Television Unit: "The Cosby Show"

Click here to read about The Cosby Show.

In the comments section, answer the following questions based on your reading in complete sentences BEFORE viewing the episode.

1. How did "The Cosby Show" differ from other sitcoms featuring a prominently African-American cast?
2. How did previous sitcoms depict African-American families?
3. How did "The Cosby Show" change these depictions.

In the comments section, answer the following questions in complete sentences AFTER viewing the episode (which can be viewed here)

1. Do you feel that the children in "The Cosby Show" have respect for their parents? How can you tell?
2. What is the conflict between Cliff and his son (Theo). How is this conflict resolved?
3. Do you think the mom falls into a stereotypical role?

History of Television Unit

 

 Read the following articles about "Classic Prime-Time Programs" and "Philo T. Farnsworth"

Answer the following questions based on your readings:

1. How does the first article define classic television programs?
2. Which of the Prime-Time classics listed in the first article would you be most interested in viewing and why?
3. How did Farnsworth first get the idea for scanning images?
4. What difficulties did Farnsworth face in building the first television set?