BGCSE Business Studies Sylabus

7/25/2019 BGCSE Business Studies Sylabus

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FOREWORD

The Ministry of Education is pleased to

authorise the publication of this senior

secondary syllabus which marks a watershed

in the development of the public education

system in Botswana and signals another

milestone of progress in fulfilment of the goals

set by the Revised National Policy on

Education, Government Paper No. 2 of 1994.

In this era of widespread and rapid

technological change and an increasingly inter-

dependent global economy, it is essential that

all countries foster human resources by

preparing children adequately for their future.

Survival in the coming millennium will dependon the ability to accommodate change and to

adapt to environmental needs and emerging

socio-economic trends. It is the wish of

government to prepare Batswana for future

growth and adaptation to ongoing change in

the socio-economic context; specifically the

transition from an agro-based economy to the

more broadly based industrial economy which

we are aiming at.

The senior secondary programme builds on theTen Year Basic Education programme and

seeks to provide quality learning experiences.

It aims to prepare our students for the world of

work, further education and lifelong learning.

However, secondary education must also pay

attention to the all round development of the

individual. It should provide not only for the

acquisition of those skills needed for

economic, scientific and technological

advancement. It should also provide for the

development of cultural and national identityand the inculcation of attitudes and values

which nurture respect for one’s self and for

others.

Critical to the success of our secondary

education programme is the recognition of

individual talents, needs and learning styles.

Hence, the role of the teacher in the classroom

has changed. S/he must be a proficient

manager and facilitator; a director of learning

activities. S/he should be conscious of

students’ needs to take on board a measure of

accountability and responsibility for their own

learning. S/he must also take into account the

widening range of ability of the student body

and the different levels of achievement which

they aspire to. This means active participation

for all and the creation of rich and diverse

learning environments.

It is important then that we value the students’own experiences, build upon what they know

and reward them for positive achievement. At

the same time, we must be prepared to offer

them guidance and counselling at all levels;

assisting them to make the best decisions in

keeping with their own interests, career

prospects and preferences. In that way we shall

prevail in nurturing at the roots of our system,

the national ideals of democracy, development,

self-reliance, unity and social harmony.

This syllabus document is the outcome of a

great deal of professional consultation and

collaboration. On behalf of the Ministry, I

wish to record my appreciation and thank

sincerely those who contributed to and were

involved in the production of this syllabus.

P. T. Ramatsui

Permanent Secretary Ministry of Education





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TABLE OF CONTENTS

CONTENT PAGE

Introduction .................................................................................................................. i

Rationale ...................................................................................................................... iAims of Senior Secondary Programme ......................................................................... i

Aims of the Senior Secondary Business Studies Syllabus ............................................. iiRecommended Teaching Methods ....................................... ........................................ iii

Assessment Objectives ...................................... ......................................... ................. iii

Assessment Procedures ................................................................................................ ivOrganisation of the Syllabus ........................................................................................ iv

MODULE 1: THE BUSINESS ORGANISATION ....................................................... 1

Unit 1.1: The purpose of Business Activity ......................................... ................. 1Unit 1.2: Economics Activities ............................................................................ 2

Unit 1.3: Business Units ...................................................................................... 3Unit 1.4: The Government in Business ................................................................ 4

MODULE 2: PEOPLE AND ORGANISATIONAL BEHAVIOUR ............................. 5Unit 2.1: Organisational Structure ....................................................................... 5

Unit 2.2: Managing a Business ............................................................................ 6Unit 2.3: Communication in Business .................................................................. 7

Unit 2.4: Technology and Business .............................. ........................................ 8

MODULE 3: PEOPLE IN THE WORKPLACE ........................................................... 9Unit 3.1: Motivation ............................................................................................ 9

Unit 3.2: Human Resource Management Functions ............................................. 10

Unit 3.3: Industrial Relations ............................................................................... 11

MODULE 4: PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT .......................................................... 12

Unit 4.1: Business Location ................................................................................. 12Unit 4.2: Production Strategies ............................................................................ 13Unit 4.3: Production Activities ............................................................................ 14

MODULE 5: BUSINESS FINANCE ............................................................................ 15

Unit 5.1: Business Accounting............................................................................. 15

Unit 5.2: Financial Forecasting ............................................................................ 16

Unit 5.3: Financing Business Activity.................................................................. 17



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MODULE 6: MARKETING ........................................................................................ 18

Unit 6.1: Marketing and Market Research ........................................................... 18Unit 6.2: The marketing mix - Product ................................................................ 19

Unit 6.3: The marketing mix - Price..................................................................... 20Unit 6.4: The marketing mix - Promotion ............................................................ 21

Unit 6.5: The marketing mix – Place ................................................................... 22

MODULE 7: STARTING AND RUNNING A BUSINESS .............................. ............ 23Unit 7.1: Finding Business Ideas ......................................................................... 23Unit 7.2: Business Planning and Start-up ............................................................. 24

COURSEWORK DESCRIPTION ................................................................................ 25



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A INTRODUCTION

The Business Studies syllabus focuses on the study of various aspects of business theory and practices. The

Botswana General Certificate of Secondary Education (BGCSE) Business Studies syllabus has been designed as a

two-year course building on the foundations laid by the Junior Secondary Business Studies syllabus.

