One of a series of curriculum guides prepared for the graphic communications occupations cluster, this guide identifies the essentials of the graphic arts trade as recommended by the successful printers. An instructional program based upon the implementation of the guide is expected to prepare a student to adequately perform entry level tasks required of a printer or to enter a post-secondary technical or apprenticeship program in graphic arts where additional depth can be realized. Trade tasks or information are listed in chart form under the headings of safety, copy preparation, composition, letter press, camera (offset), stripping and plating, offset press, bindery, and silkscreen. 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, sources of occupational information, recommended tests and references, and a chart depicting the total graphic communication occupational curriculum. A typical application for employment and a sample trade and industrial education injury report are appended. (HD)