In the Know

Most reality television shows deliver a lot of sizzle but little substance. But PBS's In the Mix , a newsmagazine for the MTV generation, is a notable exception. And the show's Web site (www.inthemix.com), which brings issues affecting 12- to 19-year-olds into the classroom, is the real deal. The site serves as a companion piece to the program, a show by and for teens that tackles such topics as drug abuse, depression, and dating violence. Other topics include managing money and sharpening computer skills. Educators may tape the show and use it for up to a year. (Back episodes are available for purchase.) The Web site also serves as a standalone resource.

The "Educators" button on the home page leads to printable discussion guides and lesson plans, most created by teachers. "The site allows us to take it one step further," says Sue Castle, the show's executive producer. It is starting to stand on its own as an educational resource." For instance, "911" links to quality organizations where students can get educational materials for reports. There are also message boards and video clips of celebrities, including the bands Third Eye Blind and Everclear, who offer their take on issues. Christina Loud, a New York City science and health teacher, liked how the smoking episode skipped the lecture and instead gave kids useful information on how to quit. "My students like that it features real teens and real experiences," says Loud.