An examination of any school curriculum would reveal the existence of "basic" subjects such as reading, writing, and computation. Therefore a "return to basics" is not needed but rather a change in methodology in teaching these subjects. The following methodological changes are suggested: (1) Test each child to ascertain the level of achievement in each subject and then start them in each subject area and take them as far as they can go during the school year, picking up exactly where they left off in June at the start of school in the fall; (2) Provide individualized instruction for each child by paying attention to individual needs, interests, and abilities; (3) Group children in a nongraded arrangement, by ability rather than age; and (4) Maximize the open class concept. (JD)