generated through research
on economic integration.
Vocabulary or key words or concepts in the unit
Economic integration: This is the coming together of countries in
a given region so as to promote trade and enjoy economic benefits
by working collectively.
Trade creation: A situation where formation of economic
cooperation results into a shift from consumption of expensive
products from non-member countries to consumption of cheap
products within member countries.
Trade diversion: This is the shift in trade from cheap products of
non-member states to expensive products of member states with
in the integration.

Guidance on the problem statement

Task learners at the beginning of the unit or lesson with thought
provoking questions. This causes learners to be inquisitive or
curious to know what happens or will happen in the unit/lesson.
As they get engaged in the unit, they discover answers to the
questions they had in mind at the beginning. In this case, the
problem statement will be:
Are there countries that you know that are joined to Rwanda to
trade together and are working collectively? Mention them and give
reason for their co-operation. As they research about it, it will open
them to what they didn’t know about international trade aspects.

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Attention to special education needs

Learners with physical disabilities
Learners with physical impairment may show challenges in using
their hands to write, sitting in class, using the toilet, walking or
climbing stairs, etc. Such learners may also display excessive
fatigue after performing light duties.
This category of learners can be helped in the following ways:
Ask other learners to help them to move around, sit the learner in
a place where they can move in and out of class easily, give them
more time and practice to write, copy important notes for them
on paper, if it takes them too much time to copy work. Ensure a
friendly school environment e.g,the building ramps on all entries
to rooms, network with organisations that can provide wheelchairs,
allow them more time to complete their tasks and encourage other
learners to treat them with respect and dignity.

Learners with special abilities

This kind of learners understand concepts very fast because
they are extremely intelligent. They complete tasks faster than
others, get bored faster due to early completion of tasks and can
be disruptive due to idleness. Provide them with extra activities
so as to keep them occupied, assign them to assist other learners,
provide counselling sessions where necessary.

Time takers
Such learners take time to understand what has been taught. Do not
reprimand them or show them they are poor compared to others.
Give them more attention, be more patient with them, guide them
carefully and create time for them after the lesson. Tell them
they can do better, and ensure they understand a sub-topic before
teaching the next.

Learners with visual impairment

Learners with visual impairment experience problems with their
vision. Some learners may experience low vision and others may
have no vision at all. You can notice such learners because they
display the following characteristics:
They write unusually large letters, often scratch their eyes, cannot
focus in bright light, and cannot focus on distant objects.
Use the following strategies to assist them:

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Sit them in the placewhere they can see clearly ,write with yellow
chalk on a clean chalkboard ,encourage them to sit at the front of
the class, use large and legible handwriting on the chalkboard,
use large charts and other visual aids ,ensure good colour contrast
on learning aids, and give the learner real objects to use.

Learners with hearing disabilities

These learners have a problem with their ability to hear. They
may be partially or completely unable to hear. They display signs
such as:
Turning their heads towards the source of sound, shout when
talking, regularly consult those sitted next, delay to respond, have
irrelevant responses,pay less attention,and they always look at the
lips of the person talking to them.
Refer such learners to an ear specialist, and assist them in the
process of learning. You can look at the learner when speaking,
speak clearly and loudly, write instructions on the chalkboard,
be audible enough, encourage the learner to sit at the front in
class and regularly check their notes to ensure they are writing
the right things. Give the learners a slate (urubaho) to help them
communicate, speak slowly and use simple words.

Learners with communication disorders

These learners cannot communicate effectively because of speech
and language difficulties e.g. inability to interpret simple statements
easily giving up on description tasks due to frustration, stammering
and difficulty in explaining things.
Refer them to a speech therapist, avoid interrupting them when
they are talking, display high level of patience,pay attention to
all their needs,demonstrate various concepts and give them clear
instructions.

Learners with behavioural disorders

Learners with behavioural disorders do not conform to the expected
kind of behaviour laid down in school rules and regulations. They
present behaviour disorder such as: truancy, stealing, failure to
complete tasks, disrupting lessons through playing, fighting, etc.
To assist such learners; reinforce their positive behaviour through
rewards, involve parents or guardians in correcting such behaviour,
and refer them to a counsellor where necessary.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

List of lessons/lesson map on Economic integration

Lesson 1: Examples and objectives of Economic integrations.
Lesson 2: Conditions necessary for successful economic integration.
Lesson 3: Processes/ stages / levels of economic integration.
Lesson 4: Advantages and disadvantages of economic integration.
Lesson 5: Obstacles/ impediments to economic integration in Africa.
Lesson 6: Case studies of economic integration- COMESA.
Lesson 7: Case studies of economic integration- EAC.
Lesson 8: Case studies of economic integration-CEPGL.
Lesson 9: Unit assessment

Lesson 1: Examples and objectives of economic
integrations

Learner’s Book pages 173-175

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:

• Identify different economic groupings in which Rwanda

belongs.
• Explain why countries integrate and the likely disadvantages.
• Acknowledge the importance of economic integration in
economic development and participate willingly in the
integration process.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Guide learners on reflecting about the solutions by LDC’s to improve
their TOT and BOP position. Joining economic integrations is one
of the best solutions among others. With reference to Activity 1
in the Learner’s Book, learners go to the library/ internet to do
research on economic integration.
Teaching Aids
Learner’s Book, other recommend textbooks, internet access,
and relevant economics journals. Maps/charts/diagrams showing
economic groupings in Africa.

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Learning activities
Step 1: Let learners in groups identify the different examples
of economic integrations in Africa and discuss the objectives of
economic integration. Refer to Activity 1 in the Learner’s Book
page 172.
Step 2: Guide learners to present their findings one after the other
as others listen attentively. They note down what might not be in
their group findings. They ask and contribute accordingly.
Expected answers for Activity 1 Learner’s Book page
172
(i) Economic integration refers to the coming together of
countries in a given region so as to promote trade and enjoy
economic benefits by working collectively.
(ii) Rwanda belongs to EAC, COMMESA, CEPGL, SADC.
(iii) Rwanda aims at the following by joining different
integrations:
• Enlarging and diversifying market for local
produced commodities.
• Increasing the utilisation of domestic resources.
• Promoting skills and technology in the country.
• Reducing the cost of production by adopting large
scale enterprises.
• Increasing her bargaining power in the international
market.
• Improving her terms of trade.
• Boosting industrialisation and production in the
country.
• Expanding employment opportunities for nationals.
Synthesis
Base on the content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 172-174,
harmonise learners’ findings. Explain the economic groups in full
and the countries involved.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the learning objectives by probing. Ask learners to mention
the economic groups in full. Let them mention the countries
involved. See whether they can mention the aims of integrations.

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Lesson 2: Conditions necessary for successful
economic integration

Learner’s Book page 175.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Analyse the conditions for successful economic integration.
• Explain why most groupings never succeed.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Tell learners that for the groupings to achieve their goals, there must
be conditions to fulfil. Guide them to research on the necessary
conditions for devaluation. (Refer to Activity 1 sub question (iv)
of this unit).
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: In groups, let learners discuss their findings from their
research.
Step 2: Let learners present their findings to the class. Harmonise
the presentations and explain the conditions necessary for
successful integration.
Expected answers
The necessary conditions for successful integrations:
• Geographical proximity.
• Common and same ideology.
• They should be at the same level of development.
• There should be strong political will among cooperative
countries.
• Countries should preferably be equal in size.
• The economies of countries should be competitive in nature.
• There should be political stability among cooperative
countries.

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• There should be a well developed infrastructure in all

cooperative countries.
• Countries should be complement to one another.
• There should be a common language in the region.
Synthesis
Based on the lesson content notes in the Learner’s Book page 175,
elaborate on the conditions that favour economic integration.
Assessment of the lesson
Probe into the lesson to assess the learning objectives. For example;
If Rwanda is to join any economic cooperation, which conditions
must she fulfill and why?
You can also give remedial and consolidated activities.

Lesson 3: Processes/ stages / levels of economic
integration

Learner’s Book pages 176-177

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Identify the steps taken in economic integration.
• For any of the groupings in which Rwanda belongs, describe
the stage in which they are.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the previous lesson on conditions necessary for economic
integration to succeed. Let learners know that for economic
integration to succeed, it must also go through stages. Divide
learners into groups and ask them to use the library/ internet to
research on the stages of economic integration. Refer to Activity
2 in the Learner’s Book page 176.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet access,
newspaper with economics related issues on the unit and relevant
economics journals.

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Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups research and discuss the stages of
economic integration. Let each group discuss a particular stage of
integration. (Refer to Activity 2 in the Learner’s Book page 176).
Step 2: Call learners group after another to present their findings
to the whole class.

Expected answers for Activity 2 Learner’s Book page

176
Economic integration is a gradual process that takes the following
steps:
• Preferential Trade Area (PTA).
• Free Trade Area (FTA).
• Customs union (CU).
• Common market (CM).
• Economic community/union (EC/EU).
Synthesis
Based on the content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 176-177,
harmonise learner’s discussion and clarify all irregularities that
may come up in their discussions.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the lesson by asking learners to identify for example any
of the economic groupings in which Rwanda belongs and explain
the stage they are.
Expected answers
Let learners give any group they know of and its stage by supporting
it with its characteristics.

Lesson 4: Advantages and disadvantages of
economic integration

Learner’s Book pages 177-180

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of economic
integration.

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• Acknowledge the importance of economic integration in

economic development and participate willingly in the
integration process.
• Analyse the contribution of economic groupings on Rwandan
economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Divide learners into two grous by folding pieces of paper and
calling a learner at a time to pick a piece of paper which will
determine which side of the group learner will belong. After
forming the two groups, i.e. opposers or proposers, let them debate
the motion that states that; “Economic integration does more good
than harm to an economy’s development”.

Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economic textbooks, internet,
and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners discuss on the points they have to debate about.
Teacher helps learners to generate points for the motion. Move
around the two groups guiding them on time.
Step 2: Organise learners for debate. Selected members present on
behalf of their groups. The audience defends and asks questions
during the due course of the debate.

Expected answers for Activity 3 Learner’s Book page

177
Benefits Rwanda is likely to enjoy from economic integration:
• Expansion and extension of large markets.
• Skills development and technological transfer.
• Increasing the bargaining power of Rwanda in the world market.
• Increasing the competition which leads to high productivity.
• Facilitating specialisation based on comparative cost
advantage.
• Promoting industrialisation in the country.
• Creation and expansion of employment opportunities.
Dangers Rwanda is likely to face from these integrations:
• Loss of revenue which could have been got from tariffs.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• It may lead to loss and movement of resources and goods

from Rwanda to other countries which are a bit developed.
• Rwanda may not gain much since most LDCs produce similar
products and find it hard to trade among those countries.
• Rwanda is forced to forego some of her national interests
which reduce self-reliance and sovereignty.
• It may lead to production of low quality products because of
restriction of similar commodities from non-member countries.
• It may lead to over exploitation and quick exhaustion of
resources in Rwanda.
Synthesis
Base on the content notes on advantages and disadvantages
of economic integration in the Learner’s Book page 177-180.
Harmonise the learner’s discussions and come up with general
conclusion on the lesson. Tell learners that economic integration
is vital if LDCs are to enjoy economies of scale.
Assessment of the lesson
Asses the achievement of the learning objectives by asking learners
some probing questions on the lesson. For example, what evident
achievement of economic integration can you identify in Rwanda?
Expected answers
Allow learners to express their views by giving vivid examples in
the country which are as a result of economic integration.

Lesson 5: Obstacles/ impediments to economic
integration in Africa

Learner’s Book pages 180-183

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Examine the obstacles to economic integration in LDCs
• Acknowledge the importance of economic integration in
economic development and participate willingly in the
integration process.

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Prerequisites for the lesson

Basing on the problems faced by economic integrations discussed in
the previous lessons, organise learners into pairs and let them think,
and share their views on the obstacles of economic integrations.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other textbooks, and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Note every pairs’ points on the board or flip-chart.
Step 2: Let learners do general class discussion on the raised points.
Moderate the discussion.
Expected answers
• Dependence on a few primary exports.
• Capital versus labour intensity.
• Underdeveloped human resources.
• Proliferation of regional groupings.
• Political obstacles to integration.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.
Synthesis
Basing on the content notes in Learner’s Book pages 180-183,
harmonise learner’s discussion. Make all points clear to remove
any misunderstandings that may arise among learners during their
discussions.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the lesson by putting them in one big circle and as they rotate
whenever the teacher says stop, each learner turns to the his/her
colleague and mentions any obstacle on economic integration in LDCs.

Lesson 6: Case studies of economic integration-
COMESA

Learner’s Book pages 183-188

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Identify countries that make up COMESA.
• Describe the objectives behind COMESA formation.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• Analyse the contribution of COMESA on Rwandan economy.

• Acknowledge the importance of economic integration in
economic development and participate willingly in the
integration process.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Basing on the previous lessons, ask learners to mention COMESA
in full, and mention the countries that make COMESA. Ask
learners by show of hands to mention the objectives of COMESA.
Expected answers
(i) The countries that make up COMESA include:
Angola, Burundi, Comoros, Democratic Republic of Congo,
Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar,
Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, Rwanda, Seychelles, Sudan,
Swaziland, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
(ii) Objectives behind COMESA formation are:
(a) A full free trade area guaranteeing the free movement
of goods and services produced within COMESA and
the removal of all tariff and non-tariff barriers.
(b) A customs union under which goods and services
imported from non-COMESA countries will attract an
agreed single tariff in all COMESA States.
(c) Free movement of capital and investment supported
by the adoption of a common investment area so as to
create a more favourable investment climate for the
COMESA region.
(d) A gradual establishment of a payment union based
on the COMESA Clearing House and the eventual
establishment of a common monetary union with a
common currency.
(e) The adoption of common visa arrangements, including
the right of establishment leading eventually to the free
movement of persons.
Teaching aids
Learner’s book, other recommended textbooks, internet access,
newspapers with economics related issues, and relevant economics
journals.

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 Economic integration

Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups do library/internet search on COMESA
and with reference to Activity 4 sub question (i) and (ii) page
183, they state countries that make up COMESA and explain
the objectives behind COMESA. Teacher uses the given points
to explain further on COMESA formation with reference to the
content on COMESA in the Learner’s Book pages 184-186.
Thereafter learners are put in groups for discussion on achievements
and challenges of COMESA.
Step 2: From the research they made on COMESA, learners in
groups are tasked with Activity 4 sub question (iii) to discuss the
achievements and challenges of COMESA.
Step 3: Groups present their findings to the rest of the class as
other’s note the discussed points. Once they have different points
then other groups are asked to present too.
Expected answers for Activity 4 (iii):
(iii) Achievements and challenges of COMESA:
• It has increased regional trade among member states
i.e. trade creation.
• Has led to establishment of joint ventures/services like
PTA bank in Kenya.
• It has established a clearing house in Harare Zimbabwe
for settling barter trade transactions.
• It has a chamber of commerce and industry group
which organises trade fares or shows to increase market
for member state products.
• There has been increase in coordination of business
activities in the region.
• There has been improvement in infrastructure.
• Good diplomatic relationship has been maintained
among member states.
• The PTA has increased market for commodities.
Challenges of COMESA:
• Countries produce similar agricultural and industrial products
thus exchange is difficult.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• Poor infrastructure to PTA countries and these countries

cannot afford to finance heavy infrastructure like railways,
roads, air transport.
• No common currency to use for the exchange of commodities.
• Most of the countries in the PTA are land locked and therefore
if there is free movement of resources, most industries would
go to countries which have easy access to the harbor and this
would cause development imbalances.
• Political instabilities in some of the member states have
interfered with the trade flows in the area.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.
Synthesis
Basing on content notes in the Learner’s Book page 186-188,
harmonise learners’ discussion and correct any misunderstanding
that might arise among learners during the discussions. Let learners
know that much as COMESA faces a number of challenges, it has
benefited the member countries.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the lesson to check whether the learning objectives have
been achieved. For example, task learners, basing on COMESA’s
objectives and achievements, to identify and brainstorm benefits
Rwanda has enjoyed from COMESA.

Expected answers
(Refer to the achievements of COMESA discussed above in (iii).

Lesson 7: Case studies of economic integration-
EAC

Learner’s Book pages 188-196.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Identify countries that make up EAC.
• Describe the objectives behind EAC formation.
• Analyse the contribution of EAC on Rwandan economy.

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 Economic integration

• Acknowledge the importance of economic integration in

economic development and participate willingly in the
integration process.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review with learners the objectives and achievements of COMESA.
Use it to introduce EAC. By show of hands, let learners mention
EAC in full and mention the countries involved. Instruct learners
to research more on EAC.
Expected answers
(i) The EAC is composed of six countries in the African Great
Lakes region in Eastern Africa: Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda,
South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.
(ii) The objectives behind EAC formation are:
The EAC aims at widening and deepening co-operation
among the partner states in, among others, political, economic
and social fields for their mutual benefit.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups do library research on EAC and with
reference to Activity 5 sub question (i) and (ii) page 188, they
state countries that make up EAC and explain the objectives
behind EAC. Use the given points to explain further on the EAC
formation with reference to the content on EAC in the Learner’s
Book page 191.
Step 2: Divide learners into discussion groups and let them discuss
the achievements and challenges of EAC. (Activity 6, sub question
iii).
Step 3: Let groups present their findings to the rest of the class as
other’s note the discussed points. Once they have different points,
other groups are asked to also present.
Expected answers for Activity 5 (iii)
(iii) Achievements and challenges of EAC:
• Establishment of the EAC Custom Union.

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• Increased both inter and intra-regional trade.

• Witnessed an increase in intra-EAC Foreign Direct
Investments.
• Mutual recognition of standards marks across the region.
• Establishment of One Stop Boarder Posts.
• Implemented Internal Tariff Elimination.
Challenges of EAC:
• Some citizens of some member states lack awareness of the
regional integration process.
• Differences in social political ideologies amongst member states.
• The perception of disproportionate sharing of economic
benefits accruing from regional markets and lack of a formula
for dealing with the problem.
• The fear of loss of sovereignty is an issue in the minds of
some members of the political elite of East Africa.
Synthesis
Basing on content notes in the Learner’s Book page 193-196,
harmonise learners’ discussions and correct any misunderstanding
that might arise among learners during the discussions. Emphasise
that EAC is beneficial to it’s members states.
Assessment of the lesson
Teacher assesses learners to check whether the learning objectives
have been achieved. For example, task learners, basing on what
EAC objectives and achievements are, to identify and brainstorm
• reasons why Rwanda joined EAC.
• the benefits that Rwanda has enjoyed from EAC.
Expected answers
(i) Why Rwanda joined the EAC:
• To increase trade with in the country and EAC members
which will lead to high productivity.
• To increase economies of scale.
• To increase advantages of specialisation in the good
where she has a comparative advantage and trade the
good for the others where it has high opportunity cost.
• To increase the exploitation of her domestic resources.
• To create employment for her citizens.

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• To increase consumers’ choice in goods and services.

(ii) What has Rwanda benefited from EAC? (Use the above
points in 5 (iii).

Lesson 8: Case studies of economic integration-
CEPGL

Learner’s Book pages 197-201

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Identify countries that make up CEPGL.
• Describe the objectives behind CEPGL formation.
• Analyse the contribution of CEPGL on Rwandan economy.
• Acknowledge the importance of economic integration in
economic development and participate willingly in the
integration process
Prerequisites for the lesson
Basing on the background of EAC, provoke learners to brainstorm
the objectives and achievements of CEPGL.
Ask learners to say CEPGL in full and mention the member countries.
Expected answers
(i) The countries that make up CEPGL include Rwanda, Burundi
and the DRC.
(ii) The objectives behind CEPGL formation are:
• The economic and social development among the
member countries.
• The promotion of peace initiatives in the region.
• The strategic development in the region: Energy,
Infrastructure, Agriculture, and Food Security.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet access.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups do library search on CEPGL and with
reference to Activity 6 sub question (i) and (ii) they state countries
that make up CEPGL and explain the objectives behind CEPGL.

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Use the given points to explain further on CEPGL formation

with reference to the content on CEPGL in the Learner’s Book
page 198. Thereafter, learners are put in groups for discussion on
achievements and challenges of CEPGL.
Step 2: From the research they made on CEPGL, learners in
groups are tasked with Activity 6 sub question (iii) to discuss the
achievements and challenges of CEPGL.
Step 3: Groups present their findings to the rest of the class as
others note the discussed points. Once they have different points
then other groups are asked to also present.

Expected answers
Achievements of CEPGL
• Established the international great lakes energy company
(SINELAC) and challenges of CEPGL.
• Established the development bank of the great lakes countries.
• Set up the institute of agriculture and livestock research
(IRAZ).
• Provided the CEPGL identity card which enables free
movement of people within the community.
• Set up the energy organisation of the great lakes countries
(EGL).
• Increased commercial exchange between Burundi, Rwanda
and Eastern DRC.
• Successfully implemented common infrastructures and
projects such as BDGL, IRAZ, SINELAC.
Challenges of CEPGL include:
• Violent conflicts in the great lakes region.
• Failure to bring peace and stability in the region as one of
their objectives.
• Mistrust among members of the CEPGL.
• Multiple and overlapping memberships in several Regional
Economic Communities.
• Weak financial, human and institutional capacity of the
member states of the CEPGL.

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Synthesis
Basing on content notes in the Learner’s Book, pages 199-201,
harmonise learners’ discussions and correct any misunderstandings
that might arise among learners during the discussions.
Emphasise to learners that CEPGL like other groups faces some
challenges, but to a great extent has positively impacted the member
states.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess learners to check whether the learning objectives have
been achieved. For example, task learners, basing on what CEPGL
objectives and achievements are, to identify and brainstorm the
benefits Rwanda has enjoyed from CEPGL.
Expected answers
• Increased trade with in the country and between CPGL
members which will lead to high productivity.
• Increased economies of scale.
• Increased advantages of specialisation in the good where
she has a comparative advantage and trade the good for the
others where it has high opportunity cost.
• Increased the exploitation of her idle domestic resources.
• Created employment for her citizens.
• Increased consumers’ choice in goods and services.

Lesson 9: Unit assessment

Learner’s Book page 201

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the importance of economic integration in the
development of the economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Prepare learners for end of unit assessment by referring to the
Learner’s Book page 201. Let them be given clear instructions on
how to do the assessment.

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Teaching aids
Classroom environment, printed assessment sheets and answer
sheets.
Learning activities
Step 1: Distribute preprinted/ written assessment sheets and answer
sheets to learners in their groups.
Step 2: Learners in their groups start discussing and answering the
questions given as you supervise them.
Step 3: As time is over, collect their written work and keep them
for correction and marking.

Synthesis
Refer to end of unit assessment in the Learner’s Book on page 201
to have a general discussion with the rest of the class .
Assessment of the lesson
To check whether the learning objectives were reached, base on
the lesson synthesis to ask more related questions and refer to the
answers at the end of unit assessment.

End of unit

Summary of the unit

According to the Learner’s Book pages 171-202, this unit guides
learners into the knowledge of economic integration, the rationale
for integration, conditions, steps, advantages and disadvantages
of the same.
Rwanda is involved in integration of EAC, COMESA and CEPGL
and many others (refer to Learner’s Book pages 183-201). Rwanda
joined the above integrations to enlarge and diversify its market, to
increase the utilisation of its domestic resources, to promote skills
and technology, to increase her bargaining power and to improve
her terms of trade. All the above integrations have had a positive
impact on Rwanda’s trade and economy.

Additional information for the teacher

The stimulation effects intended by means of economic integration
are part of the contemporary economic Theory of the Second Best:

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where, in theory, the best option is free trade, with free competition
and no trade barriers whatsoever. Free trade is treated as an
idealistic option, and although realised within certain developed
states, economic integration has been thought of as the “the second
best” option for global trade where barriers to full free trade exist.

End of Unit 6 assessment answers (Learner’s Book page

201)

1. (a) Features of an economic union.

• Free trade among member countries.
• Free movement of factor services.
• Common (harmonised)external tariff structure on goods
from non member states.
• Harmonised economic and political policies.
• Common services are run jointly e.g. railways, airways
posts and telecommunications etc.
• Abolition of political identity and formation of a political
federation.
(b) There are economic as well as political reasons why nations
pursue economic integration. They include the following:
• To increase trade between member states of economic
unions that is meant to lead to high productivity.
• To increase economies of scale i.e. some economies of
scale may require a larger market than is possible within
a particular country.
• To increase advantages of specialisation in the (commodity)
good where a particular country has a comparative
advantage and trade the (commodity) good for the others
where it has high opportunity cost.
(c) Among the factors that may encourage formation of an economic
union in Eastern Africa are the following:
• A gradual expansion and over time a higher degree of
economic/political unification.
• A formula for sharing joint revenues (customs duties,
licensing) between member states e.g. percapita.

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• A process for adapting decisions both economically and

politically.
• A will to make concessions between developed and
developing states of the union.
• A coherence policy for permanent development of the
economic union.
• Common language in the region mainly English and
Kiswahili.
• Political stability in the region.
• Production of a diversity of goods and services in the region
may facilitate some degree of specialisation and exchange.
• Political commitment by the leaders in the region together
with their population.
• Countries in the region are at similar (equal) stages of
development.
• Common ideology by members in the region i.e. capitalism
or free enterprise economies.
• Existence of good transport and communication network
in the region e.g. roads, railways etc.
• Geographical proximity of member states e.g. Uganda,
Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi. Are geographically
close.
2. (a) Why the East African Community failed in 1977.
Despite its success, the EAC collapsed in 1977 due to a number
of reasons which include the following:
• Personal differences between the East African Leaders
where Nyerere the then president of the Republic of
Tanzania and Amin the then president of the Republic of
Uganda, had personal conflicts which made the functioning
of the EAC difficult.
• Ideological differences; all the three East African countries
were following different ideologies. Tanzania was
pursuing socialism, Kenya was a capitalist and Uganda
was following a policy of mixed economy, this made
planning greatly difficult.

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• All the three East African countries were at different levels

of development. Uganda and Tanzania were forced to
depend on Kenya for manufactured goods because it had
more industries than her counter parts. As a result, Kenya
benefited more from the wide market. This situation left
Uganda and Tanzania to think of establishing industries
of their own.
Because of this weakness, the community collapsed in
1977.
• Due to the already bad relations between Amin and
Nyerere trade between Uganda and Tanzania was also
prompted by the lack of good communication network
between the two countries.
• When Kenya started to use all the customs money
belonging to the community, the union lost meaning.
Uganda and Tanzania accused Kenya of this malpractice
but there was no improvement, instead conditions
worsened so that by 1976, Uganda pulled out of the union
and in 1977 the community collapsed.
• Foreign influence during its time of existence. The EAC
was the best economic integration in almost the whole
world. As a result, foreign countries especially USA and
Britain worked for its collapse because they knew it would
result into a higher development of East African countries
which would cut off dependence of these countries.
• Selfish political interests between the partner states, for
example, Uganda went to war with Tanzania, Kenya was
always threatening to go to war with Uganda.
• Failure to indicate to the people the real benefits of
the union meant that people cared little for the union.
Community interests lagged behind individual national
economic interests.
• Absence of specialisation but duplication of enterprises
for example cement industries in Uganda, Kenya and
Tanzania.

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• Shortage of foreign exchange undermined the continued

existence of the EAC. This arose from inflation on the
world market when Arabs reduced oil supply as a way of
fighting Israel.
• The East African Bank’s weakness must equally share
the blame. The bank was established to oversee the
development process of the region to act as a resource base.
• The resultant global economic recession also affected East
Africa and also led to foreign exchange shortages. The
financial crisis that arose undermined the role of the East
African Development Bank while the fuel shortages, on the
other hand made it difficult to maintain the railway system.
• Member countries began trading with foreign countries:
Western Europe and USA. Tanzania in particular
turned to China as a foreign partner which undermined
interterritorial trade.
• Institutional weaknesses accounted for the problem of lack
of effective regional planning e.g. poor transport system,
due to poor management and corruption in the railway
sector, which made the railway not to make profits because
of Kenya’s preference for road transport.
• The weakness of the OAU which failed to maintain
its stand on regional integration and interterritorial
understanding and its failure to destroy the forces of neo-
colonialism hence intervention of foreigners in affairs of
the community that eminently saw it collapsing.
• Trade protectionism weakened EAC. The policy of free
trade failed, partner states started charging taxes on
good brought within their boundaries and those passing
through their territories so as to protect the economy of
each member state. This undermined economies of scale
hence the subsequent collapse of the EAC achievements
of the community.
(b) Despite its challenges, the former EAC had some remarkable
achievements which the current EAC has to build on. These
include:

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• The long existence of the community. The community

survived for 10 years and despite its collapse in 1977, it
had succeeded to lay a foundation for the formation of
the current EAC.
It inspired other countries i.e. it became a model to other
regions in Africa which took the trend of development e.g.
independent West African states formed ECOWAS in 1976
and has become partly responsible for the development of
West African member states.
• Led to the increase in international trade. The value in
interstate trade in manufactured goods from 690 million
shillings in 1967 to 855 million shillings in 1973. This
increase was mainly as a result of industrial development
in Kenya.
• The community developed the East African Development
Bank to act as a financial resource base for member
countries.
• EAC promoted education in East Africa. It promoted
inter university exchange programmes, some learners
from Uganda (Makerere University), were exchanged
with those from Kenya (Nairobi University) and Tanzania
(Daressalaam university) and vice versa.
• On top of the above, the Amani institute of research in
Tanzania was established to facilitate research.
• The community also established East African Examination
Council to deal with exams in the region. This was Pan
East Africanism in progress.
• The community promoted political stability to some
degree. It established the East African Court of Appeal
to solve regional conflicts. This not only gave chance
to those who were dissatisfied with judgements made in
lower courts to appeal to this court but also represented an
attempt to maintain justice. Even when Amin conflicted
with Nyerere, the two accepted Kenya.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• The community established many institutions like East

African Authority made up of three heads of states of the
member countries, whose task was to direct and control
the performance of the community, the East African
Legislative Council which made Laws for the community.
3. Ways in which economic integration may solve problems of
underdevelopment:
• Reduces unemployment problem.
• Widens market for domestic output.
• Increases forex earnings thus solving BOP problems.
• Avails a wide variety of commodities and choice to the citizens
of the country which improves their welfare.
• Improves technology and productive capacity.
• Encourages vent for surplus.
• Reduced costs of production due to availability of cheap source
of raw materials within the integration.
• Sharing of ideas and technology.
• Increased labour mobility which increases efficiency.
• Increased levels of investment in the country.
• Reduces income inequality between or among individuals in a
country and other countries.

Remedial activity
1. Which countries are neighbouring with Rwanda?
2. Which economic groups do they have in common with
Rwanda?
3. What do you think Rwanda has gained ever since she joined
those groups named above?
Expected answers
1. Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, DRC.
2. EAC, COMESA, SADCC, CEPGL etc.
3. Refer to the advantages of economic integrations. In the:
Learner’s Book pages 178-179.

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Consolidation activities
1. What do you think prompted Rwanda to join several
economic integrations?
2. Having seen that Rwanda is a member of several integrations
and has benefited from them, what has changed in Rwanda’s
economy and how has this slowed down Rwanda’s
development process?
Expected answers
1. Refer to the objectives of economic integrations in the
Learner’s Book page 174.
2. Refer to advantages and disadvantages of economic
integrations in the Learner’s Book pages 177 – 180.
Extended activities
1. Analyse the view that economic integration has solved
Rwanda’s major economic problems and development issues.
Support your views with vivid examples in the country.
2. If Rwanda is to benefit more in the different integrations,
what do you think should be done?
Expected answers
1. Refer to advantages and disadvantages of economic
integrations Learner’s Book pages 179 – 180.
2. Rwanda should;
• Develop her human resource to compete favourably
with external countries’ labour force.
• Process her products to increase value.
• Develop her own technology which meet her social
economic problems.
• Ensure peace and stability.
• Sensitise the masses on the gains from integrations to
gain support and political will.
• Improve her domestic infrastructure.
• Etc.

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 Topic Area 4: International Economics
Sub-topic Area 4.2: Globalisation

Unit 7: Globalisation

Reference to learner’s text book pages 205-252

Key unit competence: Learners will be able to analyse the

impact of globalisation on Rwandan economy.

Prerequisites for this unit

The fact that many countries have integrated, means that almost the
whole world is close to one society. We have seen in the previous
unit the reasons behind countries integrating, therefore almost all
countries belong to different blocks and benefit almost equally
from such blocks. Thus this unit will explain why globalisation has
come up in the recent past, the benefits and likely dangers. This
therefore develops learner’s curiosity to know and understand the
aspect of globalisation and to adapt to changes in world’s economic
trends and to appreciate the current global economic trends and
their contribution towards the development process of Rwanda.

Cross-cutting issues to be addressed

While handling this unit, the cross cutting issue of finance education
has to be emphasised stressing that, whereas globalisation involves
movement of people, commodities and capital, there needs to
be serious care about more of outflow than inflow of all that is
involved as it might lead to financial problems in the country other
than gaining from it.
Environmental sustainability has also to be addressed in a way
that learners have to know that as much as there might be market
expansion with globalisation, countries need to protect their
environment by reserving the natural resources from being over
utilised leading to exhaustion or extinction.

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Since globalisation is also political, peace and values education

need to be addressed because as it becomes easy to move across
the world, other countries with their political missions might
drain others’ socio-economic political sovereignty which might
deter global peace. Therefore, learners need to analyse the need
for globalisation and take preventive measures where need arises.

Generic competences
• Co-operation is gained as learners do group activities
that you assign them.
• Communication skills are generated through
presentation of findings.
• Critical thinking is developed through analysing
the contribution of globalisation on Rwanda’s
development.
• Lifelong learning is developed through research on
globalisation.
Vocabulary or key words or concepts in the unit
Globalisation: A process by which most economies around the
world have become more interdependent, especially to increased
integration of financial market.
International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World
Bank) (IBRD): Established in 1945 to serve as a vehicle for making
loans to less developed countries. Loans are made from the bank’s
capital, created by the subscriptions of members and by the sale
of bonds.
International Monetary Fund (IMF): Established by the Allied
Nations in 1944 to stabilise exchange rates and encourage world
trade by reducing exchange restrictions. It lends money to nations
with balance of payments deficits. It affects international monetary
reserves through the creation of Special Drawing Rights (SDR’s).
Over 100 nations belong to IMF.
Special Drawing Rights (SDRs): International monetary reserves
created by IMF and made available to its members. It is also called
paper gold.

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Guidance on the problem statement

Task learners at the beginning of the unit or lesson with an activity
concerning international trade most especially economic integration.
Pose a few provoking questions, let them give the meaning of
globalisation and the objectives / reasons of globalisation by show
of hands. As they discuss they will be able to know some issues
and open them to what they didn’t know about international trade
aspects and in this case globalisation.

Expected answers
Economic globalisation is the increasing economic interdependence
of national economies across the world through a rapid increase in
cross-border movement of goods, services, technology and capital.
It is the process of increasing economic integration between
countries leading to the emergence of a global market place or a
single world market.
Causes of globalisation:
• Improved transport, making global travel easier.
• Containerisation.
• Improved technology which makes it easier to communicate
and share information around the world.
• Growth of multinational companies with a global presence
in many different economies.
• Growth of global trading blocs which have reduced national
barriers.
• Growth of global media.
• Reduced trade cycle.
• Improved mobility of capital.
• Increased mobility of labour.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.
Attention to special education needs
Learners with physical disabilities
Learners with physical disabilities may show challenges in using
their hands to write, sitting in class, using the toilet, walking or
climbing stairs, etc. Such learners may also display excessive
fatigue after performing light duties.

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This category of learners can be helped in the following ways:

Ask other learners to help them to move around, sit the learner in
a place where they can move in and out of class easily, give them
more time and practice to write, copy important notes for them
on paper, if it takes them too much time to copy work. Ensure a
friendly school environment e.g, the building ramps on all entries
to rooms, network with organisations that can provide wheelchairs,
allow them more time to complete their tasks and encourage other
learners to treat them with respect and dignity.

Learners with special abilities

These learners understand concepts very fast because they are
extremely intelligent. They complete tasks faster than others, get
bored faster due to early completion of tasks and can be disruptive
due to boredom. Provide them with extra activities so as to keep
them occupied, assign them to assist other learners, provide
counselling sessions where necessary.

Time takers
Such learners take time to understand what has been taught. Do not
reprimand them or show them they are poor compared to others.
Give them more attention, be more patient with them, guide them
carefully and create time for them after the lesson. Tell them
they can do better, and ensure they understand a sub-topic before
teaching the next.

Learners with visual impairment

Learners with visual impairment experience problems with their
vision. Some learners may experience low vision and others may
have no vision at all. You can notice such learners because they
display the following characteristics:
They write unusually large letters, often scratch their eyes, cannot
focus in bright light, and cannot focus on distant objects.
Use the following strategies to assist them:
Sit them in the place where they can see clearly ,write with yellow
chalk on a clean chalkboard, encourage them to sit at the front of
the class, use large and legible handwriting on the chalkboard,
use large charts and other visual aids, ensure good colour contrast
on learning aids, and give the learner real objects to use.

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Learners with hearing impairment

These learners have a problem with their ability to hear. They
may be partially or completely unable to hear. They display signs
such as:
Turning their heads towards the source of sound, shout when
talking, regularly consult those sitted next, delay to respond, have
irrelevant responses, pay less attention, and they always look at
the lips of the person talking to them.
Refer such learners to an ear specialist, and assist them in the
process of learning. You can look at the learner when speaking,
speak clearly and loudly, write instructions on the chalkboard,
be audible enough, encourage the learner to sit at the front in
class and regularly check their notes to ensure they are writing
the right things. Give the learners a slate (urubaho) to help them
communicate, speak slowly and use simple words.

Learners with communication disorders

These learners cannot communicate effectively because of speech
and language problems e.g. inability to interpret simple statements
easily giving up on description tasks due to frustration, stammering
and difficulty in explaining things.
Refer them to a speech therapist, avoid interrupting them when
they are talking, display high level of patience, pay attention to
all their needs, demonstrate various concepts and give them clear
instructions.

Learners with behavioural disorders

Learners with behavioural disorders do not conform to the expected
kind of behaviour laid down in school rules and regulations. They
may show behaviour disorder such as: truancy, stealing, failure
to complete tasks, disrupting lessons through playing, fighting
others etc.
To assist such learners; reinforce their positive behaviour through
rewards, involve parents or guardians in correcting such behaviours,
and refer them to a counsellor if necessary.
List of lessons/ lesson map on Globalisation
Lesson 1: Globalisation and its main features/characteristics.
Lesson 2: Types and causes of globalisation.

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Lesson 3: Effects of globalisation.

Lesson 4: Multinational Corporations, examples and their effects.
Lesson 5: Foreign Direct Investments, examples, advantages and
disadvantages.
Lesson 6: Measures of attracting foreign investments and Hurdles and
constraints of FDI’s in Rwanda.
Lesson 7: International Monetary Systems and the Bretton Woods Conference.
Lesson 8: International Monetary Fund.
Lesson 9: Structural Adjustment Programmes (SAPs).
Lesson 10: The World Bank (WB).
Lesson 11: Unit assessment.

Lesson 1: Globalisation and its main features/
characteristics

Learner’s Book pages 208-210

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the term globalisation.
• Describe the characteristics of globalisation.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Reflect on Unit 1 about international trade theories and Unit 6 about
economic integration. Let learners brainstorm the reasons countries
join international trade and the objectives of economic integration.
This will open them to the day’s lesson of globalisation.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learner organises learners into groups of at least 4-5
learners. They go to the library or internet and research on
globalisation based on Activity 1 page 206.
Step 2: Learners present their findings, group after group.

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Expected answers for Activity 1Learner’s Book page

206
(i) Features of globalisation:
• There is liberalisation.
• There is free trade.
• There is globalisation of economic activities.
• There is connectivity.
• Globalisation is borderless Globe.
• Globalisation is a composite process.
• It is a multidimensional process.
• It is a top-down process.
• There is interdependence.
• Globalisation is an opportunity.
• It means caring and sharing.
• It links politics with economics.
• Etc.
Synthesis
Basing on the learner’s discussions, harmonise the learners’
findings with reference to content notes in the Learner’s Book pages
207-210. Explain the definition and the features of globalisation
very clearly. Attend to learners’ questions in case any.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the learning objectives by asking probing questions on the
lesson. This will help you to forge a way forward. For example;
what are the different types of globalisation? Let learners answer
by show of hands.

Lesson 2: Types and causes of globalisation

Learner’s Book pages 210-213

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Identify and contrast the different types of globalisation.
• Explain the causes of globalisation

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Prerequisites for the lesson

Based on the library/Internet research carried out by learners,
instruct them to explain the types of globalisation. Thereafter
learners are put in groups to analyse the causes of globalisation.
Expected answers
The different types of globalisation:
• Economic globalisation.
• Technological globalisation.
• Political globalisation.
• Cultural globalisation.
• Financial globalisation.
• Ecological globalisation.
• Sociological globalisation.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in their groups discuss on the causes of
globalisation with reference to Activity 2 in the Learner’s Book page
212. Monitor the progress of learners as they discuss / research.
Step 2: Under your guidance, let learners present their findings
group after. Moderate the discussions.
Expected answers for Activity 2 Learner’s Book page
212
Causes of globalisation:
• Improved transport, making global travel easier.
• Containerisation.
• Improved technology which makes it easier to communicate
and share information around the world.
• Growth of multinational companies with a global presence
in many different economies.
• Growth of global trading blocs which have reduced national
barriers.
• Growth of global media.
• Reduced trade cycle.
• Improved mobility of capital.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• Increased mobility of labour.

Synthesis
Harmonise the learners’ presentations with reference to the content
notes in the Learner’s Book pages 212-213. Learners take down
the harmonised points. Conclude by emphasising that globalisation
is a necessary venture.
Assessment of the lesson
Assesse the achievement of the learning objectives by calling
upon learners to give a recap of what was learnt in the lesson. This
depends on the learner’s response.

Lesson 3: Effects of globalisation

Learner’s Book pages 213-216

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Analyse the impact of globalisation on the economy (local,
national and international).
• Appreciate the implication of globalisation on the economy
of Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Learners review on the previous lesson based on the types and
causes of globalisation. They are grouped into two and given
a debate motion on the impact of globalisation on the world
economies.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners are given chance to choose amongst themselves
proposers and opposers on the motion that, “Globalisation has been
a blessing to world economies than a curse”. Refer to Activity 3
in the Learner’s Book page 213.
Step 2: Each side’s representatives are called upon to take front
seats ready for presentation. As they present, the rest in the

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audience are required to listen attentively contribute by asking and

supplementing where possible. Moderate the debate.
Expected answers for Activity 3 Learner’s Book page
213
Benefits of globalisation:
• Trans-national corporations (TNCs) bring wealth and foreign
currency to local economies when they buy local resources,
products and services.
• The sharing of ideas, experiences and lifestyles of people
and cultures. People can acquire foods and other products
not previously available in their countries.
• Globalisation increases awareness of events in far away
parts of the world. For example, the UK was quickly made
aware of the 2004 Tsunami tidal wave and in response sent
help rapidly.
• Globalisation may help to make people more aware of global
issues such as deforestation and global warming - and alert
them to the need for sustainable development.
• Increased standard of living; economic globalisation gives
governments of developing nation’s access to foreign lending.
• Assess to new markets.
• Business in the less industrialised countries become part of
international production networks.
• It can lead to more access to capital flows, technology, human
capital, cheaper imports etc.
• Firms in less industralised world tap into more and large
markets around the world.
Costs of globalisation:
• Globalisation makes it virtually impossible for regulators in
one country to foresee the worldwide implications of their
actions.
• Globalisation tends to move taxation away from corporations,
and onto individual citizens.
• Globalisation sets up a currency “race to the bottom,” with
each country trying to get an export advantage by dropping
the value of its currency.

