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Library AP Macroeconomics Unit 2: Economic Indicators and the Business Cycle
⁂   AP Macroeconomics · Unit 2

2. Economic Indicators and the Business Cycle

12–17% of the AP exam. Key topics: Gross Domestic Product (GDP): expenditure approach (C + I + G + NX), income approach, Real GDP vs. nominal GDP; GDP deflator calculation, Unemployment rate calculation; types of unemployment (frictional, structural, cyclical), Natural rate of unemployment (NRU) and full employment, Inflation: Consumer Price Index (CPI) calculation; effects on purchasing power and real wages, Circular flow model (households, firms, government, financial sector, foreign sector), Business cycle phases: expansion, peak, recession, trough.

10 instructional periods 12–17% exam weight standard track

Unit 2: Economic Indicators and the Business Cycle

Study guide content for this unit is being prepared. Check back soon for complete lesson notes, formula sheets, and worked examples.

Topics in this unit

  • Gross Domestic Product (GDP): expenditure approach (C + I + G + NX), income approach
  • Real GDP vs. nominal GDP; GDP deflator calculation
  • Unemployment rate calculation; types of unemployment (frictional, structural, cyclical)
  • Natural rate of unemployment (NRU) and full employment
  • Inflation: Consumer Price Index (CPI) calculation; effects on purchasing power and real wages
  • Circular flow model (households, firms, government, financial sector, foreign sector)
  • Business cycle phases: expansion, peak, recession, trough