Little Gems

Email

Links

Information

Message Board

Click Image for a zipped mp3 of the theme music (260Kb)

Think Of A Number - thanks to Greenman for additional information

This has to be one of the best science shows to come out of the late 1970s, early 1980s period. The reason why it was so good was simply because of the man who wrote and masterminded the show - Johnny Ball (Zoe Ball's father and Fat Boy Slim's father in law). He first appeared on both Playschool and Playaway. Think of a Number which began in 1977, (not sure of exact dates for this one - too many Radiotimes to go through), was the most memorable of the "Think" shows. Think Again was first shown on BBC1 television on the 7th January 1983 (Christmas Radio Times to thank here) at 16:40 immediately before Grangehill. The very episode oncerned itself with "Teeth." There were a number of "Think" it type shows during the period of 1977 to 1985, all written and presented by Johnny Ball. "Think of Another Number" and "Think Backwards" were also shown. Johnny Ball's style immediately hooked a young generation of kids, desperate to find out "how things worked" but who did not want some boring old scientist trying to explain. Johnny's presentation was always clear, informed, interesting and contained humour and sometimes clownish behaviour which only added to the show's appeal. When all this was combined together, understanding of science became fun. No use of complex CGIs or expensive demonstrations were needed. One big difference compared to today's presenters was that Johnny did most of his presenting in front of a young audience. He also did another show called "Johnny Ball Reveals All" but this time he presented it for the ITV Trident Network. Today's presenters certainly have their worked cut out trying to follow this act.

Do you recognise yourself or do you remember a show you were on. If so then please email me and I'll add your memories to this page.

Credits