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• Globalisation encourages dependence on other countries for

essential goods and services.
• Globalisation ties countries together, so that if one country
collapses, the collapse is likely to ripple through the system,
pulling many other countries with it.
• Finite resources are used up quickly.
• Cultural uniqueness is lost though homogenisation.
• It worsens income inequalities between and within
industralised countries and less industralised countries.
Synthesis
Use the content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 213-216 to
harmonise learner’s presentations. Learner’s take notes of the
harmonised summary, that globalisation is a necessary venture in
the economy of any country.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask probing questions to assess the achievement of the learning
objectives and competences developed. You can use remedial and
extended activities.

Lesson 4: Multinational Corporations, examples
and their effects

Learner’s Book pages 216-224

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Identify several MNCs in Rwanda.
• Explain the impact of MNCs on economic development of
Rwanda.
• Appreciate the implication of globalisation on the economy
of Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Instruct learners to reflect on the types of globalisation and
brainstorm examples of international companies in Rwanda and
their operational activities. Refer to Activity 4 pages 216-217 in
the Learner’s Book. Thereafter task learners to discuss their effects
on Rwanda’s economy.

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Expected answers for Activity 4 Learner’s Book pages

216-217
(i) A multinational corporation is an enterprise operating in
several countries but managed from one (home) country.
(ii) Examples of MNCs in Rwanda:
• Arab ContraceEt Limonaderies du Rwanda SA.
• Maersk Rwanda Limited.
• Rwandex Sa.
(iii) Activities that those MNCs in Rwanda deal in:
• Importing and exporting goods and services.
• Investments.
• Buying and selling licenses in foreign markets.
• Manufacturing facilities or assembly operations.
• Food, beverages, and tobacco.
• Public administration.
• Construction.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners are given chance to choose amongst themselves
proposers and opposers on the motion that “MNCs have done more
good than harm towards the development process of Rwanda”.
Refer to Activity 5 in the Learner’s Book page 218. Guide learners
as they generate points for debate.
Step 2: Each side’s representatives are called upon to take front
seats ready for presentation. As they present, the rest in the audience
are required to listen attentively and to contribute by asking and
supplementing where possible. Moderate the debate.
Expected answers for Activity 5 Learner’s Book page
218
Positive effects of MNCs
1. MNCs have bridged the forex gap in Rwanda by increasing
forex inflow.
2. They have increased employment opportunities for citizens
of the country since they operate on large scales.

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3. They have closed the investment gap through forex

investment abroad.
4. They have led to improvement in domestic technology
through transfer of superior technology to Rwanda based on
research and development.
5. MNCs have produced more output especially processed
or manufactured which has increased exportation of
manufactured goods hence more forex to Rwanda.
6. MNCs have promoted capital accumulation in Rwanda
through transfer of capital and building infrastructure.
7. They produce good quality products.
8. They bring new marketing techniques in LDC’s markets.
9. They train labour.
10. Can invest in longterm projects.
11. Provide large and cheap capital.
Some of the negative effects of MNCs
1. MNCs repatriate their profits to their mother countries which
has led to resource outflow from Rwanda thus disabling the
development potentials of Rwanda.
2. They are given tax exemption and holidays which has
reduced net government revenue from them.
3. MNCs usually use capital intensive technology and therefore
have not helped to reduce problems of unemployment in
Rwanda since it is a labour surplus economy.
4. They have created social costs like quick exhaustion of
natural resources, environmental degradation etc.
5. MNCs have influenced internal policies of Rwanda by
bribing the legislature for example offering employment to
the relatives of politicians in their companies and at times
they subvert domestic fiscal policies which result into low
standards of living.
6. They accelerate regional or sector imbalances.
7. MDCs cause income inequalities. They reserve top jobs for
their nationals.
8. They promote external dependency.

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9. Reduction of domestic initiative in technological and

manpower development.
Synthesis
Use the content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 218-220 to
harmonise learner’s presentations. Learner’s take notes of the
harmonised summary. Explain thoroughly the impact of MNCs
in Rwanda.
Assessment of the lesson
Probe into the lesson to assess the achievement of the learning
objectives. Let learners brainstorm the impact of MNCs in Rwanda.

Lesson 5: Foreign Direct Investments, examples,
advantages and disadvantages

Learner’s Book pages 221-226

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Identify several FDIs in Rwanda.
• Explain the impact of FDIs on economic development of
Rwanda.
• Appreciate the implication of globalisation on the economy
of Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Base on the background of the previous lesson (MNCs) and ask
learners to say the meaning of FDIs.
By show of hands, let them express the examples of FDIs in
Rwanda.
You can therefore give a brief explanation of FDIs and their
examples in Rwanda.
Expected answers for Activity 6 (i) & (ii)
(i) Foreign direct investments are the net inflows of investment
to acquire a lasting management interest in an enterprise
operating in an economy other than that of the investor.
(ii) Examples of FDIs in Rwanda are;
Sorwathe Tea Ltd., Forestry and Agricultural Investment
Management, and West Rock Coffee Holdings, LLC, Kenya

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Commercial Bank (KCB), Kenya’s National Media Group

(NMG), and Kenyan supermarket chain Uchumi (USL).
Teaching aids
Learner’s book, other recommended textbooks, internet and
relevant journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in pairs, go to the library/ internet to research on
FDIs with reference to Activity 6 (i) & (ii) in the Learner’s Book
page 220. They present their findings in class.
Step 2: Learners are given chance to choose amongst themselves
proposers and opposers on the motion that “FDIs have done more
good than harm towards the development process of Rwanda”.
Refer to Activity 6(iii) in the Learner’s Book page 220.
Step 3: Representatives of each side are called upon to present their
findings. As they present, the rest in the audience are required to
listen attentively, contribute by asking and supplementing where
possible. Moderate the debate.
Expected answers
Advantages of FDIs in Rwanda:
• They have increased the stock of capital in Rwanda thus
helped in breaking the cycle of poverty.
• They have provided managerial, administrative and technical
personnel, new technology, research and innovation in
Rwanda.
• They have increased government revenue from taxes imposed
on production activities under taken by foreign investments.
• They have increased productivity and efficiency due to high
levels of technology used.
• They have encouraged entrepreneurial development in the
country due to competition.
• They have created employment opportunities in the country.
• Promotes capital accumulation.
• They increase savings.
• They help in exploitation of idle resources.
• They increase consumer choice due to production of a variety
of quality products.

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• They accelerate industrial growth.

• Promotes international cooperation.
• Local firms become efficient because of competition.
• Include any other relevant answers.
Disadvantages of FDIs in Rwanda:
1. It has led to profit repatriation and capital outflow thus
worsening the balance of payment deficits in Rwanda.
2. Increased government expenditure in form of provision of
basic facilities like land, power and other basic facilities as
well as tax concessions, tax holidays, subsidised inputs etc.
3. Has caused income inequality in the recipient countries
because top posts are reserved for their national and pay them
very highly while citizens of the recipients’ country occupy
low status and low paying posts.
4. Foreign investors have at times exerted pressure on the
government and thus influenced the decision made by the
government of the recipient country which has brought about
dependency and autonomy of Rwanda
5. They have brought about instabilities in the recipient country
due to re-allocation of their investments into other countries.
6. Loss of markets of products from indigenous enterprises.
7. Irrational and exhaustion of domestic resources.
8. They use capital intensive technology which creates
technological unemployment.
9. Copying of habits and lifestyles of foreigners leads to
increased demonstrational effect.
10. It increases rural/urban migration and its related problems.
11. It causes dumping and the related problems.
12. Loss of government revenue through tax holidays,
concessions etc.
Synthesis
Use the content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 225-226 to
harmonise learners’ presentations. Endevour to explain the impact
of FDIs to LDCs clearly.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Assessment of the lesson

Assess the lesson by asking probing questions on the lesson to
check whether the learning objectives have been achieved. For
example; how do FDIs affect influence the economy of LDCs?

Lesson 6: Measures of attracting foreign
investments and Hurdles and constraints of FDI’s
in Rwanda

Learner’s Book pages 226-231.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Suggest measures of attracting foreign investors in Rwanda.
• Examine the constraints of FDI’s in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Learners are asked to reflect on the previous lesson on the effects
of FDI’s and brainstorm the measures that can be taken to attract
investors in Rwanda. Refer to Activity 7 in the Learner’s Book
page 226. Instruct them to research on constraints FDIs face.
Expected answers
Ways of attracting foreign investors:
• Maintain a high-profile anti-corruption effort.
• Provide permanent residence and access to land to investors.
• Ensure stable country with low violent crime rates.
• Establish a free trade zone outside the capital, Kigali.
• Public Procurement Agency to ensure transparency
in government tenders and divestment of state-owned
enterprises.
• Provide tax and investment incentives to investors.
• Publicise investment opportunities abroad. 
• Protection of property rights.
• Accept any other related points.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.

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Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups use the library or internet to research
on constraints of FDIs in Rwanda.
Step 2: Groups present their findings. Moderate their discussions.
Expected answers
• Rwanda suffers from a shortage of skilled labour.
• Some firms have reported occurrences of petty corruption in
the customs clearing process.
• Political instabilities and insecurities within and in the
neighbouring countries.
• Some investors claim that the RRA unfairly targets foreign
investors for audits. 
• Some investors complain that the strict enforcement of tax,
labour, and environmental laws impede investment.
• Some investors have complained that the application process
for work permits and extended stay visas has become onerous
(burdensome).
• Co-ordination between RDB and RRA is limited.
• Inappropriate procurement methods.
• High transportation costs.
• Inadiquate infrastructure.
• Ambiguous tax ruler.
• NB: Be open minded and capture any other points during
the discussions.
Synthesis
Referring to content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 226-231,
base on the learner’s presentations to harmonise their findings.
Allow learners to ask where necessary and then, take note of the
summary you give at the end.
Emphasise that Rwanda’s economy is putting all efforts to attract
investors.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the achievement of the lesson learning objectives. For
example, having seen the hurdles met by FDI’s, reflecting on the
impact of FDI’s in Rwanda, what should be done to increase on
their level of inflow? (Refer to answers for Activity 7)

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Lesson 7: International Monetary Systems and
the Bretton Woods Conference

Learner’s Book pages 232-235.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the meaning of international monetary systems.
• Describe the origin of Breton woods conference.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Use the background of MNCs, FDIs to introduce international
monetary systems.
Probe into the International Monetary Systems and the Bretton
Woods Conference.
Through exposition, give learners first hand facts about international
monetary funds.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, the internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step1: In groups, learners research and discuss on global financial
systems and Breton woods conference. (Refer to Activity 8 page
232 in the Learner’s Book).
Step 2: Different groups present their findings. Any learner is
allowed to ask and supplement to the discussion. Moderate the
discussion.
Expected answers for Activity 8 Learner’s Book page
232
(i) International monetary systems are sets of internationally
agreed rules, conventions and supporting institutions, that
facilitate international trade, cross border investment and
generally the reallocation of capital between nation states.
(ii) The role of international monetary systems:
The global financial system fulfils its various roles mainly
through markets where financial claims and services are
traded. These roles include:

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• Provide a conduit for the public savings.

• The financial instruments sold in money and capital
markets provide an excellent way to store wealth until
funds are needed for spending.
• Global financial market place provides a means of
converting those instruments into cash with little risk
of loss.
• Global financial markets furnish credit to finance
consumption and investment spending.
• Provides a mechanism for making payments for
purchases of goods and services.
• Global financial markets offer business, consumers and
governments protection against life, health, property
and income risks.
(iii) Components of international financial system are; international
capital markets and bonds markets, foreign exchange market,
international currency markets.
Synthesis
Use the content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 232-236
to harmonise learner’s discussion. Learners take note of the
harmonised points. Explain clearly the roles of international
financial systems. You can attend to questions posed by learners
if any.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask learners to briefly describe the origin of International Monetary
Systems and the Breton woods conference. (Refer to content notes
in the Learner’s Book pages 233-236).

Lesson 8: International Monetary Fund

Learner’s Book pages 235-241.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Describe the origin and operation of the operation of IMF.
• Analyse the objectives and functions of IMF.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• Assess the contribution of IMF towards the development

process of LDCs.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Basing on the background of the international monetary/financial
systems, ask learners to express their views about IMF. Accept
views by show of hands. Give introductory remark on IMF.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners go to the library/internet to do research on the
origin of IMF and after come back to class for discussions. Refer
to Activity 9 in the Learner’s Book page 235.
Step 2: Learners in their groups use library text books, internet
or other sources to do research on IMF, its origin, objectives, and
functions in LDCs. After research, learners discuss in their groups
as you facilitate the discussions.
Step 3: Call upon a few groups to present their findings. Let the
rest listen attentively, ask and supplement where possible. Moderate
and harmonise their discussions and presentations.
Expected answers for Activity 9 Learner’s Book page
235
(i) The IMF was established as a result of the effects of the great
depression of the 1930s which necessitated the 44 countries
at the Bretton Woods conference to build a framework for
economic cooperation to avoid a repetition of the competitive
devaluations that had contributed to the great depression of
the 1930s.
(ii) Objectives of IMF:
• To have a system with stable exchange rates and avoid
competitive devaluation.
• To work towards the removal of forex control which
hinders the growth of the world trade.
• To ensure there is sufficient international liquidity and
total means of payment acceptable for international
payment.

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• To give advice to countries with balance of payment

difficulties.
• To facilitate extension and balanced growth of
international trade.
(iii) Functions and criticisms of IMF:
• It gives technical advice to its member countries on
monetary and fiscal policies.
• Conduct some training services on fiscal and monetary
issues.
• Conduct research studies about member countries and
publish the statistics about the balance of payment.
• IMF monitors the policies being adopted by the
member countries.
• It ensures stable exchange rates by the member
countries.
• It helps member countries to offset BOP deficits.
• It increases international liquidity by introducing the
special drawing rights.
Criticisms of IMF:
• The IMF has put the global economy on a path of greater
inequality and environmental destruction.
• The IMF serves wealthy countries and Wall Street because
they are the ones which dominate decision making.
• The IMF forces countries from the Global South to prioritise
export production over the development of diversified
domestic economies which has led to earning of poor living
standards.
• The IMF is a secretive institution with no accountability.
Synthesis
With reference to content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 233-
241, base on the learner’s presentation and harmonise their findings.
Let learners take note of the harmonised points. Emphasise that
IMF’s roles cannot be undermined in LDCs even if it has been
criticised. Explain about (SDR) and it’s use.
Assessment of the lesson
Task learners to explain the achievements of IMF in Rwanda.

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Expected answers
Refer to (ii) & (iii) above.

Lesson 9: Structural Adjustment Programmes
(SAPs)

Learner’s Book pages 242-245

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Identify SAPs conditionality to Rwanda from IMF and WB.
• Practice SAPs conditionality from IMF and WB to attain
economic growth
• Appreciate the implication of globalisation on the economy
of Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Introduce the lesson by telling learners that both the IMF and WB
have got a package of policies that should transform the economy
of the country accepting loans from them.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups use the library/internet and research on
IMF conditionalities. Refer to Activity 10 in the Learner’s Book
page 241. Thereafter, make class presentation.
Step 2: Learners in their groups do research on IMF conditionalities
and discuss basing on Activity 10 in the Learner’s Book page 241.
Move in groups facilitating the discussions.
Step 3: Calls upon a few groups to present their findings. The rest
listen attentively, ask and supplement where possible. Moderate
the discussions.
Expected answers for Activity 10 Learner’s Book page
241
(a) IMF conditionalities include:

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• Balance of payments deficits reduction through

currency devaluation.
• Privatisation or divestiture of all or part of state owned
enterprises.
• Budget deficit reduction through higher taxes and
lower government spending, also known as austerity.
• Retrenchment of the civil servants and demobilisation
of the army in order to reduce on the size of the work
force and government expenditure as well as ensure
efficiency.
• Increase on tax collection revenue to avoid deficit
financing by simply printing more money.
• Infrastructure development.
• Improvement of productivity through research and
adoption of modern technology.
• Market expansion through economic integration.
• Ensure political stability.
• Forex liberalisation.
• Raising food and petroleum prices.
• Improving governance and fighting corruption.
(b) How IMF SAPs have impacted Rwanda’s economy
Some of the ways the SAPs have impacted Rwanda’s
economy positively include the following:
• There has been improvement in tax correction through
expanding the tax base.
• Trade liberalisation has been practiced in Rwanda.
• Privatisation of public enterprises:
• There has been a reduction in public expenditure e.g.
on social overhead expenditure.
• As one of the IMF recommendations, there has been
increased production in agricultural sector.

The ways in which the SAPs have impacted Rwanda’s

economy negatively include the following:
• Cost sharing has led to reduced enrolment in schools
there by perpetuating illiteracy.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• Cost sharing in hospitals has led to poor services hence

poor health conditions.
• Removal of subsidises especially on food has deepened
misery and suffering of the poor.
• Life expectancy has dropped and the infant mortality
rate has increased due to malnutrition and poor
standards of living.
• The SAPs policies have widened the gap between the
rich and the poor.
• The conditionalities have led to wide spread
unemployment due to retrenchment.
Synthesis
Refer to the content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 241-245
to harmonise learner’s presentations. Learners take notes on the
summarised points. Emphasise the applicability of the SAPs in
Rwanda.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask probing questions about the lesson to check whether the
lesson’s learning objectives have been attained. For example,
Do you think the IMF conditionalities on Rwanda can be attained?
Base on their response to guage their understanding of the lesson.

Lesson 10: The World Bank (WB)

Learner’s Book pages 245- 249

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Describe the origin and operation of WB.
• Appreciate the implication of globalisation on the economy
of Rwanda.
• Analyse the impact of globalisation on the economy (local,
national and international).
Prerequisites for the lesson
Give thought provoking questions to learners e.g What is the origin
and objective of the World Bank? As learners share their views,
build on them to introduce World Bank, origin and objectives.

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Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners do research on origin of IMF and do class for
discussions.
Step 2: Learners in their groups do research on World Bank and
discuss its origin, objectives and functions in LDCs. Move around
in different groups facilitating the discussions.
Step 3: Call upon a few groups to present their findings. Let the
rest listen attentively, ask and supplement where possible. Moderate
the discussions.

Expected answers for Activity 11 Learner’s Book page

245
(i) The World Bank was established due to the need to tackle the
problem of international investment in 1944 by promoting
long term investment loans on reasonable terms alongside
the I.M.F. This was designed to provide temporary assistance
in correcting balance of payments difficulties.
(ii) Objectives of World Bank include:
• To help in the reconstruction and development of
member countries.
• To encourage the development of productive resources
in developing countries by supplying them investment
capital.
• To promote private foreign investment through
guarantees and participation in loans and other
investment made by private investors.
• To supplement private foreign investments by direct
loans out of its own capital for productive purposes.
• To bring about an easy transition from a war economy
to a peace economy.
• To help in raising productivity, the standard of living
and the conditions of labour in member countries.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

(iii) Functions and criticisms of World Bank:

• To assist in the reconstruction and development of the
territories of its members by facilitating the investment
of capital for productive purposes.
• To promote private foreign investment by means
of guarantee of participation in loans and other
investments made by private investors.
• To promote the long term balance growth of international
trade and the maintenance of equilibrium in balances
of payments.
• To arrange loans made guaranteed by it in relation to
international loans through other channels so that more
useful projects, large and small, will be dealt with first.
(iv) Criticisms of World Bank:
• The World Bank would promote world inflation and “a
world in which international trade is state dominated”.
• The World Bank has been criticised the way it is
governed. While the World Bank represents 188
countries, it is run by a small number of economically
powerful countries.
• In the 1990s, the World Bank and the IMF forged
the Washington Consensus, policies that included
deregulation and liberalisation of markets, privatisation
and the downscaling of government.
• The World Bank and other international financial
institutions focus too much on issuing loans rather
than on achieving concrete development results within
a finite period of time.
• It has been criticised on the grounds that traditionally,
WB has always been headed by Americans because
the United States provides majority of World Bank
funding.
Synthesis
Refer to the content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 246-250
to harmonise learner’s presentations. Learners take notes on the
summarised points. Explain clearly the projects supported by

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World Bank in Rwanda – as proof that World Bank has impacted

Rwanda’s economy.
Assessment of the lesson
Probe into the lesson to check whether the lesson learning objectives
have been achieved. Let learners brainstorm the projects supported
by World Bank in Rwanda. You can give Remedial activity and
extended exercises.

Lesson 11: Unit assessment

Learner’s Book pages 249-250

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to analyse the impact
of globalisation on Rwanda economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Prepare learners for an end of unit assessment by referring to the
Learner’s Book pages 249-250. Give them clear instructions on
how to do the assessment.
Teaching aids
Classroom environment, printed assessment sheets and answer
sheets.
Learning activities
Step 1: Distribute preprinted/ written assessment sheets and answer
sheets to learners in their groups.
Step 2: Learners in their groups start discussing and answering the
questions given as you supervise them.
Step 3: Collect their written work for marking.

Synthesis
Refer to end of unit assessment in the Learner’s Book on pages
249-250 to have a general discussion.
Assessment of the lesson
To check whether the learning objective was achieved, ask more
related questions and refer to the answers of the end of unit
assessment at the end of Unit 7 in this Teacher’s Guide.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

End of unit

Summary of the unit

This unit covers global business organisations. It defines economic
globalisation as the increasing economic interdependence of
national economies across the world.
This is achieved through rapid increase in cross-boarder movement
of goods, services, technology and capital. Globalisation has
achieved most of it’s objectives such as increasing access to
new markets, more access to capital inflows, global awareness,
increasing standards of living, trade creation, among others.
In this unit of globalisation, systems like MNCs, FDIs, global
financial systems, IMF, Bretton wWoods conference IBRD, SAP
and WB and their operations are well elaborated. (Refer to the
Learner’s Book pages 205-252)

Additional information for you

Economic integration simply known as globalisation, refers to
the mobility of people, capital, technology, goods and services
and how integrated a country is into global economy. It refers to
how interdependent countries and regions have become across
the world.
According to United Nations
“Economic integration refers to the increasing interdependence of
world economies as a result of the growing scale of cross-border
trade of goods and services, flow of international capital and
wide and rapid spread of technologies. It reflects the continuing
expansion and mutual integration of market frontiers, and is an
irreversible trend for economic development in the whole world
at the turn of millennium”.
Over the past 2-3 decades under the framework of General Trade
Agreement (GATT) and World Trade Organisation (WHO),
economic globalisation has been expanding at a much faster pace.
Countries have rapidly been cutting down trade barriers and opening
up their current accounts and capital accounts. This rapid increase
in pace has occurred mainly with advanced economies integrating
with emerging ones by means of foreign direct investment, some
cross-border immigration, and the reduction of trade barriers.

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End of Unit 7 assessment answers (Learner’s Book page

249-250)

1. (a) Role that IMF has played in economic development of Rwanda

• It has increased the supply of foreign exchange necessary
for development in Rwanda.
• It has enabled the government to control inflation and
stabilise the market prices through a tight monetary policy
and controlled government expenditure.
• It has financed the rehabilitation and extension of
social and economic infrastructure such as roads, water,
electricity, etc.
• It has improved the performance of the private sector.
• It has reduced government expenditure and the burden
on the public funds e.g. through privatisation of the loss
making parastatals.
• It has helped in reviving the formerly inefficient parastatals.
• It has retrenched civil servants and demobilised soldiers
who have used their packages well, have created more
employment opportunities.
• It has reduced Rwanda’s budgetary deficits by financing
the development expenditure, increased tax assessment
and administration and reduced government expenditure.
• It has encouraged liberalisation of the economy which has
enhanced efficiency.
(b) Structural Adjustment Programmes that have been implemented
in Rwanda:
• Privatisation of public enterprises.
• Retrenchment of the civil service and demobilisation of
the army.
• Trade liberalisation.

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• Reduction in government expenditure.

• Devaluation.
• Improvement in tax assessment and administration.
• Liberalisation of foreign exchange market.
• Tight monetary policies.
2. (a) Foreign Direct Investments (FDI’s) refers to investment made
to acquire lasting or long term interest in enterprises operating
outside of the economy of the investor. Examples include:
Financial institutions like AB Bank Rwanda, Access Bank
Rwanda, Bank of Africa Rwanda, Equity Bank Rwanda Ltd,
Guaranty Trust Bank, I & M Bank Rwanda Ltd etc.
Consumer goods industries like Bourbon Coffee foods and
beverages, Bralirwa Brewery.
Utilities industries like Great Lakes Energy Electricity company.

(b) Contribution of FDI’s in the development process of Rwanda:

• Provision of employment opportunities to many Rwandan
citizens directly or indirectly.
• Promotion of local companies due to the exposure of the
stiff competition.
• Reduction of price of goods and services due to stiff
competition and increased supply of commodities
produced.
• Encouraging innovation to local companies.
• Development of modern infrastructure e.g. the building of
AZAM factory at Masoro and buildings of other foreign
companies in Free Zone near Nyandungu valley are one
of the infrastructures brought by FDI’s in Gasabo district,
Rwanda.
• Provision of revenue to the government of Rwanda
through taxes which revenue has greatly helped in the
development programmes in Rwanda.
• Improved skills in management to Rwanda’s citizens.
• FDI’s promote exportation in Rwanda since they produce
for both local and foreign markets.

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(c) Although FDI stocks in Rwanda have increased in the recent

years due to Rwanda’s stability, and measures focused on
improving the business climate, FDI flow still remains rather
weak. This is due to following reasons:
The political instability of its neighbouring country, the DRC
has had a great impact on the Great Lakes region and has had a
negative role in Rwanda’ s FDI inflow.
• Low levels of human resource in Rwanda.
• Poor quality of its infrastructure.
• Landlockedness of the country.
• High operation costs.
• Limited natural resources.

3. (a) Roles of World Bank:

The World Bank or the International Bank for Reconstruction
and Development (IBRD) was formed in 1945 purposely to
rehabilitate economies which were damaged during the Second
World War. Today, its roles are:
• Giving long term loans for purchase of capital goods.
• Mobilising funds for member countries through the sale
of long term bonds.
• Lending member countries funds to build infrastructure.
• Giving loans to private sectors where payments are
guaranteed by governments. This lending is done through
the International Finance Corporation which is a branch
of the World Bank.
• Advising countries on economic policy.
• Encouraging foreign investors through Multilateral
Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), signatories to this
agency assure investors compensation for non insurable
risks.
• Giving recommendations to countries which apply for
loans from other countries.
• Poverty eradication.
• Encouraging education in member countries e.g. by
giving scholarships and providing scholastic materials at
subsidised prices.

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(b) Sectors supported by World Bank in Rwanda:

• Tourism.
• Natural resource/environment.
• Rural and urban sectors.
• Infrastructure like roads, electricity water etc.
• Security.
• Public service sector.
• Education.
• Agriculture.

Remedial activity
1. Which companies or institutions do you know of in your
locality or country that are not of Rwandan origin? Name
them.
2. How have these companies impacted their areas of operation?
Expected answers
1. Learners will site different foreign companies or institutions
they know of in their areas/country.
2. Refer to advantages and disadvantages of MNCs and FDIs in
the Learner’s Book pages 218-220 and 224-226 respectively.
Consolidation activities
1. Having seen that there are several foreign companies in
Rwanda, some producing different and others the same
commodities like those of Rwandan origin, how do you think
this has contributed to Rwanda’s development process?
2. Advise your government on how to maintain the existing
foreign companies and how to encourage more others to
come in the country.
Expected answers
1. Refer to effects of MNCs & FDIs in the: Learner’s Book
pages 218-220 and 224 - 226 respectively.
2. Refer to measure of attracting foreign investors in Rwanda
in the Learner’s Book pages 227-230 Learner’s Book.

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Extended activities
Discuss the view that global financial systems and institutions and
business organisations have greatly contributed towards Rwanda’s
development process.
Expected answers
Refer to the contributions of IMF, WB, MNCs & FDIs in the
Learner’s Book. (positive & negative).

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 Topic Area 5: Development Economics
Sub-topic Area 5.1: Economic Growth and Development

Unit 8: Economic Growth, Development

and Underdevelopment

Reference to learner’s text book pages 255-320

Key unit competence: Learners will be able to analyse the

determinants and indicators of economic growth and development
in an economy.

Prerequisites for this unit

Now that world economies have increasingly become interdependent
through globalisation as seen in the previous unit, they need to
promote sustainable growth and development of their respective
economies. This is because they have freedom to adapt to new
changes adopted from well to do economies and apply different
techniques to improve their economies. This unit will tackle
the obstacles to economic growth and development in different
countries and therefore will have to largely dwell on how to lay
strategies to attain economic growth and development especially
in Rwanda. Learners, in this unit, should therefore be motivated
to contribute to discussions by relating their views with everyday
life experiences in their localities. They should come up with
constructive ideas and suggestions towards improving their
country’s economy.

Cross-cutting issues to be addressed

While teaching this unit/lessons, it will be important to consider
the cross cutting issue of standardisation culture especially when
dealing with influencing demand through advertising in a bid to
win the market.

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Environment and sustainability should also be emphasised

especially when looking at their capacities of production both in the
short run and long run so as to protect and preserve the environment.

Generic competences
Cooperation and interpersonal management is generated through
all activities that are done in groups or pairs.
Communication skills are developed through presentation of
research findings.
• Critical thinking is developed through analysing the
factors for economic growth and development.
• Lifelong learning is gained through research on
indicators of growth and development.
Vocabulary or key words or concepts in the unit
Absolute poverty: A situation where people are so poor that they
cannot even afford the basic means of subsistence like food, shelter
among others.
Balanced growth strategy of economic growth: A strategy which
advocates for a simultaneous upbringing of all sectors in an
economy so that sectors grow together in harmony and complement
each other.
Big push theory: The theory states, “developing countries
must massively invest in a variety of industries and economic
infrastructure so as to transform a backward agricultural economy
into a self-sustained dynamic economy.”
Critical minimum effort: The minimum level of investment in all
the sectors of the economy to ensure interdependence and self-
sustaining growth.
Economic growth: This can be defined as the quantitative increase
in the volume of goods and services. Or the persistent increase in
the volume of goods and services over a period of time.
Economic dependence: The reliance of an economy on another
for resources and economic decisions.
Economic development: This refers to the sustained quantitative
and qualitative increase in the volume of goods and services
produced over a period.

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Economic underdevelopment:An economic situation where a

society has resources but has failed to put them to maximum use or
maximum exploitation so as to improve the welfare of individuals.
Poverty: A situation where the individual’s income is low or where
individuals in the society have insufficient income to buy basic
necessities to maintain their livelihoods.
Relative poverty: This refers to the situation where people’s
standards of living is below what is regarded as socially acceptable
minimum.
Unbalanced growth theory: This theory emphasises the growth of
a few vital leading sectors in an economy such that they expand
and others are developed at a later stage.
Vicious cycle of poverty: This is a trend that shows how the people
and the economy have been trapped in a cycle from which they
cannot easily come out.

Guidance on the problem statement

Pose a question at the beginning of the unit or lesson that requires
learners to be inquisitive or curious to know what happens. As
they get engaged in the lesson/unit they discover answers to the
questions. Let them try an activity in this unit page on 258 and as
they discuss. It will help them know some issues about growth,
development, economic growth and underdevelopment. This will
open them to what they didn’t know about development issues.
In this case, the suggested problems statement will be;
As an economic student, analyse and show the meaning of economic
development, economic growth and economic underdevelopment
and poverty.
Expected answers (Refer to the keywords above).

Attention to special education needs

Learners with physical disabilities
Learners with physical disabilities may show challenges in using
their hands to write, sitting in class, using the toilet, walking or
climbing stairs, etc. Such learners may also display excessive
fatigue after performing light duties.

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This category of learners can be helped in the following ways:

Ask other learners to help them to move around, sit the learner in
a place where they can move in and out of class easily ,give them
more time and practice to write, copy important notes for them
on paper, if it takes them too much time to copy work. Ensure a
friendly school environment e.g,the building ramps on all entries
to rooms, network with organisations that can provide wheelchairs,
allow them more time to complete their tasks and encourage other
learners to treat them with respect and dignity.

Learners with special abilities

They understand concepts very fast because they are extremely
intelligent. They complete tasks faster than others, get bored
faster due to early completion of tasks and can be disruptive due
to boredom. Provide them with extra activities so as to keep them
occupied, assign them to assist other learners, provide counselling
sessions where necessary.

Time takers
Such learners take time to understand what has been taught. Do not
reprimand them or show them they are poor compared to others.
Give them more attention, be more patient with them, guide them
carefully and create time for them after the lesson. Tell them
they can do better, and ensure they understand a sub-topic before
teaching the next.

Learners with visual impairment

Learners with visual impairment experience problems with their
vision. Some learners may experience low vision and others may
have no vision at all. You can notice such learners because they
display the following characteristics:
They write unusually large letters, often scratch their eyes, cannot
focus in bright light, and cannot focus on distant objects.
Use the following strategies to assist them:
Sit them in a place where they can see clearly, write with yellow
chalk on a clean chalkboard, encourage them to sit at the front of
the class, use large and legible handwriting on the chalkboard, use
large charts and other visual aids, ensure good colour contrast on
learning aids, and give the learner real objects to use.

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Learners with hearing impairment

These learners have a problem with their ability to hear. They
may be partially or completely unable to hear. They display signs
such as:
Turning their heads towards the source of sound, shout when
talking, regularly consult those sitted next, delay to respond, have
irrelevant responses, pay less attention, and they always look at
the lips of the person talking to them.
Refer such learners to an ear specialist, and assist them in the
process of learning. You can look at the learner when speaking,
speak clearly and loudly, write instructions on the chalkboard,
be audible enough, encourage the learner to sit at the front in
class and regularly check their notes to ensure they are writing
the right things. Give the learners a slate (urubaho) to help them
communicate, speak slowly and use simple words.

Learners with communication disorders

These learners cannot communicate effectively because of speech
and language difficulties e.g. inability to interpret simple statements
easily giving up on description tasks due to frustration, stammering
and difficulty in explaining things.
Refer them to a speech therapist, avoid interrupting them when
they are talking, display high level of patience,pay attention to
all their needs,demonstrate various concepts and give them clear
instructions.

Learners with behavioural disorders

Learners with behavioural disorders do not conform to the expected
kind of behaviour laid down in school rules and regulations. They
may show behaviour disorder such as: truancy, stealing, failure
to complete tasks, disrupting lessons through playing, fighting
others etc.
To assist such learners; reinforce their positive behaviour through
rewards, involve parents or guardians in correcting such behaviours,
and refer them to a counsellor if necessary.

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List of lessons/ lesson map on Economic growth and economic

development and underdevelopment
Lesson 1: Economic growth, its calculations and its determinants.
Lesson 2: Benefits, costs and measures to promote economic growth.
Lesson 3: Circumstances when economic growth may take place without
corresponding levels of economic development.
Lesson 4: Balanced growth theory and its applicability in Rwanda.
Lesson 5: Unbalanced growth theory and its applicability in Rwanda.
Lesson 6: Big push theory and its applicability in Rwanda.
Lesson 7: Rostow’s stages of growth and its applicability in Rwanda.
Lesson 8: Marxist theory of growth.
Lesson 9: Dependence theory.
Lesson 10: Economic development, its measurement and requirements
Lesson 11: Objectives and indicators of economic development and
Comparison between economic development.
Lesson 12: Economic underdevelopment, its indicators, causes and policies
to solve it
Lesson 13: Poverty, its types, causes and ways of reducing poverty.
Lesson 14: Unit assessment.

Lesson 1: Economic growth, its calculations and
its determinants

Learner’s Book pages 256-264

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain economic growth.
• Calculate economic growth.
• Explain the determining factors for economic growth.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Introduce the new lesson by linking up the new unit to previous
one. For, example guide learners to discover that with globalisation,
there is increased productivity, quantitatively and qualitatively

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which leads to improved human welfare. Let learners first define

economic growth and thereafter join groups for discussions.
Expected answer
Economic growth refers to the quantitative increase in the volume
of goods and services over a period of time.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economics textbooks, the
internet, newspapers with economics related issues on the lesson
and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups discuss with reference to Activity 1
(i) & (ii) page 256 in the Learner’s Book. Move in the different
groups for guidance.
Step 2: Call upon different groups, one at a time to present their
findings. Moderate the discussions.

Expected answers
(i) Economic growth.
(ii) Factors determining growth:
• Political situation.
• Level of capital.
• Level of market.
• Size of population.
• Level of entrepreneur development.
• Foreign capital.
• Natural resources.
• Technological development.
• The level of infrastructural development.
• Government policy of subsidisation and taxation.
Synthesis
With reference to the content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 257-
264, facilitate learners to harmonise their discussion. Emphasise
to learners that the level of the determining factors determines the
level of economic growth.

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Assessment of the lesson

Assess the lesson objectives by probing into the lesson. For example,
ask questions like “What do you think could be the contributing
factors to Rwanda’s current level of economic growth?”
Let learners refer to the above discussed points to discuss Rwanda’s
economic growth level.

Lesson 2: Benefits, costs and measures to
promote economic growth

Learner’s Book pages 264-270

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Analyse the benefits and costs of economic growth in an
economy.
• Design measures to improve economic growth in any given
economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Guide learners to reflect on the factors that determine economic
growth of any given economy. By doing so they are opened to
the view that it’s important to have increased productivity in their
economy. Guide learners to form 2 groups and they debate on the
motion that “Economic growth is more important in an economy”
refer to Activity 1 (iii) in the Learner’s Book page 256.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economic textbooks, internet
access, and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Fold 2 small papers written on sides of debate ie proposers
and opposers. Let learners pick and have their sides defined.
Step 2: Learners join their groups and start discussing on the
benefits and costs of economic growth respectively. Guide different
groups where possible to generate relevant ideas.
Step 3: Group representatives present their points according to their
reasoning. All members are expected to participate accordingly.

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Expected answers for Activity 1 (iii) & (iv)Learner’s

Book page 256
(iii) Merits of economic growth:
• There is increased production of goods and services.
• Widens the tax base of the country.
• Economic independence is attained.
• Leads to increase in infrastructure development.
• Urbanisation and industrialisation are achieved.
(iv) Costs of economic growth:
• Pollution of air and water.
• Environmental degradation.
• There is over exploitation of the natural resources.
• Congestion of traffic and houses .
• Erosion of cultural values.
• Etc.
Synthesis
Base on the learners’ presentations, and lesson content in the
Learner’s Book to guide learners to harmonise their points and
take notes.
Give a remark that economic growth is very important in any
economy.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask learners questions on the lesson to assess the attainment of
the learning objectives. For example, what can be done by your
country to raise the levels of economic growth?

Expected answers
• Infrastructural development.
• Removal of trade restrictions.
• Seek for foreign aid and grants.
• Population control programmes.
• Human capital development.
• Attracting both local and foreign investors.
• Ensuring peace and security in all parts of the country.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.

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Lesson 3: Circumstances when economic growth
may take place without corresponding levels of
economic development

Learner’s Book pages 270-271.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to compare and
contrast economic growth and economic development.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Through definitions guide learners to discover that there is a
difference between economic growth and development. Learners
basing on the definitions are then required to think, pair and share
their views how economic growth is different from economic
development.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economic textbooks, internet
access, and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in pairs, are given Activity 2 in the Learner’s
Book page 270 to share their views.
Step 2: Choose some pairs to present their views to the class.
Let others listen attentively to supplement or ask/criticise where
possible. Moderate the discussions and presentations.

Expected answers for Activity 2 Learner’s Book page

270
• Economic growth makes people over work at the expense
of leisure.
• Economic growth may be achieved but when people are
still using traditional tools and under developed technology.
• Economic growth may be attained but when people’s mode
of thinking and attitude towards work have not yet changed
from that of a back ward primitive set up.
• Economic growth may be achieved but with high rates of
pollution from industries set up to attain it.

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• Economic growth can be attained but when the country is

producing capital goods that do not have a direct impact on
the standards of living of the people.
Synthesis
Basing on learner’s discussions, refer to the content notes in the
Learner’s Book to harmonise their findings. Let them thereafter
take notes. You can emphasise to learners that economic growth
is not necessarily economic development.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask learners questions related to the lesson to check whether the
learning objective was achieved. For example;
Under what circumstances may economic growth lead to economic
development?
Expected answers
• When there is ample time for leisure by workers.
• When growth is accompanied with quality commodities.
• When resources are equally distributed throughout the country.
• When there is peace and security in all parts of the country.
• When there is increase in GNP per capita.
• When there is technological development in the country.
• When production meets the tastes and preference of
consumers etc.

Lesson 4: Balanced growth theory and its
applicability in Rwanda

Learner’s Book pages 273-276.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the balanced growth strategy.
• Analyse the advantages and disadvantages of the balanced
growth theory.
• Advocate for the best growth strategy for Rwanda.

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Prerequisites for the lesson

Introduce the lesson by guiding learners to discover and categorise
the different growth theories. For example, use the card sort game
and give to groups of learners to categorise growth theories based
on sector balancing, and on causes of growth.
Expected answers
Sector balancing: balanced growth, unbalanced growth and big
push theories.
Causes of growth: Rostow’s growth theory, Marxist theory of
growth, dependence theory.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economic textbooks, internet
access, and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups discuss on the balanced growth strategy,
its advantages and disadvantages and limitations. (Refer to Activity
3 in the Learner’s Book page 273.) Move in different groups
guiding where need arises.
Step 2: Groups present their findings to the rest of the class as
others supplement or ask questions where possible. Moderate the
discussions.

Expected answers for Activity 3 Learner’s Book page

273
(i) A balanced growth strategy of economic growth is the one
that advocates for a simultaneous upbringing of all sectors
in an economy so that sectors grow together in harmony and
complement each other.
(ii) Arguments in favour of balanced growth strategy:
• It encourages resource exploitation and utilisation
because it creates high demand for these resources by
the many sectors in operation.
• It widens the tax base of the country because all the
developed sectors are taxed by the government.
• It encourages forward and backward linkages in the
economy since some sectors provide raw materials
while others provide market for those raw materials.

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• Employment is created because of the increased

demand for labour to work in the different developed
sectors.
• Balanced of payment position may be improved
especially when production is for export.

