Ep 2. The Experiment / The Great Jungle Gym Standoff
- September 20, 1997
In the second episode of the classic animated series Recess, titled "The Experiment / The Great Jungle Gym Standoff," the gang from Third Street Elementary School find themselves embroiled in two very different challenges.
In the first half of the episode, titled "The Experiment," the kids become the subjects of a classroom experiment led by the eccentric Science teacher, Miss Grotke. The experiment involves separating the boys and girls into two different classrooms for a week and observing the results.
While the girls' classroom becomes a harmonious space of sharing and creative problem-solving, the boys' classroom quickly descends into chaos and disarray. Despite this, the boys view their classroom as the clear winner of the experiment, and decide to challenge the girls to a final competition - a game of capture the flag.
The second half of the episode, titled "The Great Jungle Gym Standoff," sees the kids fighting for the right to use the school's coveted jungle gym. In particular, T.J., the leader of the gang, is determined to protect the group's territory from the challenges of a rival crew of kindergarten kids.
The episode is filled with the same humor, heart, and wacky antics that made Recess such a beloved show during its original run. From the creative playground games to the unique personalities of each character, the show captures the fun and chaos of childhood in a way that still resonates with audiences today.