The International Trade Administration in the Department of Commerce keeps an up-to-date Web site with the easiest to access U.S. trade data. Trade Stats Express page. Data are also provided for state exports. (Everything you might want to know about these data series, and then some, is available on the Census Bureau's Website in their Foreign Trade section. A complete description of data, collection methods, measurement issues, and other background information.)
Using the Trade Stats Express page, write a 5 page paper (1500 or more words) in APA format in response to the following questions: (1) What are the leading U.S. exports and imports in terms of value? (2) Which trading partners are most important to the United States? This can be measured in terms of total exports, total imports, or total exports plus imports. (3) Which countries have the largest trade deficits and trade surpluses with the United States?
Below is a recommended outline.
1. Cover page (See APA Sample paper)
2. Introduction
a. A thesis statement
b. Purpose of paper
c. Overview of paper
3. Body (Cite sources using in-text citations.)
a. Explain what the leading US exports and imports are in terms of value
b. Discuss which trading partners are most important to the US
c. Discuss which countries have the largest trade deficits and trade surpluses with the US
Conclusion - Summary of main points
a. Lessons Learned and Recommendations
2. References - List the references you cited in the text of your paper according to APA format.