Developed to identify how low socioeconomic black students perceive the world about them in relation to social and academic characteristics identified by various research findings, this study employs the research technique of using a visual multiple choice questionnaire. The establishment of characteristic statement photographs as being either positive or negative to the statement and/or directions provided assures a high degree of questionnaire validity. The use of pilot field testing of the questionnaire establishes reliability. The photograph series include 10 social characteristics and 8 academic characteristics. Among the former are: living environment, adult models, emotional reactions, resentful of authority, and materialistic concerns. The latter category includes successful experiences, abstract ideas, vocational objectives, interacting relationships, and others. Findings for each photograph series are presented in a systematic fashion including such items as a discussion of findings, the advisory committee's projected opinions, and the implications for teachers. A summary of some basic teaching principles is provided in the conclusion. The 20 principles presented are as applicable to vocational education as they are to all areas of secondary education. The results of the study are intended to assist inner city high school vocational teachers in the use of the basic principles of teaching. (Author/AM)