The syllabus has been developed on the basis that Business Studies will be allocated a minimum of 4 periods per

week of 40 minutes each in the five-day time-table. The subject is one of the optional subjects under Creative,

Technical and Vocational Subjects within the framework of the entire senior secondary programme.

B RATIONALE

Business Studies in the two years senior secondary education programme is expected to help learners to understand

the process of setting up and managing a successful business. The programme intends to impart the basic concepts of

entrepreneurial skills in the learners that will enable them to create jobs for themselves, and for others as well in

future. It will help learners to apply the business knowledge, skills and attitudes acquired to solve environmental,

economic, technological and social problems in their everyday lives.

Business Studies is a practical subject which is intended to prepare the learner for the world of work both as

employee and employer. The subject aims at equipping learners with practical business skills, which will enable

them to participate meaningfully in production in future. It will help learners to initiate, organise and control the

business enterprise. The study of the subject will enable learners to appreciate how the socio-economic framework

impinges on the establishment and management of the business enterprise. Learners will appreciate the importance

of good working habits, develop positive attitudes towards work and interest in self-employment. Learners will

develop critical thinking, which will enable them to weigh alternative ideas and proposals in order to make sound

decision and judgements.

Business Studies can develop the skills gained in other practical subjects such as Art, Design and Technology,

Agriculture and Home Economics into viable business ideas, which may provide learners with a career in future.

C AIMS OF THE SENIOR SECONDARY PROGRAMME

On completion of the two year Senior Secondary Programme learners should have:

1. acquired knowledge, developed confidence and ability to assess their personal strengths and weaknesses and

be realistic in choosing appropriate career/employment opportunities and for further education and training.

2. developed skills to assist them in solving technical and technological problems as they relate to day-to-day life

situations.

3. developed desirable attitudes and behavioural patterns in interacting with the environment in a manner that is

protective, preserving and nurturing.

4. acquired attitudes and values, developed basic skills and understanding to allow for execution of rights and

responsibilities as good citizens of Botswana and the world.



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5. developed information technology skills as well as an understanding and appreciation of their influence in the

day-to-day activities.

6. acquired knowledge, attitudes and practices that will ensure good family and health practices including

awareness and management of epidemics (such as HIV/AIDS) that prepare them for productive life.

7. developed pre-vocational knowledge and manipulative skills that will enable them to apply content learnt and

attitudes and values developed to practical life situations in the world of work.

8. developed an understanding of and acquired skills in business, everyday commercial transactions and

entrepreneurship.

9 developed foundation skills such as problem solving, critical thinking, communication, inquiring, team

work/interpersonal to help them to be productive and adaptive and to survive in a changing environment.

10. developed study skills required for further study and training.

D AIMS OF THE SENIOR SECONDARY BUSINESS STUDIES SYLLABUS

On completion of the two year Business Studies course learners should have:

1. acquired knowledge and understanding of the economic, social, political and technological environment

within which business activity takes place and of the way in which changes in that environment influence

business behaviour;

2.

acquired knowledge and understanding of terminology, concepts, techniques and decision making processes

in business;

3.

acquired knowledge and understanding of the nature, role and purpose of business activity in both the private

and public sectors;

4.

acquired knowledge and ability to initiate and manage business enterprise;

5. acquired knowledge and understanding of the major groups and organisations in and outside business and of

the influence they exert on business objectives , decisions and activities;

6. developed an appreciation of the code of discipline, behaviour and ethics necessary in the business world;

7. acquired knowledge and understanding of the main types of business organisation, their financing and

operation;

8. developed an understanding and appreciation of the relationship between management and labour and the

changing role of organised labour in business;

9. developed an appreciation of how the relationships between the organisation and consumers, employees,

owners and society are regulated;

10.

developed the ability to apply skills of numeracy, literacy, enquiry and selection in the analysis, presentation

and interpretation of information;

11.

acquired knowledge and understanding of different modes of production and of the forces which help to

determine and control them for higher productivity;

12. knowledge and appreciation of the world of work and of the co-operation and interdependence which

participation in society entails;

13. developed problem solving, critical thinking, enquiry, communication and teamwork/interpersonal skills to

help them to be productive and adaptive in a changing environment;



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14.

developed an appreciation of the need to protect and utilise the resources of the physical environment in a

sustainable manner;

15.

developed awareness of the nature and significance of innovation and change within the context of business

activities.

