Because growing up has become the art of survival for many young people, a professionally conducted course in street smarts can help them identify problems, understand consequences, and make good decisions. The information and activities contained in this text can teach students how to take care of themselves when confronted with challenges. It examines a range of social problems that affect young people (ages 14 to 19) as they make the transition from the relatively secure environments of home and school to the world of work and adulthood. The topics covered include consumer issues, cults, delinquency, drugs, gangs, sexual exploitation, street violence, homelessness, and problems at work. Each chapter contains information about the problem topic, analyzes causes and consequences, and provides a wide range of related activities. Case studies and role-play exercises illustrate key points and stimulate the active involvement of young people in the learning process. The activities are intended to promote awareness among young people of problems that particularly affect their age group, and to encourage them to develop positive attitudes and solutions to these problems. The exercises can be used for individuals, for small groups, or for whole-group work. (RJM)