ConceptConceptDocsDocuments

CAIE A-Level Economics 1.2 Economic Methodology Question Bank

Practise economic methodology by distinguishing positive and normative statements, applying ceteris paribus and choosing short-run or long-run reasoning for behavioural models.

Syllabus
2026–2028
Course
Economics 9708
Level
AS

Exam points

  • classify a statement as positive or normative by testing whether evidence could verify it
  • apply ceteris paribus to isolate one relationship while recognising relevant omitted influences
  • select short, long or very long run according to which inputs, technology or institutions can change

1.2 Economic methodology question 1

[Maximum number: 1]

What is a common criticism of economics?

A

It fails to establish theories of economic behaviour.

B

It is unable to construct models of how an economy might work.

C

It lacks the ability to use and apply mathematics.

D

It is very difficult to undertake laboratory experiments in economics.

1.2 Economic methodology question 2

[Maximum number: 1]

The following appeared in a newspaper article.
'The economies of the poorest nations have large international debts; the richest nations should cancel the debts of these nations and reduce poverty.'

What is the nature of each statement?

poorest nations have
large international
debts

richest nations should
cancel these debts to
reduce poverty

normative

normative

normative

positive

positive

positive

positive

normative

1.2 Economic methodology question 3

[Maximum number: 1]

The price of a good rises by 5% and the quantity of it demanded rises by 3%. At the same time, the incomes of consumers of the good rise by 4%.

The law of demand appears not to be working in this case.
What is the most likely explanation?

A

Other things did not remain equal.

B

The demand for the good was price inelastic.

C

The real price of the good fell.

D

The time period was the very short run.

All question bank results loaded