Disadvantages of the theory:

• It may lead to sectors being developed without quality
since it calls for a critical minimum effort.
• It requires a lot of capital which may be lacking in
developing countries.
• It may lead to over exploitation of resources.
• It may lead to uncoordinated plans and sectors which
may not lead to the development of the economy.
• Over ambitiousness may at times lead to shoddy work
since the expected results cannot be achieved.
(iii) Limitations of balanced growth:
• A balanced growth strategy requires a lot of capital
funds which are not yet available in LDCs.
• Developing countries do not have adequate skilled
manpower to scatter in all sectors being developed at
the same time.
• A balanced growth strategy requires proper planning
and implementation of plans so as to coordinate the
different projects running at the same time, developing
countries are not blessed with such planning skills.
• A balanced growth strategy requires developed
infrastructure in terms of transport and
telecommunication network, hydro-electric power,
among others.
Synthesis
Based on learner’s discussion, harmonise their findings. Make a
conclusion by referring to the content notes in the Learner’s Book
pages 273-276.

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Assessment of the lesson

Assess the lesson by checking whether the learning objectives
were attained. For example, ask how the balanced growth strategy
is applicable in Rwanda.
Expected answers
• Rwanda is trying to balance production for domestic
consumption and foreign consumption.
• Rwanda is trying to balance development of agriculture
sector and industrial sector.
• Rwanda is trying to balance production of both consumer
and capital good.
• Rwanda is trying to develop both socio-economic
infrastructure and directly productive effort.
• Rwanda is trying development of both rural and urban areas.

Lesson 5: Unbalanced growth theory and its
applicability in Rwanda

Learner’s Book pages 277-280

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the unbalanced growth strategy.
• Analyse the advantages and disadvantages of unbalanced
growth strategy.
• Advocate for the best growth strategy for Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the previous lesson and ask learners to explain “What
would be the strategy if Rwanda decided to develop a few selected
priority sectors. Then proceed to the new lesson of unbalanced
growth strategy.
Expected answer
Unbalanced strategy.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other text books, internet, and relevant journals.

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Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups discuss the unbalanced growth strategy,
its advantages and disadvantages and limitations. (Refer to Activity
4 in the Learner’s Book page 277). Move in different groups
guiding them where need arises.
Step 2: Groups present their findings to the rest of the class as others
supplement or ask questions where possible. Teacher moderates
the discussions and presentations.
Expected answers for Activity 4 Learner’s Book page
277
(i) An unbalanced growth strategy is the one that emphasises
the growth of a few vital leading sectors in an economy such
that they expand and others are developed at a later stage.
(ii) Advantages of the theory:
• The strategy needs little capital and resources which makes
it possible in LDCs which have always dealt with deficit
budgets.
• It requires less expenditure.
• It is easy to control and manage because a few leading sectors
can easily be coordinated compared to the balanced growth
theory.
• Production can be controlled basing on demand forces
because the country will be producing according to available
markets.
• The theory reserves some resources for the future use since
some sectors are developed at a later stage.
Demerits of the theory:
• It slows the rate of economic growth since the output from
the few sectors is low and may not serve the whole nation
at large.
• Regional inequalities come up because some areas will
develop at the expense of others hence creating dualism with
its associated problems.
• Unemployment results since there are a few sectors
developed and worse still the sectors may resort to capital
intensive technology to produce good quality.

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• It encourages dependence because the country cannot satisfy

the needs of its people.
• Leading sectors may not be able to pull others hence they
will develop at the expense of others sine they may not be
compatible.

(iii) Limitations of the theory:

• The strategy emphasises specialisation which has
several weaknesses like limited varieties which limits
choice and development.
• The strategy limits employment opportunities, one
or a few sectors promoted can employ only a few
people and with special skills so limiting employment
opportunities.
• The strategy denies the economy a chance to diversify
which is a great input to development.
• Developing countries have a limited size of the market
which cannot consume all the output from the sector
being emphasised. This leads to wastage of resources.
• It encourages dependence on other nations.
• The emphasised sector may fail to have a serious
impact on the country.
• The neglected sectors may lag behind and this leads
to widening of the gap between sectors.
Synthesis
Base on learners’ discussion and content from the Learner’s Book
to harmonise their findings. Learners take notes of the summary.
Emphasise that it is a bit realistic in LDCs to opt for unbalanced
growth theory because the economies don’t have enough money
to boost all the sectors at once.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the lesson by checking whether lesson objectives were
attained. For example, ask learners to base on valid examples and
explain how this growth strategy is applicable in Rwanda.
Expected answers
• Due to limited resources, Rwanda is trying to develop a few
priority sectors like agriculture, education, tourism etc.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• Rwanda is encouraging specialisation which has promoted

efficiency especially in agriculture through value addition
in her exports.

Lesson 6: Big push growth theory and its
applicability in Rwanda

Learner’s Book pages 280-284

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the big push growth strategy.
• Analyse the advantages and disadvantages of big push growth
strategy.
• Advocate for the best growth strategy for Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Ask learners to reflect on the previous lesson and compare the two
strategies of growth already covered. Guide them to discover what
the big push theory is all about. After that, link it to the day’s lesson.
Expected answer
The theory states that, “developing countries must massively
invest in a variety of industries and economic infrastructure so as
to transform a backward agricultural economy into a self-sustained
dynamic economy.”
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economic text books, internet
access, and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups discuss on the big push growth theory, its
advantages and disadvantages and limitations. (Refer to Activity 5
in the Learner’s Book page 280). Guide learners where need arises.
Step 2: Groups present their findings to the rest of the class as
others supplement or ask questions where possible. Moderate the
discussions and presentations.

Expected answers
(i) Arguments in favour of big push strategy.

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• The theory advocates for setting up complementary

industries.
• The massive investment programme emphasised by
the theory accelerates a stagnant economy into high
rates of economic growth.
• The theory advocates for industrial growth that provides
several employment opportunities to nationals, this
develops the nation further.
• The industrial progress that Walt Rodan advocated
for, provides forward and backward linkages to the
agricultural sector all of which are necessary for the
rapid development of the developing countries.
• The theory calls for maximum exploitation of
resources of developing countries and this reduces
underutilisation of resources.
(ii) Disadvantages of the theory:
• The theory calls for massive expenditure, such funds
are not readily available in LDCs, it calls for borrowing
from other nations and this increases the indebtedness
of LDCs.
• The big push theory ignores the role of agriculture in
development.
• The massive industrialisation that Rodan advocates
for, increases pollution that reduces the quality of life
of the people.
• The theory calls for over exploitation of the natural
resources due to the massive industrialisation, this
leads to their quick depletion.
• The heavy industrialisation and economic
infrastructural growth brings about the use of
machines in production, these replace laborers so
causing technological unemployment.
(iii) Limitations of the theory:
• They are inadequate funds and man power in LDCs to
invest in the theory.
• There are inadequate resources to act as raw materials
may be a hindrance to the development of industries.

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• Developing countries do not have adequate skilled

manpower to scatter in all sectors being developed at
the same time.
• The strategy requires proper planning and
implementation of plans so as to coordinate
the different projects running at the same time.
Developing countries are not blessed with such
planning skills.
• The strategy requires developed infrastructure in terms
of transport and telecommunication network, hydro-
electric power, among other things, such developed
infrastructure is still inadequate in LDCs, thus cannot
be sustained.
Synthesis
Base on learners’ discussion and content from the Learner’s
Book pages 280- 284 to harmonise their findings. As you make a
conclusion, learners take notes of the summary. Explain to learners
that the theory may be denied by the inadequate funds in LDCs to
massively develop the sectors of the economy.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the lesson by checking whether lesson objectives were
attained. For example, ask, learners to use valid examples to show
how this growth strategy is applicable in Rwanda.
Expected answers
• Rwanda is trying to develop massive infrastructure in form
of road network both feeder and main roads, power stations,
water, educational institutions, financial institutions etc. All
these aim at transforming the economy from traditional to
modern methods of production.
• Rwanda is also trying to develop massive industrialisation
though faced with financial constraints.
Note: As learners give their responses, be open minded to any other
answer that may not be listed here.

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Lesson 7: Rostow’s stages of growth and its
applicability in Rwanda

Learner’s Book pages 284-291

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the Rostow’s stages of growth.
• Describe the stages of growth according to Rostow.
• Evaluate the applicability of the strategy in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Remind learners to reflect on the categories of growth strategies
that were seen at the beginning of lesson 4 (i.e balanced and
unbalanced growth and big push theories).Guide them to discover
by identifying that what has been covered is about sector balancing,
what is remaining is on the causes of growth. Thereafter connect
it to the day’s lesson of Rostow’s stages of growth.

Expected answers
• Sector balancing: balanced growth, unbalanced growth and
big push theories.
• Causes of growth: Rostow’s growth theory, Marxist,
dependence theory.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities:
Step 1: Ask learners in groups visit the library/ internet and research
on Rostow’s stages of growth. With reference to Activity 6 page 284
in the Learner’s Book, let them discuss the characteristics of each
stage and the applicability of the theory in the LDC’s. Move around
groups as learners are discussing to guide in any way possible.
Step 2: Different groups present their views, one at a time, as
other members listen attentively, and contribute by supplementing
or asking questions for clarity. Facilitate the discussions and
presentations.

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Expected answers for Activity 6 Learner’s Book pages

284-285
(i) Stages of development according to Rostow:
• Traditional stage.
• Transition stage.
• Take off stage.
• Drive to maturity.
• Stage of high mass consumption.
(ii) Characteristics of the stages of development.
Traditional stage
• Subsistence production where output is for home consumption.
• No use of money as a medium of exchange.
• There is a high degree of communal organisation where
people work together as a community.
• Traditional beliefs in culture lead to a lot of conservatism.
• Production is highly labour intensive.
• No formal employment and organised income.
• No savings and investment.
• High levels of resource wastage.
• Be receptive to other points.
Transitional stage/pre-condition to take off
• Dualism arises at this stage.
• The society starts moving away from dominant subsistence
sector and traditional methods of production are reduced.
• A market economy starts emerging where people exchange
their output for money.
• Industrialisation starts more so the processing industry, these
are normally agro-based industries processing agricultural
output.
• Entrepreneurs start to emerge.
• Savings and investiment start to rise up to 5%.
• Mobility of labour begins.
• Education starts spreading.
• Banks and other institutions appear.
• Be receptive to other points.

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Take off stage

• Barriers to development are eliminated.
• Savings and investment grow to between 5% and over 10%
of the Gross Domestic Product.
• More employment opportunities are created, people’s
incomes rise because wages are higher.
• Idle resources are put to more efficient use through
exploitation by the industries.
• Modern and advanced technology is introduced in all sectors
of the economy.
• Skilled and quality labour and enterprenuers come up.
• Education and literacy rates increase.
• Rates of urbanisation increased faster.
• Both industrialisation and market expand.
• The increase in pa capita output should outstrip the growth
of population.
Prematurity stage/Drive to maturity stage
• The rate of saving and investment is between 10% and 20%
of GDP.
• The economy undergoes fundamental political, social and
economic advancements, technology progresses rapidly.
• Production for export grows further and there is limited
importation of manufactured goods.
• The industrial sector is transformed from small scale to heavy
industrialisation.
• Agricultural mechanisation emerges.
• There is maximum utilisation of resources.
• Modernisation is very high, traditional customs and beliefs
are kicked away.
• High level of employment opportunities (white collar jobs).
• Freely accept other relevant answers.
Stage of high mass consumption
• All resources in the country are fully exploited and utilised.
• Consumer durables like washing machines, cookers etc.
become necessities in every house hold.

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• Incomes of people are extremely high due to full employment

conditions.
• Industrial growth is at its peak and they start producing
luxuries like cosmetics, necklaces among others.
• The rates of saving and investments are over 20% of gross
domestic product.
• High rates of exploitation.
• Urbanisation increases.
• Country starts lending and donating to others.
• People reduce working hours and start enjoying leisure.
• Accept any other correct answers.
Applicability of the theory in low developing countries
• Subsistence production where output is for home consumption
is very common in developing countries as a means of
survival.
• No use of money as a medium of exchange.
• There is a high degree of communal organisation where
people work together as a community through cooperatives.
• Traditional beliefs in culture lead to a lot of conservatism.
• Production is highly labour intensive and this is because of
the inadequacy in capital in developing countries.
• Be receptive to other correct answers.
Criticisms of Rostow’s theory
• Rostow talks about progressing from stage to stage but does
not show the mechanism of how it is done.
• Rostow bases his theory on American and European history
and defines the American norm of high mass consumption
as an integral to the economic development process to all
industrial societies, so his model has no impact on other
nations especially the developing agricultural nations.
• Rostow fails to demarcate one stage from the other as the
features of take off and transitional stage tend to overlap
each other.
• Some countries have achieved high savings.
• Rostow does not appreciate that some countries were born
free of some stages.

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Synthesis
Basing on the learners’ discussion and content from the Learner’s
Book pages 284-291 to harmonise their findings. As you make
a conclusion, learners take notes of the summary. Emphasise
to learners that some countries may not follow the stages
systematiclally.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess learners by asking questions on the lesson to check whether
learning objectives have been achieved.
For example, how is the theory relevant to Rwanda’s situation?
Refer to the applicability of Rostow’s stages of growth pages 289-
290 in the Learner’s Book. Let it be discussed on the Rwandan
context and with valid examples.

Lesson 8: Marxist theory of growth

Learner’s Book pages 291-293

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Analyse the different stages of growth according to Marxist
theory.
• Examine the applicability of Marxist theory in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Remind the learners to reflect on the categories of growth strategies
according to causes of growth, thereafter mention the day’s lesson
of Marxist’s stages of growth. Give them a research task referring
to Activity 7.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups use the library/ internet and research on
Marxist’s stages of growth. With reference to Activity 7 page 291
in the Learner’s Book, learners discuss the characteristics of each
stage and the applicability of Marxist’s growth theory in LDC’s.

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Move around the groups as learners are discussing to guide them

in any way possible.
Step 2: Allow various groups to present their views, one at a time,
as others listen attentively, and contribute by supplementing or
asking questions for clarity. Facilitate the discussion.

Expected answers for Activity 7 Learner’s Book page

291
(i) Stages of development according to Karl Max:
• Traditional stage.
• Slave economy.
• Feudal economy.
• Capitalism.
• Socialism.
(ii) Features of each stage of development.
Traditional stage
• A generally peasant economy.
• Communal ownership of land.
• No use of money as a medium of exchange.
• Traditional beliefs in culture lead to a lot of conservatism.
• Production is direct for home consumption.
• Family labour is used.
• Output is little.
Slave economy
• Private ownership of resources like land emerge.
• There is ownership of people as property.
• Slaves are used as free labour to increase output.
Feudal economy
• Land is owned by the kings and other cultural leaders.
• Cultural leaders have a task of collecting tax revenue which
may be in form of produce within their respective areas and
present it to the kings.
• People pay for use of land through the output produced.
Capitalism
• There is increased competition in the markets.

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• Emergence of monopolies in form of big multinational

corporations.
• Forces of demand and supply determine what is to be
produced.
• Profit motivation is the major determinant of production.
• Government role is to regulate the production activities but
participates little in the production process.
• There is increased use of machinery causing technological
unemployment.
Socialism
• Increased mechanisation worsening the unemployment
problem.
• Creation of an army of the employed emerges due to high
rates of unemployed.
• There are riots and strikes against the government.
• The workers tend to take over the states and their main aim
is to distribute wealth.
• Ultimately, socialism leads to communism.
Synthesis
Harmonise learners’ work by referring to the lesson content in the
Learner’s Book pages 292-293 and from the learners’ presentations.
Explain to learners that both Rostow and Carlmax believe that
development started from nowhere, where everything was primitive
and this they both called the ‘traditional stage.’
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the learner’s achievement of the lesson’s learning objectives
by asking questions about the lesson. This helps to give feedback
you and learner’s as well. For example, ask them the differences and
similarities between Rostow and Carlmax theories of development.

Lesson 9: Dependence theory

Learner’s Book pages 293-297

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the meaning of dependence.

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• Examine the causes of dependence and its likely effects.

• Suggest possible measures to reduce dependence in the
country.
Prerequisites for the lesson
You can start by imagining a case study e.g. Mulisa an 18 year old
boy in S.6 relies on his parents for school fees, shelter, clothing, and
the rest. This implies that without his parents, Mulisa’s life would
be in danger. What economic term can you call this? Depending
on their views/answers, tell them the right answer and introduce
the lesson.
Expected answers
Dependence.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Divide learner’s in groups of at least 4-5 members and
assign them a task in Activity 8 pages 293-294 to discuss the theory
of dependence. Move around in groups for guidance.
Step 2: Ask the groups to present their findings, one at a time. The
rest listen attentively and contribute by either supplementing or
asking questions for clarity. Facilitate the discussions.

Expected answers for Activity 8 Learners Book pages

293-294
(i) Forms of dependence in photos A, B & C
• Money.
• Medicine.
• Agriculture.
(ii) • Sectoral dependence.
• Trade dependence.
• Direct dependence.
• External resource dependence.
(iii) Dependence.
(iv) Effects of dependence:

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• There is underutilisation of local resources because the

economy waits for assistance instead of developing
her own resources.
• There is external economic dominance by the foreign
countries since they are the main funders, they tend to
dictate to the receivers.
• It discourages local initiatives/stagnates development
of local technology because the country always expects
to get foreign advanced technology.
• Increases capital outflow when paying back the external
debt and this make the country lose its scarce forex.
• Helps to acquire financial resources.
• Helps in the development of the local technology.
• Increase BOP problems.
• Leads to erosion of social culture.
• Helps to bridge man power gap.
• Helps to bridge technology gap.
Synthesis
Base on learners’ discussion and content from the Learner’s Book
to harmonise their findings. Make a conclusion and let learners
take notes of the summary. Emphasise to learners that for most of
the LDCs to develop, they might have to depend on MDCs for aid
and other things but all these come with a cost.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the lesson by checking whether the lesson objectives were
attained. For example, ask the following questions
(i) With valid examples, show how this dependence strategy is
applicable to Rwanda?
(ii) What causes dependence in Rwanda (our country)?
(iii) How can we solve the problems of dependence in our
country?
Expected answers
(i) Rwanda is highly dependent on other countries for
technology.
• Rwanda is highly dependent on other countries for human
resource/ manpower.

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• Rwanda is highly dependent on other countries for loans.

• Rwanda is highly dependent on other countries for economic
social decisions.
• Rwanda is highly dependent on other countries for trade
(export and import).
• Be open minded so that you can receive other correct answers.
(ii) High population growth rate.
• Occurrence of natural catastrophes.
• Poor education policy.
• Low levels of industrialisation.
• Inadequate forex.
• High poverty levels.
• Low tax base & capacity.
(iii) Diversification of the economy.
• Diversification of markets.
• Improvement in political climate to encourage
production.
• Promoting import substitution strategy.
• Proper planning.
• Any other correct answers are acceptable here.

Lesson 10: Economic development, its
measurement and requirements

Learner’s Book pages 297-303

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Compare and contrast economic growth and economic
development.
• Describe the measurement of economic development.
• Analyse the requirements for economic development.
• Suggest measures that Rwanda can take to achieve economic
development.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the previous lesson to arouse learners’ interest in the lesson.
Ask learners to tell the meaning of what economic development is

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by definition (by show of hands). Then give them a research task

on economic development.
Expected answer
Economic development refers to the sustained quantitative and
qualitative increase in the volume of goods and services produced
over a period.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economic text books, internet
access, and other related economics sources.
Learning activities
Step 1: Task learners to use the library or internet and research on
the measurement of economic development and what it requires
to attain development in an economy. Please facilitate the group
research.
Step 2: Guide groups to present their findings. Facilitate the group
presentations.
Expected answers
(i) Measurement of economic development
• Human development index.
• Gender related development index.
• Gender empowerment measure.
• Human poverty index.
(ii) Requirements of economic development.
• Indigenisation of the economy.
• Structural changes in the economy.
• Social cultural transformation.
• Administrative reforms.
• Mobilisation of domestic savings.
• Infrastructural development.
• Conducive and sustainable macroeconomic climate.
Synthesis
Base on the learners’ presentations, with reference to the
Learner’s Book content notes pages 300-303 to harmonise their
findings. Encourage learners to ask questions for clarity and
take the summarised points. Explain to learners the meaning of

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the measurements and the requirements of development in an

elaborative manner.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the learners to check whether the learning objectives were
achieved. For example, ask questions like;
(i) What should be done to bring about development in Rwanda?
Expected answers
(i) How to bring about development in Rwanda.
• Break through traditionalism to bring about positive
attitude towards new changes in the economy.
• Infrastructural development in all parts of the country.
• Ensure conducive and sustainable investment climate
in the country.
• Human resource development.
• Population control measures.
• Ensuring peace and security in all parts of the country.
• Market expansion and diversification.
• Allow learners to bring up any other points and correct
them where necessary.

Lesson 11: Objectives and indicators of economic
development and comparison between economic
growth and development

Learner’s Book pages 303-305

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the meaning of economic growth and economic
development.
• Analyse the objectives and indicators of economic
development.
• Compare and contrast economic growth and development.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the previous lesson and ask learners to reflect on Lesson
3 of this unit and compare and contrast economic growth and

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development. You can turn back on Lesson 3 page 270 (Refer to

answers in Lesson 3 of this unit). Introduce the day’s lesson.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other text books, internet, and relevant sources.
Learning activities
Step 1: Assign learners in pairs to discuss on Activity 9 in the
Learner’s Book pages 297298. Monitor groups facilitating the
discussion.
Step 2: Pairs are called upon to present their views to the class.
In the course of discussion, others are attentive and contributing
by supplementing or asking questions for clarity. Facilitate the
presentations.

Expected answers for Activity 9 Learner’s Book

pages 297-298
(i) Economic development.
(ii) Objectives/goals of development:
• To reduce illiteracy rates and improve literacy among
the citizens of the country.
• To attain higher rates of economic growth as shown by
the increase in the gross domestic product.
• To attain price stability/fight against inflationary
tendencies in an economy so as to create certainty in
the markets.
• To reduce economic dependency or to attain self-
reliance so as to reduce excess capital outflow and at
the same time develop local production ventures.
• To fight against unemployment in order to reduce
poverty and improve people’s standards of living.
• To attain resource distribution so as to reduce income
inequalities.
(iii) Comparison between economic growth and development:
• Economic growth may involve the increase in the
GDP only while economic development involves both
quality and quantity.

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• Economic growth may take place even with poor

income distribution while development involves faith
income distribution.
• Growth can take place even with poor quality while
development involves good quality output.
• Economic growth may take a short period of time to
achieve while development may take a long time to
achieve.
• Economic growth may take place even with low quality
of life of the people while development involves
change in the quality of life.
• Economic growth takes a short period of time while
development may take a long time to be achieved.
• Economic growth may take place even with low quality
of life while economic development involves change
in the quality of life.
• Economic growth is a rapid process while economic
development is a slow process.
• Etc.
Synthesis
Base on the learners’ discussion and the learner’s book content
notes pages 298-305 to harmonise their presentations. Learners
have a clear stand and take notes. Emphasise to learners that both
economic growth and development are attainable but may not be
at once.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the achievement of the lesson objective by asking some
questions e.g.;

(i) Identify the indicators of development in Rwanda.

Expected answers
(i) Indicators of development in Rwanda:
• Development of socioeconomic infrastructure.
• Joining of several economic integrations to expand
market.
• Prevailing peace and security in all parts of the country.

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• Massive education programmes to develop human

resource.
• Massive population control campaigns and a reduction
in population growth.
• Gender balance, equity and complementarity.
• Etc.

Lesson 12: Economic underdevelopment, its
indicators, causes and policies to solve it

Learner’s Book pages 305-311

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the meaning of underdevelopment.
• Describe the characteristics of an underdeveloped economy.
• Analyse the causes of underdevelopment in any given
economy.
• Suggest possible measures to attain development in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Basing on the background of the previous lessons, ask learners
to share what the situation would be if the requirements of
development were not attained. Connect the learners’ response to
the day’s lesson.
Expected answer
(i) There would be underdevelopment.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Organise learners in groups and ask them to work on
Activity 10 from the Learner’s Book pages 305-306. Check on
groups and facilitate their discussions.

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Expected answers for Activity 10 Learner’s Book

pages 305-306
• Poor economic situation
• Under development
• Developed technology
Step 2: Learners in the same groups discuss about Activity 11
in the Learner’s Book page 308. Groups have their findings
presented to the entire class as you moderate the discussions and
presentations.
Expected answers for Activity 11 Learner’s Book
page 308
(i) Causes of underdevelopment:
• High population growth rate.
• Inadequate strategic raw materials.
• Social cultural barriers such as backward rigid
traditional attitudes, beliefs, and norms which hinder
economic development.
• Political unrests.
• Under developed infrastructure.
• Profit repatriation.
• The debt servicing burden.
• High levels of brain drain.
• Unfavourable trade position.
• The vicious cycle of poverty.
• Neo-colonialism.
• Low levels of science, technology, and research.
(ii) Policies that can be undertaken to solve the problem of
underdevelopment:
• Education reforms have been undertaken.
• Land tenure reforms.
• Kick start funds like — the one cow per family has
helped people to access cows that can be used as source
of income through selling milk.
• Progressive taxation.
• Improving infrastructure like roads which helps in
the movement of people and goods from areas of

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production to markets helps people to increase their

earnings.
• Liberalisation of the economy.
• Improvement in the political climate.
• Encouraging development of small scale enterprises.
• Formation of co-operation.
• Modernisation of agriculture.
• Improvement of the investment climate.
• Controlling population growth.
Synthesis
Basing on the learners’ presentations and content notes in the
Learner’s Book pages 308-311, harmonise the learners’ views
and allow learners to take notes of the summary. Explain that the
state of underdevelopment in LDCs is our own making as seen
in the discussed points. Therefore we can fight and eradicate
underdevelopment through the policies already discussed.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the lesson to check whether the lesson learning objectives
were attained. For example, ask them;
How is underdevelopment manifested in Rwanda? How best would
you fight the manifestations of underdevelopment in your areas of
origin and the country in general? (refer to the characteristics of
underdevelopment but let them be explained in Rwandan context
and the measures as well).

Lesson 13: Poverty, its types, causes and ways of
reducing poverty

Learner’s Book pages 311-317

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Contrast the types of poverty
• Analyse the causes of poverty.
• Propose possible solutions to eradicate poverty in Rwanda.

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Prerequisites for the lesson

Guide learners to review the previous lesson on indicators of
underdevelopment. Thereafter, ask them to reflect on the specific
conditions in their homes and in their neighbourhood. Assign them
Activity 12 page 311 in the learner’s book for more understanding.

Expected answers for Activity 12 Learner’s Book

page 311
• Faces of poverty.
• Poverty.
• Good medical care.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, internet, and
relevant economics journals. Pictures showing poverty conditions
etc.
Learning activities
Step 1: Let learners be in pairs and assign them Activity 13 from
the Learner’s Book page 317. Facilitate their discussions.
Step 2: Guide learners to share their views with the rest of the
class and allow them time for questions and supplements form
other learners.
Expected answers for Activity 12 Learner’s Book page
311
(i) Causes of poverty:
• High cost of education.
• Large family sizes.
• Lack of physical assets.
• Epidemic and endemic diseases.
• Low agricultural productivity and poor marketing.
• High cost of social services.
• Market and micro-economics instability.
• Unemployment and low wages.
(ii) Ways of reducing poverty:
• Avail credit facilities to the people and this will help
them to start their own businesses hence earning
incomes.

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• Development of infrastructure aimed at opening up

rural areas to investment and also easy movement of
goods from remote areas to markets.
• Creating political stability so as to boast production and
employment hence enabling people to earn incomes.
• Progressive taxation of the rich so as to reduce income
inequalities and subsidise the poor people.
• Increase wages for labour by settling up a higher
minimum wage so as to increase peoples’ earnings
hence raising their demand.
• Subsidising the poor by giving them unemployment
benefits.
• Seeking foreign aid.
• Encouraging incentives eg. tax holidays.
• Increasing price for agricultural products.
• Encouraging people to join co-operatives.
Synthesis
Based on the learners’ findings and lesson content notes from
the Learner’s Book pages 314-321, the teacher summarises the
day’s lesson and learners take notes of the summarised points.
Emphasise that, poverty eradication in Rwanda and other LDCs
is a gradual process, while applying and adhering to the already
discussed policies.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the learners to check whether the lesson objectives were
attained. Give questions for example,

(i) How is poverty manifested in your areas of origin?

(ii) How can you assist in fighting poverty in your home, village,
district and the entire economy?
Expected answers
(i) Manifestations of poverty.
• Low self esteem.
• Absence of basic needs.
• High rates of school dropouts.
• Poor health and sanitation facilities.
• Poor living conditions.

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• Be receptive to other correct answers.

(ii) Ways of fighting/eradicating poverty.
• Sensitise and encourage household savings.
• Sensitise and encourage small scale domestic
investments.
• Encourage people to join different cooperatives that
are helped by the government.
• Encourage people to have the culture of borrowing for
productive activities.
• Be receptive to other correct answers that learners
may bring up.

Lesson 14: Unit assessment

Learner’s Book page 318.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Analyse determinants and indicators of economic growth
and development of an economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Sit learners in groups of 4-5 members and give them end of unit
assessment by referring to the Learner’s Book page 318. Let them
be given clear instructions on how to do the assessment.
Teaching aids
Classroom environment, printed assessment sheets and answer
sheets.
Learning activities
Step 1: Distribute preprinted/ written assessment sheets and answer
sheets to learners in their groups.
Step 2: Let learners in their groups start discussing and answering
the questions given as you supervise them.
Step 3: After the discussions, collect their written work for marking
and for correction.

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Synthesis
Refer to end unit assessment in the Learner’s Book on page 318
to have a general discussion.
Assessment of the lesson
To assess the achievement of the learning objectives, ask more
related questions and refer to the answers at the end of Unit 8 in
this Teacher’s Guide.

End of unit

Summary of the unit

This unit covers the following i.e meaning of economic
development, determinants, costs, benefits, and measures to
promote it (Learner’s Book pages 255-320).
It helps learners to analyse which theory applies best to Rwanda’s
economy. The unit tackles the difference between economic growth
and development, underdevelopment and poverty. The indicators,
causes and policies to solve underdevelopment and poverty are
equally elaborated in the unit. Hence the learner analyses the
determinants, and indicators of economic growth and development
in an economy. (Refer to Learner’s Book pages 298-304).
Additional information for the teacher
Rwanda is one of the fastest growing economies in Central
Africa. Although still poor and mostly agricultural (90% of the
population is engaged in subsistence agriculture) the nation
has made a significant progress in recent years. New industries
such as tourism, floriculture and fish farming have been gaining
importance. The major source of foreign trade is coffee, tea, tin
cassiterite, wolframite and pyrethrum.
Rwanda GDP growth rate
The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Rwanda expanded 3.70
percent in the second quarter of 2017 over the previous quarter.
GDP Growth Rate in Rwanda averaged 2.69 percent from 2000
until 2017, reaching an all-time high of 13.20 percent in the fourth
quarter of 2002 and a record low of -2.20 percent in the first quarter
of 2013.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

End of Unit 8 assessment answers (Learner’s Book page 318)

1. Factors that influence productivity:

• Political situation.
• Availability of capital.
• Market availability.
• Size of population.
• Availability of entrepreneurs.
• Infrastructural development.
• Quality and quantity of labour.
• Availability of natural resources.
• Government policy of subsidisation and taxation.
2. (i) Importance of the unbalanced strategy:
• It needs little capital and resources.
• It requires less expenditure.
• It is easy to control and manage.
• Production can be controlled basing on demand forces.
• The theory reserves some resources for the future.
• Specialisation is possible.
• It requires microplanning.
• There will be less reliance on foreign loans and donations.
(ii) The nature of terms of trade.
In 2015 the terms of trade were unfavourable since the figure for
terms of trade is below 100 (96.9) i.e. this means export price
increased by 28% while imports increased by 32% causing terms
of trade fall by 6.9%. Import prices rose above export prices.
(ii) Advantages of balanced development:
• Encourages resource exploitation and utilisation.
• Widens the tax base of the country.
• Encourages forward and backward linkages in the
economy.
• Employment is created.
• Balanced of payment position may be improved.
• Development in technology is undertaken.
• Self reliance is created since all sectors are developed.
• It reduces income inequality.

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 Economic Growth, Development and Underdevelopment

• Brain drain is reduced.

3. Economic dependence is a blessing because:
• It helps to cover the man power gap. Due to low education and
skills, foreign aid in form of man power fills the labour gap.
• It helps to cover the technology gap. The underdeveloped
technology in developing countries can only be covered by
foreign aid.
• It helps to acquire financial resources and aid during periods of
uncertainty like floods, famine among others.
• It helps in the development of the local technology. This is mainly
through technology transfer from developed to developing
countries.
• It is not a blessing because of the many problems as seen
below:
• It leads to underutilisation of resources.
• It increases capital out flow.
• It increases BOP problems.
• It leads to the erosion of the social culture and values.
4. Obstacles to development:
• Inadequate funds and man power.
• Inadequate resources to act as raw materials.
• Inadequate skilled manpower to scatter in all sectors.
• Requires proper planning and implementation of plans.
• Requires developed infrastructure in terms of transport and
telecommunication network, hydroelectric power, among others.
• Under developed technology.
• Inadequate local and foreign market.

Remedial activity
1. Mention the different economic activities in your home area.
2. From your own analysis, what do you think has always
hindered increased productivity in different parts of the
country?
3. What do you think is required to increase productivity in
your home area?

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Expected answers
1. Learners mention different activities depending on where
they come from.
2. Hindrances to increased productivity in Rwanda:
• Poor infrastructure
• Poor technology
• Limited market
• Limited entrepreneurial class
• Lack of skilled personnel
• Conservatism and traditionalism
• Be broad minded so as to accept other responses.
3. Measures to increase productivity
• Develop & rehabilitate infrastructure
• Market research.
• Technological development
• Train labour
• Ensure peace and harmony in all regions
• Be broad minded to accept other responses.
Consolidation activities
1. Growth and development don’t at times go hand in hand,
Why?
2. What development aspects do you attribute to globalisation
in Rwanda?
Expected answers
1. Refer to comparison between economic growth and
development (Learner’s Book page 304-305).
2. Development aspects due to globalisation.
• Increased efficiency in production and service delivery.
• Improved skills in Rwanda.
• Increased employment levels.
• Full utilisation of resources.
• Market expansion.
• Infrastructural development.
• Developed technology.
• Be receptive to other responses.

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 International trade theories

Extended activities
1. “Poverty is a disease that can be cured once we put hands
together” with reference to Rwanda’s economy, discuss the
validity of the statement.
2. If only we can break the vicious cycle of poverty, Rwanda’s
development goals can be achieved with ease. How is this
possible?
Expected answers
1. Refer to characteristics, causes and measures to reduce
poverty in Rwanda Learner’s Book pages 313-318.
2. Draw and explain the vicious cycle of poverty and explain
the measures to reduce poverty.

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 Topic Area 5: Development Economics
Sub-topic Area 5.2: Development Process and Strategies

UNIT 9: Agricultural Development

Reference to learner’s text book pages 323-377

Unit competence
Learners will be able to analyse the contribution of development
strategies on the economy.

Prerequisites for this unit

In the previous unit, we saw how to attain economic growth and
development in Rwanda. Rwanda, being an agrarian country has
to put much emphasis on agricultural development so as to attain a
self-sustaining growth. About 90% of Rwanda’s GDP is attributed
to agricultural production, there is a need to acquire knowledge and
understanding, skills, values and attitudes concerning agriculture
by secondary school economics learners. This unit mainly
addresses the reasons for agricultural development, benefits and
obstacles towards agricultural development in most countries
Rwanda inclusive. Therefore, learners are expected to analyse the
agriculture practices in their localities and come up with possible
suggestions on the strategies that Rwanda can use to develop and
benefit more from the agriculture sector.

Cross-cutting issues to be addressed

While teaching this unit, it will be important to consider the cross
cutting issue of standardisation culture especially when dealing
with influencing demand through advertising in a bid to win the
market.
Environment and sustainability should also be emphasised
especially when looking at their capacities of production both in the
short run and long run so as to protect and preserve the environment.

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Learners also need to be guided to develop a positive attitude

towards agricultural practices. This creates love for agriculture
and the entire population engaged in it.

Generic competences
• Cooperation and interpersonal management is a
competence gained through group activities e.g.
debates and roleplays.
• Communication skills are gained through presentation
of findings.
• Critical thinking is developed through analysing
the appropriate strategies that can be undertaken to
improve agricultural development in Rwanda.
• Lifelong learning is generated through documentary
research on agricultural development in Rwanda.
Vocabulary or key words or concepts in the unit
Agriculture mechanisation: This is part of agriculture modernisation
that involves the use of capital intensive techniques such as tractors,
harvesters, irrigation pumps, ploughs and milking machines among
others in the production process.
Agriculture specialisation: This involves concentrating on the
growing of a particular crop and or keeping of a particular kind
of animal.
Agriculture diversification: This refers to the act of engaging in
growing a variety of crops and rearing a variety of animals.
Agriculture co-operatives: These are agriculture business
organisations formulated and owned by farmers who come together
to achieve common farming objectives.
Agricultural extension: This is the application of scientific research
and knowledge to agricultural practices through farmer education.
Agriculture: This is the growing of crops and raring of animals.
Agriculture development: This is the process of promoting proper
conditions for farming so that the quantity and quality improves
drastically.

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Commercialisation of agriculture: This is the type of production

that is intended for sell with an aim of getting profits.
Development process: This is a system of defined steps and tasks
such as strategy and organisation that are used to convert ideas
into commercially viable goods and services.
Development strategy: This is a set of guidelines which a country
should follow in formulating and implementing long term policies
meant for development.
Extensive agriculture: This is the system of crop cultivation where
small amounts of labour and capital are used in relation to an area
of land being farmed.
Intensive agriculture: This is a system of cultivation that involves
using large amounts of labour and capital relative to land area.
Land ownership: This is a system by which a person, community
or state has legal authority to land.
Large scale commercial production: This is the type of production
that is carried out on a large scale.
Modernisation approach: This is the method of encouraging
agriculture development that aims at improving the existing frame
work to increase the quality and quantity of output.
Small scale subsistence: This is a system production where all
the activities that are done in agriculture are done on a small area.
Transformation approach: This involves a complete and total
change in the existing agricultural sector practices and systems.

Guidance on the problem statement

Task learners to reflect on the agricultural practices back in their
home areas and then share views related to the lesson/unit. Let
them try an activity in this unit and as they discuss it, they will
be able to know some more agricultural issues as well as more of
agricultural development practices.
In this case, the problem statement is as follows:

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Agriculture is a backbone of Rwanda, considering the state of the

sector, advise the minister of agriculture in Rwanda on the need
as well as the ways to develop it (agriculture).
Expected answers
Need to transform/develop agriculture in Rwanda.

• To produce enough food for the population.

• To provide raw materials for industries.
• To provide employment to the people to enable them earn
a living.
Ways to improve agriculture

• Improving the breeds of animals.

• Subsidisation to farmers.
• Soil erosion and nutrient loss control
• Use of irrigation.
• Population control.
• Seeking foreign aid.
• Accept all correct answers
Attention to special education needs
Learners with physical disabilities
Learners with physical disabilities may show challenges in using
their hands to write, sitting in class, using the toilet, walking or
climbing stairs, etc. Such learners may also display excessive
fatigue after performing light duties.
This category of learners can be helped in the following ways:
Ask other learners to help them to move around, sit the learner in
a place where they can move in and out of class easily, give them
more time and practice to write, copy important notes for them
on paper, if it takes them too much time to copy work. Ensure a
friendly school environment e.g, the building ramps on all entries
to rooms, network with organisations that can provide wheelchairs,
allow them more time to complete their tasks and encourage other
learners to treat them with respect and dignity.

Learners with extra abilities

These learners understand concepts very fast because they are
extremely intelligent. They complete tasks faster than others, get
bored faster due to early completion of tasks and can be disruptive

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due to idleness. Provide them with extra activities so as to keep

them occupied, assign them to assist other learners, provide
counselling sessions where necessary.

Time takers
Such learners take time to understand what has been taught. Do not
reprimand them or show them they are poor compared to others.
Give them more attention, be more patient with them, guide them
carefully and create time for them after the lesson. Tell them
they can do better, and ensure they understand a sub-topic before
teaching the next.

Learners with visual impairment

Learners with visual impairment experience problems with their
vision. Some learners may experience low vision and others may
have no vision at all. You can notice such learners because they
display the following characteristics:
They write unusually large letters, often scratch their eyes, cannot
focus in bright light, and cannot focus on distant objects.
Use the following strategies to assist them:
Sit them in the place where they can see clearly ,write with yellow
chalk on a clean chalkboard ,encourage them to sit at the front of
the class, use large and legible handwriting on the chalkboard,
use large charts and other visual aids ,ensure good colour contrast
on learning aids, and give the learner real objects to use.

Learners with hearing impairment

These learners have a problem with their ability to hear. They
may be partially or completely unable to hear. They display
signs such as:
Turning their heads towards the source of sound, shout when
talking, regularly consult those sitted next, delay to respond, have
irrelevant responses, pay less attention, and they always look at
the lips of the person talking to them.
Refer such learners to an ear specialist, and assist them in the
process of learning. You can look at the learner when speaking,
speak clearly and loudly, write instructions on the chalkboard,
be audible enough, encourage the learner to sit at the front in
class and regularly check their notes to ensure they are writing

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the right things. Give the learners a slate (urubaho) to help them
communicate, speak slowly and use simple words.

Learners with communication disorders

These learners cannot communicate effectively because of speech
and language problems e.g. inability to interpret simple statements
easily giving up on description tasks due to frustration, stammering
and difficulty in explaining things.
Refer them to a speech therapist, avoid interrupting them when
they are talking, display high level of patience,pay attention to
all their needs,demonstrate various concepts and give them clear
instructions.

Learners with behavioural disorders

Learners with behavioural disorders do not conform to the expected
kind of behaviour laid down in school rules and regulations. They
may show behaviour disorders such as: truancy, stealing, failure
to complete tasks, disrupting lessons through playing, fighting
others etc.
To assist such learners; reinforce their positive behaviour through
rewards, involve parents or guardians in correcting such behaviours,
and refer them to a counsellor if necessary.
List of lessons/ lesson map on Agricultural development
Lesson 1: Goals of development process and strategies.
Lesson 2: Agriculture development and characteristics of agriculture in
LDCs.
Lesson 3: Arguments for and against agricultural development.
Lesson 4: Limitations of agriculture development and ways of improving
agriculture productivity in Rwanda.
Lesson 5: Approaches to agricultural development- Transformation
approach.
Lesson 6: Modernisation approach.
Lesson 7: Small scale subsistence production.
Lesson 8: Large scale commercial production.
Lesson 9: Agriculture specialisation.
Lesson 10: Agriculture diversification.
Lesson 11: Intensive agriculture.

