This booklet was developed by New York City junior high school teachers to help other teachers and students to explore various facets of communications and mass media. Media forms examined in a series of loosely structured lesson plans include telephone, television, radio, the postal service, newspapers, magazines, books, printing, and new communications systems being developed for the future. In addition, an extensive set of lessons and suggested activities is presented on the topic of advertising. The importance of all levels of communications and advertising is stressed throughout the booklet. Questions and activities are directed toward clarifying the students' relationship to the world through communication. (GC)