Research and study of economic discoveries, inventions, improvements, and man's use of natural and human resources and capital goods from the Stone Age to the present helped fifth graders understand and appreciate the foundation and structure of the U.S. economic system and today's standards of living. The year-long study, which was integrated into the social studies curriculum, consisted of five mini-units: Early Man (Caveman and Early American Indians); Early Europeans; Explorers; Early Builders of Our Nation (Colonists and Frontiersmen); and Enterprising Americans Today (Free Enterprise Society). Student activities were many and varied. For example, pupils used classroom learning centers; did a choral reading about their country's history; role played life on a deserted island; made murals, model homes, and dioramas showing early man's economic activities and then displayed these projects in a children's museum; wrote creative stories; took field trips; listened to guest speakers; and wrote letters. Major concepts and goals and activities for each unit are described. Samples of student work are included. (RM)