One of a series of bulletins designed to aid social studies teachers, this issue serves as a guide in handling controversial issues in the classroom. The need for a policy statement from the local board of education is noted as the first step in allowing the free exchange of ideas. Considerations in deciding to study an issue are suggested: whether the issue is beyond the maturity level of the pupils; if it is of interest to them; if the teacher feels he can handle it from a personal standpoint; if adequate study materials can be obtained; if there is adequate time to justify its presentation; and if it will clash with community attitudes. A possible approach to controversial problems is broken into four aspects: preparation, introduction, investigation, and culmination. Special emphasis is on introductory techniques. The topic of appropriate pupil action in school and community is discussed as a natural outgrowth of the study of these issues. The teacher's role in working for consensus is observed as important in dealing with diverse opinions. A selected bibliography lists journal and yearbook articles from 1938 to the present. Related documents are SO 005 979 through SO 006 000. (KSM)