This teacher resource text and student text are part of a continuing series on current and historical international issues, placing special emphasis on the importance of educating students in their participatory role as citizens. It steps back from the day-to-day turmoil in Russia to examine the issues that most deeply affect the United States. At the core of the unit are four distinct options for U.S. policy. Each option contains a different perspective on the threats and opportunities presented by conditions in Russia. The background reading provides students with the knowledge needed to take part in the debate on the U.S. role in Russia's post-Cold War transition. Part 1 offers an historical overview of U.S. relations with the Russian empire and the Soviet Union. Part 2 surveys the economic and political changes that Russia has undergone since the Soviet collapse, with special attention given to Russia's evolving foreign policy. Part 3 concentrates on the leading challenges facing U.S. policymakers with respect to Russia and its neighbors. An optional reading features an excerpt from a Soviet-era textbook. Includes five- and three-day lesson plans. (BB)