This document presents a series of learning activities focusing on the role of state government in American society. It is intended for senior or junior high school students. Six objectives are: to identify information sources about state government; to increase knowledge about its organization, processes, services, and costs; to compare these factors in several states; to apply this knowledge toward the solution of personal and social problems; to evaluate current proposals to improve the role of state government; and to improve writing and speaking skills. Activities involve students in considering how state laws affect their daily lives, suggest projects based on release time as a way for students to become involved in community services, and suggest ways to gauge class and public opinion through attitudinal instruments and polling techniques. Topics covered include state constitutions, legislators, governors, revenues, voting, running for office, shoplifting, marijuana, marriage and divorce, and writing a will. Various uses of the materials are suggested. Opinion tests, action project suggestions, and a word rating sheet are intended for teacher use only. When using the unit, the teacher should be aware of government changes that have occurred since the activities were written. (Author/CK)