Ep 11. Beaver's English Test
- TV-G
- December 16, 1961
- 25 min
-
6.9 (17)
As the fifth season of Leave It to Beaver continues, the Cleaver family finds themselves facing a new challenge: Beaver's upcoming English test. In season 5 episode 11, entitled "Beaver's English Test," viewers see a nervous Beaver preparing for his test by studying vocabulary flashcards and practicing pronunciation with his mother.
Ward and June are supportive of Beaver's efforts, but his older brother Wally can't resist teasing him about his pronunciation. Meanwhile, Beaver's friend Larry Mondello has his own approach to studying for the test, which involves eating alphabet soup and hoping that the words will somehow stick in his brain.
The day of the test arrives, and Beaver is understandably nervous. Even the knowledge that his friend Gilbert Bates is also taking the test doesn't make him feel any better. But when the teacher hands out the test papers, Beaver is surprised to find that the words are much easier than he expected. He breezes through most of the test, but then gets stumped on a word that he's never heard before.
Back at home, Beaver tells his family about the test and the word that stumped him. June realizes that the word is actually a medical term that she learned when she was pregnant with Beaver, and she explains it to him. Beaver is relieved to know the answer and grateful for his mother's help.
In the end, Beaver receives a good grade on his test, and his confidence is boosted. But the real lesson of the episode is the importance of family support and the value of a good education. As the Cleavers sit down to dinner, they discuss the importance of studying hard and doing well in school. And even Wally, who initially teased his brother, realizes that he should be encouraging Beaver instead.
Overall, "Beaver's English Test" is a heartwarming episode that highlights the enduring appeal of Leave It to Beaver. It's a show that celebrates family values, education, and the importance of being a good person. And while the episodes may be a bit old-fashioned by today's standards, there's no denying that there's something timeless and charming about this classic television show.