The purpose of this document is to provide reasonable, systematic standards for evaluation of instructional materials upon which evaluators may base their judgments, so that the results of the evaluation process will be as nearly consistent and therefore, as equitable, as possible. The guidelines are based on the social content requirements of the California Education Code laws which require that instructional materials provide positive experiences, encourage aspirations unlimited by narrow and stereotyped portrayals, and provide an image of a pluralistic, multicultural society in which any member of any cultural group is looked upon as an individual, not just as a member of a group. The first part of the guide briefly discusses several kinds of special circumstances which may make it necessary to modify specified requirements. The major portion of the guide provides evaluation standards for the following areas: male and female roles; ethnic and cultural groups; older persons and the aging process; disabled persons; entrepreneur and labor; religion; ecology and environment; dangerous substances; thrift, fire prevention, and humane treatment of animals and people; brand names and corporate logos; and foods. For each area, information is included on purpose, method, applicability of standards, standards requiring compliance where appropriate, and standards requiring strict compliance. Social content requirements of California's Education Code are appended. (RM)