A program description of a social studies curriculum development project supported by an ESEA Title III Grant is presented in this paper. The course, designed for secondary students who will soon be voting, focuses on the importance of active involvement and citizenship responsibility for participation in the democratic process. The major objective is to teach practical politics in a way that is not only interesting but motivates students. Simulations emphasizing role playing, case studies, small group activities, and independent learning projects are some of the flexible teaching techniques employed. The course is divided into six sections: 1) an introduction to politics stressing power relationships and influence, and political behavior; 2) the citizen's role in government; 3) the structure and function of American political institutions; 4) elections, voting, and campaigning, 5) characteristics of influencing political attitudes and behavior; and 6) analyzing and evaluating the political decision making process. In addition, brief information is included on inservice workshops, dissemination activities of the project, funding, and staffing. A related document is SO 004 984. (SJM)