Biker Build-Off (Discovery Channel)

BIKER BUILD-OFF combines the excitement of a competition with the educational experience of a documentary. In each episode, two expert motorcycle builders have 10 days to build custom bikes that will face off against each other in a competition judged by fans. Each builder approaches the task differently: Some work alone, while others use a team to create their custom bike. But each must employ skills in math, engineering, design, and creative vision to be able to compete.

This is a fabulous show to teach students how to turn their passions and studies into work they'll enjoy. The spirit of the competition is friendly and respectful, with occasional good-natured chop-busting. Occasionally contestants even ask each other for assistance, which is typically promptly given, showing that cooperation and competition can go together.

So why a "pause"? There's a fair amount of rough language (the truly bad stuff is bleeped), and in at least one episode, there are repeated shots of a bike-builder blowing cigarette smoke into the camera while striking cool poses. Too bad, because otherwise Biker Build-Off is an excellent tool for encouraging kids to work hard while having fun.