The "Garcia-Armstrong Matrix System" provides specific instructions for evaluating the way textbooks depict ethnic/minority groups. The matrix is formed by evaluating individual sentences for their references to the activity or passivity of the target group and to the status of the target group in relation to other groups named in the same sentence. The evaluators then compare the percentage of sentences categorized in each cell of the matrix to the needs and expectations of those interested in the information. The simplicity of the matrix allows evaluators to examine several textbooks concurrently, even in conjunction with other evaluation procedures. (Appended text sentences and data allow readers to practice using the matrix.) (RL)