16. developed awareness of the importance and application of information technology in business.

E RECOMMENDED TEACHING METHODS

The syllabus encourages a learner-centred approach to learning and teaching as emphasised in the Curriculum Blue

Print. In such an approach, the learner is the centre of most activities and the teacher plays a facilitating role for

learning to take place. In order to get the learners to participate actively in the learning and teaching processes, the

teacher should use a variety of action oriented methods such as project work, visits to business enterprises,

simulations, case studies, group discussions and class presentations. These action-oriented activities should increase

in their complexity and sophistication as the learners improve and broaden their overall theoretical background

knowledge of the subject. The teacher is required to keep up to date with current business practices in order to bring

the latest developments in commerce and industry into the classroom

In order to facilitate the learner centred approach, there should be planning by both the teacher and learners. The

teaching method should lead to hands on business activities in the class. Whenever possible, a resource person from

business should be invited to give demonstration in order to facilitate practical learning. The subject should be taught

in a setting which will bridge the gap between the classroom and the world of work. Research into business problems

and processes should be emphasised in the teaching and learning of the subject.

F ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES

Business Studies in the Senior Secondary Curriculum should aim at providing learners with experiences which cover

the following domains: knowledge, understanding, application, analysis, evaluation, investigation, judgement and

decision making. The domains expected to be covered should provide guidance in the assessment of learners. For

assessment purposes, the domains are grouped into four and described below.

1. Knowledge and Understanding

Learners should be able to:

1.

demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the appropriate facts, terms and concepts;2.

demonstrate knowledge and understanding of theories and techniques commonly applied to or used as part of

business behaviour.



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2. Analysis and Application


1. distinguish between facts and opinion in a business context;

2. recognise, select, analyse and interpret information in narrative, numerical and graphical forms;

3. apply their knowledge and understanding to business activity.

3. Investigation


1.

set objectives, plan and carry out an investigation of a particular business situation;

2. select, analyse, collate, interpret and evaluate data from a variety of sources appropriate to the objectives of an

investigation;

3.

present the results of an investigation in an accurate and logical manner.

4. Judgement and Decision Making


1.

present reasoned explanations, develop arguments, understand implications, and communicate them in an

accurate and logical manner;

2.

make reasoned judgement and present appropriate recommendations and conclusions.

G ASSESSMENT

To ensure that learners achieve the set aims, the scheme of assessment of the BGCSE Business Studies syllabus will

consist of school based assessments such as projects, tests and assignments. The outcome of the assessment methods

will be used to improve instruction.

A final examination will be administered at the end of the course. Continuous assessment in the form of coursework

covering a productive activity or research into an existing productive activity in which the learner took part will

contribute to certification. Until the examining body is ready to assess the coursework, alternative papers to test the

same knowledge, skills and attitudes will be used. Examination syllabus will be developed by the examining body to

provide guidance to teachers on the objectives to be tested.

H ORGANISATION OF THE SYLLABUS.

The syllabus is organised around broad content areas called modules and each module has one or more units. The

units are sub-divided into topics. Each topic consists of general objectives, which give rise to specific objectives. The

specific objectives describe what learners are expected to do at the end of instruction.



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MODULE 1 THE BUSINESS ORGANISATION

UNIT 1.1 THE PURPOSE OF BUSINESS ACTIVITY

Topic General Objectives Specific Objectives

Learners should be able to: Learners should be able to:

The Economic

Problem

Understand the nature of the

economic problem

explain the economic problem.

explain needs and wants with examples.

discuss scarcity and choice in the satisfaction of wants.

describe the concept of opportunity cost.

Specialisation

and Division of

Labour

Appreciate the importance of

specialisation and the division

of labour

explain the meaning of specialisation and the division of

labour.

state the advantages and disadvantages of specialisation

and the division of labour.

explain the various levels of specialisation(individual,

regional, national).

The Need for

Business Activity

Understand the role of

business activity in resolving

the economic problem

explain the objectives of business.

explain the role of business activity in the economy.

differentiate between direct and indirect production.

explain how direct and indirect production can resolve the

economic problem.

list the different groups involved in business

activity(owners, workers, managers, consumers,

government, the community).

discuss how the various objectives of business may

conflict with the objectives of the different groups

involved in business.



