Trade unions
Cambridge IGCSE Economics (0455) · Unit 3: Microeconomic decision makers · 9 flashcards
Trade unions is topic 3.4 in the Cambridge IGCSE Economics (0455) syllabus , positioned in Unit 3 — Microeconomic decision makers , alongside Money and banking, Households and Workers. In one line: A trade union is an organisation of workers formed to protect and advance their members' interests in areas such as wages and working conditions.
This topic is examined in Paper 1 (multiple-choice) and Paper 2 (structured questions, including data-response items).
The deck below contains 9 flashcards — 3 definitions, 4 key concepts and 2 application cards — covering the precise wording mark schemes reward. Use the 3 definition cards to lock down command-word answers (define, state), then move on to the concept and application cards to handle explain, describe and compare questions.
'trade union' and give a specific example
A trade union is an organisation of workers formed to protect and advance their members' interests in areas such as wages and working conditions.
Questions this Trade unions deck will help you answer
- › Explain the process of 'collective bargaining'.
- › Explain how trade unions participate in 'wage negotiation'.
- › How can trade unions improve 'working conditions' for their members?
- › Discuss factors that might influence 'membership' levels in a trade union.
- › Explain one potential benefit and one potential drawback of trade union activity for firms.
Define 'trade union' and give a specific example.
A trade union is an organisation of workers formed to protect and advance their members' interests in areas such as wages and working conditions.
Explain the process of 'collective bargaining'.
Collective bargaining is the negotiation process between employers and a group of employees, usually represented by a trade union, to determine terms and conditions of employment. It aims to reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
What is a 'strike' and under what circumstances might it occur?
A strike is a form of industrial action where employees refuse to work, usually due to a disagreement with their employer over wages, working conditions, or other employment terms. It's a key tool for trade unions.
Describe two types of 'industrial action' that a trade union might take, other than a strike.
Besides strikes, trade unions might use 'go-slows' (working at a slower pace) or 'work-to-rule' (strictly following rules, causing disruption) to pressure employers during disputes. These tactics aim to reduce productivity.
Explain how trade unions participate in 'wage negotiation'.
Trade unions negotiate with employers on behalf of their members to secure better wages and benefits. They present evidence, such as the cost of living and company profitability, to support their wage demands.
How can trade unions improve 'working conditions' for their members?
Trade unions can negotiate for safer workplaces, reasonable working hours, and better facilities. They can also ensure that employers comply with health and safety regulations, enhancing the overall well-being of employees.
Discuss factors that might influence 'membership' levels in a trade union.
Membership levels can be influenced by factors like employment rates (higher rates, more members), legislation protecting workers, the perceived effectiveness of the union, and industry decline or growth. A strong economy often boosts union membership.
Explain one potential benefit and one potential drawback of trade union activity for firms.
Benefit: Improved employee morale and productivity from better working conditions. Drawback: Increased labour costs due to higher wages and potential disruptions from industrial action, reducing profit margins.
How might a strong trade union impact a firm's ability to compete in a global market?
Strong unions can raise labour costs, potentially making a firm less competitive if rivals in other countries have lower labour expenses. However, higher skilled and motivated workforces, resulting from effective union representation, could improve competitiveness in some sectors.
Key Questions: Trade unions
Define 'trade union' and give a specific example.
A trade union is an organisation of workers formed to protect and advance their members' interests in areas such as wages and working conditions.
What is a 'strike' and under what circumstances might it occur?
A strike is a form of industrial action where employees refuse to work, usually due to a disagreement with their employer over wages, working conditions, or other employment terms. It's a key tool for trade unions.
Describe two types of 'industrial action' that a trade union might take, other than a strike.
Besides strikes, trade unions might use 'go-slows' (working at a slower pace) or 'work-to-rule' (strictly following rules, causing disruption) to pressure employers during disputes. These tactics aim to reduce productivity.
More topics in Unit 3 — Microeconomic decision makers
Trade unions sits alongside these Economics decks in the same syllabus unit. Each uses the same spaced-repetition system, so progress in one informs the next.
Cambridge syllabus keywords to use in your answers
These are the official Cambridge 0455 terms tagged to this section. Mark schemes credit responses that use the exact term — weave them into your answers verbatim rather than paraphrasing.
Key terms covered in this Trade unions deck
Every term below is defined in the flashcards above. Use the list as a quick recall test before your exam — if you can't define one of these in your own words, flip back to that card.
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