Methods and apparatus of efficient communication of resource allocation are described. A base station transmits a resource assignment message, e.g., a state transition message, to a wireless terminal including a first part, e.g., a base station assigned wireless terminal On state identifier, identifying a resource being assigned and a second part, e.g., an ON state mask, identifying a portion of the resource allocated to the wireless terminal. The same resource allocation message information also communicates one of a plurality of different modes of commanded On state operation. The resource allocation message structure supports flexible allocation of available resources facilitating a resource to be partitioned differently at different times accommodating current needs. A predetermined recurring channel structure and association of segments with particular mask bits, facilitates allocated control segments to be used unambiguously without the need to include an overhead wireless terminal identifier field with the control report bits being communicated.