This handbook on guidance is one of several subject-area curriculum guides resulting from the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction's efforts to revise the "North Carolina Standard Course of Study" and to develop the "Teacher Handbook" for the competency-based curriculum. The background, overview, philosophy, and rationale of thse efforts are explained and sections are provided on thinking skills, programs for exceptional children, and notes for handbook users. The purpose and overview of the guidance curriculum is explained and four basic goals are identified as helping students to: (1) demonstrate a positive self-attitude; (2) gain life-planning skills consistent with needs, interests, and abilities; (3) develop responsible social skills; and (4) understand and appreciate lifelong learning, growth, and change. Descriptions of developmental tasks and coping behaviors are presented for early childhood, middle childhood, and adolescence in the areas of educational/career, personal/emotional, and social maturation. Anticipated learning outcomes are listed. The remainder of this guide is divided into sections by grade level (K-3, 4-6, 7-8, 9-12). Major emphases of the program are given for each section. Outlines are provided individually for each grade, K-12. The program goals are again listed for each grade and, for each goal, objectives and measures are provided at each grade level. Materials related to educational policy in North Carolina--including legislation--are appended. (NB)