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UNIT 1.2 ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES



Stages of

Production

Know and understand the

different stages of production

identify the different stages of production (primary,

secondary and tertiary).

describe with examples each stage of production.

explain the term ‘value added’.

explain how value is added at each stage of production.

explain the relationship between the stages of production.

Types of

Economic

systems

Demonstrate understanding of

the types of economic systems

describe each type of economic system (planned, free

market, mixed).

state the advantages and disadvantages of each type of

economy.

The Size of

Business

Understand the methods of

measuring the size of business

explain the various ways of measuring the size of

business.

explain the importance of comparing the size of

businesses.

state the advantages enjoyed by a business from growing.

explain how a business can grow internally.

explain the external methods of growth(mergers and take-

overs).

describe horizontal, vertical and conglomerate mergers

discuss the benefits of integration.

explain the reasons why some businesses remain small.Business

Activities in

Botswana

Be familiar with the business

activities in Botswana

explain with, examples small, medium and large scale

business activities in Botswana.

discuss the role of small, medium and large scale business

activities in Botswana.

explain the problems faced by small, medium and large

scale business activities in Botswana.

suggest solutions to the problems faced by small, medium

and large scale business activities in Botswana.



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UNIT 1.3 BUSINESS UNITS



The Private

Sector Businessesin Botswana

Acquire knowledge of the

private sector businesses inBotswana

list the types of private sector business units in Botswana.

explain incorporated and unincorporated business units.

explain the features of the sole proprietorship.

identify the areas of business in which the sole

proprietorship is common.

explain the features of the partnership.

identify the areas of business in which the partnership is

common.

compare a sole proprietorship and a partnership.

Understand the features of

incorporated business

explain the term ‘limited liability’.

discuss the importance of limited liability to the company

and third parties.

discuss the features of private and public limited

companies.

explain the importance of an annual general meeting to a

company.

explain the part played by shareholders and directors in a

limited liability company.

discuss the advantages and disadvantages of private and

public companies.

explain the legal requirements for the establishment of

private and public companies.


the features of other

incorporated business

state the features of closed corporation, co-operatives,

joint venture and franchising.

explain the advantages and disadvantages of closed

corporation, co-operatives, joint venture and franchising.

discuss the legal requirements of closed corporation, co-

operatives, joint venture and franchising.

Multinational

Corporation


the importance of

multinational corporations

explain the meaning of multinational corporation.

identify multinational corporations in Botswana.

explain the importance of multinational corporations to

the host countries.

discuss the problems faced by developing countries in

their dealings with multinational corporations.



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UNIT 1.4 THE GOVERNMENT IN BUSINESS



Government

EconomicObjectives

Acquire knowledge of

government’s intervention in business

explain the reasons for the government’s intervention in

business.

explain the government’s economic and social objectives.

Government

Economic

Policies


the economic policies of the

government of Botswana

define fiscal and monetary policies of the government.

describe the types of taxes (direct and indirect).

explain how taxes are used by the government to

influence business activities.

explain how government expenditure can be used to

influence business activities.

describe how the government can use the interest rate to

influence business activity.

Government in

Production

Know the part played by the

government in production

identify the most common areas of government

ownership.

explain the term ‘privatisation’.

discuss the advantages and disadvantages of privatisation.

explain the term ‘commercialisation’.

differentiate between privatisation and commercialisation.

explain the term ‘nationalisation’.

explain the reasons for nationalisation.

Government

Control ofBusiness

Acquire knowledge and

understanding of the need forthe control of business activity

by the government

explain the reasons for government’s intervention in

business. explain how the government controls production of goods

and services.

describe ways by which the consumer can be protected.

discuss how consumers are protected in

Botswana(including private organisations and pressure

groups).

discuss how the employees are protected by the state.

discuss how the government can protect people with

HIV/AIDS at the workplace.

Government

Assistance to

business

Know and understand how the

Government of Botswana can

help businesses

state the various ways the government of Botswana is

assisting small, medium and large businesses.

explain why the government assist businesses which are

involved in export.

explain how the Botswana government assist exporters.



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MODULE 2; PEOPLE AND ORGANISATIONAL BEHAVIOUR

UNIT 2.1 ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE


Learners should be able to: Learners should be able to:Organisational

Structure

Understand the need for a

business to organise internally

explain the meaning of organisational structure/chart.

explain why the organisational structure changes as a

business expands.

draw an organisational chart for a manufacturing and non-

manufacturing business organisation.

describe line and staff relationships in the organisational

chart.