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Lesson 12: Extensive agriculture.

Lesson 13: Agriculture mechanisation.
Lesson 14: Commercialisation of agriculture.
Lesson 15: Agriculture co-operatives.
Lesson 16: Agriculture research.
Lesson 17: Agriculture extension services.
Lesson 18: Land ownership and its forms.
Lesson 19: Land reforms in Rwanda.
Lesson 20: Unit assessment.

Lesson 1: Goals of development process and
strategies

Learner’s Book pages 324-325.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Identify the goals of development in Rwanda.
• Explain the goals of development in Rwanda.
• Identify what has been achieved among the goals of
development.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Teacher reviews the previous lessons about underdevelopment
and poverty by asking learners reflect on them and state their
characteristics. Then asks learners what should be done to rectify
such problems? Then introduce the new lesson about goals of
development process and strategies.
Expected answers
• Set policies and guidelines that must be followed to promote
development.
• Startup different activities that will help attain economic
development.

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Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Given a case study in Activity 1 page 324, let learners in
pairs analyse and discuss the questions. Facilitate pair discussion
as a teacher.
Step 2: Call upon some pairs of learners to present their findings
to the rest of the class. Moderate the discussions and presentations.
Expected answers for Activity 1, Learners Book page
324
(i) (a) Development process is a system of defined steps and
tasks such as strategy and organisation that are used
to convert ideas into commercially viable goods and
services.
(b) Development strategy is a set of guidelines which a
country should follow in formulating and implementing
long term policies meant for development.
(ii) To achieve fair income distribution.
• To reduce poverty among the people.
• To attain favourable balance of payment position.
• To reduce unemployment rates.
• To reduce the rates of dependence.
• To control population growth rates.
• To improve health services.
Synthesis
Based on the learners’ discussions and content notes in the Learner’s
Book page 325, the teacher together with learners harmonise the
discussed points. Learners take note of the harmonised points.
Emphasise to learners that development is a process that requires
steps and well set guidelines of which should be concieved,
formulated and implemented well.
Assessment of the lesson
To check on the achievement of the learning objectives of the
lesson, give home work to learners to research on the attained goals
of development in Rwanda.

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Lesson 2: Agriculture development and
characteristics of agriculture in LDCs

Learner’s Book pages 325-327

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the meaning of agriculture development.
• Describe the characteristics of agriculture in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Ask learners to reflect on the previous lesson of goals of
development and ask them to mention some of them. Go ahead
and ask them to identify some of the activities that can be taken to
achieve the goals of development in Rwanda.
Introduce the day’s lesson among those activities as agriculture
development.
Expected answers
• Agriculture development
• Industrial development
• Promote international trade
• Promote domestic investments by both local and foreign
investors. Etc.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economic text books, internet
access, and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Give learners Activity 1 i) ii) & iii) and they discuss the
questions in groups. Keep moving in groups checking on their
progress and guiding them where necessary.
Step 2: Call upon some sampled groups to present their findings
to the rest of the class. Other members may contribute by
supplementing to the presentation. Moderate the discussion.
Expected answers for Activity 1 (i), (ii) and (iii)
(i) Activities taking place are:
• Selling.

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• Digging.
• Cattle rearing.
(ii) In photo C there is rearing of local breeds while in D there
is rearing of modern breeds.
(iii) Agricultural development is the process of promoting proper
conditions for farming so that quantity and quality improve
drastically.
Step 3: Ask learners to brainstorm the characteristics of agriculture
in LDCs. They give answers which are noted on black/white board
for general class discussion.
Expected answers
• Small scale peasant agriculture.
• Low quantity and quality output.
• Use of simple tools in production.
• Majorly food crops are grown. etc.
Synthesis
You and the learners harmonise the discussed points with
reference to the Learner’s Book page 327. Learners write down the
harmonised points in their notebooks. Tell learners that the main
aim of improving agriculture is to promote proper conditions for
farming to improve quality and quantity.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the achievement of the learning objectives by asking learners
to give characteristics of agriculture particularly in Rwanda. (Refer
to the general characteristics of agriculture in LDCs but let learners
explain in Rwandan context.)

Lesson 3: Arguments for and against agricultural
development

Learner’s Book pages 327-329.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the arguments for and against agriculture development.
• Appreciate the government policy of developing agriculture
in Rwanda.

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Prerequisites for the lesson

Review the previous lesson by asking learners to brainstorm the
characteristics of agriculture in Rwanda. Ask them to brainstorm
the reasons for agriculture development in Rwanda. Then introduce
the lesson as the advantages and disadvantages of agriculture
development.
Expected answers on reasons for agriculture
development
• To fight poverty in Rwanda.
• To expand employment in the country.
• To expand the export levels as agriculture is the major export
sector.
• To reduce the effects of rural urban migration.
• To increase food production for the alarming population.
Teaching aids
Learner’s book, other recommended text books, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Organise learners in 2 separate groups and ask them choose
on their own sides of proposition or opposition.
Step 2: Give them time to discuss on the motion that “For Rwanda
to develop, should develop agriculture at the expense of other
sectors”. Guide them to manage time and to generate the necessary
points.
Expected answers
Arguments in favour of agriculture development:
• It provides enough food necessary to feed the
population.
• It provides employment to the people which enables
them to earn income and improve their standards of
living.
• It provides raw materials to the industries which
increases the rate of industrialisation and employment.
• It increases output for export which in turn earns the
country foreign exchange.

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 Agriculture development

• It is a source of medicine to the people of the country

especially through herbs.
• It reduces rural-urban migration.
• It facilitates development of infrastructure.
• It leads to fair distribution etc.
Disadvantages of agriculture development:
• Agriculture prices keep on fluctuating consistently due
to the differences between planned output and actual
output together with poor climate conditions all which
affect the supply and affect the producers.
• Agriculture development may involve expansion
of the firms among others and this may affect the
growing population in terms of settlements leading to
fragmentations.
• Products are perishable and difficult to store.
• Some crops have a long gestation period and thus the
farmer may take long to gain from them even if the
prices increase at present, the farmer may not increase
supply thus losing out.
• Agriculture mostly depends on nature.
• Most LDCs produce same type of goods and services.
• High rates of conservatism among African farmers.
• Development of synthetic fibres acted as substitutes to
Rwanda’s agricultural products.
Synthesis
Together with learners, based on the discussed points and with
reference to the content notes in the Learner’s Book page 327-
329, harmonise the discussed points. Learners write down the
harmonised points. Emphasise that, leaving other factors constant,
agricultural development directly means that citizens will have
enough food and will live healthy lives. Healthy lives mean a
healthy nation.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask learners, to explain how agriculture development has been a
blessing in their areas of origin. (refer to advantages of agriculture)

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Lesson 4: Limitations of agriculture development
and ways of improving agriculture productivity in
Rwanda

Learner’s Book pages 329-335

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the limitations of agriculture development in
Rwanda.
• Suggest possible solutions to agriculture development in
Rwanda
• Appreciate the role of government participation on
developing agriculture.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Teacher reviews the previous lesson with learners and asks them to
reflect on the level of agriculture practices from their home areas
and share their views to the rest of the class members. Base on the
given answers to introduce the day’s lesson about limitations and
ways of improving agriculture in Rwanda.
Expected answers
• Not developed.
• Moderately developed.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners brainstorm the limitations and ways to develop
agriculture in Rwanda. Teacher notes the mentioned points on
board.
Step 2: Learners by show of hands are asked to explain the points
one after the other. The teacher moderates the lesson. Encourage
them to give live examples from their areas or country at large.

Expected answers
Limitations of agriculture development:

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• Land shortages
• Weak extension and research services.
• Lack of information on agriculture investment prospects.
• Risks and uncertainties.
• Conservatism and traditionalism.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.
Ways of improving agriculture development
• Subsidisation to farmers.
• Improvement in breeds of animals and crops.
• Construction of valley dams.
• Extending friendship to other agricultural based countries.
• Lease of Kigali Urban Fisheries Centre.
• Improving population control to release land for agriculture.
• Improvement in technology.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.
Synthesis
Together with learners harmonise the discussed points with
reference from the lesson notes in Learner’s Book page 335-338
and let learners take down the harmonised points. Emphasise to
learners that most of the ways suggested for the improvement of
agriculture development are underway in Rwanda.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask learners, with reference to agriculture in their home areas to
identify the strategies that have been taken to improve agriculture
development. (respect each learners’ views in line with agriculture
development policies by the government).

Lesson 5: Approaches to agricultural
development- Transformation approach

Learner’s Book pages 335-338.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Describe the use of transformation approach.
• Examine the benefits and costs of transformation approach.
• Analyse the possible limitations of the approach in Rwanda.

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• Appreciate the role of transformation in developing

agriculture.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Basing on the background information about the limitations of
agriculture development and the ways of improving agriculture
development, tell learners that government has to devise a variety of
approaches to try out the best suitable for agriculture development.
Such policies may include;
• Transformation approach
• Modernisation approach
• Small scale agriculture
• Largescale commercial agriculture
• Agriculture specialisation
• Agriculture diversification
• Agriculture cooperatives
• Intensive agriculture
• Extensive agriculture
• Agriculture mechanisation.
• Commercialisation of agriculture.
• Agriculture research and extension services:
• Be broad minded to receive other correct answer.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, internet, charts
showing evidence of agricultural transformation in Rwanda.
Learning activities
Step 1: Put learners in groups and ask them to do Activity 3 page
339 in the learner’s book. Move around groups facilitating their
discussions.
Step 2: Have a sample of groups to share their findings with the
rest of the class. Moderate the discussions.

Expected answers for Activity 3 Learner’s Book pages

335-336
(i) Photos A and C show traditional methods of agriculture while
B and D show modern methods of agriculture.

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(ii) Transformation approach involves a complete and total

change in the existing agricultural sector practices and
systems.
(iii) Advantages/benefits of transforming agriculture:
• It encourages mechanisation.
• It encourages industrialisation.
• Change of attitude among farmers which enables them
to begin considering quality instead quantity.
• It provides employment to the people involved.
• The large farms can provide extension services to the
local people.
Disadvantages of the approach;
• May result into technological unemployment.
• May lead to erosion of domestic cultural values
• May lead to massive production and wastage due to
lack of market.
• Might lead to resistance from farmers since it requires
complete change in the system.
• Be broad minded to receivee other correct answer.
Synthesis
You and the learners harmonise the discussed points with reference
to the Learner’s Book content on pages 336-338. Emphasise to
learners that transformation approach may lead to a total change
to Rwanda’s economic development.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask probing questions aimed at checking whether the objectives
were achieved. For example, ask them what they think might limit
this approach in their home areas.

Criticism of the transforming approach:

• Unemployment may come up because with development
and the need to produce more, farms may resort to
capital intensive techniques of production. Thus some
farmers might not be willing to take it up.

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• There is need for resources to train people about the

new systems and worse still purchasing the required
equipment seems costly.
• Some people are too conservative and unwilling to
change,
• Entrepreneurship skills to carry out the innovations
and inventions still lack in the country.
• The nature of land is a problem that may not encourage
mechanisation. In areas of Musanze, there are many
and steep hills, so the approach may not take off.
• Be open minded to receive other responses.

Lesson 6: Modernisation approach

Learner’s Book pages 339-341.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Describe the use of modernisation approach.
• Examine the benefits and costs of the modernisation
approach.
• Analyse the possible limitations of the approach in Rwanda.
• Appreciate the role of modernisation approach in developing
agriculture.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the previous lesson and link it to the day’s lesson by guiding
them to discover that where transformation is not possible then we
can just make some improvements within the existing agricultural
framework. Link to the day’s lesson of agriculture modernisation.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Put learners in groups and task them to do Activity 4 in
the Learner’s Book page 339. Learners discuss as you facilitate
group discussions.

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Step 2: Call sampled groups to present their findings. Groups which

may have differing answers may raise their views for general class
discussion. Moderate the discussions.

Expected answers for Activity 4 Learner’s Book page

339
(i) Photo A shows the use of hoes while B shows the use of an
ox.
(ii) Modernisation approach is the method of encouraging
agriculture development that aims at improving the existing
frame work to increase the quality and quantity of output.
(iii) Benefits of agriculture modernisation.
• It provides enough food necessary to feed the
population.
• It provides employment to people which enables them
to earn income and improve the standards of living.
• It provides raw materials to the industries which
increases the rate of industrialisation and employment.
• It increases output for export which in turn earns the
country foreign exchange.
• It is a source of medicine to the people of the country
especially through herbs.
• It provides backward linkages to the industrial sector
where it acts as market for the industrial output such
as the hoes, pangas etc.
• It reduces rural urban migration because people are
employed in the agriculture sector which is normally
carried out in rural areas.
• It facilitates development of infrastructure like roads
because of the need to transport commodities from
rural areas to the market.
• It leads to fair distribution of income because of the
employment provided to people.
Challenges of the modernisation approach:
• Poor weather conditions.
• Poor land tenure systems.
• Narrow markets.

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• Poor infrastructure.
• Lack of skilled man power.
• Conservatism of farmers.
• Inadequate capital.
Synthesis
Together with learners, based on the discussed points and with
reference to the content in the Learner’s Book page 339-341,
harmonise the points on the lesson. Learners write down the notes.
Explain to learners that the modernisation approach is more friendly
to the economic situation of most LDCs including Rwanda than
the transformation approach.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the learners to check whether the lesson objectives were
attained by learners. Give questions, for example, what is evident
in your areas as agriculture modernisation?
Expected answers
• Land consolidation to increase output.
• Soil improvement through fertiliser application.
• Provision of agriculture extension services to farmers.
• Improvement in methods of production through use of
improved tools.
• Getting short term and long term credit to increase
agricultural practices.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.

Lesson 7: Small scale subsistence production

Learner’s Book pages 342-344

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Describe the characteristics of small scale subsistence
production.
• Examine the advantages and disadvantages of small scale
subsistence production.
• Appreciate the role of small scale subsistence agriculture
production in an economy.

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Prerequisites for the lesson

Review the previous lesson of modernising agriculture and connect
it with the day’s lesson a small scale subsistance production. Base
on the case study in Activity 5 for learners to understand it better
by answering (i) and (ii).
Expected answers for Activity 5 (i) & (ii) Learner’s
Book page 342
(i) Small scale farmer.
(ii) Features of small scale (subsistence) production:
• Low output is produced since most is for home
consumption.
• Low quality is produced because simple tools are used.
• Production is for minimum survival to protect the
family from famine.
• Family labour is used since most of the times the
gardens are located near the homes.
• Simple tools such as hoes, pangas, chop sticks, knives
are used.
• Mainly food crops like cassava, yams, maize, banana
etc. are grown.
• There is nothing available for sale.
• Normally done on a small piece of land.
• There is no specialisation carried since a variety of
crops are grown.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other text books, the internet, and relevant journals
as well as pictures showing subsistence farming.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups debate on the advantages and
disadvantages of small scale subsistence agriculture.
Step 2: Groups present their findings to the rest of the class. Teacher
moderates the discussions.

Expected answers from Activity 5 (iii) Learner’s Book

page 342
(iii) Merits of small scale farming:

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• Little marketing is needed since most of the food is

for home consumption and only the incidental surplus
is sold.
• Easy management.
• Little or no wastage.
• Variety is grown and kept.
• There is no major problem of labour since family
members are used.
• May not require large plots of land to be carried out.
• Little losses are incurred in case of fire outbreaks.
• May require little capital.

Demerits of small scale farming:

• Firms don’t enjoy economies of scale.
• Little incomes are earned by the farmers because they
are basically on low scale and for home consumption.
• It retards development of the agriculture sector since
simple tools are used and scientific methods are not
used so much.
• Low quality is produced since simple tools are used
and poor farming methods are used.
• Vast lands may be underutilised since farmers prefer
to concentrate of small pieces of land.
• Little revenue is collected.
• Discourages innovations and inventions.
• Mechanisation is not possible.
Synthesis
You together with learners, based on the content notes in the
Learner’s Book pages 342-344, relate the points discussed to have
harmonise stand on the advantages and disadvantages of small scale
subsistence agriculture. Emphasise to learners that subsistence
farming slows down economic development and so it should not
be relied on by any economy.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the achievement of the lesson objectives by asking probing
questions on the lesson to learners as individuals. As questions like,
what are the characteristics of small scale subsistence farming?

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Lesson 8: Large scale commercial production

Learner’s Book pages 344-347.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Describe the characteristics of large scale commercial
production.
• Examine the advantages and disadvantages of large scale
commercial production.
• Appreciate the role of large scale commercial agriculture
production in an economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the previous lesson of small scale subsistence farming and
connect it to large scale commercial farming. Base on the case study
in Activity 6 for learners to understand it better by answering (i)
and (ii) page 344.
Expected answers for Activity 6 (i) and (ii) Learner’s
Book page 344
(i) Large scale farmer.
(ii) Characteristics of large scale production:
• It is normally done on large scale and land covers
wide areas.
• There are high output yields are got from the vast
lands used.
• There are high rates of mechanisation especially if the
areas are flat.
• High rates of specialisation normally concentrating on
a particular commodity.
• High quality output is produced because of specialisation
and use of machines.
• Production is for both domestic and foreign markets.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economic text books, internet
access, and relevant economics journals.

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Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups debate on the advantages and
disadvantages of large scale commercial agriculture.
Step 2: Groups present their findings to the rest of the class.
Moderate the discussions and presentations.
Expected answers for Activity 6 (iii) Learner’s Book
page 344
(iii) Advantages of large scale production:
• Mechanisation is possible since it covers large pieces
of land unlike small scale farming.
• High volumes of output. This comes from the wide
pieces of land on which agriculture is used.
• Tax base is widened from the produce and still the
processing industries set up to increase the quality and
also the workers in the farms.
• It leads to formation of industries. Agro based
industries come up so as to increase the quality of the
products both for home and foreign markets.
• It leads to infrastructure development.
• It increases employment opportunities.
• It improves the farmer’s skills.
• It encourages field study and research.
• It easy for marketing.

Demerits of large scale production

• Land exhaustion: This comes as a result of land
being used constantly since the main aim is profit
maximisation.
• Technological unemployment comes up because of the
need to increase output. Still the agriculture is done on
a large scale which requires a lot of machines.
• Surplus at the market. Due to large scale production,
the output increases and this may not be all consumed
due to low incomes of the people hence creating
wastage.

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• High capital is needed. Large scale production requires

large capital for set up. This capital may not readily be
available in developing countries.
• Requires skilled employment.
• Displacement of people.
• Reduction in local foods.
• Leeds to income inequality.
Synthesis
Based on the content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 344-
347, relate the points discussed to have a harmonised stand on
the advantages and disadvantages of large scale commercial
agriculture.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess learners masterly of lesson content and achievement of
lesson objectives. For example; you can pose them the following
questions.
(i) Contrast small scale subsistence production with large scale
commercial production.
(ii) Of the two approaches; (small scale and large scale), which
one would you advise your friend to apply for ? Justify your
choice.
Expected answers
(i)
Small scale large scale.
Low output is produced Much output is produced.
Low quality is produced High quality produced.
Simple tools are used Modern methods are used.
Done on small piece of land Done on large piece of land.
Normally for domestic use. Normally for export.

(ii) For any of the choice, give its advantage and disadvantage.

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Lesson 9: Agriculture specialisation

Learner’s Book pages 347-349

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Describe the characteristics of agriculture specialisation.
• Examine the advantages and disadvantages of agriculture
specialisation.
• Appreciate the role of agriculture specialisation in agriculture
development.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Refer to Activity 7 (i) in the Learner’s Book page to introduce the
day’s lesson.
Expected answer
Agriculture Specialisation.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economic text books, internet
access, and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners use Activity 7 (ii) and (iii) Learner’s Book page
347 to discuss in groups the advantages and disadvantages of
agriculture specialisation. Check on groups, guiding them in their
discussions.
Step 2: Ask a few pairs to share their views with the rest of the class.
They all contribute to the discussion by asking and or answering
questions that might arise. Moderate the discussions.

Expected answers for Activity 7 (ii) and (iii) Learner’s

Book page 347
(ii) Advantages of agriculture specialisation:
• Time saving: it takes little time to learn the job and
there is no time wasted in moving from one job to
another.
• Workers gain experience and skills. They become
efficient as a result of repeating the same tasks.

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• It enables workers to exploit their natural talents by

concentrating on the jobs which they can do better e.g.
doctors, lawyers, teachers etc.
• It encourages and makes possible the use of machines
at various stages of production because of production
in bulk. This leads to invention and innovations, which
leads to increased output.
• Regional specialisation and international division of
labour enables regions or countries to exploit their
natural resources and get what they cannot produce,
from other regions or countries.
• It improves the quality and quantity of products.
• Economies of scale are enjoyed.
• It leads to mass production.
• It is easier to manage production of one type of crop.
• It is easy for marketing.
(iii) Disadvantages of agriculture specialisation:
• It involves production in bulk, which may be limited
by markets. Over production leads to wastage.
• Division of labour can lead to unemployment. For
instance, in case of change in fashions, or change in
demand, specialist workers who are laid off cannot
easily change to other jobs.
• International division of labour leads to over-
dependence on other countries and also discourages
diversification. In case of a decline in demand or fall
in prices, the country would suffer.
• Repetition of the same work leads to boredom and
monotony which dulls intelligence.
• Farmers are exposed to immense risks.
• It may lead to regional imbalance.
• It may lead to seasonal unemployment.
• It may lead to overdependence.
• When machines break down work may stop.

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Synthesis
Harmonise the lesson based on the learners’ discussions and content
in the Learner’s Book pages 347-349. Give room for learners to
seek clarification on any matter that might not be clear.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the lesson by asking questions to learners to check the
achievement of lesson objectives. For example;
Why would you decide to concentrate on the production of one
crop or rear one type of animal?
Expected answers
Refer to the advantages/benefits of specialisation Learner’s Book
pages 348-349.

Lesson 10: Agriculture diversification

Learner’s Book pages 349-351.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Describe the characteristics of agriculture diversification.
• Examine the advantages and disadvantages of agriculture
diversification.
• Appreciate the role of agriculture diversification in agriculture
development.
Prerequisites for the lesson
With reference to Activity 8 in the Learner’s Book, pages 349-350,
introduce agriculture diversification. Let learners know that it is
the opposite of agriculture specialisation.
Expected answer
Agriculture diversification.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners with reference to Activity 8 ii) and iii) Learner’s
Book pages 349-350, discuss in groups the advantages and

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disadvantages of agriculture diversification. Move in groups

guiding group discussions.
Step 2: Call upon groups to share their views with the rest of
the class. Let them all contribute to the discussion by asking or
answering questions that might come their way. Moderate the
discussions.

Expected answers
(ii) Arguments in favour of agriculture diversification:
• It reduces the risks of uncertainty that face agriculture
sector especially when depending on one crop.
• It widens the export base of the country.
• It generates more employment opportunities because
people are able to engage in a variety of activities.
• It increases and stabilises farmers’ income because of
selling a variety of crops and this reduces fluctuation
in their incomes.
• Tax base of the government is widened because of a
variety of activities on which taxes can be levied.
• It increases on the variety of raw materials.
• It leads to economic growth.
• It reduces rural-urban migration.
• It reduces economic dependence
• It creates self-sustenance.
(iii) Limitations of agriculture diversification (criticisms):
• Inadequate market: Diversification will increase output
without market.
• The activities require large pieces of land which may
not be available in LDCs.
• Conservativeness of the farmers who can’t change to
grow a variety leads to agriculture remaining backward.
• Natural factors like floods, pests and diseases affect
agriculture activities thereby limiting diversification.
• Underdeveloped infrastructure limits easy movement
of the people and goods from one place to another.

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Synthesis
Harmonise the lesson content based on the Learners’ discussion
and content in the Learner’s Book pages 349-350. Endevour to
answer any question that may arise.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the lesson by asking questions to check the achievement
of lesson objectives. For example;
Why would you decide to engage in production of a variety of
crops or rear several types of animals? (Refer to the advantages
of agriculture diversification.)

Lesson 11: Intensive agriculture

Learner’s Book pages 352-355

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the characteristics of intensive farming.
• Analyse the advantages and disadvantages of intensive
farming.
• Appreciate the role of intensive farming in agriculture
development.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Refer to Activity 9 (1) (2) and (3) in the Learner’s Book page 352
to introduce the lesson.
Expected answers
1. Cabbage growing, cattle raring, poultry keeping.
2. Small scale.
3. Intensive farming.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economic text books, internet
access, and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: In groups, learners with reference to Activity 9 (4) research
and discuss the arguments for and against intensive farming.
Moderate the discussions.

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Step 2: Groups present their findings to the whole class. Moderate

the presentations.

Expected answers
Advantages of Intensive farming:
• High-yield farming.
• Protection of livestock.
• Lower food prices.
• Economical infrastructure.
• Regulated farming.
• Sustaining food supply with the demand.
Disadvantages of Intensive farming:
• Poor living conditions for livestock.
• Heavy deforestation.
• Excessive use of fertilisers and pesticides affects
workers and is passed on to human beings through
food.
• Damage on crops and human life.
• Damage on crops and human life by invisible
pesticides.
Synthesis
Harmonise learners’ findings with reference to content notes in
the Learner’s Book pages 352-355. Emphasise to learners that
applicability of intensive farming in Rwanda LDCs is still favouring
the minority not the majority because of expenses involved.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask questions on the lesson to check whether the learning
objectives have been achieved. For example;
1. Give examples of intensive farming in your areas of origin.
2. How have they been helpful to the people carrying them out?
Expected answers
1. Learners can give different examples depending on where
they come from.
2. Refer to the advantages of intensive farming Learner’s Book
page 353.

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Lesson 12: Extensive agriculture

Learner’s Book pages 355-357

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the characteristics of extensive farming.
• Analyse the advantages and disadvantages of extensive
farming.
• Appreciate the role of extensive farming in agriculture
development.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Refer to Activity 10 (1) (2) and (3) in the Learner’s Book page 355
to introduce the lesson.
Expected answers for Activity 10 (1), (2), (3)
Learner’s Book page 355
1. Tea picking, tea growing.
2. Large scale.
3. Large scale farming/extensive farming.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economic text books, internet
access, and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: In groups, learners, with reference to Activity 10 (4) page
359 in the Learner’s Book, research and later discuss the arguments
for and against extensive farming. Move around the groups guide
to their discussions.
Step 2: Groups present their findings to the whole class. Moderate
the presentations.
Expected answers for Activity 10 (4) Learner’s Book
page 355
(iv) Advantages of extensive farming:
• Less labour per unit areas is required to farm large
areas.

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• Mechanisation can be used more effectively over large,

flat areas.
• Greater efficiency of labour generally lower product
prices.
• Animal welfare is generally improved because animals
are not kept in stifling conditions.
• It involves lower requirements of inputs such as
fertilisers.
• Local environment and soils are not damaged by the
use of chemicals.
Disadvantages of extensive farming:
• Yields tend to be much lower than with intensive
farming in the short term.
• It requires watering plants regularly and this may be
quiet costly.
• Since it requires large lands, it may need high
mechanisation which is costly.
• Wild fires can destroy the large acres of vegitation.
• Land exhaustion comes as a result of land being used
constantly since the main aim is profit maximisation.
• Technological unemployment comes up because of the
need to increase output. Still agriculture is done on a
large scale which requires a lot of machinery.
• High capital is needed.
• Surplus in the market leads to wastage.
• Lack of skilled manpower in LDCs.
• It involves displacement of people.
Synthesis
Together with learners harmonise learners’ findings with reference
to content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 355-357. Emphasise
to learners that extensive farming gives great yields although it
comes with a cost.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask questions on the lesson to check whether the learning
objectives have been achieved. For example;
1. Give examples of extensive farming in your areas of origin.

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2. How have they been helpful to the people carrying them out?
Expected answers
1. Learners can give different examples depending on where
they come from.
2. Refer to the advantages of extensive farming in the Learner’s
Book on page 360.

Lesson 13: Agriculture mechanisation

Learner’s Book pages 357-361

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Assess the impact of agriculture mechanisation in Rwanda.
• Identify the limitations of agriculture mechanisation in
Rwanda.
• Appreciate the role of agriculture mechanisation towards the
development process of Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the previous lesson on extensive farming. Guide learners
in discovering that such a practice requires the use of machines to
be effective in developing agriculture. Thus introduction of a new
lesson of agriculture mechanisation.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economic textbooks, internet
access, and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: In groups let learners refer to Activity 11 in the Learner’s
Book page 357-358 to examine the arguments for and against
agriculture mechanisation. Moderate group discussions.
Step 2: Let groups present their findings to the rest of the class as
you moderate their presentations.

Expected answers for Activity 11

(i) Modern machines.
(ii) Mechanisation of agriculture/mechanical agriculture.
(iii) Arguments in favour of agriculture mechanisation:

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• It is time saving especially during times of planting,

ploughing among others.
• It encourages large scale production because machines
use large pieces of land and this increases output. This
when exported can earn the country foreign exchange.
• Good quality output is produced because of constant
use of machines.
• It reduces the cost of production because the
expenditure to buy machines is not recurring but
happens once compared to labour that has recurring
expenditures.
Disadvantages of mechanisation:
• Capital intensive techniques cause unemployment in
the villages since mainly machines are used on the
extensive land.
• Rural urban migration may occur because mechanisation
requires large pieces of land and therefore the local
people may lack land for settlement.
• Mechanisation requires large sums of capital to use
because the machines such as tractors, sprinklers,
harvesters, all have to be imported.
• Machines destroy the ecology of the soil since they
may not be appropriate to the soil.
• The system requires large pieces of land and this is
a problem in Rwanda where land has rugged terrain
with steep slopes.
• Over exploitation of resources.
• Over production.
• In case of the fall of prices on the world market, it may
cause alot of losses.
• Machines destroy ecology.
(iv) Limitations of mechanisation:
• It requires high skills to operate the machines which
lack in the developing countries due to inadequate
training.

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• It requires large amounts of capital to implement which

capital is lacking on the side of the farmers.
• The system requires large pieces of land which is scarce
in LDCs where the land is divided into small fragments.
• The relief of the area may not be suitable for the
machines. The rugged terrains of Rwanda like in the
Northern Province have steep slopes which make
mechanisation difficult.
• The system requires a good and effective agricultural
planning which is not possible in LDCs.
• The attitude towards mechanisation is very poor
in LDCs where illiteracy, poor cultural beliefs and
poverty are on a high level.
• Human judgement may lack during the process,
causing the system inapplicable.
• Underdeveloped infrastructure and technology limit
the use of machines.
• Machines some times destroy ecology.
• Poor land tenure discourages the system.
• Small market discourages the farmers.
Synthesis
Harmonise the presented points with reference to the lesson notes in
the Learner’s Book pages 357-361. Emphasise the use of machines
as viable an approach to agricultural development basing on the
presented arguments.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the achievement of learning objectives by giving home
work to learners to research on areas in Rwanda where agriculture
mechanisation is practiced and how it has changed the lives of
people in those areas.

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Lesson 14: Commercialisation of agriculture

Learner’s Book pages 361-364

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Briefly explain the characteristics of commercial agriculture.
• Explain the benefits and disadvantages of commercial
agriculture.
• Analyse the limitations of commercial agriculture in Rwanda.
• Appreciate the role of commercialisation of agriculture
towards the development of agriculture in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the previous lesson and guide learners to discover that
mechanisation is normally carried out to market such commodities
not just for home consumption. Then introduce the new lesson
about commercial agriculture.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1. Learners in groups discuss Activity 12 page 361 in the
Learner’s Book. Guide the groups in their discussions.
Step 2: Groups present their findings to the rest of the class as
teacher moderates the presentations.

Expected answers for Activity 12 Learner’s Book

page 361
(i) Tea picking, poultry, animal raring.
(ii) Market.
(iii) Advantages of commercialisation of agriculture:
• It develops the skills of workers because of specialisation
and constantly doing the same work.
• It increases the gross domestic product of the country
because of the need for high profits and revenues.

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• It increases the incomes of the workers and the farmers

at large because production is for sale. This improve
the standards of living of the workers.
• Good quality improves the standards of living of the
people and their way of life.
• It increases the exports of the country hence the
increase in the foreign exchange earnings.
Disadvantages of commercial agriculture:
• Reduction in the food needed by the local people.
• Capital intensive techniques cause unemployment in
the villages since mainly machines are used on the
extensive land.
• The system requires large sums of capital to use
because the machines such as tractors, sprinklers and
harvesters have to be imported.
• It requires large pieces of land and this is a problem
in Rwanda where land has rugged terrain with steep
slopes.
• Specialisation as a result of mechanisation may affect
the country in case world market prices fall.
• Over production may cause surplus and resource
wastage.
• Over exploitation of resource leads to depletion or
exhaustion shortly.
(iv) Limitations of commercial agriculture:
• Poor weather conditions: Sometimes the rains fail to
come and other times there are floods.
• Poor land tenure systems: Some of the land is owned
by absentee landlords and hence it is inactive.
• Narrow markets. The market is low due to poverty
among the people and the low quality that cannot yield
much revenues.
• Poor infrastructure. This limits the movement of goods
from gardens to the market and also from areas of low
prices to areas of high prices.

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• Lack of skilled man power. Most of the people have

low skills and worse still they take long to adjust to
the new techniques.
• Inadequate capital.
• Competition from other countries.
Synthesis
Give concluding remarks with reference to the content notes
from the Learner’s Book pages 365-368. Let learners take note of
your remarks. Emphasise that commercial agriculture boosts the
welfare, and the health of the people involved. This is because of
the income earned.
Assessment of the lesson 
Ask questions about the lesson to assess
the achievement of the lesson objectives.
For example;
Why would you advise your village mate to take on commercial
agriculture? (refer to the advantages of commercial agriculture).

Lesson 15: Agriculture co-operatives

Learner’s Book pages 364-367

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Analyse the role of cooperatives in agriculture development.
• Explain the problems that face agriculture cooperatives in
Rwanda.
• Appreciate the contribution of agriculture cooperatives
towards the development of agriculture in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Refer to activity 13 (1), (2), (3) in the Learner’s Book page 364-
365 to introduce the lesson.
Expected answers
1. Co-operatives.
2. Learners give the ones they know.
3. Principles of co-operatives.

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• They have open membership, everyone is free to join

provided he or she can pay the membership fee.
• They are financed by members themselves through the
membership fees they pay.
• Leaders are elected democratically by the members of
the cooperative through a one man one vote process.
• They are supposed to be impartial, they are not based
on politics, or religion among others.
• Cooperative education is supposed to be provided to
the members, workers and the general public by the
cooperative.
• Members should have access to records of the
cooperative so as to follow its progress.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in pairs analyse the role and problems of
agricultural cooperatives in agricultural development.
Step 2: Different pairs present their findings to the rest of the class.
Teacher facilitates the discussions and the presentations.
Expected answers for Activity 13 (4) Learner’s Book
pages 364-365
4. Roles of cooperatives to development:
• They participate in the production of goods and
services, say in agriculture, industry, transport among
others.
• Marketing cooperatives help farmers to market their
products eg. coffee, maize, tea, and others.
• They participate actively in the transportation,
collection and storage of products.
• They provide farmers with cheap inputs like fertilisers,
hoes, etc.
• They provide education to the members and to the
public on how to use the fertilisers, new tools and new
methods of production.

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• They provide members with cheap consumer goods.

• They help members to get credit facility.
• They increase co-operation among the people.
Problems faced by agriculture cooperatives in Rwanda:
• Shortage of skilled personnel.
• Lack of commitment among leaders.
• Dishonesty of some members who at times sell to
private members.
• Shortage of capital and credit facilities.
• Conservatism and traditionalism of members.
Note: Be broad minded as learners are give their responses.
Synthesis
Give conclusive remarks about co-operatives with reference to the
content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 366-367. Emphasise
the benefits of co-operatives in the communities in Rwanda.
Give examples of those co-operatives and site some of their
achievements.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask learners questions on the lesson to assess the achievement of
the learning objectives. For example;
With reference to any agriculture cooperative you know in
Rwanda, explain its contribution towards the development of
Rwanda. (learners give different examples and refer to the role of
cooperatives on pages 366-367 Learner’s Book).

Lesson 16: Agriculture research

Learner’s Book pages 367-369

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Identify the different issues that can be dealt with while
carrying out agriculture research.
• Examine the role of agriculture research towards the
development of agriculture in Rwanda.
• Analyse the factors that hinder agriculture research in
Rwanda.

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Prerequisites for the lesson

Base on the background of the previous approaches of agricultural
development and tell learners that there is need to research and be
knowledgable for any of the approaches to become successfully
implemented.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, reports on research
work in Rwanda, etc.
Learning activities
Step 1: Task learners in groups to research using text books/
internet on agriculture research and explain the issues that can
be handled when researching on agriculture, importance and
limitations of agriculture research in development of agriculture.
(Refer to Activity 14 from the Learner’s Book page 367-368.)
Step 2: Groups have their findings presented and shared to the
class. Guide the discussions and presentations.

Expected answers for Activity 14 Learner’s Book

pages 367-368
(i) Agricultural research means scientific investigation or
study with a view improving production technique in order
to increase the existing quality and quality of agricultural
output.
(ii) Advantages of agriculture research in Rwanda:
• It leads to introduction of high yielding crop and animal
varieties which leads to increase in the quantity and
quality of farm products.
• It reduces the cost of production and saves time e.g.
research in agriculture modernisation.
• It leads to improvement in land use through better farm
management techniques.
• Research into soil science leads to soil conservation
which controls soil exhaustion.
• Research on climatic conditions helps farmers in early
planting and early harvesting.
• Through market research, a farmer is assured of market
for her produce at fair prices.

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• Research into disease and pest control methods reduces

risks and uncertainties in agriculture.
• Research facilitates specialisation and division of
labour through introduction of mechanisation.
• Farmers benefit from extension services/ education
from researchers through dissemination of research
findings.
Limitations of agriculture research in Rwanda
• Limited capital; LDCs have insufficient funds to finance
research experts and facilities.
• There is limited skilled personnel to carry out research and
disseminate research findings.
• Political instability and insecurity in most parts of LDCs.
• Limited research findings.
• Poor infrastructure like storage facilities, water, power etc.
• Poor transport and communication facilities.
• Conservatism and illiteracy among agriculturalists.
• Low income among farmers who cannot afford better breeds
and farm implements.
• Failure to translate research results into projects.
Synthesis
Harmonise the groups findings with reference to the content from
the Learner’s Book pages 368-369. You can mention some research
organisations in Rwanda and their impact on development of
agriculture.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the learning objectives by tasking learners to mention some
achievements research has on agriculture. You can give Remedial
activity and extension exercises where necessary.

Lesson 17: Agriculture extension services

Learner’s Book pages 369-371

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Identify the different issues that extension service works
need to extend to farmers.

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• Examine the role of agriculture extension services towards

the development of agriculture in Rwanda.
• Analyse the factors that hinder agriculture extension services
in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the lesson on research services and guide the learners
to discover that research findings can reach the farmers through
agriculture extension service workers.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in pairs, explain and share to the whole class what
extension service is and state its objectives.
Expected answer
(i) Agricultural extension is the application of scientific research
and knowledge to agricultural practices through farmer
education.
(ii) Objectives of agriculture extension services.
• To provide knowledge to farmers on better farm
management.
• To raise the standards of living of rural people.
• To encourage farmers, grow their own food.
N.B: Accept any relevant answers.
Step 2: Through whole class discussions, learners analyse the
merits and limitations of agriculture extension services.
Expected answers
Merits of agriculture extension services:
• Extension uses democratic methods in educating the
farmers. This helps them to improve their methods of
farming.
• Extension helps in adoption of innovations to farmers
such that they are able to shift from the traditional
methods to the modern methods.

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• Extension helps in studying and solving the rural

problems that may be affecting the rural farmers during
the production process.
• Extension increases farm yields and improve the
standards of living of farmers through the increased
incomes got.
• Extension contributes to national development
programmes such as agricultural development and
modernisation.
Limitations of agriculture extension services in Rwanda:
• Inadequate capital to carry out the research that is
needed by the people.
• Ignorance of the people who do not always attend
extension services. Some people are ignorant about
the services, so they rarely attend. This leads to lack
of knowledge about the new services.
• Inadequate skilled manpower to carry out the trainings
and research is a major problem affecting the low
developing countries.
• Poor land tenure system that may sometimes not allow
the people to practice what they have studied.
Synthesis
Giv conclusive remarks on the lesson with reference to the content
notes in the Learner’s Book pages 370-371. Learners note down
the summarised points. Emphasise to learners that educating a
farmer is the best facility the government of Rwanda can give
to it’s economy. This helps farmers to solve their own problems
hence improving their lives.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask learners to state the contribution of extension services in
agriculture in their areas of origin and towards the development
of agriculture in Rwanda.

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Lesson 18: Land ownership and its forms

Learner’s Book pages 371-373

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Describe the different forms of land ownership.
• Identify the form of land ownership in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the previous lesson. Guide learners to discover that for
effective application of agriculture research findings, there should
be a clearly defined land ownership policy in an economy. Thus
link it to the new day’s lesson of “land ownership”.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups use the library/ internet to research and
analyse the different forms of land ownership in LDCs. Refer to
Activity 15 from the Learner’s Book page 371.
Step 2: Different groups present their findings to the class through
discussions. Moderate the discussions presentations.

Expected answers for Activity 15 Learner’s Book page

371
(i) Land tenure system is a system by which a person, community
or state has legal authority to land. It can as well be referred
to as land tenure system.
(ii) Forms of land ownership in Rwanda.
• Customary or communal land ownership.
• Individual land ownership (freehold land ownership).
• Leasehold land ownership.
• Feudal system.
Synthesis
Together with learners harmonises the discussed points with
reference to the content in the Learner’s Book pages 371-373.

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Explain the different forms of land ownership in Rwanda and how

they operate.
Assessment of the lesson
Teacher asks learners to share in their groups about;
(i) How can a good land tenure help in agriculture development?
(ii) How can a bad land tenure not help in agriculture
development?
Expected answers
How a good land tenure system helps in agriculture development?
• If land is properly owned and used, it helps increasing
agriculture output.
• It encourages mechanised farming.
• It is used as collateral security to acquire credit and expand
agriculture production.
• The owner has full rights over it and takes proper use of it.
• It encourages large scale commercial farming.
• It helps government to set demonstration farms for research
and study purposes.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.

(iii) How can a bad land tenure not help in agriculture

development?
• If land is not properly owned and used, it discourages
agriculture practices.
• It discourages mechanised farming.
• It cannot be used as collateral security to acquire credit to
expand agriculture production.
• The owner has no full rights over it thus doesn’t take proper
use of it.
• Discourages large scale commercial farming.

