This resource book for secondary students describes various aspects of federal, state, and local political processes. Originally written for use in the magnet education program "Political Discovery" in Boston, Massachusetts, the book can easily be used or adapted by teachers in any state. The first part of the book deals with the federal government. Presented are a glossary of political terms and definitions of many forms of government in the world today; a discussion of the separation of powers and a description of the duties and responsibilities of the parts of the federal government--the president and vice president, the cabinet, congress, and the federal courts. A flow chart of how a case reaches the Supreme Court is also provided. The second part of the booklet focuses on the state government in Massachusetts, examining the responsibilities of the Governor, his cabinet, constitutional officers, and the legislature and describing the procedure for passage of a bill and the judicial system. The third section of the booklet deals with local government. County government is first described. Then cities and towns are examined. Questions such as "What is the Home Rule Amendment?"; "What's the role of a city council?"; and "What's the difference between a city and a town?", are discussed. Metropolitan units are examined and the government of the city of Boston is discussed. Last, a "Political Discovery Action Manual" provides students with many tips--how to fight city hall, how to register, how to get to the National Convention, how to run for office, when to write to Washington, and how to use the media. Landmark decisions in desegregation are also presented in the booklet. (Author/RM)