3.3

Workers

9 flashcards to master Workers

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Definition Flip

Define the term 'labour' as a factor of production.

Answer Flip

Labour refers to the human effort, both physical and mental, used in the production of goods and services. It's a key factor influencing output, and its quality affects overall productivity.

Example: a skilled carpenter represents high-quality labour.
Definition Flip

Differentiate between a wage and a salary.

Answer Flip

A wage is typically an hourly rate paid to workers, often for manual or unskilled labor. A salary is a fixed payment, usually paid monthly or annually, regardless of hours worked; often associated with professional or managerial roles. A factory worker may earn a wage, while a manager earns a salary.

Definition Flip

Explain the difference between employment and unemployment.

Answer Flip

Employment refers to the state of actively having a job and earning income. Unemployment refers to the state of actively seeking work but being unable to find a job. High employment generally indicates a strong economy, while high unemployment suggests economic weakness.

Definition Flip

What is a trade union and what is its main purpose?

Answer Flip

A trade union is an organized association of workers formed to protect and promote their rights and interests in the workplace. Its primary purpose is to improve wages, working conditions, and job security for its members through collective bargaining.

Example: The National Education Union (NEU) in the UK.
Key Concept Flip

Define 'collective bargaining' and explain its significance.

Answer Flip

Collective bargaining is the negotiation process between an employer and a trade union representing the employees. It aims to reach an agreement on issues such as wages, working hours, and other terms of employment. It allows workers to have a stronger voice and influence.

Key Concept Flip

Explain the potential effects of a minimum wage law on unemployment.

Answer Flip

A minimum wage law sets a legal minimum hourly wage that employers must pay. If set too high, it can potentially lead to increased unemployment as employers may reduce the number of workers they hire to control costs. However, it can also increase living standards for low-wage workers.

Definition Flip

Define 'labour productivity' and explain how it can be improved.

Answer Flip

Labour productivity measures the output per worker in a given period. It can be improved through investment in training and education, technological advancements, improved management techniques, and better worker motivation.

Example: Introducing automation in a factory.
Key Concept Flip

Discuss two factors, other than wages, that might affect a worker's choice of employment.

Answer Flip

Two factors are: Working conditions (

Example: safety, comfort, work-life balance) and job security (. the perceived risk of being laid off). A worker might choose a lower-paying job with better conditions or higher security over a higher-paying but riskier one.
Key Concept Flip

Outline the potential benefits and drawbacks of joining a trade union for a worker.

Answer Flip

Benefits: Improved wages and working conditions through collective bargaining, job security, and representation in disputes. Drawbacks: Union dues, potential pressure to conform to union decisions, and possible involvement in industrial action (strikes).

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3.2 Households 3.4 Trade unions

Key Questions: Workers

Define the term 'labour' as a factor of production.

Labour refers to the human effort, both physical and mental, used in the production of goods and services. It's a key factor influencing output, and its quality affects overall productivity.

Example: a skilled carpenter represents high-quality labour.
Differentiate between a wage and a salary.

A wage is typically an hourly rate paid to workers, often for manual or unskilled labor. A salary is a fixed payment, usually paid monthly or annually, regardless of hours worked; often associated with professional or managerial roles. A factory worker may earn a wage, while a manager earns a salary.

Explain the difference between employment and unemployment.

Employment refers to the state of actively having a job and earning income. Unemployment refers to the state of actively seeking work but being unable to find a job. High employment generally indicates a strong economy, while high unemployment suggests economic weakness.

What is a trade union and what is its main purpose?

A trade union is an organized association of workers formed to protect and promote their rights and interests in the workplace. Its primary purpose is to improve wages, working conditions, and job security for its members through collective bargaining.

Example: The National Education Union (NEU) in the UK.
Define 'labour productivity' and explain how it can be improved.

Labour productivity measures the output per worker in a given period. It can be improved through investment in training and education, technological advancements, improved management techniques, and better worker motivation.

Example: Introducing automation in a factory.

About Workers (3.3)

These 9 flashcards cover everything you need to know about Workers for your Cambridge IGCSE Economics (0455) exam. Each card is designed based on the official syllabus requirements.

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