A rationale within which courses in political studies for secondary credit may be designed is based upon objectives which would contribute to the growth of the individual student, enriching his understandings of himself and of his world. Guidelines for the development of courses appropriate to the needs, interests, and abilities of the students detail the guidance and planning responsibilities of the teacher. Description of one approach to building a unit provides a model which includes clarification of course objectives, suggested motivational activities, possibilities for exploration of the topic in both the cognitive and affective domains, and direction toward culminating activities and evaluation. Examples of eighteen units encompass specific proposals for the study of people and politics. A bibliography of resource materials and related references designed to aid in development of courses is included. (Author/SHM)