This paper describes the use and value of courses in the physical environment offered as part of a non-graded elective program in the English high school curriculum. The writer, who has taught some of these courses, argues that there is a definite place for environmental studies in the humanities curriculum. One course, entitled "Wilderness as a Way of Life," not only included readings but also asked the student to do some wildnerness living and to submit projects related to these experiences. A course in survival required reading in and experience of survival techniques. The author describes some of the books the student read in this course and some of the projects they created. An appendix includes the course outline for "Wilderness as a Way of Life," a discussion of some suggested projects for the course, and a list of books, films, and multimedia presentations relevant to the course. (Author/DI)