Base Knowledge
CB1 – Knowledge of and ability to apply algebraic calculus and mathematical analysis.
CB2 – Ability to interpret graphs
Teaching Methodologies
ME1-Interactive presentation of the course’s key concepts,
ME2-Completion of practical exercises with student participation in the classroom
ME3-Presentation of current case studies in the context of the Portuguese and international economic landscape.
Learning Results
Upon completion of this course unit, students will be able to:
OA1-Master fundamental economic concepts and apply economic reasoning
OA2-Understand consumer behavior
OA3 – Understand how markets function under conditions of perfect or imperfect competition
Associated competencies:
CD1 – Develop a critical analysis of the microeconomic context
CD2 – Demonstrate the ability to present clear oral explanations and conduct a critical analysis of changes in economic variables
Program
Introduction
0.1 Course Presentation
0.2 Major Economic Issues
Chapter I – Demand, Supply, and Prices
The Demand Curve
The Supply Curve
Market Equilibrium
Chapter II – Theory of Consumer Behavior
2.1. Rational Choice of the Consumer
2.2. Individual and Market Demand
2.3. Consumer Surplus
Chapter III – Theory of the Firm
3.1. Production
3.2. Costs
Chapter IV – Perfect Competition
4.1. Profit Maximization Principle
4.2. Determining the Production Level
Chapter V – Imperfect Competition
5.1. Origins of Market Power
5.2. Monopoly
5.3. Other Forms of Imperfect Competition
Curricular Unit Teachers
Maria Isabel Namorado ClímacoGrading Methods
Students may choose one of two assessment formats:
A) Periodic assessment, including the following components:
A1) MA1. Individual Written Exam (85%): No reference materials allowed. Minimum grade of 7.5. Mandatory.
IAG Guideline: Level 0 (No IA at all)
A2) MA2 - Two multiple-choice tests (15%), to be taken individually during class. No reference materials allowed, and no minimum score required on the first test. The tests will not be announced in advance.
IAG Guideline: Level 0 (No IA at all)
This assessment scheme does not require minimum class attendance and is valid only during the regular and make-up exam periods.
Final Grade Formula (CF):
CF = 0.85 × MA1 + 0.15 × MA2
B) Assessment by Exam (Regular, Make-up, and Special Sessions):
B1) MA4. Individual Written Exam (10%): Minimum grade of 9.5.
No reference materials allowed
Regardless of the assessment method chosen, students will pass the course if they achieve a Final Grade of 9.5 or higher.
If a student receives a grade higher than 16, they must defend that grade in an oral exam.
If they do not do so, their Final Grade will be 16.
Internship(s)
NAO
Bibliography
Main Bibliography:
Frank, R. H. (2013) “Microeconomia e Comportamento”, McGraw-Hill, 8ª ed.,
Frank, R. H. (2021) “Microeconomics and Behavior”, McGraw-Hill, 10th edition
Class Presentation Slides
Worksheets to be solved in class
Further reading:
Frank, R. and Cartwright, E. (2025) “Microeconomics and Behaviour”, McGraw-Hill, 10th edition
Samuelson, P. e Nordhaus, W. (2019), “Economics”, McGraw Hill, 4th edition