This self-directed study unit for grades K-3 and 4-8 was developed expressly to transport the student from the position of passive recipient to active participant in his/her own pursuit of knowledge. Within the guide are two complete units: one created for the lower elementary student and one for the upper elementary/middle school student. Units emphasize higher-level thinking skills and are interdisciplinary in content. A teacher's section discusses the philosophy behind the unit; the format; suggestions for getting started, further research, and adapting the unit; and 13 suggested readings. The lower elementary unit covers basic ecological concepts and vocabulary such as an awareness of ecosystems, energy cycles, populations, and pollution. The upper level unit covers ecological change, food webs, ecology careers and ecologists, and sustainable lifestyles, in addition to vocabulary and basic ecological concepts. Both units involve students in simple activities and library research. Additional sections provide instructions for seven complimentary art activities, information on environmental organizations, and a 20-item bibliography. (LZ)