COLLECTION · Series · 1989

3-2-1 Contact Extra

Name: 3-2-1 Contact Extra
Genre: Family

3-2-1 Contact Extra is a collection of documentary‑style specials produced by the Children’s Television Workshop as an extension of the science series 3‑2‑1 Contact. Aired between 1989 and 1992, the specials were designed for older children and teenagers, tackling real‑world issues through science, personal stories, and expert insight. Each episode focused on a single topic—ranging from public health and environmental challenges to adolescence and social pressures—using interviews, on‑location reporting, and first‑person narratives. The series aimed to help young viewers understand complex subjects with clarity, honesty, and practical relevance.

Source: TMDB

* 0.0 (0)Family

Creators

Samuel Y. Gibbon Jr.

Age rating

TV-Y

Release

08/04/1989

Score

0.0 / 10

Where to watch

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Seasons and episodes

Season 1

10 episodes · 1989

Episode 1. I Have AIDS: A Teenager's Story

1989-04-08

This 3‑2‑1 Contact Extra special follows the real‑life journey of a teenager living with AIDS, offering an honest and compassionate look at his daily experiences, challenges, and hopes. Through personal interviews, family conversations,…

Episode 2. The Rotten Truth

1990-01-15

“The Rotten Truth” explores the hidden world of germs, hygiene, and disease prevention, showing how everyday habits can either spread illness or help stop it. Through real‑life demonstrations, interviews with medical experts, and…

Episode 3. You Can’t Grow Home Again

1990-09-02

“You Can’t Grow Home Again” examines what happens when a community faces environmental damage that threatens the place families have called home for generations. Through interviews with residents, scientists, and local officials, the…

Episode 4. Down the Drain

1991-01-14

“Down the Drain” takes viewers inside the hidden systems that carry water away from homes, streets, and cities, revealing what really happens after it disappears down the sink or storm grate. Through on‑site reporting at treatment plants,…

Episode 5. Bottom of the Barrel

1991-02-18

“Bottom of the Barrel” investigates the environmental and economic consequences of society’s dependence on oil. Through on‑site reporting, expert interviews, and clear scientific explanations, the episode explores how petroleum is…

Episode 6. Secrets of the Code

1991-08-03

“Secrets of the Code” uncovers the science and history behind the ways humans send hidden messages. From ancient ciphers and secret symbols to modern encryption and digital security, the episode shows how codes are created, cracked, and…

Episode 7. A Popular Little Planet

1992-04-22

“A Popular Little Planet” looks at Earth as a shared home whose resources and ecosystems are under increasing pressure from human activity. Through interviews with scientists, environmental advocates, and young people, the episode…

Episode 8. Get Busy: How Kids Can Save the Planet

1992-04-22

“Get Busy: How Kids Can Save the Planet” highlights practical, achievable ways young people can make a real difference in protecting the environment. Through stories of kids already taking action—recycling programs, community cleanups,…

Episode 9. What Kids Want to Know...About Sex and Growing Up

1992-05-13

“What Kids Want to Know… About Sex and Growing Up” offers straightforward, age‑appropriate answers to the questions many teens have about puberty, sexuality, and the changes that come with adolescence. Through interviews with doctors,…

Episode 10. Brainstorm: The Truth About Your Brain on Drugs

1992-12-14

“Brainstorm: The Truth About Your Brain on Drugs” explains how different drugs affect the brain and body, using clear science, real‑life stories, and expert insight to help teens understand the risks involved. The episode explores how…

Cast by season

Stephanie Yu

Marshall Efron

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