This 12th grade course in world geography is based on the philosophical assumption that human beings on earth make up a global village of interdependent people. It is world geography with a planetary perspective--an inquiry into the nature of the planet and its dominant species, Homo Sapiens. Seven units cover the following topics on physical and human aspects of our world: astronomical perspectives; the place of earth in space and time; natural characteristics--relief, climate, and vegetation; population density and distribution factors affecting it; the needs of people; quality of life indices; economic diversity; factors affecting the diversity from an historical perspective; and future trends. The subtopics of the themes described in the course are to be filled out through the mutual exploration of the students and teacher. Emphasis in the course is placed on individual research, creative thought, and participation in group discussion for which students are expected to keep a diary. Suggested with each unit are a variety of films; activities, particularly involving globe work; and various forms of role-play, often using the theme of a spaceship approaching the earth. Sources of films and factual data and for the global orientation are cited. (JH)