Features of formal

business

organisation


the features of a formal

organisation

explain hierarchy in an organisational structure.

explain responsibility and delegation.

state the advantages and disadvantages of delegation.

explain the chain of command and span of control.

explain the relationship between the chain of command

and span of control.

Centralisation and

Decentralisation


centralisation and

decentralisation

explain centralisation and decentralisation.

compare centralisation and decentralisation.

discuss the advantages and disadvantages of

decentralisation.

describe the different forms of

decentralisation(functional, federal, regional, projectteams).



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UNIT 2.2 MANAGING A BUSINESS



Functions of

Management


understanding of the functionsof management

explain the meaning of management.

state the functions of management (planning, organising,co-ordinating, leading, controlling,).

state the qualities of a good manager.

differentiate between management in large and small

businesses.

discuss the problems of business management (e.g.

Botswana).

discuss how management problems could be resolved

(e.g. Botswana).

Roles within the

workplace

Acquire knowledge of the

different job roles in a

business organisation

identify the various job roles in a business

organisation(managers, supervisors, foremen, workers).

describe the management responsibilities in the various

departments of the business organisation.





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UNIT 2.4 TECHNOLOGY AND BUSINESS



Innovation and

change

Recognise the importance of

innovation and change to business survival

explain the meaning of innovation.

differentiate between innovation and invention.

discuss the importance of innovation and change in

modern business situation.

discuss the importance of research and development in

innovation and change.

discuss the factors which limit innovation and change in

Botswana.

Impact and use of

technology

Be familiar with the impact of

technology and change on

business activities

explain the meaning of technology.

explain high-tech industries.

discuss the impact of technology on production,

productivity, jobs and skills.

explain the effects of technology on communication,

information processing, management information systems

and commerce.

discuss the factors impeding and facilitating technological

change in Botswana (social, cultural, political, technical,

infrastructures).



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MODULE 3: PEOPLE IN THE WORKPLACE

UNIT 3.1: MOTIVATION


Learners should be able to: Learners should be able to:Motivating

Factors


how management can

motivate workers

explain the meaning of motivation.

explain Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.

identify the three main motivating factors (monetary

rewards, non-monetary rewards, job satisfaction).

describe the various methods of payment systems.

discuss the role of the various payment systems in

motivation.

describe the non-monetary rewards used to motivate

workers.

explain job satisfaction.

discuss the ways management can increase the job

satisfaction of employees (job rotation, job enrichment,

job enlargement).

discuss the factors which may demotivate workers in

Botswana.

Leadership Understand different styles of

leadership that management

can use

describe the different styles of leadership(autocratic,

democratic, laissez-faire, charismatic).

explain how management can use different styles of

leadership to motivate workers.

apply the different styles of leadership to particular

situations.



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UNIT 3.2 HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT FUNCTIONS



Recruitment and

Selection


the process of recruitment andselection of employees

identify the functions of human resource department.

describe the recruitment process.

explain job analysis, job description and job specification.

draw up a job description and job specification.

differentiate between internal recruitment and external

recruitment.

state the advantages and disadvantages of internal and

external recruitment.

choose suitable ways of advertising a vacancy.

prepare a job advertisement.

complete an application form.

prepare a Curriculum Vitae.

explain the purpose of an interview.

draw up questions for interviews.

describe the preparations to be made by the interviewer

and interviewee before an interview takes place.

explain the purpose of appraising employees.

differentiate between dismissal and

redundancy/retrenchment.

Training and

Development


understanding of the need for

training and development of

employees

state the objectives for training the workforce by a

business.

describe the types of training available to a business

(induction, upgrading skills, retraining, multi-skilling).

describe on-the-job and off-the-job methods of training.



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UNIT 3.3 INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS



Groupings at the

workplace

Be familiar with the formation

of groups in the workplace

differentiate between formal and informal groups.

explain the importance of formal and informal groups inthe workplace.

Trade Unions Know and understand the role

of trade unions and their

organisation

state the meaning of a trade union.

identify the objectives of trade unions.

state the benefits to an employee of joining a trade union

describe the types of trade unions in Botswana ( e.g.

white collar , blue collar , craft unions).

discuss the factors that may affect trade union activities in

Botswana.

Collective

Bargaining

Understand collective

bargaining in business

explain the meaning of collective bargaining.

identify the reasons for collective bargaining at both local

and national levels (e.g. inflation, maintenance of pay

differentials, changes in the work place, increases in

productivity).

discuss the need for productivity agreements.

Understand why trade unions

may take industrial action

identify the sources of conflict in the business

organisation.

explain why management should strive to avoid conflict

in the business organisation.

explain the meaning of industrial action. describe the various types of industrial actions.

discuss the effects of industrial action on production and

workers.

discuss the means of avoiding and resolving conflict in

the business organisation.

explain the importance of conciliation and arbitration in

resolving conflicts.



