This study of the effort and failures to maintain world peace in this century is intended as an elective, quinmester course for grades 7 through 9. It encompasses the concept of nationalism and the role it plays in the decisions that lead to war, and organizations that have tried and are trying to preserve or bring about peace. Among other goals for the course are for the student to: 1) assess his own attitudes and beliefs concerning peace and generalize about the nature of war; 2) examine the social, political, and economic reasons for war; 3) analyze breakdowns in world peace in this century and the resultant human problems; 4) investigate and suggest alternatives to war as a means of settling conflict; and, 5) describe ways and means an individual can work for peace. The guide itself is divided into a broad goals section, a content outline, objectives and learning activities, and teacher/student materials. Learning activities are highly varied and are closely tied with course objectives. Materials include basic texts, pamphlets, records, and filmstrips. Related documents are: SO 002 708 through SO 002 718, SO 002 768 through SO 002 792, and SO 002 947 through SO 002 970. (Author/JLB)