PART 1: Case Study: Comparing Living Standards
Instructions:
This case study will guide you in comparing the living standards of two countries: one developed
and one underdeveloped.
Step 1: Select Your Countries
● Choose one developed country (e.g., Canada, Japan, Germany) and one underdeveloped
country (e.g., Malawi, Haiti, Cambodia).
Write your choices below:
• Developed country: ______________________
• Developing country: ______________________
Step 2: Identify Factors for Comparison
The standard of living refers to the level of economic welfare and quality of life enjoyed by
people in a country.
Economists often use indicators such as:
• Life expectancy
• Literacy rate
• GDP per capita (average income)
However, living standards are also affected by many other factors.
• Choose TWO additional factors that you think are important
Step 3: Research and Compare
● Research information for both countries using reliable sources such as:
○ School textbook
○ Government or UN websites
○ World Bank data
○ Human Development Report
Other useful resource:
Human Development Report
Country Insights
● Fill in the table below with your findings and a brief analysis for each factor.
In the Analysis column:
Do not just describe the data. Explain:
• Which country has the higher living standard
• Possible reasons for the differences
• How each factor affects quality of life
Factor Developed Country Underdeveloped Analysis
Country
_____ has a higher life expectancy than
Life Expectancy _____, which suggests that people in
Canada generally have better access to
healthcare, clean water, nutritious food and
sanitation. A higher life expectancy usually
indicates a higher standard of living because
people are able to live longer and healthier
lives.
Literacy Rate
Average Income (or
GDP per capita)
(Your Chosen
Factor 1)
Factor Developed Country Underdeveloped Analysis
Country
(Your Chosen
Factor 2)
Step 4: Create an Infographic
● Use your research to design an infographic comparing the living standards of the two
countries.
○ Your infographic should:
○ Present information clearly
○ Include statistics and comparisons
○ Be visually attractive
○ Use headings and labels
○ You may create it digitally or on paper.
Tips:
✅ Use charts, graphs, flags, maps, or icons
✅ Keep text short and clear
✅ Use contrasting colours for the two countries
✅ Include a title and data labels
✅ Highlight key conclusions
PART 2: PAST YEAR PAPER PRACTICE QUESTIONS
1. Identify two components of HDI [2]
2. Explain two reasons why a government would want to turn its country from developing to
developed country [4]
3. Analyse how growth in a country’s tertiary sector can increase living standards [6]
4. Discuss whether or not people living in countries with a high GDP enjoy higher living
standards than people in countries with a low GDP [8]