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MODULE 4: PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT

UNIT 4.1 BUSINESS LOCATION


Learners should be able to: Learners should be able to:The Location of

Business


why businesses locate or

relocate in a particular area

explain why location decision is important to the

entrepreneur both at local, national and international

levels.

discuss the various factors affecting the location of a

manufacturing and retailing business.

discuss the causes of business relocation.

The business and

the environment


the effects of the business on

the physical environment

describe the physical environment of a business.

describe the various ways a business may damage the

environment.

explain how individuals may also contribute to

environmental degradation.

explain the effects of tourism on the environment

explain industrial pollution.

describe the various ways industries may pollute the

environment.

describe the likely effects of industrial pollution on

people.

explain how environmental degradation and industrial

pollution can be minimised(legislation, taxation, pressure

groups, specific charges, consumers, recycling, traffic

reduction scheme etc.).

Government and

business location

Understand why and how the

government may influence the

location of industries

explain why the government influences the location of

industries in Botswana.

describe the methods used by the Botswana government

to influence the location of industry (e.g. Grants,

subsidies, tax breaks, cost- benefit analysis).



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UNIT 4.2 PRODUCTION STRATEGIES



Customer needs Demonstrate understanding of

the importance of customerneeds

differentiate between product-led and market led types of

business.

explain the importance of identifying and meeting

customer needs.

Methods of

production

Be familiar with the different

methods of production

describe the various methods of production (job, batch,

project, line and flow).

state the advantages and disadvantages of each of the

production methods.

explain the importance of automation in production.

determine the choice of a method of production for a

particular product.

Production

Strategies

Demonstrate an understanding

of the production strategies

adopted by businesses

explain the meaning of production strategies.

explain mass production method.

explain the importance of mass market in mass

production.

discuss quality control, quality assurance and total quality

management in meeting customer requirements.

explain just-in-time production.

discuss the importance of research and development in

production decisions and the role played by research

institutions.



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UNIT 4.3 PRODUCTION ACTIVITIES



The Five Ps of

Production


understanding of the elements(the five Ps) of production

identify the five Ps of production (product, plant, process,

programme, people).

explain how each of the five Ps affect production.

show the relationship between the five Ps.

Cost of

Production

Acquire knowledge and skill

in determining the cost of

production

explain the importance of cost in production.

explain the elements of cost (e.g. material, labour,

overheads, etc.).

explain the various types of costs (fixed, variable, direct,

indirect, total, marginal, average).

calculate the costs of production of a given product.

Economies and

diseconomies of

scale


economies and diseconomies

of scale

define economies of scale.

explain the various economies of scale.

define diseconomies of scale.

explain the various diseconomies of scale.

explain how the economies and diseconomies of scale

affect business costs.

Break-even

Analysis

Acquire the skill of analysing

the break-even chart

explain revenue and how it is related to price.

calculate contribution.

calculate fixed, variable and average costs.

explain break-even point.

draw break-even chart. interpret break-even chart.

calculate the break-even.

explain the importance of break-even analysis.

Productivity Be familiar with the

importance of productivity as

a way of measuring

performance

explain the meaning of productivity.

show how productivity is measured.

explain how productivity can be improved.

explain the effects of HIV/AIDS on productivity.



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MODULE 5: BUSINESS FINANCE

UNIT 5.1 BUSINESS ACCOUNTING


Learners should be able to: Learners should be able to:Business

documents and

accounting

records


business documents and

accounting records

explain the term accounting.

explain the reasons for keeping financial records by

organisations.

identify the documents used for buying and selling in

home trade.

explain the importance of business documents.

identify the financial records kept by a business and the

books used.

Final Accounts Be familiar with the

composition of final accounts

state the composition of final accounts (income statement,

balance sheet).

state the purpose of preparing a trading account.

calculate gross profit.

state the purpose of preparing a profit and loss account

calculate net profit.

explain assets, liabilities and various types of capital

(working capital, capital employed, fixed capital,

circulating capital).

examine the components of the final accounts of a

business.

Analysis of Final

Accounts


develop skills of calculating

accounting ratios

explain the importance of accounting ratios.

calculate profitability ratios (gross and net profit

margins).

calculate liquidity ratios(current assets ratio , acid test

ratio, stock-turn ratio).

calculate activity ratio ( stock-turn, debtors collection

period, creditors payment period.



