This curriculum guide presents nine units for the study of world cultures in the ninth grade. The guide has been designed as one component of an ongoing comprehensive social studies program. Among the social sciences concepts which the units develop are cultural diffusion, prejudice, task specialization, urbanization, nationalism, and ethics. Generalizations to be developed include that culture is a human universal and is in a constant state of flux, and that cultural interaction leads to cultural advancement. The first three units cover an orientation to world cultures, ancient Egypt, and the fertile crescent. The other six units, which can be taught in any sequence, examine the Moslem world, Africa, India, Southeast Asia, China, and Japan. Each of the units identifies specific objectives and gives a detailed outline of content. No instructional materials are identified. (AV)