The student's and teacher's resource books contain primary sources that focus on the values, beliefs, and interests that influenced the political development of the United States as a nation. Students revisit the events and controversies of 1763-88 through primary source documents and reconstructed debates to gain a deeper understanding of the political climate of the era and the values that contributed to the nation's political foundation. In exploring the parallels between the debates of 1776 and 1788 and the country's current political discourse, students gain an insight into the issues that define the current age. A "Chronology of America's Foundation: 1754-1791" and suggested readings are included in the student's book. The teacher's resource book contains 10 lesson plans that stress interactive, group-oriented learning and student-centered instruction. The teacher's book contains student readings; a framework for policy options; the lesson plans; and resources for structuring cooperative learning, role-plays, and simulations. (CB)