2 of 19

Write now Article Tools

Reality TV shows are the it shows of the present. Gone were the days of big-budget sitcoms and soap operas as we consumers tune in weekly to watch ordinary individuals be put into situations that they might not normally have eperienced. A few hit shows that come to mind include American Idol, Big Brother, the Amazing Race and the list goes on. They seem to be the perfect solution for everybody: people can now be on TV, producers don't have to pay the big bucks for the cast and we consumers won't get bored. But what exactly makes the latest addition to the growing list of reality TV shows - "Are You Smarter Than A Fifth-grader?" - the talk of the town?

Well firstly, I think the title says it all: are the contestatnts really smarter than a fifth-grader? It immediately throws up a challenge that many adults (and even some teenagers, myself included) can't resist. Most people would naturally think this is a great way to make some cash. I've got the education, I've got the diplomas, winning this show would be easy. What's more, the challenge puts so much pride on the line that no self-respecting adult would decline. So of course, applications to be on the show would come in thick and fast.

From the viewers' perspective, it is simply hilarious to watch these self-conident contestants walk in expecting the cash and ends up walking back out the door with their tail stuck between their legs. While it's sad to admit, it is true that we like to watch fellow humans suffer humiliation. Take "World's Funniest Home Videos" for example, how many clips in that show displays someone getting hurt? I would probably say 98%.

As stated earlier, the producers are delighted to have such a successful show on such a low budget. Each contestant walks out with not too much cash, making sure that the cash balance for the TV show always stays in the black. So it seems like a win-win situation.

Granted, the kids on that show are super genius that are far more intelligent than the average fifth-grader and can probably qualify to skip a couple of grades. In addition, they were trained especially to answer those sort of questions. What's more, my friends and I constantly wonder if the show purposely accept stupid applicants over intelligent ones just so they would look stupid on TV. But all in all, that doesn't make this show any less viewable, any less funny or most importantly, any less successful.

Learn more about this author, Y Tian.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about TV show reviews: Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader??
We want to hear your view. Write now!