Lesson 19: Land reforms in Rwanda

Learner’s Book pages 373-374

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:

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• Identify the different land reforms in Rwanda aimed at

improving agriculture development.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the previous lesson of land ownership and guide learners
to discover that there should be proper policies towards land use
in order to develop agriculture in Rwanda.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, internet access, and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners identify the different land reforms that have been
employed to improve agriculture development in Rwanda.
Step 2: Learners evaluate the applicability of the land reforms in
Rwanda. Learners present their views as a whole class through
discussions.
Expected answers for Activity 15 (iii) Learner’s Book
page 371
(iv) Land reforms in Rwanda:
• Land redistribution.
• Land consolidation.
• Land taxation.
• Land reclamation.
• Land registration.
• Removal of communal land.
• Resettlement schemes.
• Land development Laws.
Synthesis
Explain clearly the land reforms in Rwanda and the particular
impact of these reforms towards agricultural development.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask learners to identify the different land reforms that are evidently
applied in their areas of origin and Rwanda in general. This depends
on the learner.

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Lesson 20: Unit assessment

Learner’s Book page 375.

Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to analyse the
contribution of development strategies on the economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Prepare and organise learners for end of unit assessment by referring
to the Learner’s Book page 375. Give them clear instructions on
how to do the assessment.
Teaching aids
Classroom environment, printed assessment sheets and answer
sheets.
Learning activities
Step 1: Distribute preprinted/ written assessment sheets and answer
sheets to learners in their groups.
Step 2: Learners in their groups start discussing and answering the
questions given as you supervises them.
Step 3: When time is up, collect their written work for marking
and correction.

Synthesis
Refer to end of unit assessment in the Learner’s Book on page 375
to discuss what was required of the questions provided.

Lesson assessment
To check whether the learning objective was reached ask more
related questions and refer to the answers of the end of Unit 9 in
this Teacher’s Guide.

End of unit

Summary of the unit

This unit introduces agriculture as a backbone of Rwanda’s
economy and the need to develop it.

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Several strategies to develop agriculture are well elaborated in the

unit and this helps the learner to analyse the one most applicable
to Rwanda’s economy (Refer to Learner’s Book pages 324-374).
Agriculture needs to be developed; for provision of food, raw
materials, employment, for sale /export, and to reduce rural urban
migration. Possible ways include improving animal breeds,
subsidisation to farmers, controlling soil erosion and nutrients loss,
use of irrigation, population control and seeking foreign aid. Land
ownership and land reforms in Rwanda are also well represented
in this unit.
Additional information for the teacher
Agriculture in Rwanda accounts for a third of Rwanda’s GDP;
constitutes the main economic activity for the rural households
(especially women) and remains their main source of income.
Today, the agricultural population is estimated to be a little less
than 80% of the total population. The sector meets 90% of the
national food needs and generates more than 50% of the country’s
export revenues.
In the short and medium term, Rwanda intends to continue focusing
its efforts on the traditional cash crops of tea and coffee and
pyrethrum, as well as on the nascent, non-traditional horticultural
crops & plants, including various fruits and vegetables; flowers
(mainly fresh roses); essential oils (pyrethrum; patchouli; etc.),
stevia, dairy, meat, poultry, and fish.
Key targets
Agriculture is supposed to grow from 5.8% to 8.5% p.a by 2018,
people living under primarily agriculture sector to reduce from
34% to 25% with focus on agro processing, exports to increase in
average from 19.2% to 28% p.a and imports to be maintained at
17% average growth.

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End of Unit 9 assessment answers (Learner’s Book page 375)

1. (i) Advantages of specialisation:

• It is time saving.
• Workers gain experience and skills.
• It enables workers to exploit the natural talents.
• It encourages and makes possible the use of machines.
• Regional specialisation and international division of
labour enable regions or countries to exploit their natural
resources
• It encourages firms to employ specialists at different stages
of production.
• It involves production in bulk.
(ii) Problems of specialisation:
• It involves production in bulk, which may be limited by
markets.
• Division of labour can lead to unemployment.
• International division of labour leads to overdependence
on other countries.
• Repetition of the same work leads to boredom and monotony.
• It encourages the use of machines, which are specific and
hence may not serve more than one purpose.
• It leads to loss of craftsmanship.
2. Why machines are not used in Rwanda:
• It requires high skills to operate.
• It requires large amounts of capital.
• The relief of the area may not be suitable for the machines.
• Attitude towards mechanisation is very poor.
• It requires a good and efficient agricultural planning.
• The approach may be inapplicable where human judgment is
necessary during the production process.
• Underdeveloped infrastructure and technology.
• Small market for the output discourages the farmers.
• Poor land tenure system i.e fragmented land.
• Machines sometimes destroy the ecology of the soil.

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3. Difference between small scale agriculture and large scale agriculture:

• In small scale farming, low output is produced compared to
large scale agriculture.
• Low quality is produced in small scale agriculture than in large
scale agriculture.
• Production is for minimum survival in small scale agriculture
while in commercial agriculture its in large amounts.
• Family labour is used in small scale farming while in large scale
agriculture, machines are used.
• Simple tools are used in small scale agriculture compared to
large scale agriculture.
• Mainly food crops are grown under small scale agriculture while
in large scale, cash crops are grown.
• Small scale farming is normally done on a small piece of land
while large scale farming is done on large scale.
• There is no specialisation in small scale farming while it is the
order of large scale farming.
(ii) Large scale agriculture is suitable for Rwanda because:
• Mechanisation is possible since it covers large pieces of
land unlike small scale farming.
• It produces high volumes of output.
• Tax base is widen from the produce.
• It leads to formation of industries.
• It encourages infrastructural development like roads.
• Employment opportunities are created.
• Specialisation is favourably carried out.
• It encourages field study and research.
• Large scale farming is easy for marketing.
4. Importance of farmer’s associations in Rwanda:
• They participate in the production of goods and services say in
agriculture, industry, transport among others.
• Marketing cooperatives help farmers to market their products
e.g. coffee, maize, tea etc.
• They participate actively in the transportation, collection and
storage of products.

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• They provide farmers with cheap inputs like fertilisers, hoes etc.
• They provide education to members and to the public on how
to use the fertilisers, new tools and new methods of production.
• They increase cooperation among the people and this brings
unity in the society.
• They help members to get credit facilities through mobilising
funds from financial institutions.
• They provide members with cheap consumer goods ie. they buy
in bulk and sale in smaller quantities at lower prices to members
than non members.

Remedial activity
1. How has agriculture improved the livelihood of the people
in your home area?
2. What has always hampered the development of agriculture
in your home area?
3. How would you be of help towards agricultural development
in your area?
Expected answers
1. Refer to arguments for agricultural development (on pages
327-328 in the Learner’s Book.)
2. Refer to the limitations of agriculture development in Rwanda
ie. (on pages 329-330 in the Learner’s Book.)
3. Allow different learners to express their views and attitudes
on ways of increasing agricultural productivity, (refer to the
Learner’s Book on pages 330-335.)
Extended and Consolidation activities
1. What characterises agriculture in your country?
2. How do you think a good land tenure system can help
agricultural development?
3. What kind of knowledge would you offer to farmers if you
were an agricultural expert/officer?

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Expected answers
1. Characteristics of agriculture in Rwanda:
• Subsistence production.
• Dependence on nature.
• Labour intensive.
• Low productivity
• Small scale peasant agriculture.
• Inadequate extension services.
• Etc.
2. How a good land tenure can help agriculture development:
• Registered land can be used as collateral security to
acquire loans and improve on production.
• Large scale production is encouraged eg. on leasehold
• Scientific methods can be used by establishing
demonstration farms eg. on leasehold land tenure
system.
• It is easy to extend socio economic infrastructure by
government e.g. on leasehold and freehold land tenure
systems.
• Under individual or private land ownership, there is
self-initiative to develop land.
Note: Be receptive to other relevant points.

3. The kind of knowledge that farmers need includes:

• How to conserve soils.
• Use of pesticides, fertilisers etc.
• Farm management techniques.
• Selection of better crops and animal breeds.
• Market conditions on supply and demand for farm in
puts and products.
• How to carry out crop rotation.
• Record keeping.
• Types of agricultural machinery and how they are used.
• The basics of prim
• ary health care.

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 Topic Area 5: Development Economics
Sub-topic Area 5.2: Development Process and Strategies

Unit 10: Industrial Development

Reference to learner’s text book pages 381-426

Unit competence
Learners will be able to analyse the contribution of development
strategies on the economy.

Prerequisites for this unit

In the previous unit we taught about the need for agricultural
development in Rwanda in order to attain self-sustaining growth.
However, there is also need to diversify the economy by developing
the economy away from the agricultural sector. They will develop
one another through linkages and therefore bring about quick
economic growth and development. This unit will entirely look
at merits and demerits of industrial development in Rwanda and
its limitations. Learner’s should be engaged in discussions about
industrial development and propose possible strategies that Rwanda
should undertake to develop industrialisation in their economy.

Cross-cutting issues to be addressed

While teaching this topic, it will be important to emphasise the
cross cutting issue of environmental studies because industrial
development could be a thought to the environment therefore it’s
important to equip learners with skills of environment protection.

Generic competences
• Co-operation and interpersonal management are competences
developed through any group activities assigned to learners.
• Communication skills is gained through presentation of
findings.

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• Critical thinking is a competence gained through analysing

the applicability of different industrial approaches.
• Lifelong learning is developed as learners engage in research
activities.
Vocabulary or key words or concepts in the unit
Appropriate technology: This is the type of technology which is
socially and economically suitable for a given society or country.
Backward linkages: This is when an original firm within an
industry leads to establishment of another in which the original
firm provides market.
Capital saving technique: This is one that uses more proportions of
labour than machines. It can be called labour intensive technique.
Development strategy: This is a set of guidelines which a country
should follow in formulating and implementing long term policies
meant for development.
Export promotion industry strategy: This is a strategy undertaken
by the government to set up industries that produce goods and
services for export so as to increase foreign exchange. It can also
be called outward looking industrial strategy.
Forward linkage: This is when an original firm within an industry
leads to establishment of another that uses its products as raw
materials.
Infant industries: These are industries which have just started
operating and therefore have a small market, low output and high
average costs.
Import substitution strategy: This is a strategy undertaken by
countries to produce goods that were formerly imported so as to
reduce the outflow of forex. It can also be called import substitution
strategy.
Intermediate technology: This is the type of technology which
is mid way between the modern technology and the traditional
primitive technology.
Labour saving technique of production: This is a technique that
uses more proportions of machines than labour. It is also called
capital intensive technique.

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Technique: This is any alternative method of production available

to produce goods and services.
Technology transfer: This is the movement/shifting of new efficient
production techniques from one economy to another mainly from
developed economies to developing economies/countries.
Technology development: This refers to the process of introducing
and initiating new technology through improving the local/
indigenous production techniques.
Guidance on the problem statement
You can for example give a case study on any industrial issue at the
beginning of the lesson and task them to make research about it in
their respective groups or pairs. In the due course of the unit, they
will discover more about industrialisation in and outside Rwanda
and develop an attitude towards industrial development in Rwanda.
In this case, the problem statement is as follows:

• As an economics student, if a friend asked you to describe

an industry, how would you answer him/her?
• Is there any signs of industrial development in Rwanda?
Expected answers
• An industry is a collection of firms.
• The learner names/mentions the industries or industrial works
he/she had seen or heard about in Rwanda.
Attention to special education needs
Learners with physical impairment
Learners with physical impairment may show challenges in using
their hands to write, sitting in class, using the toilet, walking or
climbing stairs, etc. Such learners may also display excessive
fatigue after performing light duties.
This category of learners can be helped in the following ways:
Ask other learners to help them to move around, sit the learner in
a place where they can move in and out of class easily, give them
more time and practice to write, copy important notes for them
on paper, if it takes them too much time to copy work. Ensure a
friendly school environment e.g,the building ramps on all entries
to rooms, network with organisations that can provide wheelchairs,

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allow them more time to complete their tasks and encourage other
learners to treat them with respect and dignity.

Learners with special abilities

This kind of learners understand concepts very fast because
they are extremely intelligent. They complete tasks faster than
others, get bored faster due to early completion of tasks and can
be disruptive due to idleness. Provide them with extra activities
so as to keep them occupied, assign them to assist other learners,
provide counselling sessions where necessary.

Time takers
Such learners take time to understand what has been taught. Do not
reprimand them or show them they are poor compared to others.
Give them more attention, be more patient with them, guide them
carefully and create time for them after the lesson. Tell them
they can do better, and ensure they understand a sub-topic before
teaching the next.

Learners with visual impairment

Learners with visual impairment experience problems with their
vision. Some learners may experience low vision and others may
have no vision at all. You can notice such learners because they
display the following characteristics:
They write unusually large letters, often scratch their eyes, cannot
focus in bright light, and cannot focus on distant objects.
Use the following strategies to assist them:
Sit them in the placewhere they can see clearly ,write with yellow
chalk on a clean chalkboard ,encourage them to sit at the front of
the class, use large and legible handwriting on the chalkboard,
use large charts and other visual aids ,ensure good colour contrast
on learning aids, and give the learner real objects to use.

Learners with hearing impairment

These learners have a problem with their ability to hear. They
may be partially or completely unable to hear. They display signs
such as:
Turning their heads towards the source of sound, shout when
talking, regularly consult those sitted next, delay to respond, have
irrelevant responses,pay less attention,and they always look at the
lips of the person talking to them.

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Refer such learners to an ear specialist, and assist them in the

process of learnin. You can look at the learner when speaking,
speak clearly and loudly, write instructions on the chalkboard,
be audible enough ,encourage the learner to sit at the front in
class and regularly check their notes to ensure they are writing
the right things. Give the learners a slate (urubaho) to help them
communicate, speak slowly and use simple words.

Learners with communication disorders

These learners cannot communicate effectively because of speech
and language difficulties e.g. inability to interpret simple statements
easily giving up on description tasks due to frustration, stammering
and difficulty in explaining things.
Refer them to a speech therapist, avoid interrupting them when
they are talking, display high level of patience,pay attention to
all their needs,demonstrate various concepts and give them clear
instructions.

Learners with behavioural disorders

Learners with behavioural disorders do not conform to the expected
kind of behaviour laid down in school rules and regulations. They
may show behaviour disorder such as: truancy, stealing, failure
to complete tasks, disrupting lessons through playing, fighting
others etc.
To assist such learners; reinforce their positive behaviour through
rewards, involve parents or guardians in correcting such behaviours,
and refer them to a counsellor if necessary.
List of lessons/ lesson map on Industrial development
Lesson 1: Industrial development and classification of industries in
Rwanda.
Lesson 2: Advantages and disadvantages and problems of industrial
development.
Lesson 3: Industrial development approaches- Capital intensive
technology.
Lesson 4: Labour intensive technology.
Lesson 5: Intermediate technology.
Lesson 6: Appropriate technology.
Lesson 7: Technological transfer.

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Lesson 8: Technology development.

Lesson 9: Small scale industries.
Lesson 10: Large scale industries.
Lesson 11: Import substitution industrial strategy.
Lesson 12: Export promotion industrial strategy.
Lesson 13: Unit assessment.

Lesson 1: Industrial development and
classification of industries in Rwanda

Learner’s Book pages 383-384

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the meaning of industrial development.
• Classify industries according to activities, ownership and
location.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the previous unit on agriculture development and relate
it to the new unit of industrial development. Let learners define
industrial development.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, internet, and
relevant economics sources.
Learning activities
Step 1: Task learners in pairs discuss to do Activity 1 (i), (ii) and
(iii). Move around in groups guiding their discussions.
Step 2:Invite a few pairs to present their findings to the rest of the
class. Facilitate the discussions and presentations. Write questions
from learners about the lesson/activity and give satisfying answers.
Expected answers
(i) Smelting, parking, shoe making and tailoring.
(ii) An industry is a collection of firms.
(iii) Manufacturing, processing, assembling etc.

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Synthesis
You and the learners discuss and agree on the photos in the
Learner’s Book page 382. You can give other industries in Rwanda
that are not mentioned by learners neither are they mentioned /
indicated in the book.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask questions to learners to check whether learning objectives
were achieved. For example;
• Apart from the above mentioned industrial activities, what
other examples from Rwanda can you give?
• Giving examples in each case, explain the types of industries.
Expected answers
Examples of industrial activities:
• Fishing
• Quarrying.
• Brewing
• Tourism.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.

Types of industries
• Primary industries. e.g. mining, fishing, quarrying, lumbering etc.
• Secondary industries. e.g. manufacturing, brewing,
processing leather tanning etc.
• Tertiary industries. e.g. Tourism, clearing and forwarding,
construction etc.

Lesson 2: Advantages and disadvantages and
problems of industrial sector development

Learner’s Book pages 385-387

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of industrial
development.
• Describe the problems facing the industrial sector in Rwanda.
• Appreciate the need for industrial development.
• Suggest measures to industrial development in Rwanda.

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Prerequisites for the lesson

Refer to the previous lesson and ask learners to why they think it
is important to develop industries.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners through debate, present their arguments for or
against industrial development in Rwanda. (Refer to Activity 1 (iv)
page 382 in the Learner’s Book.)

Expected answers for Activity 1 (iv)

Advantages of industrial development.
• Industry enhances faster rates of economic growth.
• Prices of industrial products tend to be stable for a long
period.
• Industry provides forward and backward linkages to
agriculture.
• Industry requires relatively less land.
• Prices of industrial products are high, so the industrial
sector fetches more money for the economy both locally
and internationally.
• Increases foreign exchange.
• Provides more employment opportunities.
• It facilitates infrastructural growth.
Disadvantages of industrial development:
• Industry pollutes the environment.
• Industry worsens rural-urban migration and its side effects
like slum development in urban centers, congestion of traffic
and underdevelopment of rural areas, etc.
• Industry increases capital flight; the foreign industrialists who
are the majority in the sector take back all the benefits from
the sector rather than re-investing it in developing countries.
• Industry increases technological unemployment in LDCs.
• Industry strains the government budget.
• Industrial leads to environmental degradation.

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Step 2: Learners through general class discussions describe the

problems facing the industrial sector and suggest possible measures
to improve industrial sector in LDCs.
Expected answers
Problems facing the industrial sector in LDCs.
• Narrow supply of quality raw materials.
• Limited supply of skilled personnel.
• Underdeveloped infrastructures.
• Limited capital funds.
• Competition from developed countries.
• Conservatism of people in developing countries.
N.B: Be open minded through out the discussion.
Possible measures to industrial development in LDCs.
• Liberalisation of the economy.
• Form different economic groupings to create market amongst
themselves.
• Ensuring peace and security.
• Ensuring a conducive macroeconomic environment.
• Rehabilitation and construction of major infrastructure.
Synthesis
Together with learners, harmonise the discussion with reference to
the Learner’s Book content notes. Emphasise to learners that much
as the industrial sector in LDCs faces some challenges it breaks
through and stand out in the economy.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess learners by asking them;
• Why they think it’s important to develop industries in
Rwanda.
• What problems face the industrial sector in Rwanda
specifically.
Expected answers
• To promote quick economic growth and development.
• To diversify the economy.
• To widen employment opportunities.
• To widen the tax base.

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• To attract both local and foreign investors.

• To promote and expand the export sector.
• To reduce government expenditure abroad through import
substitution industrial development.
• Refer to the problems of industrial sector in LDCs but explain
in Rwandan context.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.

Lesson 3: Industrial development approaches-
Capital intensive technology

Learner’s Book pages 388-391

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the advantages and disadvantages of capital intensive
industrial approach.
• Describe the limitations of capital intensive technology in
Rwanda.
• Evaluate the applicability of capital intensive technology
industrial approach to Rwanda’s economy.
• Choose the appropriate industrial approach for industrial
development in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Basing on the background of the previous lesson on industrial
development, introduce approaches to industrial development.
Task learners to do Activity 2 (i) and (ii) from the Learner’s Book
page 388.
Expected answers
(i) The machines are many while the people are few.
(ii) Capital intensive technique is technique that uses more
proportion of machines than other factors of production like
labour.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and
relevant economics journals.

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Learning activities
Step 1: Learners through debate present their arguments for and
against capital intensive technology in industrial development.
(Refer to Activity 2 (iii) in the Learner’s Book page 388)

Expected answers
Advantages of capital intensive technique:
• The technique leads to production of better quality
commodities.
• It reduces the cost of supervision.
• It encourages and promotes better and efficient methods and
inputs that can lead to high output.
• It promotes proper utilisation of resources.
• It encourages technology transfer from developed nations to
developing nations and this leads to technology development
in the recipient countries.
Disadvantages of capital intensive technique:
• It leads to technological unemployment.
• It is expensive to install and maintain.
• It requires skilled manpower which is scarce in low
developing countries.
• It promotes capital outflow when buying the machines and
repairs.
• It worsens the balance of payment position when acquiring
the machines since they are expensive.
• It promotes income inequality because it creates technological
unemployment when people are replaced by machines.
Synthesis
Teacher together with learners, base on the content notes from the
Learner’s Book to harmonise the discussion. Consider what learners
have discussed and relate it to what is in the Learner’s Book.
Emphasise to learners that much as capital intensive techology is
good approach to industrial development, it may not help on the
problem of unemployment in LDCs especially Rwanda.
Assessment of the lesson
Refer to Activity 3 from the Learner’s Book page 391 to assess the
learner’s achievement of the learning objectives.

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Expected answers for Activity 3 Learner’s Book

page 391
Limitations of capital intensive technique:
• Inadequate capital by the people limits them to acquire the
required machines hence they resort to labour intensive
technique.
• High tax charged on the importation of the machines makes
people to shun away from them and they retain the labour.
• Inadequate market both internal and external discourages
people to use the capital intensive technique since the excess
supply will not have the market to consume it.
• Inadequate raw materials leading to constant importation
creating constant balance of payment problems.
• High operation costs due to large scale production. Affects
the operations of the business and it may result into increase
in prices.
• Underdeveloped infrastructure like roads limit the movement
of the machines and it may affect the development of the
technique of production.
• Requires developed technology which still lacks. In
developing countries, technology is still intermediate which
is still low and cannot produce the large quantities.

Lesson 4: Labour intensive technology

Learner’s Book pages 392-396

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the advantages and disadvantages of labour intensive
industrial approach.
• Describe the limitations of labour intensive technology in
Rwanda.
• Evaluate the applicability of labour intensive technology
industrial approach to Rwanda.
• Choose the appropriate industrial approach for industrial
development in Rwanda.

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Prerequisites for the lesson

Review the previous lesson of capital intensive technology link to
the day’s lesson of labour intensive technology. Task learners to do
Activity 4 (i) and (ii) from the Learner’s Book page 392.
Expected answers
(i) Photo A has many workers than photo B.
(ii) Labour intensive technique is that technique of production
that uses more proportion of labour than other factors of
production like machines.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economics text books, internet
access, and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Learners through debate present their arguments for or against
labour intensive techniques of production. (Refer to Activity 4
(iii) page 392).
Expected answers for Activity 4 (iii) Learner’s Book
page 392
Advantages of labour intensive technique:
• It is cheap and easily affordable since it uses mostly labour.
• It is a source of employment to the people and this reduces
the unemployment problem in the country.
• It helps in income distribution since the number of the
unemployed is low. The technique employs more labour.
• It requires little/limited skills. The techniques may not
need complicated skills compared to the capital intensive
technique.
• It reduces social costs such as pollution. The technique does
not involve extrusion of fumes on land, water and atmosphere
therefore it does not degrade the atmosphere.
• Increased employment increases aggregate demand and
investment.

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Disadvantages of labour intensive technique:

• There is low productivity compared to capital intensive
technique. This is because the labour cannot do the work as
quick as the machines do.
• It becomes costly in the long run in terms of feeding, med-
care among others and this increases the costs of production
compared to when machines are used.
• The technique produces low quality output because of the
low skills possessed by the workers.
• Underutilisation of resources is common since the labour
cannot cover wide areas during the production process.
Synthesis
Together with learners, based on the content notes in the Learner’s
Book pages 392-396, harmonise their discussion and learners take
down notes.
Assessment of the lesson
Task learners to do Activity 5 page 394 from the Learner’s Book
on limitations of labour intensive technique of production.
Expected answers
Limitations of labour intensive technique:
• There is inadequate labour due to rural urban migration most
young people leave rural areas. This leaves industries with
no option but capital intensive techniques.
• Need to produce good quality output. This calls for capital
intensive technique so as to get output that can compete at
the bigger stage in the market.
• Increase in demand calls for increased supply which can only
be done by capital intensive techniques.
• Specialisation requires more use of machines since it requires
use of expansive land or covers wide industrial areas.
• Production where human judgment is not needed can be
easily done by machines compared to labour when the major
aim is to maximise output.
• In the long run it may be costly because of the expenditures
on medication, housing allowances among others.

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• Government policy of standardisation may not be put into

consideration by labour intensive techniques but rather
capital intensive techniques.

Lesson 5: Intermediate technology

Learner’s Book pages 396-399.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Describe the features of intermediate technology industrial
approach.
• Analyse the advantages and disadvantages of using
intermediate technology industrial approach to Rwanda.
• Evaluate the applicability of intermediate technology
industrial approach to Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Refer to the previous lesson and guide learners to discover that
intermediate technology lies between capital intensive technology
and labour intensive technology. Task the learners to do Activity
6 (1), (2), (3) page 396 in the Learner’s Book.
Expected answers
1. Maize milling, water drawing.
2. Between modern and traditional.
3. Intermediate technology is the type of technology which is
mid-way between the modern technology and the traditional-
primitive technology.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economic textbooks, internet,
and relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in pairs describe through presentation the features
of intermediate technology. Learners give relevant examples about
the intermediate technology.
Expected answers
• Fairly simple to use.

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• Uses local materials.

• Cheap and affordable.
• Manageable by the majority of the people.
• Environmental friendly
• Neither primitive nor modern.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.
Step 2: Task learners in groups to do Activity 6 (4) and (5) and
present thereafter.
Expected answers
1. Advantages of intermediate technology:
• It leads to increased output because the technology
used is better than the rudimentary tools. This leads
to economic growth.
• It promotes development of skills of the people since
it is mid-way the developed and primitive methods.
• It encourages efficient utilisation of resources in an
economy since it may not underutilise or overutilise
the resources.
• It increases labour productivity because it uses tools
advanced than the traditional ones so labour is able to
exercise its skills.
2. Disadvantages of intermediate technology:
• Underutilisation of resources. The technology used
may not fully exploit the available resources.
• It slows down economic growth since the output is low
it may not enable growth and development to move at
the same pace.
• Starvation may result when the output produced is not
able to satisfy the people in the society.
• Low quality output is produced and this may not fetch
enough foreign exchange for the country.
3. Limitations of intermediate technology:
• The need to improve output by the producers has
enabled them to go for the modern technology instead
of developing the intermediate one.

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• The issue of standardisation calls for technology that

can produce good quality output that is able to compete
favourably at the world market.
• External foreign influence hinders the development of
the intermediate technology in our society.
• The government is not doing enough to develop
intermediate technology, its instead interested in
modern technology that quickens development.
• The low level of funds in LDCs has hindered research
about techniques that are developed from primitive to
semi-modern in the economy.
Synthesis
Together with learners, based on the content notes in the Learner’s
Book pages 396-399, harmonise it with the discussion and let
learners write down some notes.
Assessment of the lesson
Task learners to identify with examples fom Rwanda the forms of
intermediate technology.
(Allow learners to give different examples from their home areas or
in the country at large. For example, groundnut shellers, bricklaying
machines, power driven sewing machines, excavators etc.)

Lesson 6: Appropriate technology

Learner’s Book pages 399-402.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain what an appropriate technology is.
• Describe its characteristics.
• Analyse its arguments for and against and limitations in
Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Use the background of the previous lessons to introduce the
appropriate technology. Task learners to do Activity 7 (i) and (ii)
pages 399-400 to make them understand appropriate technology.

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Expected answers for Activity 7 (i) &(ii):

(i) Appropriate technology is the type of technology which is
socially and economically suitable for a given society or
country.
(ii) Characteristics of appropriate technology:
• It should be simple and comparatively cheap.
• It should be manageable by the majority of the people.
• It should make use of local resources.
• It should meet the local needs.
• It should solve the local problems of the country. For
instance, it must create employment opportunities; it
must solve the problem income inequality; and it must
generate economic growth.
• It should encourage capital formation and stimulate
growth.
• It should be ecologically sound.
• It should improve efficiency and productivity.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, and relevant
economic journal.
Learning activities
Step 1: Task learners to do Activity 7 (iii) through groups and
present to the rest of the class. Facilitate the discussions and
presentations.
Expected answers for Activity 7 (iii) Learner’s Book
page 400.
Advantages of appropriate technology:
• It is simple and comparatively cheap compared to intermediate
and modern technology and this makes it affordable.
• It is manageable by the majority of the people.
• It makes use of local resources and therefore reduces
importation of raw materials that may lead to foreign
exchange outflow.
• It meets the local needs of the people and so it is sufficient
for them.

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• It solves the local problems of the country. For instance, it

creates employment opportunities; it solves the problem of
income inequality; and it generates income for economic
growth.
Limitations of appropriate technology:
• Low levels of funds hinder research on the techniques that
suit the economy.
• Low levels of skills and education hinders innovation and
invention of the methods that suit the economy.
• Low levels of innovation and inventions retards the growth
of the technology.
• External foreign influence brings in the complicated
technology that hinders the development of the one
appropriate to our society.
• The government is not doing enough to develop appropriate
technology it is instead interested in modern technology that
quickens development.
Synthesis
Together with learners base on the content in the Learner’s Book
pages 399-400 to harmonise the discussion and let learners write
down notes. Emphasise to learners that once the technique is not
appropriate for a given society, it may achieve less success.
Assessment of the lesson
Give homework on the lesson to check the achievement of the
learning objectives.
With convincing reasons, what would you support to be the
appropriate technology for Rwanda’s industrial development?
(Learners can either give labour intensive or capital intensive
or intermediate technology and support it with it’s features and
advantages).

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Lesson 7: Technological transfer

Learner’s Book pages 402-405.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Examine the need for technological transfer.
• Describe the demerits and limitations of technological
transfer.
• Acknowledge the role of technological transfer towards
industrial development in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Briefly review the previous approach to industrial development
and link them to technology transfer.
Teaching aids
Economics textbook related to the unit, internet, newspaper with
economics related issues on the unit and relevant economics
journals.
Learning activities
Learners through debate present arguments for and against
technology transfer in LDCs. (Refer to Activity 8 in the Learner’s
Book page 402.)
Expected answers for Activity 8 Learner’s Book
page 402.
Advantages of technology transfer:
• It helps to overcome backwardness.
• It accelerates the rate of economic growth.
• It increases productivity.
• It reduces the technology gap.
• It develops key industries and basic infrastructure.
• It exploitation of resources involves high risks.
Demerits of technology transfer:
• High costs in buying technology and the raw materials.
• Technological dependence.
• Retards the development of local entrepreneurship.
• Tax evasion in form of tax holidays retards development.

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• Social tensions caused by wage differentials.

• Unemployment problem is not solved.
• In most case MDCs transfer discarded technology to LDCs.
Synthesis
Together with learners, base on the content notes in the Learner’s
Book pages 402-404 to harmonise the discussions.
Assessment of the lesson
Task learners to explain the limitations of technology transfer
particularly in Rwanda. (refer to Activity 9 in the Learner’s Book)
Expected answers for Activity 9 in the Learner’s
Book.
Limitations of technology transfer:
• Small size of domestic market can hardly support the output
that will be produced by the advanced technology.
• Lack of basic infrastructure — transport, energy and a well-
developed banking system.
Lack of skilled labour to operate
the machines and technology will lead to use of foreign
expatriates who are expensive.
• Strict foreign exchange controls.
• Political and economic instability affects the use of machines
and may on the other hand distort the installations of the
technology.
• Heavy taxes like the heavy custom duties limit the importers
of technology.

Lesson 8: Technology development

Learner’s Book pages 406-408.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of technological
development.
• Analyse the limitations of technological development in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the previous approach to industrial development and link
to technology development. Guide learners to discover that a

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country should try as much as it can to develop its own technology

to reduce the much expenditure out and avoid the negative effects
of technological transfer. Tell learners that technology transfer is
the opposite of technology development.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economics textbooks, and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups do Activity 10 in the Learner’s Book
page 406.
Step 2: Learners present the groups’ findings as you facilitate their
discussions.
Expected answers
(i) Technology development refers to the process of introducing
and initiating new technology through improving the local/
indigenous production techniques.
(ii) Advantages of technology development:
• Overcoming capital deficiency.
• Development of infrastructure.
• Development of basic industries.
• Initiation of risky ventures.
• Creation of employment opportunities.
• National productivity.
• Overcoming balance of payment problems.
Disadvantages of technology development:
• High social costs like pollution from machines lead to
environmental degradation that may be harmful to the people.
• High rates of resource exhaustion.
• Promotes dependence on other countries for machines and
expatriates and this may limit the country to be self-reliant.
• Promotes capital outflow when buying the machines and
repairs.
• Worsens the balance of payment position when acquiring the
machines since they are expensive.
• Promotes income inequality because it creates technological
unemployment.

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• It is expensive to install and maintain.

• It requires skilled manpower which is scarce in LDCS.
Limitations of technology development:
• Inadequate entrepreneurship skills to develop and maintain
the technology is still a major obstacle.
• Inadequate capital by the people limits them to acquire the
machines hence they resort to labour intensive technique.
• High tax charged on the importation of the machines makes
people to shun away from them and they retain the labour.
• Inadequate market both internal and external discourages
people to embrace technology development since the excess
supply will not have the market to use it.
• Inadequate raw materials lead to constant importation and
this creates constant balance of payment problems.
• High operation costs due to large scale production.
• Underdeveloped infrastructure like roads limit the movement
of machines, etc.
Synthesis
Base on the lesson content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 406-
408 to harmonise the learners’ discussions. Tell learners that the
success of any country’s industrial development depends highly
on how much technology it has invested in it.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the lesson by asking learners relevant questions, e.g.
• Give examples to show Rwanda is steadily developing it’s
technology.
• Would you prefer Rwanda’s economy to have technology
transfer or technology reasons for your answer?

Lesson 9: Small scale industries

Learner’s Book pages 409-412.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain characteristics of small scale industries.

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• Examine the advantages and disadvantages of small scale

industries in an economy.
• Discuss the limitations of small scale industries in an
economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Refer learners to the first lesson of the unit, about what an industry
is. After defining an industry by show of hands, tell them that
industry can be small scale or large scale. Task learners to do
Activity 11 in the Learner’s Book page 409.
Expected answers
(i) The activities in the photos are of small scale.
(ii) Small scale industries are shown in the photos.
(iii) Features of small scale industries.
• They employ few workers.
• They normally produce low quantity output.
• The technology used is not so much developed.
• Low quality output is produced.
• Start-up capital is always low.
• They occupy small working areas.
• They are run by their owners.
Teaching aids
Economics textbook related to the unit, internet, newspapers
with economics related issues on the unit and relevant economics
journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Task learners to do Activity 12 page 410. Through debate,
learners present the arguments for and against small scale industries.

Expected answers for Activity 12 Learner’s Book

page 410
Advantages of small scale industries:
• Small scale industries can easily tap local skills and savings
especially in the rural areas. These savings can be used to
finance further development.
• Small scale industries are easy and cheap to finance as
opposed to the large scale industries. They require less

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capital, energy and skilled labour. Their import requirements

are usually small thus serving to minimise on foreign
exchange outflow.
• They facilitate decentralisation and diversification of
economic activities and stimulate integration of different
sectors of the economy. They have both forward and
backward linkages.
• Small scale industries can be widely spread throughout the
country thus taking jobs to the people and reducing rural-
urban migration. They provide an alternative employment to
people who may not be gainfully employed in agriculture.
• Small scale industries usually offer means of livelihood to
weaker sections of the community like women and people
with disabilities. They produce relatively cheap products
within the means of the people.
Disadvantages of small scale industries:
• Low output is produced since the industries are working on
a small scale.
• It may cause pollution of the environment since they are small
and can easily be created with minimum incomes.
• Wasteful competition may lead to duplication of goods and
services and wastage of resources.
• It may lead to public revenue instabilities since production
cannot be relied upon. It also leads to high rate of tax
avoidance and evasion.
• It operates at low capacity due to the small units of capital
they possess and this may create shortage at the market.
• They don’t enjoy economies of scale. They operate at high
costs and this increases the prices so as to cover the costs
of production.
Synthesis
Together with learners, base on the content notes on small scale
industries in the Learner’s Book page 409-410, to harmonise their
discussion and learners take down notes.

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Assessment of the lesson

Task learners to identify the limitations of small scale industries
in Rwanda.
Expected answers
• Lack of entrepreneurial ability.
• Lack of effective demand.
• Poor infrastructural development.
• Lack of credit facilities.
• Unstable supply of raw materials
• Inadequate spare parts etc.

Lesson 10: Large-scale industries

Learner’s Book pages 413-417.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain characteristics of large scale industries.
• Examine the advantages and disadvantages of large scale
industries in an economy.
• Discuss the limitations of large scale industries in an
economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Introduce the lesson by telling learners that industries may be on
small or large scale. Task learners to do Activity 13 in the Learner’s
Book page 413.
Expected answers
(i) The activities in the photos are on large scale.
(ii) Large scale industries.
(iii) Features of large scale industries:
• They have large capital equipment inform of machinery.
• They operate on large areas.
• Output produced is high.
• Good quality is produced.
• They employ large number of workers ie. both skilled
and unskilled.
• They have large turn over at the end of the year.

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• They produce for both local and foreign market

Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other text books that you will recommend, internet
access, and other relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step1: Task learners in groups to discuss the arguments for and
against establishment of large scale industries in Rwanda. Refer
to Activity 14 page 416 in the Learner’s Book.
Step 2: Groups present their findings to the whole class through
discussions.
Expected answers
Advantages of large scale industries:
• Infrastructure development: Infrastructure like buildings and
roads among others develop where these industries operate
and this leads to the development of the area.
• They create employment opportunities. This is because the
industries are large and require large number of workers to
operate the machines as well as doing the casual work.
• Revenue to the government. The industries as well as the
people working in them are taxed by the government. This
increases revenue needed for development.
• They earn foreign exchange to the country. Some of them
produce goods for export hence they are able to earn foreign
exchange to the country.
• Technology development. Due to the size and the need
to produce large output, the industries tend to develop
technology to use. In so doing, technology is able to develop
which in turn reduces technology dependence.
• They produce a variety of goods for the local people. The
industries produce a variety of consumer goods that people need.
• They lead to the development of other industries eg. sugar
industry may lead to the development of sweet industry.
• Good quality helps in uplifting the standards of living of
the people.
• They provide market for the local resources as raw materials.

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Disadvantages of large scale industries:

• They are mostly owned by foreign companies hence profit
repatriation. This leaves the country with little earnings.
• There is technological unemployment because they tend to be
capital intensive as opposed to labour intensive technology.
• The industries cause pollution and environmental degradation
since they operate large machines which pollute the
environment.
• They require lots of capital to start, which may result into
constant borrowing and debts that may affect the country
during times of development.
• They face diseconomies of scale due to over expansion and
this creates increase in the costs of production which in turn
may raise the prices.
• They tend to out compete small scale industries leading to
their closure.
Synthesis
Together with learners, base on the the lesson content notes in the
Learner’s Book pages 413 -417 and other sources of economics,
to harmonise the discussion and let learners take notes.
Assessment of the lesson
Task learners to discuss the limitations of large scale industries
refer to Activity 15 in the Learner’s Book page 416.
Expected answers for Activity 15 Learner’s Book page
416
Limitations of large scale industries:
• Heavy taxes levied by government.
• Competition from abroad.
• Political instabilities and unrests with in developing countries.
• A small size of the market.
• A limited supply of skilled personnel.
• Underdeveloped infrastructure eg. poor roads in LDCs.
• Limited capital funds to expand.
• Difficulty in disposing off industrial waste.
• Narrow supply of quality raw materials.

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Lesson 11: Import substitution industrial strategy

Learner’s Book pages 417-420.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the objectives of import substitution industrial strategy.
• Identify different examples of import substitution industries
in Rwanda.
• Present arguments for and against import substitution
industrial strategy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the previous lesson of small and large scale industries
together with learners. Task learners in pairs to do Activity 16
pages 417-418 in the Learner’s Book and share their views to the
whole class.
Expected answers
(i) Cement parking, iron sheet making.
(ii) Why the products shown are now made in Rwanda.
• Government policy.
• Need to reduce BOP problems.
• Need to utilise the local resources.
• Need to conserve the scarce resources.
• Presence of funders.
(iii) Import substitution industries are those industries that
produce goods that were formerly imported, so as to reduce
the outflow of forex. Examples include cement industries,
iron sheet industries, cloth making industries, etc.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other text books that you will recommend and
other economics sources.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners, through debate, present their arguments for or
against import substitution industrial strategy. (Refer to Activity
17 pages 418 in the Learner’s Book.)

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Expected answers for Activity 17 Learner’s Book page

418
Arguments in favour of the strategy:
• Infant industries are encouraged to grow since there will
be no importation from outside countries. This leads to
industrialisation of the nation.
• Employment is created especially when the industries use
labour intensive technique of production.
• Economic dependence is reduced because industries produce
commodities which were once imported.
• Imported inflation is checked because the country is now
able to produce its own goods and no need to import from
other countries.
• The tax base of the country is widened since the industries
can be taxed and the people also contribute to the revenue
of the country.
• Facilitates industrial development in the country.
• Infrastructure like roads, communication lines will be
developed.
• Resource utilisation is improved.
Arguments against import substitution strategy:
• It encourages profit repatriation because most of the industries
are owned by foreigners so they take back the profits to their
mother countries.
• Most industries set up use capital intensive techniques and
this leads to technological unemployment.
• It encourages protectionism of the small industries but this
leads to inefficiency and poor quality goods.
• Most industries set up produce at very high cost because of
shortage of man power, importation of raw materials and this
leads to increase in the prices.
• The domestic market may not be enough because the
industries produce high rates of output and this leads to price
fluctuation.
• It worsens the BOP position of the country because it requires
importation of equipment and skilled man power.

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• Over exploitation of resources may lead to resource

exhaustion.
• It promotes borrowing and dependence and this leads to
debt burden.
Synthesis
Based on the learners’ discussions, with reference to the content
notes in the Learner’s Book page 419 and any other economics
source, harmonise the points and let learners take down notes.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess learners to check whether the learning objectives were
achieved, giving them homework on limitations of import
substitution industrial strategy in Rwanda.
Expected answers
• Inadequate raw materials.
• Limited domestic market.
• Limited access to credit facilities.
• Poor or undeveloped infrastructure.
• High demonstration effect.
• Inadequate entrepreneurial skills.
• High cost unreliable power.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.

