The phenomenal growth of science and technology in the past decade has made science teaching more important, and at the same time more difficult. An awareness of these changes has caused an unprecedented public support for sound science programs in the schools. A good science program makes effective use of equipment and materials in teaching basic science concepts. The National Defense Education Act of 1958, Title III, has provided educators with greater opportunity to strengthen instruction through the acquisition of needed equipment and materials. A new emphasis on science in the elementary school has stimulated supervisors, administrators, and many teachers to seek information on sources, selection, and use of appropriate materials and equipment in instruction. This bulletin is intended mainly to help the neophyte who is interested in the basics of elementary science teaching. It offers general guidelines concerning the relationship of equipment to the various elements of the instructional program. The discussion is keyed particularly to the needs of the elementary school supervisor, principal, and others responsible for school policies regarding the procurement and use of science equipment. Appended are: (1) Basic, Standard, and Advanced Lists for Elementary Science--Council of Chief State School Officers; (2) Science Supplies and Equipment for Elementary Schools, Grades 1-6--Detroit Public Schools; (3) Science K-6 Equipment and Supplies--New York State Education Department; (4) A Basic Equipment List--National Science Teachers Association; and (5) Science Equipment--Denver Public Schools. Individual sections contain footnotes. [Best copy available has been provided.]