Seven modules provide perspective on United States history in terms of the American as an individual in the community. Part One, The American Family, explores roles of American men and women, marriage, and the family. Letters written in 1776 between John and Abigail Adams are contrasted with letters written in 1975 between working mothers. Family structure and roles of immigrants are compared to students' own families and those on TV programs. In Part Two, Education for Work and for Life, students trace the development of the public school system, read historical accounts of barriers to women in higher education, and analyze statistics of men and women in various occupations today. Benjamin Franklin's autobiography and self-improvement chart are used as models for students to evaluate their own experiences with education as "an individual achievement." The materials, which are in field-test condition, represent three types: given materials, including current and historical readings; suggestions for student contributions relying on experience with family living, education, and religion; and suggestions for alternative strategies and materials available in the school or community. (AV)