16

UNIT 5.2 FINANCIAL FORECASTING



Budgeting and

Forecasting


of budgeting and forecastingin business

explain budgeting in business.

show the relationship between budgeting and forecasting.

explain the purpose of budgets.

explain the methods of forecasting in business.

Cash Flow

Forecast


develop the skill of preparing

a cash flow forecast

explain the meaning of cash flow forecast.

identify the sources of cash inflow and outflow of a

business.

prepare a cash flow forecast.

explain the uses of a cash flow forecast to a business.

discuss how cash flow problems can be solved.



17

UNIT 5.3 FINANCING BUSINESS ACTIVITY



Need for finance Appreciate the need for

finance in business

explain the meaning of finance.

explain start-up capital.

describe the purposes for which an existing business may

require capital.

discuss the problems faced by a business in raising funds.

Sources and uses

of finance


develop understanding of the

sources and uses of finance

differentiate between internal and external sources of

finance.

describe each type of internal sources of finance.

describe each type of external sources of finance.

explain the steps a firm has to take in seeking external

funding.

Short, medium

and long-term

finance

Be familiar with the

importance of short, medium

and long-term finance to a

business

differentiate between short, medium and long-term

finance.

describe the various types of short, medium, and long

term finance.

explain shares and debentures.

describe types of shares (ordinary and preference).

differentiate between shares and debentures.

define the stock exchange.

explain the functions of the stock exchange.

discuss the factors which will determine the choice offinance for a business.

analyse the factors financiers will consider in funding a

business.



18

MODULE 6: MARKETING MANAGEMENT

UNIT 6.1 MARKETING AND MARKET RESEARCH


Learners should be able to: Learners should be able to:Marketing Demonstrate understanding of

the role of marketing in

business

explain a market.

explain the meaning of marketing.

describe the structure of a marketing department.

explain market research.

describe types of market research.

describe the methods of primary research(questionnaires,

consumer panels, observation, interview).

describe the internal and external sources of information

for secondary research.

explain the importance of market research information to

a business.

Design and use of

questionnaire

Develop the skill of preparing

and using a questionnaire

state the steps to follow in writing a questionnaire.

prepare a questionnaire for a market research.

determine how to select a sample in a market research.

use a questionnaire in a market research.

Presentation of

Market Research

Data


develop the skill of presenting

market research data

describe the various ways of presenting market research

data (table, chart, graph,).

draw graphs to summarise market research information

(bar, pie, line).

interpret graphs.

write a report on market research findings.



19

UNIT 6.2 THE MARKETING MIX – PRODUCT



Product in

Marketing Mix


the product in the marketingmix

explain the term marketing mix.

identify the four Ps in marketing mix.

discuss how to create an effective mix of the four Ps.

identify the types of product (consumer goods, consumer

services, producer goods, producer services).

explain the factors which make a product successful.

Branding and

packaging


branding and packaging in the

success of a product

explain branding and packaging.

explain the importance of branding to the producer and

consumer.

discuss the importance of branding in advertising.

explain the role of packaging in the success of a product.

describe the link between branding, packaging and

advertising.

Product life cycle Appreciate the importance of

product life cycle to a business

explain a product life cycle.

describe the stages a product passes through from its

inception.

draw a diagram of a product life cycle.

explain the strategies adopted to extend a product life

cycle.

draw a diagram of a product life cycle which has been

extended.



20

UNIT 6.3 THE MARKETING MIX – PRICE



Price in a free

market

Understand how prices are

determined in a free marketand what influences demand

and supply

explain the role of price in the marketing mix

explain demand and supply.

show how the market price is determined by demand and

supply graphically.

explain the factors affecting demand and supply with the

help of graphs.

Pricing Strategies Understand the different

pricing strategies in business

explain the reasons for a business to adopt pricing

strategies.

explain the various pricing strategies (cost plus,

penetrating, price skimming, competitive, promotional).

discuss when to use each strategy.

determine the price of a given product using any one of

the pricing strategies.



21

UNIT 6.4 THE MARKETING MIX – PROMOTION



Promotion in

marketing mix

Understand the role of

promotion in the marketingmix

explain the meaning of promotion.

list the types of promotion.

explain the importance of promotion in the marketing mix

describe the aims of various methods of promotion.

Advertising Demonstrate understanding of

the importance of the various

types of advertising

define advertising.

state the purpose of advertising.

explain the importance of the AIDA model in advertising.

describe the types of advertising.

describe the various methods of appeals used.


of using the various media of

advertising

state the media of advertising(print, audio, visual).

state the advantages and disadvantages of each medium of

advertising.

select the appropriate media of advertising for different

products.

design an advertising message.


of using other methods of

promotion

describe the other methods of promotion (price reduction,

gifts, competitions, point of sale display and

demonstration, after-sale service, free samples).

explain the importance of other methods of promotion.

select appropriate methods of promotion for different

products. plan a promotional campaign.

explain personal selling and public relations.

explain how personal selling and public relations are used

in business.



