Developed for the Carroll County Public Schools, this Learning Activity Package (LAP) for grade 8 offers a way to provide individualized learning about China before the Communists came to power. Learning activities are based on curriculum and audiovisual materials available in the Carroll County Schools. The focus of the unit is on the life styles of the rich landowners and the peasants before 1949, as well as on understanding the term "extended family." The social studies unit includes learning activities, suggested resources, evaluation tests, and optional activities. A teacher's guide accompanies the material, which includes the answers to the pre- and posttests and a list of print and nonprint resources needed to complete the LAP. (JR)