Lesson 12: Export promotion industrial strategy

Learner’s Book pages 421-424.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Contrast import substitution and export promotion industrial
strategies.
• Explain the advantages, disadvantages and limitations of
export promotion industrial strategy.
• Recommend the suitable strategy for Rwanda’s industrial
development.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Base on the previous lesson of import substition to introduce the
new lesson of export promotion. Guide learners to know that export

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promition is the opposite of import substitution. Task learners in

pairs to do Activity 18 page 421 in the Learner’s Book.
Expected answers for Activity 18 Learner’s Book 421
(i) Coffee and flowers and they are majorly for sell or export.
(ii) Export promotion industries are those set up by government
to produce goods and services for export so as to increase
foreign exchange. Examples are; beer industries, flower
industries, coffee, and tea industries, etc.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other textbooks recommended by teacher, and
other sources.
Learning activities
Step 1: Task learners in groups to discuss on the arguments for and
against export promotion industrial strategy. (Refer to Activity 19
in the Learner’s Book page 422.)
Expected answers
Argument in favour of the strategy:
• The strategy increases supply of foreign exchange from
exports and improves upon the country’s balance of payment
position.
• The strategy generates more employment opportunities
especially when the industries set up use labour intensive
techniques of production.
• It encourages resource exploitation and utilisation. These
such as land and raw materials will be put to full use when
these industries are set up.
• It widens the tax base of the country since the industries are
taxed.
• It creates markets for other sectors because of the many
industries creating linkages among themselves e.g.
agriculture and industry for raw materials.
• It strengthens international relations.
• It promotes the manufacturing sector.
• It promotes economic growth.
• It encourages production of quality output.
• The strategy encourages diversification of exports.

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Arguments against export promotion strategy:

• The strategy encourages dependency on other countries’
market rather than self-reliance as a target of development.
• The strategy advocates for production for the external market,
it abides by the principles and rules of other nations rather
than those at home. The country loses its independence to
other nations.
• Shortages may arise locally since all produce is exported.
This delays development of the nation.
• The nation is subjected to the stiff international competition;
failure to meet the international standards output fails the
entire strategy and cause losses to the country.
• Developing countries may fail to advertise their products
and this causes them to lose market.
Synthesis
Together with learners, base on the discussion and content in
the Learner’s Book pages 422-424 and other related sources, to
harmonise the discussion and let learners take down notes.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the lesson by tasking learners to identify the limitations of
export promotion strategy in Rwanda.
Expected answers
• Lack of enough raw materials.
• Production of similar commodities in LDCs
• Protectionism by MDCs.
• Poor technology.
• Undeveloped infrastructure
Note: Be open minded to all correct answers.

Lesson 13: Unit assessment

Learner’s Book page 424.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to analyse the
contribution of development strategies on the economy.

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Prerequisites for the lesson

Sit learners in groups of at least 4-5 members and provide them
with end of unit assessment by referring to the Learner’s Book page
424. Give them clear instructions on how to do the assessment.
Teaching aids
Classroom environment, printed assessment sheets and answer
sheets and the Learner’s Book page 424.
Learning activities
Step 1: Distribute preprinted/ written assessment sheets and answer
sheets to learners in their groups.
Step 2: Learners in their groups start discussing and answering the
questions given and the teacher supervises them.
Step 3: When time is over, collect their written work for marking
and for correction.
Synthesis
Refer to end unit assessment in the Learner’s Book on page 424
to have a general discussion with the rest of the class.
Assessment of the lesson
To check whether the learning objective was achieved, base on
the lesson synthesis, to ask more related questions and refer to
the answers of the end of unit assessment at the end of unit 10 in
this guide.

End of unit

Summary of the unit

This unit covers a number of approaches to industrial development
and their applicability to Rwanda’s economy. (Refer to the
Learner’s Book page 381-426).
It helps the learner to analyse their contributions on the economy.
The unit is introduced by a definition of industrial development
as; putting up manufacturing, processing, mining, and construction
plants among others with an aim of improving output and the
standards of living.
Industries in Rwanda are named and classified in the unit. Also,
the advantages, disadvantages, problems faced by industrial

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development are well handled. This will help the learner to describe
industry, and to explain signs of industrial development in Rwanda.

Additional information for the teacher

Industry and entrepreneurship development in Rwanda.
Rwandan economic development and the attainment of the goals
set out in the Vision 2020 rely to a large extent on industrial
development.
To understand the structural changes required for Rwandan industry
to move towards higher productivity activities and to identify
priority sectors and future industrial opportunities requires a
technical understanding of the industrial sector and a solid basis
on which to design and inform industrial policy.
The broad goals of Rwanda Industrial Policy are those stipulated
in the Vision 2020 and the Economic Development and
Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS): to create and build the
transformational industrial growth that would make Rwanda
regionally and internationally competitive.
These include promoting the growth of the economy with the target
of $900 GDP per capita by 2020 – requiring GDP growth of 8%
on average per annum. They also include the goal of structural
transformation, with industry accounting for 26% of GDP by 2020,
the national investment rate reaching 30% of GDP, and non-farm
employment reaching 1.4 million.
To achieve these high level goals, there are four main inputs
required for the growth of industry:

• Provide high quality and affordable infrastructure: create

attractive conditions for the development of economic
activities, by setting up industrial parks, as delimited
territorial areas, with quality and affordable infrastructure,
utilities and adequate effluent treatment services.
• Facilitate trade by removing barriers and promoting
standards and fostering greater integration into regional and
international trading networks.
• Promote an environment conducive for business and private
sector growth.

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Develop the human resources required by the growing industrial

and service sectors.
These key requirements lead to the following
key outputs:
• Increase the quality and quantity of existing exports
particularly through focusing on value addition.
• Promote the diversification of exports and production into
new sectors.
• Increase investment in industry and services and
• Ensure the environmental sustainability of industry through
treatment at source.
Together policy and initiatives in these areas can lead to the key
outcomes targeted:
• High GDP growth,
• Transformation of GDP shares,
• Employment creation and poverty reduction.
Priority programmes and activities
• Special economic zones project in Kigali.
• Provincial industrial parks programme for rural
industrialisation;
• Creation and promotion of viable and dynamic small and
medium enterprises (SMEs).
• Market access for sustainable business development.
Main achievements
Small and Medium Enterprise Policy and Strategy development.
The overall objective of the policy is to foster job creation and
an increase in the tax and export base through the promotion of
competitive new and existing SMEs in value addition.
To achieve this, below are the strategic objectives:
• Promote a culture of entrepreneurship among Rwandans
• Facilitate SME access to development services including
business development services.
• Access to local, regional and international markets and
market information.
• Promote innovation and technological capacity of SMEs for
competitiveness.

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• Put in place mechanisms for SMEs to access appropriate

business financing.
• Facilitate financial access for manufactures.
• SMEs Development Funds.
• Processing revolving funds supporting to buy farmer’s
produce.
• Facilitation in market access for sustainable business
development.
• Organisation of innovation workshop, provincial and national
competition towards innovative production and improving
the quality of products;
• Craft production centers and selling points development in
strategic area across the country.
• Facilitation to talented craft producers/SMEs to participate
in foreign trade fairs and exhibitions (SIAO in Burkina faso,
Bari in Italy, Shanghai – China, Jua-kali.
• Marketing plan for Rwandan craft products.

End of Unit 10 assessment answers (Learner’s Book page 424)

1. Advantages of industrial development:

• Industry enhances faster rates of economic growth.
• Prices of industrial products tend to be stable for a long period.
• Industry provides forward and backward linkages to agriculture.
• Prices of industrial products are high.
• Industry raises government tax revenue.
• Industry facilitates infrastructural growth.
• Industry provides more employment opportunities to all
nationals.
• Industry increases the availability of foreign exchange and
improves on the balance of payment position of the country.

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Problems faced by the industrial development:

• Difficulty in disposing off industrial waste.
• A narrow supply of quality raw materials.
• A limited supply of skilled personnel.
• Under developed infrastructure.
• Limited capital funds.
• Heavy taxes levied by government.
• Competition from abroad.
• A small size of the local market.
• Conservatism of the local native people.
2. Advantages of capital intensive technique:
• There is production of better quality commodities.
• It reduces the costs of supervision.
• It encourages and promotes better and efficient methods and
inputs that can lead to high output.
• It promotes proper utilisation of resources.
• It encourages technology transfer from developed nations to
developing nations.
• It is relatively cheap.
• It reduces industrial strike cases.
• It increases labour mobility from one place to another.
3. (i) Advantages of technology transfer:
• It helps to overcome backwardness.
• It accelerates the rate of economic growth.
• It increases productivity.
• It reduces the technology gap.
• It develops key industries and basic infrastructure.
• It makes products from LDCs more competitive.
• It saves time and financial resources.
(ii) Demerits of technology transfer:
• It involves high costs.
• It encourages technological dependence.
• It retards the development of local entrepreneurship.
• It encourages tax evasion by the large firms.
• It involves social tensions.

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• Unemployment problem is not solved.

• Outdated technology is brought.
4. Limitations of small scale industries:
• Lack of entrepreneurial ability.
• Lack of infrastructure — inadequate transport and energy
facilities.
• Inadequate or lack of foreign exchange to import equipment,
spares and raw materials.
• Lack of effective demand.
• Lack of credit facilities due to collateral required by banks to
enable them secure loans.
• They don’t enjoy economies of scale due to the little capital
they start with.
• There is unstable supply of raw materials since they mostly use
agricultural products which fluctuate constantly.
• There are inadequate spare parts to repair the machines and this
makes them to operate at excess capacity.
• There is lack of serious positive attitude towards local industries.

Remedial activity
(a) Give any industries you may know of in your country.
(b) How do you think they have impacted the areas they operate
from and the country at large?
Possible solutions
(a) Let learners give different industries in Rwanda. (Refer to
pages 383-384, Learner’s Book.)
(b) Refer to arguments for and against industrial development
in Rwanda. (Learner’s Book, pages 385-387)
Consolidation activity
(a) What do you understand by the term “made in Rwanda”
campaign?
(b) Why do you think there a made in Rwanda campaign?
(c) How has it impacted Rwanda’s economy?
(d) What should be done to promote the made in Rwanda policy?

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Expected answers
(a) Made in Rwanda campaign is a policy in Rwanda trying to
encourage Rwandan produce and consume local commodities
so as to promote self-reliance and reduce import expenditure.
(b) Made in Rwanda campaign was made to accelerate its
economy by producing a lot and exposing local products and
promoting and increasing the quantity to be exported rather
than imported.
(c) Refer to impacts of import substitution industrialisation in
the Learner’s Book, page 419.
(d) Sensitise the population to use local products and protect
home industries through heavy import duties, secure markets,
educate local entrepreneurs on better production technics.
Extended activity
(a) What examples can you site in Rwanda that have been set
up to produce commodities that were formerly imported into
Rwanda?
(b) How would you advise Rwanda to maintain and promote
efficiency in such industries?
Expected answers
(a) East African Granite Industries Ltd (construction items),
steelRwa Ltd, Great Lakes Cement Co Ltd, Cimerwa Ltd,
Kinazi Cassava Plant etc.
(b) Secure markets, improve on infrastructure, provide technical
assistance to boost their competitiveness, train senior
management labour force and general appraisal of such firms,
develop domestic technology, provide/avail cheap credit etc.

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 Topic Area 5: Development Economics
Sub-topic Area 5.2: Development Process And Strategies

Unit 11: Development Strategies

Reference to learner’s text book pages 429-449

Unit competence
Learners will be able to analyse the contribution of development
strategies on the economy.

Prerequisites for this unit

Alongside agricultural development and industrial development,
Rwanda has to take up other development strategies to foster
economic growth and development. For example, we need
skilled labour that requires a highly developed education system,
infrastructural development that aids production, finances to fund
such activities, etc. Therefore, this unit addresses such aspects as,
education, infrastructure, foreign aid, etc. so as to have better and
quick development of agriculture and industrialisation that will
spearhead economic growth and development. The unit introduces
to learners the aspects and their impact towards the development
process of Rwanda. Learners will develop a positive attitude
towards the struggle to development in their country.

Cross-cutting issues to be addressed

While teaching this topic, it will be important to emphasise the
cross cutting issue of standardisation culture, financial education
and gender education. This is because all these are important issue
in development.

Generic competences
• Co-operation and international management is developed as
the learner interacts with others in group activities.

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• Communication skills are gained through presentation of

findings.
• Critical thinking is also gained through analysing the
contribution of education to the development process of
Rwanda.
• Lifelong learning is also achieved through research.
Vocabulary or key words or concepts in the unit
Bilateral aid: This is a government to government aid, one country
giving aid to the other, major bilateral donors are; Great Britain,
U.S.A, China.
Direct foreign investment: These are resource transfers by foreign
business people in form of business companies or investments.
Education: This refers to the process of acquiring worthwhile
knowledge, skills and values that aid an individual to engage in
development activities of his/her country.
Economic infrastructure: This refers to internal facilities
of a country that make business activity possible, such as
communication, transportation, and distribution networks, financial
institutions and markets, and energy supply.
Formal education: This is a set of worthwhile knowledge, skills
and values obtained from organised institutions, monitored by
qualified personnel and following a well-made curriculum.
Foreign Aid: This is the international transfer of resources either
on loan or grant from one country to another.
Grants: These are resource transfers that do not require any
repayment.
Hard loan: This type of a loan attracts a high interest rate, a very
short or no grace period and a very short repayment period.
Informal education: This is a set of worthwhile knowledge, skills
and values obtained from outside the formal set up. This can be
got from anywhere, anyone especially an adult can be an instructor
and no organised curriculum, anything can be studied anytime.

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Infrastructure: This can broadly be defined as long-term physical

assets that operate in economies and enable the provision of goods
and services that are geared towards development of the country.
Loans: These are resource transfers which must be paid back with
or without interest.
Man power aid: These are resource transfers to developing
countries in form of high level qualified personnel like teachers,
economists, technicians, doctors, researchers, etc.
Medical aid: This is extended to developing countries in form
of drugs, medical research, and construction of health centers to
improve upon the health of people.
Multilateral aid: This is aid from multilateral companies and
international agencies. Major multilateral donors are; USAID, UN,
I.M.F, world bank among others.
Soft loans: These are given with a long grace period, long
repayment period and a very low or no interest at all.
Social Infrastructure: This is a combination of basic facilities
which are necessary for human development.
Tied aid: This is extended to the recipient country with strings
attached. It is sent to serve a specified purpose and sometimes in
a specified place.

Guidance on the problem statement

Learners have learnt different units that relate to the growth and
development path of Rwanda. Task them to think on any other
development aspect that can bring about sustainable growth and
development in Rwanda. This unit entirely deals with different
strategies that Rwanda need to put up in different sectors to spear
head her development goals. Learners will be tasked to critically
analyse some fields, their weaknesses and will develop an attitude
towards streamlining such areas or sectors. Try Activity 1 on page
430 in the Learner’s Book.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Attention to special education needs

Learners with physical impairment
Learners with physical impairment may show challenges in using
their hands to write, sitting in class, using the toilet, walking or
climbing stairs, etc. Such learners may also display excessive
fatigue after performing light duties.
This category of learners can be helped in the following ways:
Ask other learners to help them to move around, sit the learner in
a place where they can move in and out of class easily, give them
more time and practice to write, copy important notes for them
on paper, if it takes them too much time to copy work. Ensure a
friendly school environment e.g,the building ramps on all entries
to rooms, network with organisations that can provide wheelchairs,
allow them more time to complete their tasks and encourage other
learners to treat them with respect and dignity.

Learners with special abilities

This kind of learners understand concepts very fast because
they are extremely intelligent. They complete tasks faster than
others, get bored faster due to early completion of tasks and can
be disruptive due to idleness. Provide them with extra activities
so as to keep them occupied, assign them to assist other learners,
provide counselling sessions where necessary.

Time takers
Such learners take time to understand what has been taught. Do not
reprimand them or show them they are poor compared to others.
Give them more attention, be more patient with them, guide them
carefully and create time for them after the lesson. Tell them
they can do better, and ensure they understand a sub-topic before
teaching the next.

Learners with visual impairment

Learners with visual impairment experience problems with their
vision. Some learners may experience low vision and others may
have no vision at all. You can notice such learners because they
display the following characteristics:
They write unusually large letters, often scratch their eyes, cannot
focus in bright light, and cannot focus on distant objects.
Use the following strategies to assist them:

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Sit them in the placewhere they can see clearly ,write with yellow
chalk on a clean chalkboard ,encourage them to sit at the front of
the class, use large and legible handwriting on the chalkboard,
use large charts and other visual aids ,ensure good colour contrast
on learning aids, and give the learner real objects to use.

Learners with hearing impairment

These learners have a problem with their ability to hear. They
may be partially or completely unable to hear. They display signs
such as:
Turning their heads towards the source of sound, shout when
talking, regularly consult those sitted next, delay to respond, have
irrelevant responses, pay less attention,and they always look at the
lips of the person talking to them.
Refer such learners to an ear specialist, and assist them in the
process of learning. You can look at the learner when speaking,
speak clearly and loudly, write instructions on the chalkboard,
be audible enough, encourage the learner to sit at the front in
class and regularly check their notes to ensure they are writing
the right things. Give the learners a slate (urubaho) to help them
communicate, speak slowly and use simple words.

Learners with communication disorders

These learners cannot communicate effectively because of speech
and language problems e.g. inability to interpret simple statements
easily giving up on description tasks due to frustration, stammering
and difficulty in explaining things.
Refer them to a speech therapist, avoid interrupting them when
they are talking, display high level of patience,pay attention to
all their needs,demonstrate various concepts and give them clear
instructions.

Learners with behavioural disorders

Learners with behavioural disorders do not conform to the expected
kind of behaviour laid down in school rules and regulations. They
may show behaviour disorder such as: truancy, stealing, failure
to complete tasks, disrupting lessons through playing, fighting
others etc.
To assist such learners; reinforce their positive behaviour through
rewards, involve parents or guardians in correcting such behaviours,
and refer them to a counsellor if necessary.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

List of lessons/ lesson map on Development strategies

Lesson 1: Education as an investment and a consumer good
Lesson 2: Role of education to development.
Lesson 3: Problems faced and measures to promote the education sector.
Lesson 4: Features, forms and need for foreign aid.
Lesson 5: Why donors give aid and problems of relying on foreign aid.
Lesson 6: Utilisation of aid, reasons why donor countries are reluctant to
give aid.
Lesson 7: Role of infrastructure in economic development.
Lesson 8: Unit assessment.

Lesson 1: Education as an investment and a
consumer good

Learner’s Book pages 431-.432.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Compare and contrast the forms of education:
• Describe education as an investment and consumer good.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Introduce the new lesson by tasking learners in pairs to do Activity 1
in the Learner’s Book page 430 and share with the rest of the class.
Expected answers for Activity 1
1. Graduating, learning computer, treating a patient.
2. Education.
3. Forms of education are; formal and informal.
4. Education is an investment because:
• It is an accumulation of skills just like investments
accumulate capital.
• Education is expensive and costs money just like any
other investment asset.
• Education takes time to yield returns just like any other
investment.

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• It has an opportunity cost. It involves current sacrifice

to come up with results.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other textbooks recommended by the teacher,
internet access, and other relevant economics sources.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups describe education as an investment and
as a consumer commodity and present their findings to the whole
class. Teacher guides the discussions and presentations.

Expected answers
Like any other investments, education is regarded as an investment
because:
• It involves cost e.g. paying school fees.
• It involves opportunity cost e.g. foregoing leisure, marriage,
material welfare by family etc.
• It involves risks and uncertainties like failure at the end of
the course, school dropout etc.
• Returns are expected after learners attain education.
• Requires inputs and raw materials.
• Leads to improvement in skills.
Note: Be broad minded to receive other correct responses.
Like any consumer commodities, education is regarded as a
consumer commodity because:
• It enables people to enjoy direct utility from knowledge and
skills they acquire.
• Learners usually are end users of the skills they acquire.
• It improves the welfare and social status of individuals.
• It enables people share cultures and enjoy experiencing them.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask learners any question that regards the lesson to check whether
learning objectives have been achieved. For example;
How is education an investment?
What causes many learners not to finish school?

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Lesson 2: Role of education to development

Learner’s Book pages 432-.434.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Analyse the role of education in development.
• Appreciate the role of both formal and informal education
towards human development.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Refer to the previous lesson and guide learners discover that
it’s important to have high levels of education in order to foster
development.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other text books recommended, internet access,
and other economics source.

Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups with reference to Activity 2 (i) page
432, discuss and present to the whole class the advantages and
disadvantages of education in economic development.

Expected answers for Activity 2 (i) Learner’s Book

page 432
Positive role of education to development:
• It increases technological knowledge of labour and this can
help in skill development necessary for development.
• It encourages innovation and invention which may lead to
development of technology in the country.
• It encourages people to acquire good standard of living. This
is because the people get exposed to different ways of life.
• It breaks cultural rigidities since people have knowledge
about the outside world hence they can implement what they
study about the outside world.

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• It saves foreign exchange spent on expatriates since the

country is able to produce its own citizens that can do the
work of the expatriates.
• It reduces the substance sector. This is because educated
people engage in commercialised agriculture.
• It widens tax base as it creates employment opportunities.
• It may lead to reduction in the population growth rate since
the educated have knowledge of family planning methods.
Negative role of education:
• High demonstration effect by the educated people causes
BOP problems.
• May not solve unemployment especially when it is theoretical.
• Leads to rural urban migration since learners are prepared
for white collar jobs in towns.
• May lead to brain-drain due to low paying jobs at home and
this retards domestic development.
• Accelerates income inequality between the educated and
uneducated.
Synthesis
Teacher together with learners, base on the discussions and the
lesson content in the Learner’s Book and other related economics
sources to harmonise their points. Learners write down notes.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask learners to explain how education has been important to them
and society where they come from. (respect all views with regard
to importance of education)

Lesson 3: Problems faced and measures to
promote the education sector

Learner’s Book pages 434-437.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Identify the problems facing education sector in Rwanda.
• Suggest possible measures to improve education levels in
Rwanda.

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Prerequisites for the lesson

Ask learners to reflect on the education system of Rwanda and share
their views with each other. Ask them to be free and to share the
challenges they face as they are studying.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, internet, books
on education reports etc.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups discuss the problems faced by the
education sector and the measures to promote education. Thereafter
they present to the class as you guides them. (Refer to questions
in Activity 2 (ii) &(iii) page 432).

Expected answers for Activity 2 (ii) & (iii) Learner’s

Book page 432
(ii) Problems faced by the education sector in developing
countries:
• There is limited motivation to teachers, they are
underpaid and this keeps their morale down.
• There are limited skilled and specialised personnel
at all levels. Most qualified instructors move to other
sectors and even abroad where they can have better
remuneration.
• There are limited teaching/learning materials, most of
the subjects are theoretically taught, and this keeps the
education sector backward.
• The education curriculum in developing countries is
still colonial based. Most of the subjects taught and
their content is no longer relevant, they train learners
for white collar jobs, they make more job seekers
than job creators. This accounts for the rampant
unemployment in the country.
• There is high school dropout especially among the
females because of different reasons. It leads to lack
of clients in the institutions.
• Poverty among people makes them fail to send their
children to school.

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• Lack of enough funds for the education sector.

• Desire for quick money makes children abandon
school. It hinders the country’s major objective of
education for all.
• Some parents prefer to educate boys compared to
girls. This accelerates gender inequality, hence income
inequality among the males and females.
(iii) Measures to promoting education:
• Changing the curriculum to competence based from
the knowledge based.
• Vocationalisation of the education sector so as to
produce learners that have practical skills and can
start their own businesses instead of waiting for
employment.
• Increasing the motivation of the teachers so that
they can carry out their activities genuinely and
professionally.
• Cost sharing, to avoid school dropouts. Here the
governments can undertake paying part of the learner’s
tuition and the learners pays a smaller part.
• Policies for girl child should be embarked on through
reducing their entry points at the higher institutions
of learning and also when recruiting for secondary
schools. Organisations such as Imbuto Foundation in
Rwanda has had a major role in girl child education.
• Promotion of universal education.
• Education loans should be given.
Synthesis
Base on the learners’ presentations and content notes in the
Learner’s Book pages 434-435 or any other related economics
source to harmonise learners’ discussion.
Assessment of the lesson
Let learners give experiences of challenges in the education sector
within their local settings, identify the responsible people to provide
tangible solutions to such challenges so as to increase the benefits
of education.

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Expected answers
For challenges, take any view by the learners as long as its related
to education.
Responsible people may be: learners, parents, teachers, education
stakeholders and the community at large.
For solutions, refer to the points mentioned in the activity above.

Lesson 4: Features, forms and need for foreign aid

Learner’s Book pages 436-439

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Define foreign aid and explain its forms.
• Analyse the need for foreign aid in an economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the previous lesson. Guide learners to discover that where
there are little finances in LDCs they need to supplement it with
aid from other countries. Thus the day’s lesson of foreign aid. Task
learners in pairs to do and present their findings on activity 3 (i)
&(ii) page 438 in the Learner’s Book.
Expected answers for Activity 3 (i) &(ii) Learner’s
Book page 436
(i) Foreign aid.
(ii) Forms of foreign aid:
• Capital which may include money and machines.
• Consumer goods like clothes, food among others that
are needed in times of disaster.
• Military aid i.e. military hardware.
• Education facilities like text books.
• Man power aid. These are resource transfers to
developing countries in form of high level qualified
personnel like teachers, economists, technicians,
doctors, researchers.
• Medical aid. This is extended to developing countries
in form of drugs, medical research, and construction of
health centres to improve upon the health of the people.
Note: Be broad minded to receive other correct responses.

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Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, internet, and
relevant economics sources.
Learning activities
Referring to question (iii) in Activity 3, learners in whole class
discussion present their views on why countries seek aid. Guide
the discussion.
Expected answers
(iii) Need foreign aid in Rwanda:
• To increase a country’s resources and this helps it to
meet its deficits especially in the national budget.
• To help a nation to alleviate the effects of catastrophes.
• To close the manpower gap which is prevalent in
developing countries.
• To improve upon the technology in developing
countries; aid in form of machines and other equipment
to development.
• To provide employment opportunities to people in
LDCS.
• To close the foreign exchange gap in developing countries.
• To strengthen international relations.
Synthesis
Together with learners, base on the learners’ presentations and
content in the Learner’s Book page 436-439 and any other relevant
economics resource, to harmonise the discussions. Learners write
down the harmonised points.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess learners progress by asking questions related to the lesson.
e.g. task learners to give different forms of aid Rwanda normally
gets from other countries and why? (learners based on the lesson
give different forms of aid and the reasons for such aid).

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Lesson 5: Why donors give aid and the problems
of relying on foreign aid

Learner’s Book pages 439-441.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Analyse the reasons why donors give aid to other countries.
• Describe the problems of over relying on aid.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Basing on the background on the need for aid by LDCs, ask learners
to share reasons why they think donors give aid.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other economics recommended textbooks, internet
access, other economics sources.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups discuss and present their views on
reasons why countries give aid and the problems of relying on the
foreign aid. (Refer to Activity 4 in the Learner’s Book page 439.)
Expected answers for Activity 4 Learner’s Book page
439
(i) Reasons why developed countries give aid:
• To get more commercial gains. Aid in form of
multinational companies is profit motivated.
• To alleviate the effects of catastrophes.
• To control valuable natural resources in the recipients.
• To have military superiority.
• To dispose-off their outdated machines and obsolete
technology and fashions that was not bought in time.
• To create a dumping ground for their poorly
manufactured commodities and other surpluses.
(ii) Problems of relying on foreign aid:
• It worsens the debt servicing problem.
• There is high balance of payment deficit.
• Sometimes the technological aid given is inappropriate.

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• Sometimes the pre-conditions set for foreign aid are

disastrous for the country.
• Tied foreign aid is sometimes tied to unproductive
projects like digging boreholes in rural areas, financing
wars; etc.
• The political strings tied to the aid ruins the country’s
independence.
• It slows down initiative and hard work.
• It distorts planning of developing countries.
• It reduces local production.
Synthesis
Harmonise learners’ discussion based on their presentation and the
content in the Learner’s Book pages 439-441.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask questions about the lesson to access the achievement of the
lesson objectives. For example;
Are there situations when donor countries do not help the receiving
country?

Lesson 6: Utilisation of aid, reasons why donor
countries are reluctant to give aid

Learner’s Book pages 441-443.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain how aid can be utilised.
• Analyse why LDCs have low absorptive capacity.
• Examine the reasons why donors are at times reluctant to
give aid.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Guide learners to discover that aid given needs to be used efficiently
so as to fulfill the aim for which it was sought. If not well utilised,
it results into economic decline.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, internet, and other
economics sources.

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Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in whole class discussion explain and present their
views on how foreign aid can be utilised. Guide the discussions.
Expected answers
• Import substitution.
• Develop skills, technology and enterprises that can create
employment opportunities.
• Build internal capacity and lead to self-reliance.
• Reduce poverty levels.
• Paying back past acquired debts.
Note: Be receptive to all correct responses
Step 2: Learners with reference to Activity 5 from the Learner’s
Book pages 442 explain the reasons why donors are at times
reluctant to give aid to other countries.
Expected answers
• Some recipients fail to effectively use the aid extended to
them.
• Some governments in developing countries have non-
democratic and inhuman records.
• Failure of some developing countries to honour the debt
obligations contracted.
• Threats of nationalising assets owned by foreigners.
• Failure of developing countries to fulfil the IMF
conditionalities like demobilisation of the army, currency
reforms, privatisation among others.
• The unpredictable climate in developing countries.
Synthesis
Based on learnes’ presentations and content from the Learner’s
Book pages 441-443 and any other economics resources, to
harmonise the lesson’s content.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the learners to check whether the lesson objectives are
achieved. Give questions, e.g;
(i) Explain why LDCs are unable to utilise aid efficiently.
(ii) What should be done to improve her absorptive capacity?

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Expected answers
(i) Absorptive capacity refers the extent to which a country
can utilise foreign aid and capital optimally. Most LDCs are
unable to utilise aid efficiently because of; (low absorptive
capacity):
• Poor infrastructures.
• Limited projects.
• Limited skills/ low level of education.
• Poor government policies.
• Political insecurity and instabilities in LDCs.
• Limited resources.
• Poor technology.
• Financial indiscipline like corruption and embezzlement
of funds.
• Limited market for their products.
(ii) How to improve aid utilisation capacity (absorptive capacity)
in LDCs.
• Develop their own technology.
• Promote peace and security.
• Develop and rehabilitate their domestic infrastructure.
• Education reforms.
• Borrow for self-liquidating projects.
• Set up strict Anti-corruption agencies.
• Attract domestic and foreign investors

N.B: Be open minded as learners give their responses.

Lesson 7: Role of infrastructure in economic
development

Learner’s Book pages 443-446

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Identify the different socio-economic infrastructure in
Rwanda.
• Evaluate the role of infrastructure in development.

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• Appreciate the role of infrastructure development in the

development process of Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Ask thought provoking questions as a way of introducing the
learners to a new lesson. E.g what entails infrastructure? Would
Rwanda economy develop without infrastructual development?
Expected answers
(i) Schools, hospitals, roads, taxi parks, etc.
(ii) Rwanda’s economy cannot develop without infrastructural
development?
Teaching aids
Economics textbook related to the unit, internet, newspaper with
economics related issues on the unit and relevant economics
journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners do Activity 6 (i) and (ii) in the Learner’s Book page
443-444 i.e the role of infrastructure in economic development.
Step 2: Learners through whole class discussion, present their
views on the role of infrastructure in development. Refer to Activity
6(iii) in the Learner’s Book page 443:
Expected answers for Activity 6 (iii)
Role of infrastructure in economic development:
• It provides services that are part of the consumption bundle
of residents.
• Large-scale expenditures for public works increase aggregate
demand and provide short- run stimulus to the economy.
• It serves as an input into private sector production, thus
augmenting output and productivity.
• Education is a very important source of economic growth as
the Denison study shows. Even though education may be a
social investment, it is also an economic investment since it
enhances the stock of human capital.
• Health, like education, is a very important argument in the
socio- economic production function. A popular saying is
that a sound mind usually resides in a healthy body. Health

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is one of the major determinants of labour productivity and

efficiency.
• Investment in infrastructure is often considered as one of the
most effective tools for fighting poverty.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.
Synthesis
Base on the presentations from learners, and content from the
Learner’s Book pages 443-446 to give a conclusive remark.
Entertain any questions from learners for clarity.
Assessment of the lesson
Task learners to identify different examples of infrastructure from
their home areas and let them share to the whole class their role
towards the development of their local areas and country at large.
(accept all views from learners related to infrastructure and their
role towards development).

Lesson 8: Unit assessment

Learner’s Book page 447

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to analyse the
contribution of development strategies on the economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Prepare learners for the assessment exercise. Refer to the Learner’s
Book page 447. Give them clear instructions on how to do the
assessment.
Teaching aids
Classroom environment, printed assessment sheets and answer
sheets.
Learning activities
Step 1: Distribute preprinted/ written assessment sheets and answer
sheets to learners.
Step 2: Learners do the assessment exercise as you supervise them.
Step 3: When time is over, collect their written work and take it
for marking and for corrections.

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Synthesis
Refer to end of unit assessment in the Learner’s Book on page 448.
Have a general discussion on what was required of the questions
provided.
Assessment of the lesson
To check whether the learning objective was achieved, ask more
related questions to the whole unit e.g.
How is education and foreign aid important to your life? (Accept
learner’s ideas as long as they are relevant)
End of unit

Summary of the unit

This unit elaborates development strategies of education, foreign
aid as well as infrastructural development. The role and the
contribution of the above strategies is well explained in the unit and
how to achieve them. (Refer to Learner’s Book pages 429-449).

Additional information for the teacher

1. Infrastructure in Rwanda
Rwanda understands the importance of infrastructure in the
development of a competitive private sector. The government
continues to invest heavily in infrastructure. Almost a tenth of
Rwanda’s annual budget is committed to transport and other
infrastructure. To develop a vibrant private sector, Rwanda is
investing in roads, rail and water transport infrastructure with the
intent of dramatically reducing the cost of transport to businesses
and individuals.
In addition, the transformation of Rwanda’s economy works hand
in hand with a greater urbanisation of the country. The current
percentage of population leaving in urban settlements is of 15% and
this number shall increase to 35% by 2017. The shift has already
started and more urban settlement will be developed as well as
secondary cities in combination with Kigali.
Opportunities for investment
• Roads: The major road infrastructures open for investments
are both located in the rural and urban areas.

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• Kibungo-Ngoma-Nyanza (130Kms): This road aims to

connect the South East to South West part of Rwanda.
• Nyagatare-Byumba-Base (130Kms) located in the North
West and North East of the country.
• Kigali Ring road (80Kms): This project could be developed
through a public private partnership.
• New Bugesera Airport Expressway: The road will connect
the new airport to Kigali City (40Kms).
• Feeder Roads are rural roads that connect farmers to local
markets.
• Urban roads shall be developed in Kigali and in every
secondary city.
• Air transport
The project is to develop a new modern international airport
at Bugesera. This airport will provide both extra capacity for
passenger transport and also will develop the cargo freight.
The New Bugesera International Airport target is to become an
international hub in East Africa and beyond. This project will also
increase significantly the land value in the airport area and attract
more private investment and urban development.

Railway
Rwanda wants to develop two major regional lines. The Dar-
es-Salaam- Isaka Kigali railway project is estimated to 5 billion
US dollars. The project is composed of the line rehabilitation in
Tanzania and of the construction of the new Isaka-Kigali line of
494 kms in length (355km in Tanzania, 139km in Rwanda).

The Mombasa–Nairobi-Kampala-Kigali is the other railway route

to unlock Rwanda and provide direct connection to the Indian
Ocean. The project cost estimate is of 13 billion USD.

Inland Water Transport

The idea is to develop the inland water transport for the
transportation of goods and passengers on the Kivu Lake. The
waterway will connect the cities of Rubavu, Karongi and Rusizi
with the construction of new terminals and equipment of new ships.

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Public transportation
With the economic development there is an urgent need to develop
a modern Public Transportation System. In Kigali the public
transportation system shall be organised around a new Bus Rapid
Transit System (BRT) composed of 43Kms of dedicated bus lanes.
Also the government of Rwanda is in the process to restructure
its public transport operator ONATRACOM to make it a private
company.
2. Education in Rwanda
Rwanda considers education a critical investment for the country’s
future growth and development. This is evidenced by the increased
share of the national budget allocated to the education sector, which
is projected to increase from 17% in 2012/13 to 22% in 2017/18.
In the past few years, the education system in Rwanda has gone
through an impressive period of growth especially in terms of
access. Still, the country faces many challenges such as the onerous
task of double-shift teaching for the primary school teachers and
the language transition from French to English for grades 4 and
above, which has been very difficult for teachers who do not have
adequate time to improve their proficiency in English language.
The concepts of universal equitable access and quality education
provision are the foundation of the Education Sector Strategic
Plan (ESSP) 2013/14 -2017/18. This plan builds upon the national
priority of making quality twelve-year basic education available
for all children and also reflects the country’s mission to make
education at all levels more accessible.

The ESSP outlines three main goals:

• Promoting access to education at all levels
• Improving the quality of education and training
• Strengthening the relevance of education and training to meet
labour market demands.
• Equity in access to education is emphasised to ensure that
disadvantaged students, such as girls, the poor and the
impaired, have access to quality learning opportunities.
The following expected outcomes have been developed based on
the goals mentioned above:

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• Expand access to 12 years of basic education.

• Increase access for learners with special needs.
• Improve learning outcomes across primary and secondary
education.
• Ensure qualified, suitably-skilled and motivated teachers.
• Increase equitable access to relevant, high-quality, demand-
driven TVET programmes.
• Increase equitable access to affordable higher education.
• Improve access to school readiness programmes.
• Strengthen performance in science, technology and
innovation at all levels.
• Increase access to adult basic education to improve adult
literacy and numeracy.
• Improve administrative and management support services.

End of Unit 11 assessment answers (Learner’s Book page

447)

1. Importance of education
• Increases technological knowledge of labour.
• Encourages innovation and invention.
• Encourages people to acquire good standard of living.
• Breaks cultural rigidities.
• Saves foreign exchange which would be spent on expatriates.
• Reduces the subsistence sector.
• Widens the tax base.
• May lead to reduction in the population growth rate.

Problems faced by the education sector:

• There is limited motivation to teachers, teachers are underpaid.
• There are limited skilled and specialised personnel at all levels.
• There are limited teaching/learning materials.
• High school dropouts.
• Poverty among the people.
• Lack of enough funds for the education sector.
• Desire for quick money makes children abandon school.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• Some parents prefer to educate more of the boys than girls.

2. Why foreign aid in Rwanda is a curse:
• It worsens the debt servicing problem.
• There are high balance of payment deficits.
• Sometimes the technological aid given is inappropriate.
• Sometimes the preconditions set for foreign aid are disastrous
for the country.
• Tied foreign aid is sometimes tied to unproductive projects.
• The political strings tied to the aid ruins the country its
independence.
• Foreign aid slows down initiative and hard work.
• Foreign aid erodes the social and cultural values of nationals.
• Foreign aid distorts planning of developing countries.
• Foreign aid reduces local production.

Why foreign aid is a blessing in Rwanda:

• Foreign aid increases a country’s resources.
• Foreign aid helps a nation to alleviate the effects of catastrophes.
• Foreign aid closes the manpower gap.
• Foreign aid improves upon the technology in developing
countries.
• Foreign aid provides employment opportunities to people in
LDCS.
• Foreign aid closes the foreign exchange gap in developing
countries.
• Foreign aid strengthens international relations.
3. Why countries give foreign aid:
• To get more commercial gains.
• To alleviate the effects of catastrophes.
• To control valuable natural resources in the recipients.
• To have military superiority.
• To dispose off their outdated machines and obsolete technology
and fashions that was not bought in time.
• To create a dumping ground for their poorly manufactured
commodities and other surpluses.

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 Development Strategies

• To extend political influence to the recipients.

• In the early days it was to extend ideology to other nations.
4. Importance of infrastructure in Rwanda:
• It provides services that are part of the consumption bundle of
residents.
• Large scale expenditures for public works increase aggregate
demand and provide short-run stimulus to the economy; and
• It serves as an input into private sector production.
• Education is a very important source of economic growth as the
Denison study shows.
• Health, like education, is a very important argument in the
socioeconomic production function.
• Investment in infrastructure is often considered as one of the
most effective tools for fighting poverty.
• Access to infrastructure is essential for improving economic
opportunities and decreasing inequality.
• Housing enables people to have a peace of mind and thus also
improves their standards of living and livelihoods.
• Sports facilities are used for cocurricular activities that enable
to have a disease free body.
• Prisons as part of correction centers and justice help to educate
and bring right the people who may have created offences.
• Bus stations, car parks, rides and communication centers help
to connect people through transit.

Remedial activity
1. Describe:
(i) Yourself how would be if you had not gone to school.
(ii) An area without infrastructure.
(ii) A country that relies on foreign aid.
Expected answers
(i) Give characteristics of uneducated people e.g. unskilled,
illiterate, conservative and traditional, ignorant, diseased,
poor, unproductive, early marriages, etc.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

(ii) Areas without infrastructure are characterised by; low

productivity, poor transport and communication, low or
no savings, low investment, underdeveloped, ruralessness,
diseased, high illiteracy rates, subsistence production, bad
governance etc.
(iii) A country that relies on aid is characterised by;
dependence syndrome, low development, laziness,
ignorance, demonstration effect, extravagancy, lack of
independence, etc.
Consolidation activities
1. (a) Now that you got a chance to go to school and you
are educated, what advice can you give to parents and
children over education?
(b) How has infrastructure promoted economic growth
and development in your district?
Expected answers
(a) Refer to the role of education in the Learner’s Book page
433.
(b) Refer to the role of infrastructure in development in the
Learner’s Book page 445-446.
Extended activity
1. (i) What should Rwanda do to break the vicious cycle of
foreign aid?
(ii) How would breaking vicious cycle of poverty promote
development in Rwanda?
Expected answers
(i) Increase incomes of people through for example increasing
government expenditure, encourage savings, promote
investments which will reduce the urge to seek aid thus
encouraging productivity and thus self-sustenance.
(ii) It will increase incomes of people thus improving their
standards of living, increasing savings thus promoting
investment. This increases productivity in the economy,
increases incomes and that is development.

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 Topic Area 5: Development Economics
Sub-topic Area 5.3: Economic Development Planning

Unit 12: Planning

Reference to learner’s text book pages 453 - 497

Unit competence
Learners will be able to analyse the need for economic planning
of an economy.

Prerequisites for this unit

From the previous unit on development strategies, learners need
to understand that to achieve those strategies there is need for a
well-built planning system. This helps in the allocation of resources
to different sectors in order to attain equitable development of all
regions, sectors and persons in the country. In this unit therefore,
learners should analyse the importance of planning in Rwanda, the
limitations therein and be in position to design possible measures
to help in the planning process of the country, and where possible
sacrifice their resources and time to facilitate and effect the planning
process in Rwanda.

Cross-cutting issues to be addressed

While teaching this topic, it will be important to emphasise the cross
cutting issue of standardisation and financial education to enable
them develop the culture of saving and planning for the future.