22

UNIT 6.5 MARKETING MIX – PLACE



Place in

marketing mix


place in marketing mix

explain the meaning of place in the marketing mix.

explain the channel of distribution.

describe the various channels of distribution.

state the factors to consider in selecting a suitable channel

of distribution for a given product.

Globalisation of

business


develop understanding of how

a business is affected by the

international community

outline the various ways in which a business may be

affected by the international community.

explain why the values of currencies can flactuate.

discuss how a business can be affected by changing

exchange rates.

explain other barriers to trade between countries which

affect businesses.

discuss the formation of free trade association.

explain the meaning of globalisation.

discuss the advantages and disadvantages of

globalisation.



23

MODULE 7: STARTING (AND RUNNING) A BUSINESS

UNIT 7.1: FINDING BUSINESS IDEAS


Learners should be able to: Learners should be able to:Entrepreneurship Demonstrate understanding of

the role of the entrepreneur in

business

discuss the functions of the entrepreneur.

describe the characteristics of a successful entrepreneur.

assess own entrepreneurial characteristics.

identify those areas of weaknesses and seek assistance.

assess own managerial skills.

Feasible Business

Ideas

Demonstrate understanding

and acquire the skill of finding

feasible business ideas

explain what a business idea is.

identify business opportunities in Botswana (tourism,

home health care, event planning, small scale

manufacturing).

describe the various ways of finding business ideas.

screen business ideas and select the most feasible one.

Market Research Apply market research

knowledge to assess the

market for a business idea

explain market segmentation and niche marketing.

explain the factors to consider in segmenting the markert.

divide the market into segments for a business idea.

select a market research method for the business idea.

conduct a market research to find out the size of the

market, competitors, customers and the prices they want

to pay.



24

UNIT 7.2 BUSINESS PLANNING AND START UP



Prepare a

business plan

Appreciate the importance and

acquire the skill of planningfor a business

explain the meaning of a business plan.

discuss the importance of planning in business.

identify the key parts of a business plan (objectives, swot

analysis, sales and marketing, production, resources

requirement, finance).

explain all the components of a business plan.

write a business plan in a specific format for a business.

Start-up plans Demonstrate the skill of

putting the start-up plans into

action

draw up and refine a start-up plan.

meet all the legal requirements in starting a business.

prepare a production plan for implementation.

show how to obtain finance and acquire resources.

decide on selling method.

discuss the influence of the business on the family and

vice versa.

Managing the

business

Demonstrate the skill of

managing a successful

business

establish the various functional departments of the

business.

identify business problems and create solutions for them.

explain how to evaluate and monitor business activities in

a changing environment.

review production at various stages.

identify and show how to deal with possible risks.



COURSEWORK DESCRIPTION

Learners will be required to submit a portfolio of coursework. The coursework is intended to assess the outcome of a

business investigation through collection and presentation of data (both secondary and primary) and its analysis,

interpretation and evaluation as a result of an individual enquiry. It should consist of not less than 2500 words,

excluding diagrams, charts, maps, appendices, etc. in length, representing no more than three terms’ work on all

elements of the task. The coursework should enable the learners to show in their own ways what they can do.

Learners will be required to submit a portfolio from the following suggested list or topics based on any part of the

syllabus.

1. Consider the product of any one of the following practical subjects Agriculture, Home Economics, Design

and Technology, Art. Plan the setting up of a business which can produce and sell the product profitably.

2. After you have worked in the school tuck-shop or any other shop for not less than one term, suggest ways to

improve it.

3. Consider any product sold in the local shops. Indicate how you can add value to it to become your feasible

business idea. Write a comprehensive business plan for that business idea. (Include the forms of

investigations used)

4. Consider the small shops in your locality and investigate the reasons for their survival.

5.

Choose a vacant site in your local area. Consider the kind of business you would recommend to be opened

at the site and why.

6.

Choose any business or businesses in the local area. Evaluate the marketing strategies adopted by the

business or businesses.

7. Using examples from your local area, evaluate the methods used by different companies in the recruitment

and retention of staff.

8. Choose a suitable business/mini-enterprise within your centre and evaluate whether the business/mini-

enterprise has succeeded in meeting its aims and objectives.

9. The use of information technology by businesses in the local area.

10. Choose any one business whose location has been a blessing or a curse to the people and the environment in

your local area.

Documents

BGCSE Business Studies Sylabus