Assingments % - Creating an Original and Insightful Economics Presentation

You can choose a topic from this semester or something you come up with yourself, but your presentation must be about economics and be original (ie. not just material verbatim that you have pulled from your text/readings or off the internet). Of course, you can still insert charts, graphs, videos, graphics, and excerpts from outside sources (as long as you cite those sources!) I want to see your commentary and analysis, in your own words.
Important: Copying the work of others and representing it as your own (ex. copy and paste off of the internet or your text, or using someone else’s work and just changing a few words) is Plagiarism, a serious academic offense. I have enabled the Turnitin plagiarism checker for this assignment, to help you identify potential areas of plagiarism. Papers that are substantially plagiarized will not be accepted for grading.
Although the format is a PowerPoint, I want to emphasize that this is not like your typical PowerPoint, which is basically an outline for a live presentation. Your project must be substantially loaded with content. You can do this either on the slides themselves, or you can add voice-over to simulate a live presentation.
The first slide should be your Introduction slide, the next 10-15 slides should be informational slides, the last slide should be the reference slide.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your presentation easily!

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Economics Presentation

Step 1: Choose a Unique Topic

Select an Original Topic:
- Your presentation must be about economics but should go beyond basic content from your text or other sources. Find a unique angle on a current economic issue, a specific economic theory, or a concept that piques your interest.
- Some Ideas:
  - The economic impact of renewable energy on local economies
  - The role of behavioral economics in consumer decision-making
  - The effect of income inequality on economic growth
  - Global trade tariffs and their long-term consequences
  - The gig economy’s influence on traditional labor markets
- Make It Original: Your analysis and commentary should be your own. Avoid copying text or rewording content from other sources—put your own spin on it!

Step 2: Create Your PowerPoint Slides

Slide 1: Introduction
- Start Strong: Introduce your topic in an engaging way. Explain the economic concept you’re presenting and why it matters.
- Define the Scope: Briefly outline what you will cover in the presentation. This will set the expectations for your audience.
  - Example: “This presentation explores the effects of the gig economy on traditional labor markets and economic stability.”
Slides 2-16: Informational Slides
- Present Your Content:
  - Provide detailed analysis on your topic.
  - Use charts, graphs, videos, or other visual aids to explain economic data, trends, or case studies related to your subject.
  - Be sure to analyze the data in your own words, and explain how it supports your argument or research.
- Break It Down: Consider dividing the content into logical sections, such as:
  - Background Information – Provide context about your topic (history, definitions, or foundational concepts).
  - Key Findings – Present your main research or analysis, highlighting significant trends or discoveries.
  - Economic Theories or Models – Apply relevant economic theories to explain the topic or case study.
  - Real-World Application – Connect your topic to real-world issues, such as policy recommendations, business strategies, or social implications.
Slide 17: Conclusion
- Summarize Key Points: Recap your main findings and insights.
- Provide Implications or Recommendations: What should be done about the issue or what can be concluded from the findings? Provide your thoughts on future research or actions.
Slide 18: References
- Cite Your Sources: List all the sources you used for your presentation, including any articles, books, websites, or videos.
- Follow Proper Citation Style: Use APA or MLA format depending on your instructor’s preference.

Step 3: Ensure Your Presentation is Informative and Engaging

Content:
- Include a substantial amount of content—each slide should be informative and provide value. Use bullet points for clarity, but don’t rely solely on the slide to tell the full story.
- Analysis & Commentary: Provide your personal analysis on each topic discussed. Don’t just present the data; explain it.
- Visual Aids: Ensure that any graphs, charts, or images are relevant and help to illustrate your points. Avoid overloading your slides with too much text or too many visuals.
Voice-over (if applicable):
- If you’re adding a voice-over, ensure that your narration complements the slides. Speak clearly and expand on the content shown on the slides, providing more depth to the information.

Step 4: Proofread & Review

Check for Clarity and Flow: Review your presentation to make sure your points are logical and connected. The slides should flow smoothly from one topic to the next.
Spelling and Grammar: Proofread the content to avoid errors. Make sure your citations are accurate and formatted correctly.
Avoid Plagiarism: Do not copy verbatim from textbooks or online sources. Paraphrase the information in your own words and cite it correctly.

Step 5: Final Review and Submission

Final Check: Go through your slides once more. Is your commentary clear? Does the presentation explain the economic concepts in detail? Are the visual aids effective in illustrating the points?
Turnitin: Run your presentation through the Turnitin plagiarism checker to ensure your work is original.