Designed for publishers and producers, this document initiates the annual subject area(s) adoption of basic instructional materials for California schools, kindergarten through eighth grade. The document presents an overview of the total instructional materials adoption-distribution process, specific instructions relating to initial submissions and the English/language arts program, and discusses, in six sections, the schedule of significant events for the 1987 adoption. Respectively, sections address the adoption process, contain information on instructional materials funding, detail the ordering and distribution process, outline special approvals, discuss requests for additional information, and address abbreviations and acronyms. Attachments comprise the bulk of the document and include (1) the currently scheduled subject framework/adoption cycle; (2) applicable "Education Code" provisions; (3) instruction and sample copies for completing form CFTD-2; (4) requirements for International Standard Book Number (ISBN); (5) instructions for completing program descriptions; (6) textbook and instructional materials standards for listening, speaking, reading, and writing; (7) a sample copy of standard agreement (contract) between the State Board of Education and the publisher; (8) sample copies of "Statement of Publisher Submitting Books for Adoption" and "Price Quotation on Instructional Materials"; (9) payment approval process and procedures; and (10) standards for evaluation of instructional materials with respect to social content. (JD)