Grade 6 · Social Studies · Lesson 20

International trade basics

International trade is the buying and selling of goods and services across national borders. It is now so common that almost everything in your bedroom — phone, clothes, books, electronics — has crossed at least one border on its way to you. Understanding the vocabulary of trade lets you read economic news and follow global events with much sharper eyes.

What this lesson teaches

1Define exports, imports, and trade balance using clear examples
2Distinguish between a trade surplus and a trade deficit
3Explain what tariffs are and why governments use them
4Describe how trade agreements reduce barriers between countries

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