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Degrassi, Old School

(Rated TV-PG, Drama, Starring Pat Mastroianni, Neil Hope, Stefan Brogren, Where to watch: The N, DVD, Online)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 11, age appropriate for kids over 13; suggested age 13.
  • Is it any good?

    4.0
  • Common Sense says

    Edgy but responsible; excellent TV for teens.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 13 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    This show deals responsibly with a wide variety of teen-related topics, ranging from the innocent (finding a prom date) to the controversial (teen pregnancy and abortion). The thoughtful discussions of these topics include thinking about the consequences of your actions, although sometimes this occurs after the fact. The cast is racially and economically diverse. Strong female characters.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Occasional fights among students, including pushing, shoving, and punching. These acts aren't portrayed as positive behavior.
  • Sex:

    Making out, but no simulated sex. Includes frank discussions of various forms of sexual activity, although these discussions aren't explicit. The issue of teenage pregnancy is covered.
  • Language:

    Not an issue.
  • Consumerism:

    Outdated Pepsi logo noticeable in cafeteria scenes.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Teens discuss using drugs, alcohol, and tobacco. Teen consumption of these substances is often the source of conflict and is seen as negative behavior.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Degrassi, Old School

Parents need to know that this edgy Canadian teen drama presents strong topics and controversial issues that are relevant to real-life teens. Discussions about sexual behavior, substance abuse, and other issues aren't as explicit or titillating as in some more contemporary teen dramas. Instead, they're realistic, sparking honest, open discussions that include thinking about the consequences of your behavior and figuring out how to cope with difficult situations. Some episodes have a far heavier tone than others do, and the amount of controversial material varies widely from episode to episode, so parents might want to preview episodes before letting kids watch. Ultimately, like its successor, the show is one of the best shows on TV for teens because of its realism and responsibility.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the tricky situations teens face in and out of school. How do you cope with the pressure to do drugs or have sex? Families can also talk about making difficult decisions. What are the pros and cons of each choice we make? Are we prepared to live with the consequences of our choices? Unrealistic portrayals of teenagers on television are something that can also be discussed. Does the fact that the teens look like regular teens make the show more realistic? What else sets it apart from other teen series?

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Our Members Say

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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Adult Reviewer
    Anonymous
    I rate this title on for age 13 and give it 5.0

  2. Adult Reviewer
    Lives in Texas
    I rate this title iffy for age 17 and give it 0.0

  3. Adult Reviewer
    Lives in California
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 5.0

    love this show

    the first episodes are ok but the new degrasii the next generatin is racer faster and better has a better plot line and it keeps every one interested

  4. Adult Reviewer
    Anonymous
    I rate this title on for age 13 and give it 5.0

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