The teaching mini-units in this teacher's guide are designed for use with elementary level students. Thematic study units are given for each of the following countries or continents: Africa, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, England, France, Germany, Greece, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, and the United States. Experimental activities encourage children to learn about different holiday customs, cultural traditions, art, music, food, language, and lifeways. Each unit begins with a map of the country/continent and some geographical information. Mapping activities are meant to introduce students to the area being studied, become familiar with geography, and develop beginning map skills. Teacher research information is given, followed by suggested student activities. Some reproducible student pages and patterns are provided. (MM)