The teaching guide presents social studies activities to help ninth graders learn about environmental concepts, problems, and responsibilities. Based on the Indian River County environment in Florida, it is part of a series for teachers, students, and community members. The introduction describes the county's geography, natural resources, endangered wildlife, and local environmental issues. The main portion of the guide presents activities based on three major concepts: environmental effects of population increase, impact of society's demands on finite resources, and individual responsibility for protecting the environment. The activities involve study of crime and disease rates in proportion to population density, research into community air pollution problems, debate over the benefits of recycling, analysis of families' needs for goods and services which deplete natural resources, and observation of city council sessions when environmental issues are discussed. Appendices present charts and maps of natural resource supply and use; and an outline of Florida school regulations concerning educational fieldtrips. (AV)