This curriculum guide, in addition to offering a brief rationale and introduction to consumer education, presents specific suggestions for initiating or developing an individual program. There are generally considered to be four possible methods of implementation: 1) the individual teacher; 2) a team approach; 3) an interdisciplinary structure; or, 4) one that involves all relevant agents in the social system. Consideration is given to establishing instructional objectives and creating the necessary climate conducive to teaching and learning. Each teacher must develop his own course content based on the needs and interests of his students, but four interrelated, broad topics with introductory concepts are suggested here: 1) the consumer as an individual; 2) the consumer as a member of society; 3) his alternatives in the marketplace; and, 4) his rights and responsibilities. Each topic area includes samples of various types of learning activities divided into grades of K-3, 4-6, 7-9, and 10-12. Noting that curriculum development in consumer education requires the assistance and support of many, the roles played by various agents are discussed--the administrator, teacher, federal government, and consumer organizations. Use of outside resources is encouraged, and an annotated listing of instructional and institutional resources is included. (JLB)