The social studies curriculum for grade 4 in Manitoba, Canada, is presented. The focus of this guide is communities around the world. Some objectives are to explore: (1) various human and natural features of the earth's surface; (2) ways in which people communicate about location on the earth's surface; and (3) implications of different levels and types of development for the quality of life in communities. The units include: Locating People and Places Around the World and World Communities. As topics are presented for each unit, questions are asked and then learning activities are given to help students answer the questions. In Unit I, for example, under the topic of skills for communicating about finding locations, the question is asked, How do people use direction to find locations on the earth's surface? To introduce the subject of direction, students role-play a visitor to the community. The "visitor" asks students directional questions to certain landmarks. In another activity students practice locating objects or specific points in the classroom, school, and community. Using a compass, participating in directional games, and following outline maps are other suggested activities. This guide is arranged as follows: grade title and overview, unit title and overview, unit topics and focusing questions, unit topic objectives, and unit topic suggested teaching strategies and learning activities. (Author/NE)