One of a series of curriculum guides prepared for the building occupations cluster of the construction/fabrication occupational group, this guide identifies the essentials of the painting and decorating trade as recommended by the successful painter/decorator. An instructional program based upon the implementation of the guides is expected to prepare a student to adequately perform entry level tasks required of a painter/decorator or to enter a post-secondary technical or apprenticeship program in painting and decorating where additional depth can be realized. Trade tasks or information are listed in chart form under the headings of safety, labor and material estimating, tools and equipment, operations and/or jobs, and general competencies. Space is provided on the charts to record for each item the date completed, teaching methods used, and teaching materials used. Also included are a list of teacher responsibilities, guidance information and sources of occupational information, recommended tests and references, and a chart depicting the total construction/fabrication occupational curriculum. A typical application for employment and a sample trade and industrial education injury report are appended. (HD)