Designed for use in Michigan junior high schools in conjunction with the publication "Essential Performance Objectives for the Social Studies," this handbook contains over 175 social studies learning activities. Material is divided into three sections. (1) An extensive introduction considers methods for improving classroom teaching. Topics discussed include teacher responsibilities, teaching strategies, learning objectives, choosing appropriate activities, and teachers' problems. (2) The learning activities are the bulk of the handbook. Presented in charts which summarize objectives, procedure, and resources, activities reflect a wide range of teaching techniques and approaches. Some of the content and skill areas covered are: attitude formation, stereotypes, laws, consumer education, environmental awareness, resources, government systems, newspaper skills, and technology. (3) Appendices include a glossary, evaluation procedures, several social studies program models, scope and sequence designs, outlines of skills and objectives, and sample curriculum guides and policy statements. (LP)