This genetics curriculum was conceived to fill the void in the general public's awareness of the importance of heredity and environment in health. The module contains a teacher's manual, student manual, and appendix. Topics are presented in a manner that is intended to be culturally sensitive and meaningful, and to reflect the concerns of the Native American population in the South Dakota region. In the context of traditional Native American beliefs and culture, students learn about the genetics of diabetes, heart disease and alcoholism, the causes of some birth defects, and how lifestyle choices have an impact on individual and community health. Seven lessons present a series of classroom discussions, hands-on experiences, group research projects, and interactions with individuals from the community. The module is designed to promote student participation in the learning process. Direct teaching methods are utilized only when necessary. The teacher's manual presents lessons with the following components: introduction, goal, objectives, materials and advance preparation, directions for conducting the activity, background information, resources, and optional activities. The student manual is teacher reproducible. An appendix contains material highlighting health care issues in the Native American community. (LZ)