Through a series of narrative and activity components, the students will have met several learning objectives by the end of the lesson series. Students should be able to:

1. Describe various indicators of a community's wealth.
2. Analyze how the Humboldt County region is doing in a variety of categories.
3. Explain the role and powers of the various levels of government, how the levels interact and how they influence aspects of our communities.
4. Understand the importance of the individual in a democratic society and the value of civic participation.
5. Understand more about history, economics, social sciences and the environment.

The unit is divided into seven lessons, which include in-class lecture and discussion material and activities. Allow one class period (approximately 45 minutes) to complete each lesson.

The lessons are designed to be used in a sequence from Lesson 1 through Lesson 7. Some teachers will find, however, that they do not have time to cover all seven lessons. Therefore, some lessons could be skipped without disrupting the flow of the core content material. These optional lessons are labeled as such. Additionally, some activities and lessons are labeled "extended" and could be used solely for advanced students.

The format throughout the teacher's guide and lesson unit was developed to allow the teacher to pose a question (in italics) and then illicit responses from the class. Possible answers and discussion material have been provided below each question. Teachers are encouraged to supplement this material where appropriate to their community and their class.

1. Gross Domestic Product
2. Unemployment Rate
3. Deaths Due to Accidents and Preventable Causes
4. Housing Affordability
5. Resource Dependent Employment
6. Voter Turnout by Age
7. Voter Turnout by Gender

1. Indicators and Where to Find Them
2. Excel Tutorial

For a list of the additional materials required to complete each activity, please see the specific lesson activity.