This unit on decision-making and discussion skills is the second of five units in a ninth grade social studies course (course described in SO 010 891). There are two major objectives: (1) given a problem, the student will make value judgments using decision-making skills; and (2) using proper discussion techniques, the student will analyze a controversial issue and take a stand. The unit is divided into two parts: the first deals with decision making skills, while the second emphasizes discussion and communication skills. The two parts contain lessons which are inquiry-oriented and are based on student activities. Each lesson contains a stated purpose, a classroom procedure, suggested materials, and activities. Some of the activities involve students in taking attitude and value surveys, analyzing the voting habits of Americans, completing worksheets on decision-making and problem-solving processes, examining case studies, role playing situations, analyzing discussion methods, analyzing cartoons, and gathering and using information. Resource pages for the activities are included. (Author/JK)