Generic competences
• Co-operation and interperonal management is gained
through group activities assigned by the teacher.
• Communication competences are gained through
presentations of research findings about economic
planning.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• Critical thinking is developed through analysing the

rationale and obstacles of planning in LDCs.
• Lifelong learning is a competence that learners develop
through research activities in economy planning.
Vocabulary or key words or concepts in the unit
Annual plan: This is a plan which cover a short term period of
time usually a year.
Bottom to top planning: This is a type of planning which starts from
the grass roots where the plan is formulated by the local authority
after consulting different units such as ministries and local people
and then sent to the central authority for approval and financing.
Capitalist plan: This is a plan common in market economies which
emphasises the private sector as a way to bring development.
Comprehensive plan: This is one which covers all sectors of the
economy.
Comprehensiveness: A good plan should cover the whole economy
because of the linkages among the sectors.
Consistence: A good plan must be consistent and must avoid any
contradictions in the economy.
Compatibility: A good plan should be able to use the available
raw materials.
Development planning: This refers to a deliberate government
attempt to influence and direct economic resources and activities
towards specific objectives in a specified period of time.
Economic development planning: This focuses on government’s
attempt to influence and direct resources with an aim of achieving
economic objectives.
Feasibility: A good plan should be politically and administratively
feasible so as to make its implementation easy.
Indicative plan: This is a plan prepared by the government and
it provides information to the private sector without influencing
their decisions directly.

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Integrated public investment plan: This is where the government

estimates the national resources and allocates them among sectors
and projects according to order of priority.
Imperative plan: This is a plan prepared and implemented by the
central authority in consultation with various organs, offices and
agencies.
Medium term plan: This is a plan which covers between 3-10 years.
Macro level planning: This is planning for the economy as a whole.
Micro level planning: This is planning for a few sectors in the
economy.
National economic plan: This is a plan for the whole nation which
has to be consistent with the national resources.
Optimality: Planners should take into account the resources
available and plan to exploit them in the most efficient way.
Proportionality: A good plan must be on regional level than
concentrating on a small area.
Perspective: This is a plan which covers more than 25 years and
has got long term objectives intended to bring about development
in the economy.
Project plan: This is a plan undertaken by agencies like parastatals,
farmers where by output is produced taking into account the
resources available.
Partial plan: This is a plan prepared on sectoral level such that it
may cover one sector or part of the economy. It may also be called
fragmentary or micro plan.
Project by project plan: This is a plan which covers only the public
sector and identifies projects which may not be directly related to
the national development plan.
Relevance: A good plan should be in line to achieve the intended
goals and objectives because this makes it socially important.
Regional plan: This is a plan which integrates all activities,
programmes and projects within the region aimed at attaining
national objectives.

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Socialist plan: This is a plan not based on market mechanism

but by the government which owns and allocates resources by
administrative directives.
Sequencing: This principle involves putting in place minor projects
to facilitate the major ones.
Sectoral plan: This is a plan for individual sectors like agriculture,
industry and such a plan can be made as part of the national plan
by the relevant ministries.
Top to bottom planning: This is a form where the whole process is
under the central planning authority which formulates the central
plan, sets objectives and goals without consulting the local people.
Plans are then forwarded to local authorities for implementation.

Guidance on the problem statement

Having taught the development process and it’s strategies in
Rwanda in the previous unit, the next thing to do is to explore
learners on the need to plan for the available resources in the
country so as to achieve the stated goals of development. They
should know, analyse and appreciate why it requires engaging
different persons in the development process of the country. Task
them with a research topic on why they think it is necessary to
plan, who should be involved and how should planning be done for
effective results. Allow them time to research, share and discuss
for general consensus of the subject matter. This will help them
acquire skills on planning and develop a positive attitude towards
full participation in the planning process where necessary and
provide requirements for planning for the well-being of the entire
Rwandan society.

Attention to special education needs

Learners with physical disabilities
Learners with physical impairment may show challenges in using
their hands to write, sitting in class, using the toilet, walking or
climbing stairs, etc. Such learners may also display excessive
fatigue after performing light duties.
This category of learners can be helped in the following ways:
Ask other learners to help them to move around, sit the learner in
a place where they can move in and out of class easily, give them

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more time and practice to write, copy important notes for them
on paper, if it takes them too much time to copy work. Ensure a
friendly school environment e.g,the building ramps on all entries
to rooms, network with organisations that can provide wheelchairs,
allow them more time to complete their tasks and encourage other
learners to treat them with respect and dignity.

Learners with special abilities


These learners understand concepts very fast because they are
extremely intelligent. They complete tasks faster than others, get
bored faster due to early completion of tasks and can be disruptive
due to idleness. Provide them with extra activities so as to keep
them occupied, assign them to assist other learners, provide
counselling sessions where necessary.

Time takers
Such learners take time to understand what has been taught. Do not
reprimand them or show them they are poor compared to others.
Give them more attention, be more patient with them, guide them
carefully and create time for them after the lesson. Tell them
they can do better, and ensure they understand a sub-topic before
teaching the next.

Learners with visual impairment

Learners with visual impairment experience problems with their
vision. Some learners may experience low vision and others may
have no vision at all. You can notice such learners because they
display the following characteristics:
They write unusually large letters, often scratch their eyes, cannot
focus in bright light, and cannot focus on distant objects.
Use the following strategies to assist them:
Sit them in the placewhere they can see clearly ,write with yellow
chalk on a clean chalkboard ,encourage them to sit at the front of
the class, use large and legible handwriting on the chalkboard,
use large charts and other visual aids ,ensure good colour contrast
on learning aids, and give the learner real objects to use.

Learners with hearing impairment

These learners have a problem with their ability to hear. They
may be partially or completely unable to hear. They display signs
such as:

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Turning their heads towards the source of sound, shout when

talking, regularly consult those sitted next, delay to respond, have
irrelevant responses,pay less attention,and they always look at the
lips of the person talking to them.
Refer such learners to an ear specialist, and assist them in the
process of learning. You can look at the learner when speaking,
speak clearly and loudly, write instructions on the chalkboard,
be audible enough ,encourage the learner to sit at the front in
class and regularly check their notes to ensure they are writing
the right things. Give the learners a slate (urubaho) to help them
communicate, speak slowly and use simple words.

Learners with communication disorders

These learners cannot communicate effectively because of speech
and language difficulties e.g. inability to interpret simple statements
easily giving up on description tasks due to frustration, stammering
and difficulty in explaining things.
Refer them to a speech therapist, avoid interrupting them when
they are talking, display high level of patience,pay attention to
all their needs,demonstrate various concepts and give them clear
instructions.

Learners with behavioural disorders

Learners with behavioural disorders do not conform to the expected
kind of behaviour laid down in school rules and regulations. They
may show behaviour disorder such as: truancy, stealing, failure
to complete tasks, disrupting lessons through playing, fighting
others etc.
To assist such learners; reinforce their positive behaviour through
rewards, involve parents or guardians in correcting such behaviours,
and refer them to a counsellor if necessary.
List of lessons/ lesson map on Planning
Lesson 1: Characteristics of good development planning & Pre-requisites
for successful planning.
Lesson 2: Principles of economic development planning and the need for
planning.
Lesson 3: The planning process, ways of financing development plans and
obstacles faced in planning process.
Lesson 4: Classification of plans.

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Lesson 5: Planning under different economic systems.

Lesson 6: Current development plans in Rwanda- Vision 2020.
Lesson 7: Economic development and poverty reduction strategies
(EDPRS 1).
Lesson 8. Economic development and poverty reduction strategies
(EDPRS 2).
Lesson 9: Unit assessment.

Lesson 1: Characteristics of good development
planning & Pre-requisites for successful planning

Learner’s Book pages 455-456

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the meaning of planning.
• Describe the characteristics of a good development plan.
• Analyse the necessary conditions for planning.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the previous /unit about development strategies and guide
learners to discover that to achieve those development strategies,
government needs to have a comprehensive development plan.
Tell learners the meaning of development planning, task them to
research about the characteristics of a good development plan and
the necessary conditions for planning.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, internet, other
good books about planning etc.
Learning activities
Step 1: Let learners in groups do Activity 1 Learner’s Book page
454 and share their views with the rest of the class. Guide the
discussions.

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Expected answers for Activity 1

(i) Development planning refers to the deliberate government
action to influence and direct economic resources towards
specific desirable political, social, and economic objectives.
(ii) A good plan is characterised by the following:
• It should be as comprehensive as possible. It should
cover practically all the sectors of the economy. It
should cover both the rural and urban areas.
• It should combine top-down and bottom-up planning
approaches through an intensive dialogue between
the national, sectoral and local development agencies
between the various levels of planning — national,
sectoral, district and lower local governments.
• A development plan should be socially relevant, and
it must involve the people in a development effort.
• A development plan must be economically feasible.
The resources to implement the plan must be available.
• A development plan must be politically and
administratively possible. It must be accepted by
politicians otherwise it might never be implemented.
(iii) Pre-requisites/conditions necessary for successful planning:
• Planning machinery should be organised and subdivided
into small departments dealing with various aspects of
the economy like economists, statisticians, engineers
etc. for proper coordination.
• The objectives and goals of the plan should be well
spelt out and should be in the interest of the majority
of the society.
• The stated objectives should be consistent and on
sectoral basis so as to balance growth in the economy.
• There should be a strong, efficient and incorruptible
administration.
• There is need for political stability because instability
and insecurity may lead to diversion of all funds which
would have been used to finance the plans.
• Public cooperation is also important because the local
people also give support when implementing the plan.

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• Enough capital should be available for plan formulation

and implementation.
Synthesis
Harmonise the presentations by learners with the content notes in
the Learner’s Book. Learners note down in their books the main
points of the lesson.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask any oral questions concerning the lesson to assess the
achievement of the learning objectives. E.g What is planning?
Does planning help Rwanda’s economy? (Refer to the need and
role of planning in the economy).

Lesson 2: Principles of economic development,
planning and the need for planning

Learner’s Book pages 456-458.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Describe the principles of economic development planning.
• Analyse the need for planning in an economy.
• Appreciate Rwanda’s intentions to plan for the country.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Basing on the previous lesson, explain to learners that planners
have to follow certain guidelines when planning so as to achieve
the intended objectives.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, internet,
documents on planning etc.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups do library/internet search on the
principles of planning and present their findings to the whole class.

Expected answers
• Consistence.

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• Proportionality.
• Comprehensiveness.
• Optimality.
• Feasibility.
• Relevance.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.
Step 2: In whole class discussion, learners present their views on
why government needs to plan for her economy. (Refer to Activity
2 in the Learner’s Book page 456).
Expected answers for Activity 2
Reasons why the government of Rwanda carries out planning:
• For optimum allocation of resources in the economy so as
to eliminate imbalances in resource allocation.
• It helps the economy in mobilising funds from international
organisations since they give funds according to the plans
made.
• It helps to remove price instabilities and attain a favourable
balance of payment equilibrium.
• To eradicate the defects of price mechanism; the automatic
forces of demand and supply sometimes show weaknesses
in efficiently allocating resources in an economy; these
weaknesses are ironed out by development planning.
• Plans are needed to bring up a balance between the private
and the public sector.
• To attain a higher level of economic growth and development.
Synthesis
Use the Learner’s Book content on pages 456-458 and any other
economics resource, harmonise the learner’s discussion. Allow
learners to ask questions where possible.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask oral questions related to the lesson to check on the achievement
of the lesson objectives.
Must the government of Rwanda carry out planning?

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Lesson 3: The planning process, ways of
financing development plans and the problems
met in the planning process

Learner’s Book pages 458-461.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Describe the planning process.
• Identify the sources of funding for effective planning.
• Discuss the obstacles met while planning.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Guide learners to discover that as we need planning, we need to
take a certain trend to achieve the intended objectives. There needs
to be a defined source of funding. However, it’s not always easy for
the process to be completed effectively due to different obstacles,
both socio-economic and political.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet, and other
sources.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups do Activity 3 page 458 in the Learner’s
Book and present their findings to the class. Guide the lesson.
Expected answers for Activity 3
(i) (a) Plan preparation:
• Data gathering,
• Data analysis,
• Goals and objectives setting,
• Generation of alternatives,
• Evaluation and selection of preferred alternatives,
• Detailing and refinement of preferred strategies.
(b) Plan adoption: this involves accepting the plan which
is on paper.
(c) Plan implementation; this involves putting the plan
that has been laid on paper on the ground for action.

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(d) Plan evaluation; this involves checking whether what

was planned is what has been implemented on ground.
(ii) Ways of financing development plans:
• Through public borrowing which may be internal or
external.
• Through deficit financing.
• Through taxation to raise revenue.
• Acquiring long term loans from the foreign donors.
• Relying on local savings.
• Aids and donations from wealth countries.
• Use of ploughed back profits from government
organisation.
(ii) Obstacles faced in formulation and implementation of
development plans:
• Over ambitious plans.
• Insufficient and unreliable data.
• Unexpected social and economic disturbances.
• Institutional weaknesses.
• Lack of political will.
• Inadequate resources.
• Unqualified manpower.
• Poor sequencing.
Synthesis
Based on the learners’ presentations and content in the Learner’s
Book, harmonise the discussions. Learners should be given chance
to ask questions and express their views.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask oral questions on the lesson to check the achievement of the
lesson learning objectives. For example, How can development
plans in Rwanda be financed? (Accept all relevant views from
learners).

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Lesson 4: Classification of plans

Learner’s Book pages 461-465

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Categorise different plans.
• Explain the different types of plans.
• Contrast the different plans.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Basing on the background of the previous lessons, introduce the
lesson, telling learners that there are different types of plans that can
be undertaken by different economies or with in the same economy.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, internet access etc.

Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in pairs do Activity 4 in the Learner’s Book page
461 and share their views to the whole class. Teacher guides the
discussion.

Expected answers for Activity 4

1. Annual/short term plan: These are plans which cover a short
term period of time usually a year.
2. Imperative plan: This is a plan prepared and implemented
by the central authority in consultation with various organs,
offices and agencies.
3. (a) Capitalist plan is made in favour of private investors.
(b) Medium term plan covers between 3-10 years.
(c) Sectoral plan is made for individual sectors like
agriculture, industry.
(d) Regional plan integrates all activities within the region.
Step 2: Learners in groups do Activity 5 page 463 in the Learner’s
Book on classification of plans according to coverage and present
their findings to the whole class.Guide the discussion.

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Expected answers for Activity 5

Advantages of partial planning:
• It is cheap and easy to administer because it economises the
use of skilled manpower which is a problem in LDCs.
• It allows planners to concentrate on a few vital sectors which
they can develop successfully and achieve economic growth.
• It develops skills of planners which they can use to take more
comprehensive plans.
• It is easy for implementation because it’s in the financial
reach of the country.
• It requires less data which can be got easily since it covers
a small sector.
• It is suitable because of wide difference in the level of
development between regions.
• Political instabilities in some regions make it a good idea to
develop some areas first and others later.
Disadvantages of partial planning:
• It leads to wastage of resources because of many un
coordinated plans.
• The economic objectives of the plan may turn out to be
divergent on implementation. I.e. what is planned may not
be what is implemented.
• Investments may not be regulated in an economy and this
may lead to inflation.
• It leads to regional imbalances since some regions may
develop at the expense of others.
• It may lead to underutilisation of resources since some areas
are not planned and catered for.
Synthesis
Harmonise the discussions based on the presentations and the
Learner’s Book content page 462-465. Explain points that are not
clearly discussed by learners.

Assessment of the lesson

Task learners with a home work e.g. What is a comprehensive plan
and what are the arguments for and against it?

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Expected answers
• A comprehensive plan is that plan which covers all sectors
of the economy.
Arguments for a comprehensive plan:
• Encourages interdependence through linkages.
• Full utilisation of resources.
• Sectoral and regional balance.
It allows economic growth to go hand in hand with development.
• Solves economic problems e.g. unemployment
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.
Arguments against comprehensive planning.
• It is expensive.
• In case plans fail, there is a lot of wastage.
• Difficult to monitor all sectors at ago.
• It is limited by inadequate funds in LDCs.
• May result into monitory inflation.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers.

Lesson 5: Planning under different economic
systems

Learner’s Book pages 465-467.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Contrast the different plans under different economic
systems.
• Explain their advantages and disadvantages.
• Identify the type of planning in Rwandan economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the previous lesson and relate it with the day’s lesson.
Guide learners to discover that different economic systems plan
differently. This is because the system of resource allocation is
different in different economies.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet access, etc.

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Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups discuss and present their views on the
different plans under different economic systems. (They refer to
to Activity 6 from the Learner’s Book page 465.)
Expected answers for Activity 6
(i) Centralised planning. This is a form of planning where
the whole process is under the central planning authority
(government) which formulates the central plan, sets
objectives and goals without consulting the local people.
(ii) Merits of centralised planning:
• The plans drawn are for high-level development of the
nation. So it collects all the skilled labour in the nation
for its formulation and implementation.
• They are always consistent with national development
objectives. They are consciously drawn and cannot
divert from national set targets.
• They are flexible; they can be changes according to
variations in national goals.
• Different stake holders participate in the implementation
and evaluation process.
• It is in line with the general needs of the public.
• It is usually well funded by the government.
Demerits of centralised plans
• They are not easy to alter so as to accommodate the
ever-changing peoples’ needs.
• A wide distance between the planning body and the
source of finances makes centralised planning hard.
• There are limited interpersonal relations between
planners and the local people making the plans made
hard to please the masses.
• Many funds are required to implement such plans
that are not readily available in developing countries.
This sometimes calls for borrowing which increases
dependency.
• Developing countries have a limited supply of skilled
personnel needed to implement such plans.

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Decentralised planning: This is type of planning which starts from

the grass roots where the plan is formulated by the central authority
after consulting different units such as ministries and local people.
It can also be known as bottom to top planning
Merits of decentralised planning:
• It reduces the burden to the top administrators; the plans are
drawn and implemented by the local people without giving
much burden to the central administrators.
• There is quicker decision making in plan formulation. This
is mainly because the local people know their challenges and
possibly also the possible solutions.
• Decentralised plans improve upon the motivation and morale
of the local people. A sense of belonging arises since they
participate in the planning for and development of their
society.
• Decentralised plans enhance communication between leaders
and their masses. This is mainly because the leaders are
within their reach.
• Decentralised plan implementation is easy to implement and
monitor. This is because implementers and supervisors are
in the same locality.
Demerits of Decentralised planning:
• Poor quality work is likely to arise; this is mainly because
there is a supply of poor managers and low skilled personnel
in several regions of developing countries.
• When disaster befalls an area, decentralised planning is hard,
this is true because the people in the locality and the resources
will all be affected or even destroyed.
• More information from other already developed areas is
needed to make Decentralised planning successful. This may
take some time or even be expensive.
Synthesis
Harmonise learners’ presentations and content notes in the
Learner’s Book. Explain the forms of planning clearly comparing
their advantages and disadvantages.

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Assessment of the lesson

Ask oral questions about the lesson to assess the achievement of
the learning objectives of the day’s lesson e.g.
Which form of planning is manageable by the Rwandan
government? Why?

Lesson 6: Current development plans in Rwanda-
Vision 2020

Learner’s Book pages 468-477.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the pillars of vision 2020.
• Describe the cross cutting priorities in vision 2020.
• Discuss the objectives of vision 2020.
• Evaluate the achievements of vision 2020.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Basing on the knowledge about the previous lessons, guide learners
to know that there are long term plans that Rwanda put to be
achieved up to 2020. Thus there is need to analyse the progress of
those plans by the government.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet access,
relevant economics sources.
Learning activities
Step 1: With reference to Activity 7 in the Learner’s Book page
468, learners in groups do library or internet research about vision
2020 and:
• Describe its background.
• Explain the pillars of vision 2020.
• Discuss the cross cutting priorities in the 2020 vision.
Step 2: Let learners’ groups present their findings to the class.
Facilitate the discussion.
Expected answers for Activity 7
(i) Vision 2020 was a result of a national consultative process that
took place in Village Urugwiro between 1998-1999. There

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was a broad consensus on the necessity for Rwandans to

clearly define the future of the country. This process provided
the basis upon which this Vision was developed. Since then,
Rwanda has made much progress towards attaining these
objectives and even surpassed some of the targets. The
original Vision 2020 targets, through a consultative process
were revised at the 9th Leadership retreat in February 2012.
The original Vision 2020 contained 47 indicators and targets,
which have been revised to a total of 48.
(ii) Pillars of vision 2020
• Good governance and a capable state.
• Human resource development and a knowledge-based
economy.
• Private sector-led development.
• Infrastructure development.
• Productive high value and market oriented agriculture.
• Regional and international integration.
(iii) Cross cutting priorities in the 2020 vision.
• Gender equality.
• Natural resource and the environment
• Science technology and ICT.
Step 3: From the research on Vision 2020, learners in groups refer
to Activity 8 in the Learner’s Book, to discuss and present their
findings
(i) Objectives of vision 2020:
(ii) Analyse the major challenges to vision 2020.
Expected answers for Activity 8
(i) Objectives of vision 2020:
• Promotion of macroeconomic stability and wealth
creation to reduce aid dependency.
• Transforming from an agrarian to a knowledge-based
economy.
• Creating a productive middle class and fostering
entrepreneurship.
(ii) Major challenges of vision 2020:

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• Diminishing agricultural productivity and arable land

distribution.
• Natural Barriers to trade. Rwanda is land-locked, with
long distances from ocean ports; a factor that raises
transportation costs for both exports and imports.
• Narrow economic base. It is clear that increases in the
productivity and exports of Coffee and Tea alone, will
not be sufficient to build the Rwandan economy.
• Weak institutional capacity. Governance, including the
management of public resources remains insufficient
due to lack of sound institutions and competent
personnel.
• Low level of human resource development. The severe
shortage of professional personnel constitutes an
obstacle to the development of all sectors.
• Public debt. Rwanda’s public debt constitutes a major
obstacle to its economic development.
Synthesis
Compare the learner’s presentations and the content in the Learner’s
Book pages 468-477. Harmonise gaps in the lesson.
Assessment of the lesson
Task learners with a homework.
• To explain the applicability of the different pillars and cross
cutting priorities in their areas of origin. (learners reflect to
their home areas and explain how these issues have been
addressed).
• To examine the challenges of vision 2020 based on the
experience in their home areas. (Refer to the challenges
mentioned in step 3 above).

Lesson 7: Economic development and poverty
reduction strategies (EDPRS 1)

Learner’s Book pages 477-486.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:

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• Explain the objectives of EDPRS1.

• Describe the strategies used to achieve the objectives of
EDPRS1.
• Evaluate the achievements and challenges of EDPRS1.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Guide learners to discover that EDPRS is one of the programmes
that was put forward by government to eradicate poverty so as to
improve human welfare in Rwanda.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economic text books, internet
access, and other economics sources.
Learning activities
Step 1: With reference to Activity 9 in the Learner’s Book page
477, learners do library / internet research on EDPRS1 and:

• Explain its objectives.

• Describe the strategies used to achieve the objectives of
EDPRS 1.
• Examine the achievements and challenges of EDPRS1.
Step 2: Different groups share their findings to the rest of the class
through presentations. Facilitate the discussions and presentations.
Expected answers for the Activity
Objectives of EDPRS 1
• Increase economic growth by investing in
infrastructure.
• Slow down population growth by reducing infant
mortality.
• Tackle extreme poverty through improved food security.
Note: Be receptive to other correct responses.
Strategies used by EDPRS 1 to achieve its objectives
• Sustainable growth for jobs and exports, was to
be driven by an ambitious, high quality public
investment programme aimed at systematically
reducing operational costs of business, increasing
capacity to innovate, widening and strengthening
the financial sector. This meant heavy investment

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in hard infrastructure by the government to create

strong incentives for the private sector to increase its
investment in the subsequent years.
• The sectoral allocation of public expenditure was to
be distributed to maintain momentum in social sectors
like education, health, water and sanitation while also
targeting agriculture, transport and information and
communication technology, energy, housing and urban
development, good governance and rule of law, proper
land use management and environmental protection.
• In agriculture the main programmes included the
intensification of sustainable production systems in
crop cultivation and animal husbandry, building the
technical and organisational capacity of farmers,
promoting commodity chains and agribusiness, and
strengthening the institutional framework of the sector
at central and local level.
• Environmental and land policies involved ecosystems,
the rehabilitation of degraded areas and strengthening
newly established central and decentralised institutions.
Special attention was to be paid to sustainable land
tenure security through the planning and management
of land registration and rational land use, soil and water
conservation, reforestation, preservation of biological
diversity and adaptation and mitigation against impact
climate change.
• In education and skills development, the emphasis
was on increasing the coverage and the quality of the
nine-year basic education, strengthening technical
and vocational education and training (TVET) and
improving the quality of tertiary education.
• The concerted effort to build scientific capacity was to
be based on the objectives of knowledge acquisition
and deepening, knowledge creation through scientific
research and knowledge transfer.

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(iii) Achievements of EPDR1:

• Ownership of the EDPRS by a wide range of
stakeholders at national level has been a key factor
of success.
• Home-grown initiatives turned into success stories in
strengthening the delivery of EDPRS 1. These include:
Umuganda (community work), Gacaca (truth and
reconciliation traditional courts).
• Community-based solutions, working closely with
the population, have made possible fast-track and
cost effective implementation and increased demand
for accountability, in education with the nine-year
basic education construction of classrooms, the Crop
Intensification Programme (CIP) in agriculture, and
community based health care programmes. This
approach supporting community empowerment and
involvement will be scaled up and supported in the
EDPRS 2.
• Use of ICT solutions improved service delivery.
Some of the biggest successes in service delivery and
investment climate reforms have been centered on ICT
solutions such as online registration of businesses,
online filing of tax claims among others.
• An adequate institutional and legal framework for
implementation, but with flexibility to change or adapt
has proven effective (e.g. RDB, REB, EWSA, etc.
Synthesis
Base on the learners’ group presentations, and refer to the content
in the Learner’s Book as well as any other economics resource, to
harmonise the discussion. Let learners write down the discussed
points.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask oral questions on the lesson to make sure that lesson objectives
were achieved.

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Lesson 8: Economic development and poverty
reduction strategies (EDPRS 2)

Learner’s Book pages 486-493

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Describe the background of EDPRS 2.
• Explain the objectives of EDPRS 2.
• Examine the thematic areas of EDPRS 2.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Retate EDPRS1 to EDPRS2. Guide learners to discover that
EDPRS 2 came after the end of EDPRS1 to address the issues
that were not accomplished as per the vision 2020 objectives. Let
learners, do Activity 12 in the Learner’s Book page 488.
Expected answers for Activity 12
Objectives of EDPRS 2
• To ensure economic growth to middle income status.
• To continue poverty reduction.
• To provide more off farm jobs and continued urbanisation.
• To reduce external dependency.
• To empower the private sector as the engine to growth.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economics textbooks,
internet, other economics sources relevant to the lesson.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups, with reference to activity 11 from
the Learner’s Book page 486, do library or internet research on
thematic areas of EDPRS 2 and the principles to be addressed.
Step 2: Let the groups present their findings to theclass. Facilitate
the discussions.
Expected answers for Activity 11
(i) The four thematic areas on which EDPRS 2 is based:
Economic transformation for accelerated economic
restructuring and growth striving for middle income country
status.

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Rural development to address the needs of the vast majority

of the population and to ensure sustainable poverty reduction
and rural livelihoods.
Productivity and youth employment to ensure that growth
and rural development are underpinned by appropriate skills
and productive employment, especially for the growing
cohort of youth.
Accountable governance, to underpin improved service
delivery and citizen participation in the development process.

(ii) Principle areas are addressed in EDPRS 1

Innovation: Emphasising new ways of thinking, working
and delivering because the status quo will not be adequate
to achieve Rwanda’s ambitious targets.
Emerging priorities: Identifying thematic strategies which
encompass new priorities, including new ways of doing
business, to drive the achievement of Vision 2020 targets.
Inclusiveness and engagement: Creating ownership
of development at all levels and providing learning and
feedback mechanisms to improve solutions.
District-led development: Creating strong, mutually
supporting linkages between district and sectoral strategies,
and supporting administrative standardisation and efficiency.
Sustainability: Ensuring that programmes and targets
achieved from EDPRS 2 are sustained over the long term in
their economic, social and environmental dimensions.

Synthesis
Harmonise the presentations with the content notes in the Learner’s
Book. Give learners chance to ask questions about EDPRS 2.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess learning objectives by asking oral questions on the lesson
to make sure that they were achieved. Ask related questions like,
Why was EDPRS 2 put in place in Rwanda?

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Lesson 9: Unit assessment

Learner’s Book page 493.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to analyse the need
for economic planning of an economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Prepare learners for unit assessment. Refer them to the Learner’s
Book page 493. Give clear instructions on how to do the assessment.
Teaching aids
Classroom environment, printed assessment sheets and answer
sheets.
Learning activities
Step 1: Distribute preprinted/ written assessment sheets and answer
sheets to learners.
Step 2: Learners do unit assessments as per the teacher’s
instructions.
Step 3: When time is over, collect their written work for marking
and corrections.
Synthesis
Refer to end of unit assessment in the Learner’s Book on page 493
to have a general discussion with the rest of the class.
Lesson assessment
To check whether the learning objectives were achieved, ask oral
related questions. e.g
Do you think the objectives of EDPRS1 and 2 are achievable in
Rwanda? Give reasons.
End of unit

Summary of the unit

The unit unvails economic planning, its meaning,the rationale,
principles and obstacles to planning (Learner’s Book pages 455-
461).

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Plans are classified according to time, implementation, social-

economic system, hierachy of planning and coverage (refer to
Learner’s Book page 453-497).
Current development plans in Rwanda, (pillars of vision 2020) as
well as EDPRS1 and EDRSII are well explained in the unit. (Refer
to pages 468-494 Learner’s Book).
All the above will help the learner to analyse the need for economic
planning ,acquire skills in planning and develop a positive attitude
towards participation in the planning process, for the well being
of the entire Rwandan society.
Additional information for the teacher
Vision 2020 is a government development programme in Rwanda,
launched in 2000 by Rwandan president Paul Kagame. Its main
objective is transforming the country into a knowledge-based
middle-income country, thereby reducing poverty, health problems
and making the nation united and democratic.
In 2011, the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning issued a
report indicating the progress of the Vision 2020 goals. The report
examined the stated goals of the programme and rated each one with
a status of “on-track”, “on-watch” or “off-track”. Of 44 goals, it
found that 66% were on-track, 11% were on-watch, and 22% were
off-track. The major areas identified as off-track were population,
poverty and the environment. Research into Vision 2020, carried
out in 2012 by academics based in Belgium, has rated progress
as “quite encouraging”, mentioning development in the education
and health sectors, as well as Kagame’s fostering of a favorable
business environment. The research also raised concerns about the
policy of “maximum growth at any cost”, suggesting that this was
leading to a situation in which the rich prospered while the rural
poor saw little benefit.
In national budgets, Rwanda focuses on education, health, looks
at technology, skills, innovation, creativity. Rwanda is always
thinking about people.

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End of Unit 12 assessment answers (Learner’s Book page

493)

1. Development planning refers to the deliberate government action to

influence and direct economic resources towards specific desirable
political, social, and economic objectives.

Characteristics of a good development plan:

• It should be as comprehensive as possible.
• It should combine topdown and bottomup planning approaches
through an intensive dialogue between the national, sectoral
and local development agencies between the various levels
of planning — national, sectoral, district and lower local
governments.
• A development plan should be socially relevant, and it must
involve the people in a development effort.
• A development plan must be economically feasible.
• A development plan must be politically and administratively
possible.
2. Merits of comprehensive planning:
• It provides time long enough for survey into the resources to
be made.
• It encourages interdependence since linkages between different
sectors are possible.
• It allows looking far into the future which gives good ideas
on priority sectors and planners will concentrate more on such
sectors.
• It encourages full utilisation of the resources in an economy.
• It reduces regional inequality since all sectors are planned for
at the same time.
• It allows economic development to move hand in hand with
economic development since plans are for the development of
the economy as a whole.

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• It caters for the problems that may be going on in the economy

at a particular period of time such as unemployment, poverty,
and inflation among others.
• It helps to determine the sources of finance that may be needed
for the development of a country for a period of time.

Limitations of comprehensive planning:

• They are expensive to administer and monitor.
• Developing countries have a limited supply of the skilled
personnel that can be everywhere at the same time to monitor
the different sectors growing at the same time.
• Comprehensive plans give raise to inflation.
• Comprehensive planning may bring distortions in the major
national objectives.
• It is hard to give raise to a single plan that answers the needs of
different groups and regions of people at different development
levels.
3. Objectives of 2020 vision:
• Short term: Promotion of macroeconomic stability and wealth
creation to reduce aid dependency.
• Medium Term: Transforming from an agrarian to a knowledge
based economy.
• Long Term: Creating a productive middle class and fostering
entrepreneurship.

Major challenges of 2020 vision:

• Diminishing agricultural productivity and arable land
distribution.
• Natural Barriers to trade (being land locked country).
• Narrow economic base.
• Weak institutional capacity.
• Low level of human resource development.
• Public debt.
• Social and Economic Consequences of the Genocide.

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4. Thematic areas of EDPRS 1.

• Economic transformation for accelerated economic restructuring
and growth striving for middle income country status.
• Rural development to address the needs of the vast majority of
the population and ensure sustainable poverty reduction and
rural livelihoods.
• Productivity and youth employment to ensure that growth and
rural development are underpinned by appropriate skills and
productive employment, especially for the growing cohort of
the youth.
• Accountable governance, to underpin improved service delivery
and citizen participation in the development process.
• Five Principles of EDPRS 1.
• Innovation.
• Emerging priorities.
• Inclusiveness and engagement.
• District-led development.
• Sustainability.

Remedial activity
1. If you were the district planner, what would you have in place
for effective planning?
Expected answers
Refer to prerequisites for planning (Learner’s Book page 456)
Consolidation activity
1. Taking an example of your district, why do you think plans
fail?
2. What should be done to make planning effective?
Expected answers
1. Why plans fail:
• They are not compatible i.e. do not base on available
resources.
• At times they are irrelevant.
• Over ambitious plans.

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• Inadequate skilled manpower.

• Corruption and embezzlement of plan funds.
• Lack of political will.
• Poor technology.
• Etc.
2. What should be done to make plans effective:
• Plan according to resources.
• Train planning manpower.
• Mobilise and sensitise the masses on planning process.
• Plan comprehensively.
• Mobilise planning fund.
• Improve technology.
• Etc.
Extended activity
• What is noticeable in your sector that is attributed to EDPRS
1 & EDPRS 2 and vision 2020?
Expected answers
1. Let learners give achievements of EDPRS1&2 and vision
2020 in their respective areas.

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 Topic Area 5: Development Economics
Sub-topic Area 5.2: Development Process and Strategies

Unit 13: Sectors of the Rwandan Economy

Reference to learner’s text book pages 501 – 545

Unit competence: Learners will be able to describe the role of

various sectors of Rwandan economy.

Prerequisites for this unit

In the previous unit, we discussed/taught about planning in
Rwanda. Planning covers the entire economy. As we plan for all
sectors we need to discover what transpires in the economy. This
brings us to the sectors of Rwandan economy. In this unit, we
analyse the operation of all sectors in the economy, private and
public, and their contribution to national economy and also analyse
the population growth and structure versus the level of economic
resources development.

Cross-cutting issues to be addressed

While teaching this unit/lessons, it will be important to consider
the cross cutting issue of gender education especially while dealing
with the meaning and advantages of various sectors of the economy.
Environment and sustainability should also be emphasised
especially when looking at informal sector their capacities of
production both in the short run and long run so as to protect and
preserve the environment.

Generic competences
• Co-operation and interpersonal management is
developed through group work and discussions.
• Communication and interpersonal relations is
generated through presentation of research findings.

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• Critical thinking through analysing the achievements

and weaknesses of the private sector in Rwanda.
• Research skills is gained through research activities on
the various sectors of Rwandan economy.
• Lifelong learning is a competence that is developed
through research activities and other problem solving
activities.
Vocabulary or key words or concepts in the unit
Contract management: This is where the government owns the
property but gives out management like maintenance, providing
goods and services among others.
Cost sharing: This is where the government retains ownership of
the enterprises but the beneficiaries contribute to the running costs.
eg.in schools and universities where the government pays part of
the fees and the learners pay the rest.
Community sector: This is a sector which is neither in the private
nor the public sector but is in the hands of the community. Examples
of the sector include NGOs, cooperatives and other self-employed/
help community development organisations.
Commercial sector: This is the sector where most of what is
produced is for the market.
Contracting out: This is where the provision of the good or
service is transferred from the public to the private sector while the
government retains the responsibility to supply the good or service.
De-nationalisation: This involves the sale of all or part of the
enterprise owned by the government to private people or the public.
It can also be called divestiture.
Dualism: This is the co-existence of two contrasting sectors one
advanced and modern and the other backward and traditional,
one superior and the other inferior, one desirable and the other
undesirable.
Economic liberalisation: This is the removal of unnecessary control
on economic activities, giving people the liberty to participate in
them without government controls.

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Economic dependence: This is the reliance of an economy on

another for resources and economic decisions. OR It is the reliance
of an economy on specific economic activities/sectors for economic
livelihood and development.
Franchising: This is the right to market on behalf of the
government.
Government enterprises: These include public corporations/
enterprises which provide specific services for free or reduced
prices, government parastatals which are non profit making and
local authorities which provide essential services.
Informal sector: This is an intermediate sector existing between the
traditional and the modern sector comprised of the self-employed.
Leasing or renting: Here the government contracts the private
sector to provide part of the service or to use/rent its assets.
Liberalisation: This involves opening up entry into activities which
were previously restricted to the public sector enterprises only. It
can also be known as de-regulation.
Private sector: An area of production where activities are not
mainly controlled by the government.
Public sector: This is part of the economy owned and operated by
the government.
Privatisation: This is the reduction of the role of the state in
the national economy while increasing private ownership and
private sector both local and foreign. OR it refers to the transfer
of production assets from state ownership to private ownership.
Parastatals organisations: These are organisations owned by the
government and set by the act of parliament to provide specific
services but are none profit making.
Subsistence sector: This is a sector where most of what is produced
is for home consumption and the incidental surplus is exchanged
through barter trade to meet the other basics.

Guidance on the problem statement

As this unit deals with a diversity of issues, begin by engaging
learners in a general discussion about the different sectors in

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Rwanda economy. Ask them to share on the activities they know

of from their home areas. Help them to share experience from their
areas of origin. This will help them realise that there are different
activities and sectors in Rwandan economy which contribute to the
GDP and revenues of the country. Moderate discussions with real
life experiences. Soon or later they will appreciate that all activities
as long as they are legal whether small or large, formal or informal,
are worth undertaking for livelihood. They should recognise that
some activities are either run by private individuals or government
or run jointly but they all work hand in hand to promote economic
growth and development of the entire economy. Assign them
activity 1 on page 504 in the Learner’s Books.

Attention to special education needs

Learners with physical disabilities
Learners with physical impairment may show challenges in using
their hands to write, sitting in class, using the toilet, walking or
climbing stairs, etc. Such learners may also display excessive
fatigue after performing light duties.
This category of learners can be helped in the following ways:
Ask other learners to help them to move around, sit the learner in
a place where they can move in and out of class easily, give them
more time and practice to write, copy important notes for them
on paper, if it takes them too much time to copy work. Ensure a
friendly school environment e.g,the building ramps on all entries
to rooms, network with organisations that can provide wheelchairs,
allow them more time to complete their tasks and encourage other
learners to treat them with respect and dignity.

Learners with special abilities

This kind of learners understand concepts very fast because
they are extremely intelligent. They complete tasks faster than
others, get bored faster due to early completion of tasks and can
be disruptive due to idleness. Provide them with extra activities
so as to keep them occupied, assign them to assist other learners,
provide counselling sessions where necessary.

Time takers
Such learners take time to understand what has been taught. Do not
reprimand them or show them they are poor compared to others.

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Give them more attention, be more patient with them, guide them
carefully and create time for them after the lesson. Tell them
they can do better, and ensure they understand a sub-topic before
teaching the next.

Learners with visual impairment

Learners with visual impairment experience problems with their
vision. Some learners may experience low vision and others may
have no vision at all. You can notice such learners because they
display the following characteristics:
They write unusually large letters, often scratch their eyes, cannot
focus in bright light, and cannot focus on distant objects.
Use the following strategies to assist them:
Sit them in the placewhere they can see clearly ,write with yellow
chalk on a clean chalkboard ,encourage them to sit at the front of
the class, use large and legible handwriting on the chalkboard,
use large charts and other visual aids ,ensure good colour contrast
on learning aids, and give the learner real objects to use.

Learners with hearing impairment

These learners have a problem with their ability to hear. They
may be partially or completely unable to hear. They display signs
such as:
Turning their heads towards the source of sound, shout when
talking, regularly consult those sitted next, delay to respond, have
irrelevant responses,pay less attention,and they always look at the
lips of the person talking to them.
Refer such learners to an ear specialist, and assist them in the
process of learning. You can look at the learner when speaking,
speak clearly and loudly, write instructions on the chalkboard,
be audible enough, encourage the learner to sit at the front in
class and regularly check their notes to ensure they are writing
the right things. Give the learners a slate (urubaho) to help them
communicate, speak slowly and use simple words.

Learners with communication disorders

These learners cannot communicate effectively because of speech
and language difficulties e.g. inability to interpret simple statements
easily giving up on description tasks due to frustration, stammering
and difficulty in explaining things.

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Refer them to a speech therapist, avoid interrupting them when

they are talking, display high level of patience, pay attention to
all their needs,demonstrate various concepts and give them clear
instructions.

Learners with behavioural disorders

Learners with behavioural disorders do not conform to the expected
kind of behaviour laid down in school rules and regulations. They
may show behaviour disorder such as: truancy, stealing, failure
to complete tasks, disrupting lessons through playing, fighting
others etc.
To assist such learners; reinforce their positive behaviour through
rewards, involve parents or guardians in correcting such behaviours,
and refer them to a counsellor if necessary.
List of lessons/ lesson map on Sectors of the Rwandan economy
Lesson 1: Structure of Rwanda’s economy and its implication.
Lesson 2: Dual economy.
Lesson 3: Economic dependence.
Lesson 4: Structure of trade.
Lesson 5: Subsistence sector.
Lesson 6: Informal sector.
Lesson 7: Private sector.
Lesson 8: Public sector.
Lesson 9: Privatisation.
Lesson 10: Economic liberalisation.
Lesson 11: Unit assessment.

Lesson 1: Structure of Rwanda’s economy and its
implication

Learner’s Book pages 503-505

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Describe the structure of Rwanda’s economy.

