The study is concerned with auditory versus visual presentation of several kinds of verbal materials: (1) word pairs; (2) sentences; and (3) prose passages. Ninety-six fourth and sixth graders from a predominantly white, middle class suburban area served as subjects. Major hypotheses included: (1) a mode-by-materials interaction would exist such that the paired associated would be best learned visually, the prose passages best aurally, and the sentences equally well in both modes; (2) a grade-by-mode interaction would exist such that fourth graders would be superior in the auditory mode and sixth graders in the visual mode; and (3) an immediate measure of retention would favor the visual mode, while a delayed measure would favor the aural mode. Research design, materials and apparatus are all elaborated. The inconclusive results suggest a need for further study of the precise parameters of obtained modal differences. However, support is lent to the hypothesis that prose materials are best presented aurally and that complex relationships exist between the effects of mode and length of time and materials are remembered. (TL)