David Letterman

High school (ages 12+)
History & Culture

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/david-letterman

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the debut of late night?February 1, 1982, on NBC
2. What is the debut of late show?May 20, 1993, on CBS
3. Who is David Letterman?David Letterman is a funny TV host who made people laugh for more than 30 years. He was known for his playful and sometimes awkward style on late‑night shows.
4. What is the "Top Ten List"?The "Top Ten List" is a segment on his show where he lists the top ten funny or silly things. It became a popular part of his comedy.

Deconstructionist Comedy: Comedy that breaks down and satirizes traditional formats and expectations.
Meta-commentary: Commentary about the nature of the work itself, often drawing attention to its artificiality.
Primetime Sitcom: A comedic television series that airs during the most popular viewing hours, typically between 8 PM and 11 PM.