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• Examine the implication of the structure of Rwanda’s

economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Guide learners to discover that having seen all the issues in different
units, this as a last one, we need to describe our economy in
various aspects economically. Thus learners need to characterise
the structure of our economy by giving it’s differing features. Task
learners to read the case study Activity 1 (i) page 502 and share
their views in pairs with the rest of the class.
Expected answers for Activity (1) page 502.
(i) Features of the Rwanda economy:
• It’s predominantly agricultural in nature composed
of both food crops like rice, potatoes, beans and cash
crops like tea.
• Dual economy. There is existence of two contrasting
sectors i.e advanced and backward, rich and poor,
subsistence and commercial agriculture, educated and
the uneducated etc.
• Mixed economy; because we have both the private
sector and the government participating in production.
• Open economy; because it is involved in international
trade.
• Large subsistence sector; where most of the food grown
is for home consumption.
• High population growth rate; and this is shown by the
increasing number of born children.
• Dependent economy; on agricultural sector and foreign
aid.
• Wide spread unemployment.
• High levels of illiteracy.
• Small but growing industrial sector.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended textbooks, internet access,
newspaper with economics related issues on the unit and relevant
economics journals.

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Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in whole class discussions based on Activity 1 (ii)
examine and present their views on the implication of the features
of the Rwandan economy. Teacher facilitates the discussion.
Expected answers for Activity 1 (ii), Learner’s Book
page 502.
(ii) Implications of the above features.
• Low export earnings because of the economy basing
on agriculture.
• Increased trade with other countries since the country
is open and this provides market for the local goods.
• Mixed economy implies that there is both government
and private sector.
• Being dual economy implies that some areas develop
faster than other hence income inequality.
• Large subsistence sector implies low incomes to
the people since most of what is grown is for home
consumption.
• Fast growing population implies limited social services
and too much pressure on resources.
• Dependent economy implies that the country cannot be
self-sustaining and high rates of capital outflow when
paying back the loans acquired.
• Small but growing industrial sector implies low quality
goods and low earnings from the manufacturing sector.
• Wide spread unemployment and underemployment
implies high levels of poverty and low standards of living.
Synthesis
Base on the presentations and the content in the Learner’s Book
page 502-505, to harmonise the content on features of Rwandan
economy and the implications. Learners take down notes.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess the lesson by asking questions to learners to check the
achievement of the learning objectives and to have a way forward.
For example;
How is the Rwandan economy dual?

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Expected answers
It has two contrasting sectors e.g
rich and poor
subsistence and commercial
educated and uneducated

Lesson 2: Dual economy

Learner’s Book pages 506-510

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the meaning of dualism.
• Discuss the features and forms of a dual economy.
• Analyse causes of dualism in an economy.
• Examine the advantages and disadvantages of a dual
economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Guide learners to discover that in an economy not all things go or
grow at the same pace, some are developed while others are not.
But they all can happen in the same setting/economy or different
settings/ economies. Introduce that concept as dualism. Task
learners to do Activity 2 (i) and (ii) to know more about dualism.
Expected answers for Activity 2 (i) & (ii) page 506 in
the Learner’s Book
(i) Dualism. This refers to the co-existence of two contrasting
sectors e.g. advanced and, backward, modern and traditional,
superior and inferior, desirable and undesirable, in the same
economy.
(ii) Examples of dualism:
• Commercial versus subsistence production.
• Modern versus rudimentary/traditional technology.
• Small scale production versus large scale production.
• Barter exchange versus monetary exchange.
• Formal sector versus informal sector.
• Rural versus urban.

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Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, internet,
newspapers with economics related issues on the lesson and
relevant economics journals.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups discuss the features and causes of
dualism in an economy.
Step 2: Different groups are called upon to present their views to
the rest of the class. Teacher facilitates the discussions.
Expected answers
Features of a dual economy.
• Commercial versus subsistence production.
• Modern versus rudimentary/ traditional technology.
• Small scale production versus large scale production.
• Barter exchange versus monetary exchange.
• Formal sector versus informal sector.
• Rural versus urban.
• Educated versus the uneducated.
• Production for home production versus production for
foreign markets.
Causes of dualism.
• Differences in distribution of resources.
• Differences in social and economic infrastructure like roads.
• Government policies like a regressive tax which taxes the
poor more than the rich cause some people to become poor
while others rich.
• Historical factors e.g. one can get much income because of
inheriting property from rich parents.
• Differences in natural abilities for example when one has
disabilities.
• International dualism basically is caused by some countries
having passed through the development stages earlier than
others.
Step 3: Through groups, learners debate and present their views to
the whole class on the arguments for or against economic dualism
in an economy.

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Expected answers
(a) Advantages of dualism
• Linkages can develop between the developed sectors
and the underdeveloped sectors and also within the
same sector.
• International dualism helps some poor countries to
access aid and assistance from the developed nations
and also through trade, the underdeveloped countries
are able to access foreign exchange.
• Income is in the hands of few people who can invest
it and produce commodities for other people.
• It encourages the poor to work hard so as to survive.
• The rich can invest in research and innovations and
improve technologies.
• The few rich employ the poor in the different activities
that may not be done by the rich people.
• More tax revenue is realised by taxing the rich and the
developed sectors in the economy.
• Developed technology can lead to the development
of the local technology in the country and this can be
through innovation and invention.
• Foreign exchange in earned by rich export firms
compared to the ones that produce for home market.
(b) Disadvantages of economic dualism
• It leads to income inequalities and this creates tension
and mistrust in the society.
• Regional inequalities create regional imbalances.
• Exploitation of the poor by the sellers.
• Miss allocation of resources.
• Social unrest in the society between the rich and the
poor.
• Low revenues are collected because of the low tax base.
• Policy implementation becomes difficult.
• Government planning becomes hard.
• It causes rural urban migration.

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Synthesis
Together with learners, the teacher, harmonises the presentations
with reference to the content in the Learner’s Book pages 506-
510 and any economics source. Learners are given chance to ask
questions and write down the lesson notes.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask learners to mention some forms of dualism reflected in their
home areas, school, and the entire country.
Expected answers
• Sectoral dualism
This shows the co-existence of two sectors i.e the developed and
the backward. For example, industry and agriculture, rural and
urban, among others.
Economic dualism eg the rich and poor.
Technological dualism e.g labour intensive and capital intensive.
Intra-sector dualism
This involves differences within the sector e.g in the agricultural
sector. The commercial agriculture and subsistence production.

Regional dualism
E.g regional inequalities where regions are more developed than
others.

Lesson 3: Economic dependence

Learner’s Book pages 511-515.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain economic dependence.
• Analyse the causes of economic dependence.
• Present arguments for or against dualism.
• Suggest possible measures to reduce dependence in an
economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Guide learners to discover on their own that most LDCs are unable
to sustain their economies and therefore have to rely on other

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countries’ economies. Due to low financial and human resource

capacity, an economy can rely for its livelihood on one or a few
sector(s). Introduce such situation as economic dependence.
Learners do Activity 3 (i) & (ii) to open them to the day’s lesson.
Expected answers for Activity 3 (i) & (ii) Learner’s
Book page 511
(i) Economic dependence is the reliance of an economy on
another for resources and economic decisions.
(ii) Forms of dependence.
• Sectoral dependence. This involves dependence on a
few sectors like agriculture, industry, mining etc.
• Trade dependence. This involves dependence on
exportation and importation of goods and services.
• Direct dependence. This involves dependence on
foreign decisions and may make the country take up
decisions that may not be appropriate.
• External resource dependence. Dependence on foreign
status, expatriates, technology, military hard ware etc.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economics textbooks, internet
etc.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups, based on Activity 3 (iii) page 511,
discuss and present to the class the causes and effects of dependence
in an economy.
Expected answers for Activity 3 (iii) Learner’s Book
page 511
Causes of economic dependence includes:
• High population growth rate. This creates a gap in the social
services and essentials needed by the people hence the
solution is to seek aid.
• Low technology development creates a technology gap
in the country and this leads to the need to import foreign
technology which comes with its associated problems.
• Occurrence of catastrophes like floods, famine, landslides
and drought.

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• Wide spread poverty among the population creates income

gap so the government has to resort to borrowing and
dependence in order to cover the gaps.
• Low tax base: This is due to the few economic activities
that are carried out. So the country has to depend on other
countries for help.
• Poor education policy: This tends to create more job seekers
than creators and worse still they lack the necessary skills
hands on skills.
• Low level of industrialisation causes constant dependence
on agriculture.
Advantages of dependence:
• Dependence helps to increase a country’s resources; this
helps it to meet its deficits especially in the national budget.
• Dependence helps a nation to alleviate the effects of
catastrophes.
• It helps to close the manpower gap which is prevalent in
developing countries.
• It improves upon the technology gap in developing countries.
• It provides employment opportunities to people in LDCS.
• It closes the foreign exchange gap in developing countries.
• Dependence strengthens relationship between countries.
• Dependence on trade creates market for home made goods.
Step 2: With reference to Activity 4 in the Learner’s Book page
514, learners examine the dangers of economic dependence on an
economy and suggest possible measures to reduce it.
Expected answers for Activity 4 Learner’s Book
page 514
(i) Dangers of economic dependence.
• Dependence on a few sectors like agriculture may make
the country lose foreign exchange during periods when
the sectors fail.
• It worsens the debt servicing problem; loans contracted
must be paid back and on several occasions with
interest. This drains the national resources and deny
nationals essentials.

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• High balance of payment deficits. The high out flow of

resources to pay back loans and service them worsens
the balance of payment position of the country.
• Sometimes the technological assistance given is
inappropriate, it may be too underdeveloped or beyond
the standards of developing countries, so it may just
be wasted.
• Sometimes the pre-conditions set for foreign aid are
disastrous for the country.
• It slows down initiative and hard work.
• It distorts planning and plan implementation of
developing countries.
• It reduces local production.
(ii) Measures to reduce economic dependence.
• Diversification of the economy so as to have a variety
of goods and services.
• Training of labour-force through seminars and
workshops to reduce depending on foreign experts.
• Developing and promoting local intermediate
technology so as to reduce depending on foreign
technology.
• Encouraging savings and investment by putting in
place a good investment climate that will attract
investors.
• Proper planning to ensure that the different sectors
of the economy are planned to avoid inconveniences
during times of disaster.
• Promoting import substitution strategy to produce
goods that were formally imported so as to stop
depending on imports.
• Diversification of the markets.
• Controlling population growth.
• Promotion of initiatives that encourage the consumption
of homemade products.

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Synthesis
Together with learners, base on the presentations from different
groups and the content notes in the Learner’s Book page 511-515
and any other economics resource, to harmonise the discussion.
Assessment of the lesson
Assess learners by asking any questions on the lesson to check the
achievement of the lesson objectives.
For example,
(i) What is the difference between economic dependence and
economic interdependence?
(ii) How is Rwanda economically dependent?
Expected answers
(i) Economic dependence is the reliance of an economy on
another for resources and economic decisions. While
economic interdependence refers to the situation where
countries rely on each other in respect to trade, technology
and other resources.
(ii) How is Rwanda economically dependent:
• Foreign aid dependence in form of loans, grants etc
from donors.
• Manpower dependence in form of expatriates.
• Technological dependence i.e. dependence on foreign
technology in form of capital equipment and technical
knowhow.
• Private foreign investment. i.e. dependence on FDIs
and MNCs.
• Trade dependence in form of import and export market.
• Direct economic dependence where most of economic
decisions are dictated or influenced by donors, MNCs,
IMF and WB.

Lesson 4: Structure of trade

Learner’s Book pages 516-518.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:

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• Describe the structure of Rwanda’s trade.

• Explain the impact of the structure of such trade in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Based on the previous lesson let learners brainstorm the
characteristics of trade in Rwanda.
Expected answers
Characteristics of structure of trade in Rwanda
• Exports are mainly raw materials such as coffee, coffee and
the imports are manufactured goods like computers and cars.
• Export earnings are low while expenditure on the imports is
high leading to balance of payment problems.
• The exports are similar to those of other countries and this
leads to floating at the world market hence low earnings.
Most of the countries, export coffee, cotton, tea among others
• The export- import exchange is unbalanced because LDCs
export low value items and import high value goods.
• Most of the trade is with the colonial masters however
because of integration, the trend is changing to trading with
a variety of countries.
• The export of manufactured products is limited in LDCs due
to low levels of technology, low manufacturing capacity etc.
• Export promotion industries are mainly owned by foreigners
meaning that profit repatriation is likely to be high. Examples
of these are Azam, Matella and Dodoma.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended text books, internet.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners brainstorm the consequences of the structure of
trade to Rwanda’s economy.

Expected answers
Consequences of structure of trade in Rwanda.
• Persistent balance of payment problems arising from import
value exceeding export value.
• Because of low exports, the forex earnings are low and this
has hindered the speed of development.

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• The terms of trade are constantly deteriorating because of

high prices for imports and low prices for exports and this
has led to constant unfavorable terms of trade.
• There is likely to be excess capital outflow because most of
the export promotion industries are owned by foreigners.
• Because of exporting similar commodities with other
countries, there are low earnings expected because of too
much at the world market.
• Trading mostly with the colonial masters limits the markets
for the exports and at the same time limits getting a variety
from other countries.
• There is a narrow market and this limits bargaining power
and possible earnings from exports.
Synthesis
Harmonise the learners’ discussions based on their presentations
and with reference to the content notes pages 516-518 and any
other economics resource. Emphasise that Rwanda’s trade is still
relying on agricultural products, raw materials and that import
costs are higher than export earnings. This needs to be improved.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask any questions orally to assess the achievement of the learning
objectives. e.g How would you describe the nature of Rwanda’s
trade? How does it affect its economy. (Refer to the characteristics
and consequences of Rwanda’s trade on the economy above).

Lesson 5: Subsistence sector

Learner’s Book pages 518-520.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the characteristics of subsistence sector.
• Examine its effect on the economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Basing on the previous lesson, guide learners in discovering that
though we have to produce for market, we need to have production
for home consumption so as to sustain our livelihood. Thus the
need to value a subsistence sector in an economy.

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Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other text books, internet, and relevant sources.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups base on Activity 5 page 518 in the
Learner’s Book to explain the characteristics and effects of a
subsistence sector in an economy.
Expected answers for Activity 5 Learner’s Book
page 518
(i) Subsistence sector covers the biggest part of the economy
where most of the production is for home use and little or
incidental surplus is sold off to meet the basic needs of life.
Carrying out agriculture for home consumption is known as
Subsistence agriculture.
(ii) Dependence on family labour during the production of goods.
• Low productivity of labour due to the poor methods
of production.
• There is lack of specialisation i.e. people grow a variety
of commodities.
• Predominant system of exchange is barter which limits
economic growth.
• Limited scientific methods of production e.g. limited
use of fertilisers.
• Major aim is to produce for minimum survival and
avoid famine.
(iii) Advantages of subsistence farming.
• Little marketing is needed since most of the food is
for home consumption and only the incidental surplus
is sold.
• Easy management. This is because output is small and
it employs few workers during the production process.
• Little or no wastage. This is because production is
done on small scale and bases on the size of the family.
• Variety is grown and kept. This helps the people to have
a balanced diet which can save them from problems
like malnutrition.

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• The crops are grown on a small pieces of land and thus

little losses are encountered if case of fire outbreaks.
• It requires little capital.
• It doesn’t need to hire or employee many workers.
• Discussions can be made quickly and independently.
Disadvantages of subsistence farming.
• Firms don’t enjoy economies of scale. This is because they
produce on a small scale and their output is low.
• Little incomes are earned by the farmers because they are
basically on low scale and for home consumption.
• It retards development of the agriculture sector since simple
tools are used and scientific methods are not embedded so
much.
• Low quality is produced since simple tools are used and poor
farming methods are used.
• Mechanisation is not possible since agriculture is carried out
on small fragmented plots.
• Little or no government revenue is collected at all because
of low output and only the incidental surplus is taken to the
market.
Synthesis
Harmonise learners’ discussions basing on their presentations and
in reference to the content in the Learner’s Book pages 518-520,
and any other related economics source. Emphasise to learners
that subsistence farming is vital in an economy but relying totally
on it can never help the economy to develop. Hence the need for
diversification.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask learners to express how subsistence has been of great
importance to their homes. (refer to the advantages of subsistence
production).

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Lesson 6: Informal sector

Learner’s Book pages 520-523.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Give different examples of an informal sector in Rwanda.
• Describe the characteristics of the informal sector.
• Assess the role played by the informal sector to the economic
development of Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Guide learners to discover that there are so many activities that
different people are engaged in for their wellbeing and the economy
as well. Some of those activities are registered by the government
while others are not. This is the informal sector. Ask learners to
mention the different activities categorised under the informal
sector. Refer to Activity 6 Learner’s Book page 520.
Expected answers for Activity 6 (i), (ii), (iii)
(i) Furniture making, selling and fabricating.
(ii) Informal sector is an intermediate sector existing between
the traditional and the modern sector comprised of the self-
employed.
(iii) Characteristics of the informal sector.
• They mainly produce on small scale.
• They mainly use poor or simple technology.
• They produce mainly low quality goods.
• It is dominated with poor or no record keeping.
• It is basically sole proprietorship.
• It is dominated by semi-skilled or unskilled personnel.
• There is use of basically local resources.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economics text books, internet
access, and relevant economics sources.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups discuss and present as a whole class,
the role of the informal sector in Rwanda. (Refer to question iii)
Activity 6 in the Learner’s Book.)

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Answers for Activity 6 (iii) Learner’s Book page 520.

Advantages of the informal sector:
• It creates employment opportunities since it is labour
intensive and this reduces income distribution.
• It produces essential goods that are beneficial to low income
earners.
• It provides training grounds for growth of entrepreneurs.
• It provides revenue to the government through taxation of
the business activities.
• Growth paves way for transformation into a modern dynamic
sector.
• It promotes development of appropriate technology which
suits the resources of the country.
Disadvantages of the informal sector:
• There is wasteful competition leading to duplication of goods
and services and wastage of resources.
• It promotes pollution and its effects to the environment
leading to degradation and hindering development.
• It causes public revenue instabilities since production cannot
be relied upon. It also leads to high rates of tax avoidance
and evasion.
• It causes congestion in the semi-urban areas with its
associated problems like prostitution, slums, theft etc.
• It leads to underemployment and unemployment therefore
labour capacity to produce goods is not fully put to use.
• It produces at excess capacity and end up exploiting
consumers through high prices.
• It produces low quality goods and this leads to low standards
of living.
Synthesis
Together with learners, harmonise learners’ ideas with reference
to the content notes in the Learner’s Book pages 521-523, and any
other relevant economics sources. Learners then write down notes.
Emphasise to learners that informal sector is actually boosting
Rwanda’s economy considering it’s simplicity in operations.

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Assessment of the lesson

Ask learners to give different examples of the informal sector
activities and explain how such activities have impacted the lives
of the people involved and the entire economy. (accept the views
by learners related to the lesson)

Lesson 7: Private sector

Learner’s Book pages 523-529.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• State the characteristics of a private sector.
• Analyse the role and challenges of the private sector in
Rwanda.
• Evaluate the achievements and weaknesses of the private
sector.
• Suggest possible measures to promote the private sector.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Basing on the lesson about the informal sector, guide learners
to discover that Rwanda needs to develop at a faster rate, so it
should encourage the private individuals to participate in economic
activities. Task learners in pairs to do Activity 7 (1) & (2) as the
introduction of the lesson.
Expected answers for Activity 7 (1) & (2) Learner’s
Book page 523-524.
1. Private sector.
2. Characteristics of a private sector.
• It is mainly operated on a small scale.
• It is dominated by individual producers (sole traders).
• It is mostly produces primary products.
• It is characterised by high levels of competition.
• It is driven by a profit motive.
• It mainly produces consumer goods and a few producer
goods.
• It is mainly active in urban areas than rural areas.

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• It mainly uses labour intensive techniques of

production.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economics text books, internet
access, and relevant economics sources.
Learning activities
Step 1: In groups, with reference to Activity 7 (3) & (4), learners
discuss and present to the whole class, the role and challenges of
the private sector in Rwanda.

Expected answers for Activity 7 (3) & (4)

3. Role of the private sector.
• The sector employs majority of the population hence
reduce unemployment and this increases incomes and
their standards of living.
• The sector produces goods and services hence
contributing greatly to national income after the sale
of the goods.
• It promotes gradual growth of the economy since it
stimulates entrepreneurship which leads to discovery
of new techniques of production.
• It contributes to growth and modernisation of the
industry in the country through mobilising private
savings, stimulating consumption and investment.
• It helps in exploiting the local resources hence reducing
excess capacity that exploits consumers through high
prices.
• The sector uses local resources hence reducing foreign
expenditure on resources and raw materials.
• It contributes the government revenue through taxation.
• The sector re-unites (ploughs back) profits.
• Technological advancement is enhanced.
• It helps to reduce the subsistence sector.
• It facilitates infrastructure development.
4. Challenges of the private sector in Rwanda.

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• High taxation by the government. The government

sometimes taxes them highly. They end up incurring
high operational costs that limit their expansion.
• Underdeveloped infrastructure like roads limits their
movements from their production sites to the markets.
• Inadequate market both within and outside.
• Poor technology: The technology is still low and this
has continuously led to low output and low revenues.
• Competition. Most of the LDCs produce similar
products hence calling for high advertisement costs
which leads to increased cost of production.
• Low prices paid by the consumers. This is sometimes
due to price legislation by the government. The firms
earn low profits that can’t enable them to develop.
• In adequate capital for production.
• Low levels of skills of entrepreneurs lead to low
innovations and invention.
• Underdevelopment structure for production, they don’t
have permanent markets.
Step 2: Learners in groups, do library/ internet research and
present their findings to the whole class on the weaknesses and
policy measures to promote the private sector in Rwanda. (Refer
to Activity 8 Learner’s Book page 528).
Expected answers
(i) Weakness of the private sector:
• They are mostly located in urban canters. They cause
rural urban migration with its associated problems like
theft, prostitution etc.
• They have a tendency of using capital intensive
techniques to increase production. This leads to
unemployment with its associated problems.
• The private sector tends to specialise in few activities
leading to consumer exploitation in form of high prices
since sometimes they become monopolies with no
competition.

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• The private sector concentrates on small scale

production activities and this may not enable it to
generate adequate economies of scale.
• The use of rudimentary/outdated technology limits
production. The output produced is little for the growth
of the country.
• Income inequalities may arise where a few people get
engaged in such activities.
• Limited levels of diversification due to production of
similar commodities.
• Production of low quality goods which may fetch little
foreign exchange.
• The sector is profit motivated hence it may not provide
good services for the society that is non-profit making.
(ii) Policies to promote the private sector in Rwanda:
• Provision of both economic and social infrastructures
such as roads, power, water supply etc.
• Trade liberalisation where entry into a particular field
is not restricted.
• Government has tried to maintain security and political
stability.
• Economic incentives like subsidisation policies, tax
holidays etc. have been encouraged by the government
to promote investments.
• Relaxing the procedures followed when opening up
businesses to encourage private investors.
• Respect of contracts provided to the private investors
and protection of property rights.
• Price stabilisation in the market should be encouraged.
• Should give input especially to farmers.
• Respect of contracts given to private investors and
protection of property rights.
Synthesis
Harmonise the discussions and the presentations, with the content
in the Learner’s Book pages 528-529. Give a conclusive remark
that, the private sector in Rwanda, employs the majority of the
people. It has reduced unemployment problems to a great extent.

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Assessment of the lesson

Task learners with a home work to reflect on their home areas
economic situation and identify some private sector activities and
examine their achievements and weaknesses and how they can be
solved. (Refer to the content discussed above)

Lesson 8: Public sector

Learner’s Book pages 530-534.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Describe the characteristics of a public sector.
• Explain the objectives of the public sector.
• Justify the need for the private sector.
• Discuss the problems faced by the public sector in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the previous lesson and link it to the day’s lesson. Guide
learners to discover that a private sector is important but cannot run
all the activities in the economy. Some are sensitive and others are
risky and expensive to be done by the private sector. Thus a need
for the operation of a public sector. Task learners to do Activity
9 in the Learner’s Book page 530 to introduce the day’s lesson.
Expected answers
(i) Public sector is part of the economy owned and operated by
the government. The government owns and carries out the
major economic decisions.
(ii) Characteristics of the public sector:
• It is development oriented i.e. It aims at developing
the nation.
• It is characterised by bureaucracy and red tape. This
involves a range of procedures so as to achieve what
someone wants.
• It takes on projects which require large capital that
cannot be taken up by the private sector.
• Medium and large scale industries dominate.
• It employs a large size of the population.

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 Sectors of the Rwandan Economy

• It is normally organised on monopoly basis as it

provides services which are vital to the people.
• There is high level of external influence.
• There is limited flexibility in the production of goods
and services.
(iii) Objectives of the public sector:
• To create employment for the people so as to reduce
the problems associated with unemployment.
• Provision of goods and services at reduced prices since
the public sector does not aim at profit maximisation
but welfare maximisation.
• To ensure equitable income distribution so as to have
balanced development.
• To Provide public utilities that don’t yield profits such
as defense, water and sanitation among others.
• To regulate the activities carried out in the country and
this is mainly done by the central government.
• To bring competition with the petition with the private
sector for efficiency.
• To develop the economy through planning and
implementation.
• To take up project that cannot be done by the private
sector.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economic text books, internet,
and relevant economics sources.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in pairs, discuss and share their views to the rest
of the class, on the justification for the public sector participation
in economic activities.
Expected answers
Justification of the public sector.
• It is composed of manufacturing industries which are
fundamental in reducing imports hence reducing the balance
of payment problems.

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• It is composed of parastatals which provide goods that are

vital to the society.
• It provides a means through which the government promotes
equitable distribution of income and this is through public
spending on social economic activities.
• It avoids duplication and wastage of resources since it is the
sole producer.
• It takes on risky projects which the private sector is un willing
to take on.
• It provides services which are vital to the society but are
nonprofit generating and which cannot be provided by the
private sector.
• It influences the private sector by working hand in hand in
some activities through privatisation and cost sharing.
• It is responsible for the welfare of the people and development
of the economy as a whole.
Step 2: Basing on Activity 10 in the Learner’s Book page 532,
learners analyse the role and problems of the public sector in
Rwanda.

Possible expected answers for Activity 10 Learner’s

Book page 532
(i) The role of the public sector:
• Provision of essential goods and services like national
defence, health, education to bring about development.
• Ensuring fair income distribution and social justice
among the citizens by protecting them from private
monopoly and fair income distribution.
• Allocation of resources through proper planning
especially where the private sector has failed to
provide.
• Controls economic activities such as exportation,
importation, industry distribution and also the activities
of the private sector through monetary and fiscal
policies.

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• Provides favourable environment for economic growth

through setting up price stability, political stability
among others.
• Negotiation for foreign assistance inform of capital
and other foreign assistance needed for development.
• Provision of employment and training of the labour
force.
• Creating and maintaining good working conditions
within and outside economics.
• Promotion of agriculture development.
• Improves B.O.P position.
• Funding, directing and implementing programmes that
improve the economy.
(ii) Problems faced by the public sector:
• Limited finance due to narrow tax base and this limits
expansion.
• Corruption and embezzlement which has depleted
funds which would be invested.
• Persistent inflation in the country increases the cost
of production.
• Inadequate skilled man power due to poor man power
training policy and this has led to dependence on
foreign labour which is expensive.
• Foreign influence by external organisations like IMF
and World Bank into the activities and dictating
policies to be followed by the country.
• Poor management because of heavy government
intervention through selecting top management and
constant change of officials.
• Inadequate infrastructural facilities needed for
development.
• Bureaucratic red tape which slows down decision
making and implementation.
Synthesis
Base on learners’ presentations and content from the Learner’s
Book pages 530-534 to harmonise their ideas.

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Assessment of the lesson

Task learners with oral questions about the lesson to assess the
learning objectives e.g
Who takes decisions in the public sector?
Is the public sector successful in Rwanda? (Refer to their
discussions above).

Lesson 9: Privatisation

Learner’s Book pages 534-538

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Analyse the reasons behind privatisation in an economy.
• Describe the different forms of privatisation.
• Assess the impact of privatisation on an economy of Rwanda.
• Analyse the limitations of privatisation in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Review the previous lesson and guide learners to discover that
due to the weakness of the public sector, some enterprises have
to be transferred to the hands of the private people for efficiency
purposes and this is called privatisation.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economics text books, internet
access, and relevant economics journals and magazines.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners, in groups, do library/internet research and present
their findings on;
(i) Meaning and forms of privatisation.
(ii) Advantages and disadvantages of privatisation.
(iii) Problems faced during privatisation.
Expected answers for Activity 11 page 534 Learner’s
Book
(i) Privatisation is the reduction of the role of the state in
the national economy while at the same time increasing
private ownership and private sector both local and foreign.
Or it refers to the transfer of production assets from state
ownership to private ownership.
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(ii) Privatisation takes various forms.

• De-nationalisation (Divestiture).
• Liberalisation (De-regulation).
• Contracting out.
(iii) Reasons for privatisation (rationale):
• To enable firms, operate more efficiently.
• To reduce corruption tendencies in the public sector.
• To attract foreign investments in the economy without
fear of nationalisation.
• To reduce government expenditure on public sector
enterprises.
• Fulfilment of the international monetary fund
conditionality of a private sector led economy.
• To create more job opportunities in the long run when
the private sector expands it enterprises.
• To improve resource utilisation through efficiency of
the private sector and the profit motive.
(iv) Limitations of privatisation in LDCs:
• Corruption in the privatisation unit ie. some officials
are not transparent; they connive with prospective
buyers.
• Opposition from the general public often delays the
process of privatisation.
• Poor valuation of the enterprises leads to assets being
sold at give-away prices.
• Poor states of the enterprises due to poor maintenance
making it hard to sale them.
• Political sabotage. Opposition leaders sometimes block
the sale of enterprises just to frustrate the government
and advance their causes.
• Poverty among the nationals makes the enterprises to
be sold to foreigners leading to foreign domination in
the country.
• Underdeveloped capital markets.
• Unscrupulous buyers.
• Small market discourages potential buyers.

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Synthesis
With reference to the content notes on pages 536-538 and any
other related economics resource, the teacher together with learners
harmonises the discussed and presented ideas about privatisation.
Assessment of the lesson
Task learners with a home work to identify some of the privatised
companies in Rwanda and evaluate the impact of their privatisation
on Rwandan economy.

Lesson 10: Economic liberalisation

Learner’s Book pages 538-545.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Explain the meaning of liberalisation.
• State objectives of economic liberalisation.
• Assess the impact of liberalisation on the Rwandan economy.
• Analyse the limitations of liberalisation in Rwanda.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Base on the previous lesson of the private sector. Guide learners to
discover that to attain quick and sustained economic growth and
development, the government should lessen its regulations towards
the private sector. Thus the day’s lesson of economic liberalisation.
Teaching aids
Learner’s Book, other recommended economics text books, internet
access, and relevant economics sources.
Learning activities
Step 1: Learners in groups, use the library/ internet to research on.
(i) The meaning of economic liberalisation.
(ii) Advantages and disadvantages of economic liberalisation.
(iii) Limitations of economic liberalisation in Rwanda.(Refer to
Activity 13 Learner’s Book page 538.)
Expected answers for Activity 13, Learner’s Book
page 538
(i) Economic liberalisation is the lessening of government
regulations and restrictions in an economy in exchange

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for greater participation by private entities; the doctrine is

associated with classical liberalism.
(ii) Advantages of economic liberalisation:
• Trade liberalisation allows countries to specialise in
producing the goods and services where they have
a comparative advantage. This enables a net gain in
economic welfare.
• The removal of tariff barriers can lead to lower prices
for consumers.
• Increased competition. Economic liberalisation means
firms will face greater competition from abroad.
• Economies of scale. Liberalisation enables greater
specialisation. Economies concentrate on producing
particular goods. This can enable efficiency savings
from economies of scale.
• Removing barriers to international investing, which
attracts foreign investors.
• Unrestricted flow of capital.
• Stock market performance.
• Diversification of investors.
Demerits of economic liberalisation:
• Economic liberalisation often leads to a shift in the
balance of an economy. Some industries grow, some
decline.
• Economic liberalisation could lead to greater
exploitation of the environment, e.g. greater production
of raw materials, trading in toxic wastes to countries
with lower environmental laws.
• Economic liberalisation may be a disadvantage to
developing economies that cannot compete against
free trade.
• It leads to unbalanced economic sectors. This is
because the introduction of the private sector in the
business sector creates an increased desire for profit
motives.

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• Liberalisation increases dependence. This is because an

increase in trade liberalisation will shift the economy
from an independent one to the one that depends on
imports and exports.
• The private sector engages in any activity that brings
in profits so with little monitoring by the government,
there may be production of undesirable products in the
economy. Increased production of undesirable goods
may be harmful to people.
(iii) Limitations of economic liberalisation:
• Increased government influence in resource allocation
makes companies fail to locate their businesses in
strategic areas that are profitable.
• Over taxation by the government makes the enterprises
fail to achieve their intended objectives.
• Price legislation by the government does not allow
automatic adjustment between the forces of demand
and supply, hence profits got are less/minimal.
• The need to control some production of public utilities
such as defense and water, limits their liberalisation.
• Nationalisation by the government scares the
participants in economic liberalisation.
• Poverty among the people limits their participation
in economic activities.
• Inadequate manpower in the LDCs cause the sectors
to be run by sole monopolies.
Synthesis
Harmonise the learner’s ideas about economic liberalisation. Base
on the content in the Learner’s Book pages 538-541, their research
and presentations and other related economics sources. Learners
take notes on the lesson.
Assessment of the lesson
Ask learners oral questions about the lesson to assess the
achievement of the learning lesson objectives e.g.
Why do many countries in Africa fear economic liberalisation?
How is economic privatisation different from economic
liberalisation? (Accept relevant answers only).

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 Sectors of the Rwandan Economy

Lesson 11: Unit assessment

Learner’s Book page 542.

Learning objectives
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
• Describe the role of various sectors of Rwandan economy.
Prerequisites for the lesson
Prepare learners for end of unit assessment. Refer to the Learner’s
Book page 542. Give them clear instructions on how to do the
assessment.
Teaching aids
Classroom environment, printed assessment sheets and answer
sheets.
Learning activities
Step 1: Distribute preprinted/ written assessment sheets and answer
sheets to learners.
Step 2: Learners do the assessment exercise as the teacher
supervises them.
Step 3: After the end of the exercise, teacher collects their written
work for marking and for correction.

Synthesis
Refer to end of unit assessment in the Learner’s Book on page 542
to have a general discussion with the rest of the class.
Assessment of the lesson
To check whether the learning objectives are achieved, based on
the lesson synthesis, ask more related questions.

End of unit

Summary of the unit

The unit unvails a number of sectors in the Rwandan economy i.e
dualism, economic dependence, subsistence and informal sectors,
private and public sectors,privatisation and economic liberalisation
(Refer to Learner’s Book pages 501-545).

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Considering the objectives, characteristics, achievements and

limitations of the above sectors.We can say that they are all worthy
to be sustained in Rwanda, in particular magnititudes of their
capacity and performance.

Additional information for the teacher

Privatisation overview
Since 1995, the Government of Rwanda has put in place a series
of economic mechanisms aimed at reviving the national economy
so as to address the deteriorating situation of public enterprises.
This programme, which aims to acheiving a sustained economic
growth, is centered on three complementary pillars:
• Search for greater rationalisation of public expenditure;
• Encouraging greater participation of the private sector in
financing the country’s economic development;
• Improving competitiveness of Rwanda’s economy through
a series of fiscal, legal and administrative reforms, aimed at
setting up an environment that is more conducive to business
development.
Background
Established by law n°2 of 11/03/96 on Privatisation and Public
Investment
Institutional framework established by Presidential Order n°
n°08/14 of 03/05/96
Privatisation Unit in MINECOFIN: August 1996
Privatisation Secretariat started in October 1997
First Privatisation Operations by 1998
Privatisation Unit moves to RDB by the law published in 2008
Objectives
• Reduce the financial and administrative burden for the
Government
• Ensure improved and more efficient management, financial,
accounting and budgetary discipline of state companies
• Separation of ownership and management functions
• Ensure more accountability

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 Sectors of the Rwandan Economy

• Restructuring and rehabilitation of public companies

• Stimulate Rwandans to participate in private ownership and
enhance entrepreneurship among Rwandans.
It is the GoR’s objective to encourage investment of shares of
successful companies amongst the citizens of Rwanda, and to
promote the development of the country’s capital markets. The
GoR is pursuing a divesture programme of state-owned enterprises,
which kicked off in earnest in 1997 with a total of 72 institutions
earmarked for privatisation/divesture.
The specific objectives of GoR’s privatisation /divestiture
programme entail:
• Reducing the shares held by Government in public companies
and thus alleviating the financial burden on its resources
(through the elimination of subsidies and state investments)
and reducing its administrative obligations in the enterprises
• Ensuring better management and financial discipline in
privatised companies
• Attracting foreign investment in Rwanda and the
accompanying transfer of technology and knowhow.
• Developing and promoting Rwanda’s capital markets and
• To give to the wider public the opportunity to participate in
the shareholding of a well-run company.
Results
S/N Category Number
1 Companies fully privatised 56
2 Companies planned for future privatisation 20
3 Companies liquidated 7
Total 83

Since privatisation programme started, around 56 companies were

fully privatised, 20 are still under privatisation with different phases
of privatisation or awaiting decision to be privatised.
Companies planned for Privatisation (20)
Company name Sector
GISOVU TEA FACTORY Tea

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

MULINDI TEA FACTORY Tea

SHAGASHA TEA FACTORY Tea

ELECTROGAZ Water and electricity generation

and distribution

RUBILIZI NATIONAL HATCHERY Poultry hatchery

KIGEMBE FISHERY Fishing

GISHWATI DAIRY Dairy plant

BANK OF KIGALI (80%) Banking

BRALIRWA (30%) Brewery

HOUSING BANK Banking

MTN 10% Telecommunications .

BRD (28%) Banking

MAGERWA (6.25%) Public warehouse

SOPROTEL (40%) Hotel

ONATRACOM (100%) Public Road Transportation

SONARWA (6.5%) Insurance

RWANDAIR EXPRESS (99%) Air Transport

KIBUYE GUEST HOUSE Hotel

RWANDA PAPER MILLS OF ZAZA Paper Industry

LABOPHAR

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 Sectors of the Rwandan Economy

End of Unit 13 assessment answers (Learner’s Book page

542)

1. (i) Public enterprises….REG, EDCL

• Private enterprises — Inyange, Azam, Sulfo etc.
(ii) Achievements of the private sector
• Contributed to government revenue through taxation of
the people.
• The sector reinvests (ploughs back) profits hence
expanding the existing productive capacity.
• Technological development.
• Helped to reduce the subsistence sector by monetarising
of majority of the economy.
• Infrastructure development.
• It employs majority of the people.
• It produces goods and services.
• It promoted gradual growth of the economy.
• It contributed to growth and modernisation of industry.
• It helps exploiting the local resources.
• It uses local resources hence reducing foreign expenditure.
2. (i) Reasons for privatisation:
• To enable firms operate more efficiently.
• To reduce corruption tendencies in the public sector.
• To attract foreign investments in the economy without fear
of nationalisation.
• To reduce government expenditure on public sector
enterprises.
• Fulfilment of the international monetary fund conditionality
of a private sector led economy.
• To create more job opportunities in the long run when the
private sector expands it enterprises.
• To improve resource utilisation through efficiency of the
private sector and the profit motive.
• To allow government concentrate on provision of essential
services like health and education

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

• To expand the tax base so as to increase government

revenue.
• To encourage competition and improve quality of services
offered, by reducing monopoly basis.
(ii) Limitations during the privatisation process:
• Corruption in the privatisation unit.
• Opposition from the general public often delays the
process of privatisation.
• Poor valuation of the enterprises leads to assets being sold
at give away prices.
• Poor states of the enterprises due to poor maintenance
make it hard to sell them.
• Political sabotage.
• Poverty among the nationals makes the enterprises to be
sold to foreigners leading to foreign domination in the
country.
• Small market discourages potential buyers due to limited
potential for expansion.
• Political instability in some parts of the economy
discourages potential investors from buying the enterprises.
• Unscrupulous buyers.
• Underdeveloped capital markets.
3. (i) Charcoal sellers and salons are classified under informal sector.
(ii) Advantages of the informal sector:
• It creates employment opportunities since it is labour
intensive and this reduces income distribution.
• Produce essential goods that are beneficial to low income
earners.
• It provides training grounds for growth of entrepreneurs.
• It provides revenue to the government through taxation of
the business activities.
• Growth paves way for transformation into a modern
dynamic sector.
• It promotes development of appropriate technology which
suits the resources of the country.

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 Sectors of the Rwandan Economy

• It promotes linkages in production ie forward and backward

and this leads to achievement of an integrated economy.
• It promotes the spirit of self sustenance thereby reducing
the prevailing dependence on simple consumer products.
• It paves way for the development of small scale industries
through innovation and invention carried out.
• It widens consumer choice since it produces a variety.
This is because there are many producers working under
the informal sector.
4. Characteristics of the subsistence farming.
• Dependence on family labour during the production process.
• Low productivity of labour due to the poor methods of farming.
• There is lack of specialisation ie. people grow a variety of
commodities.
• Predominant system of exchange is barter which limits economic
growth.
• Limited scientific methods of farming e.g. limited use of
fertilisers.
• Major aim is to produce for minimum survival and to avoid
famine.
• Predominance of communal land tenure system as opposed to
individual land system.
• Production is influenced by social attitudes and beliefs.

Remedial activity
1. Having seen different sectors and their characteristics in
Rwanda, which activities among those you are used to in
your home areas, would you categorise under the informal
sector.
2. How have those activities improved the livelihood of people
participating in them and the entire society?
Expected answers
1. Give learners a chance to mention different activities under
informal sector in their localities.
2. Refer to merits of the informal sector. (Learner’s Book page 524)

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 Economics for Rwanda Schools Teacher’s Guide Senior Six

Consolidation activities
1. Which activities do you know of in your sector or district
that are under the private sector?
2. How have those activities impacted your sector or district?
3. If you were made a district mayor, how would you help
improve the private sector in your district?
Expected answers
1. Give learners a chance to mention different activities they
know of.
2. Refer to the advantages and disadvantages of the private
sector, in the Learner’s Book (pages 525-527).
3. Refer to the Policies adopted to promote the private sector,
in the learner’s book (page 529).
Extended activity
1. “Dualism is inevitable in any given economy” discuss
2. What advice would you give to Rwanda to improve on her
trade structure?
3. Rwanda wants to privatise most of her public companies, what
advice would you offer as a person who has studied economics?
Expected answers
1. Refer to causes of dualism (Learner’s Book page 508-509)
2. How to improve trade structure.
• Process her primary products so as to improve her
export value forex earnings.
• Liberalise the economy so as to encourage entrepreneurs
in the country.
• Improve technology so as to increase production of
manufactured commodities.
• Commercialise the economy.
• Trade protectionism so as to reduce the volume of
imports.
Note: Be receptive to other correct answers

3. Advice on privatisation in Rwanda; (Refer to advantages

and disadvantages of privatisation Learner’s Book pages
536-537)

432
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