The teaching unit is designed to help senior high school and college students learn about national development in Brazil. In this case study, development is defined as advances in social well-being and economic growth. Brazil was chosen as an example of a developing nation which depends upon foreign markets, technology, and capital. The country also has social problems aggravated by a high rate of population growth and urban overcrowding. There are five major sections in the unit. Two introductory sections describe Brazil's geography and history from the precolonial era through 1964. Highlighted are social, economic, and political events which influenced contemporary Brazil. A third section examines the international economics of Brazil's development. Economic growth and supportive political changes since 1964 are analyzed. Health, nutrition, education, income distribution, and employment opportunities are discussed in section four. Section five summarizes the economic and social aspects of the Brazilian development model, and suggests possibilities for future growth. At the end of each section are questions for discussion and research, as well as annotated reading suggestions. A glossary and a selected bibliography of 59 relevant references conclude the unit. (Author/AV)