This report describes the design of an implementation evaluation of the Massachusetts Basic Skills Improvement Policy, to be conducted during 1982-83. The Policy and Regulations were enacted in 1978-79 when school districts were required to develop basic skills improvement plans. In 1980-81 districts were required to implement their plans. Although the Policy requires basic skills testing, public reporting, and follow-up assistance to students who do not meet locally determined (minimal) standards, its emphasis is on curriculum and instructional improvements and staff development. The purpose of the "implementation evaluation" is to describe what school districts are and are not doing in response to the Policy, and to explain why districts show whatever (expected) variation is found. An "impact evaluation," consisting of a questionnaire survey (n=100) and an intensive case study (n=8-12) of school districts, is planned for 1985-86 to determine whether Massachusetts students have actually improved in their mastery of basic skills, as intended. Contents include: evaluation design, questionnaire survey, case studies, and pilot test findings. Questionnaires, technical details of development, and interview instruments are appended. (Author/PN)