This curriculum guide uses the study of individual systems to build a basis for students to understand larger systems. Using sites in the school yard and the community, students investigate insect, bird, and dog populations, as well as one physical system, weather, as entry points to the broader subject of how natural systems interact. The degree of student involvement ranges from simple observations and note taking to bird-banding and operating a weather station. The guide is organized in three sections: (1) awareness activities developed with the process skills of observing, categorizing, comparing, and measuring in mind; (2) transitional activities directed toward real community concerns; and (3) operational activities which are integrated efforts to solve environmental problems. This publication is part of a series of guides designed to assist administrators, teachers, and students to initiate, continue, or expand environmental education programs. These activities can be used in conjunction with those in "The Nature Conservancy Student Stewardship Program" materials. (LZ)