This syllabus outlines a one semester course intended to provide a comprehensive study of the Soviet Union today, and the relationship that Russian has with the United States and the rest of the world. Content covers Russia's history beginning with the fall of the Romanovs with emphasis on the revolutionary movement in Russia. The guide presents a brief rationale of a comparative study approach to history instruction, a list of objectives, and a description of teaching methodology. Suggested is a combination of lecture and student discussion, utilizing individual research, student panels, guest speakers, and class projects. A list of curriculum materials, including texts, supplemental texts, and audiovisual aids, is given. The course outline is introduced by a brief discussion of the Provisional Government followed by a chronological outline of significant events. Major topics are: 1) February Revolution; 2) Provisional Government; 3) Bolshevik Revolution; 4) War, Communism; 5) Reconstruction; 6) Post War Period; and, 7) Coexistence. In addition, these themes for student analysis are suggested: 1) Democracy and Communism As a Way of Life; 2) Land and the People of the Soviet Union; 3) The Importance of Russia's Past in the Communist State; 4) Soviet Personalities and Policies; 5) Development of the Soviet Economy; 6) Role of the Artist in the Soviet Union; 7) International Policies of the Soviet Union; and, 8) West's Response to Communism. A related document is: SO 001 197. (Author/JSB)