Representing a significant part of the development of a basic education program for North Carolina's public schools, this teacher handbook and integrated competency-based curriculum guide provides recommended goals (broad statements of general direction or purpose), objectives (specific statements of what the student will know or be able to do), and measures (a variety of suggestions for ways in which the student may demonstrate ability to meet the objective) for communication skills for kindergarten through grade twelve. The teacher handbook section provides the background and overview of the curriculum and discusses its philosophy and rationale, thinking skills, programs for exceptional children, and recommendations for those using the curriculum. The curriculum guide section is divided into grade levels with the goals, objectives, and measures defined for each of the following communication skills: listening, speaking, reading/literature, writing, handwriting, viewing, and study skills. (Among the appendixes are North Carolina's Elementary and Secondary School Reform Act of 1984, lists of course requirements for high school graduation and testing requirements, a description of the textbook adoption process, and an organizational chart for instructional services.) (HOD)