This unit, developed by the Third World Science Project, is designed to add a multicultural element to existing science syllabi (for students aged 11-16) in the United Kingdom. The project seeks to develop an appreciation of the: boundless fascination of the natural world; knowledge, skills, and expertise possessed by men/women everywhere; application of knowledge and skills to solve the practical problems of everyday life; impact of modern technology in the world; and the influence of the cultural background on the perception of knowledge, problems, and solutions. The unit begins with a brief survey of rural, traditional building and associated problems, using Datoyili (Northern Ghana) as an example of a loosely nucleated settlement of single-story huts. A plan of the village, chief's compound, and interior of chief's hut are included. Scientific concepts involved in building are then considered, such as advantages of cylindrical huts related to direction of sun's rays and use of the thatched roof as non-conductor of heat. Mathematical exercises related to these topics are included. Additional sections focus on construction/comparison of round/rectangular houses, importance of using local labor/materials in constructing houses, and other topics. The unit concludes with illustrated instructions for making models of round huts and rectangular dwelling. (JN)