This 12-day unit is designed for use in the social studies classroom for grades 9-12 and community college level. Students first learn about the ideological, political, and military rivalries of the United States and the Soviet Union that marked the Cold War. They are then introduced to the nuclear build-up, and they study its impact on matters of national and international security. Lessons on arms control and detente raise questions on the opportunities for cooperation between the two countries, and shift the focus from military to political issues. A final section on contemporary issues re-examines the foundations of the Soviet-American relationship in light of the momentous events of the late 1980s. This unit makes use of primary and secondary sources, cartoons, a glossary, a timeline, role plays, simulations, pre- and post-tests, and in-class activities. An on-going journal based on the timeline asked students to evaluate Soviet-American historical events in terms of national and international security and from different points of view. The pre- and post-tests and the journal can be used by the teacher for evaluation purposes. Five appendices include: (1) lists of related activities; (2) connections to social science textbooks; (3) connections to California's history/social science framework and model curriculum standards; (4) a bibliography; and (5) a statement on educational philosophy. (DB)