Using the American Institutes for Research (AIR) Report (1978) and evaluation of the Head Start Bilingual/Bicultural Curriculum Project by Juarez Associates as contrasting examples of bilingual research, the authors suggest a new direction for policy research in bilingual education oriented towards examining all factors affecting such policy formation within the larger relational nexus. To provide a context for the discussion, the Head Start Strategy for Spanish Speaking Children and the plans for the evaluation of its curriculum development component are described. An outline of the purpose and the design of the evaluation project follows. This involves not only the administration of tests to measure the impact of program objectives, but the collection of data to illustrate the nature and extent of program implementation over time, which can then be used to determine the feasibility of implementing the curriculum models at other sites; and collection of qualitative observation and change data over time for use as outcome data. The reproductive function this evaluation is likely to serve is then exemplified by drawing attention to how evaluative research can be used to legitimate social action programs. Future directions are also discussed. (Author/AEF)