This report presents the research design of an experimental intervention training program designed to determine the similarities and differences in cognitive outcomes as a function of curricula based on classification and attentional training. Answers to two questions of practical importance were sought. Given that the training program developed by Sigel and associates positively modified the cognitive skills of lower class children, could the materials be adapted for younger children without losing the character of the training? Also, could the program be carried out by Head Start teachers rather than research project personnel? Two classrooms in each of two independent programs (Detroit and Pontiac, Michigan) administered classification training and matching placebo (language training) along with attention training and its placebo (perceptual motor training). In each location, one classroom was used as a pure control. Teachers were selected from a well qualified volunteer group. A total of ten teachers and 160 children participated in this field test. A core battery of measures employed by the 1968 national Head Start evaluation model was given and supplemented by measures critical to this program design. A typical pre- and posttest research design was used. See companion paper PS 003 428 which discusses the actual training inputs and PS 003 430 which presents the statistical analysis and results. (WY)