The ability to perceive such things as nuances of language, moods of people, and the temper of society may be the single most important ability students need to develop. One approach, which works well with upper elementary and junior high students, uses units involving community study with library research, observation, and interviewing as a base. Committees of students are organized to observe and examine aspects of community life--e.g., occupational opportunities, educational and transportation facilities, and language and cultural differences. This examination of community life leads into a study of literature, particularly the short story, which further develops the students' skills of observation and perception. (JM)