Designed for 14 to 16-year-olds preparing for GCSE, this is an effectively designed geography series which studies the importance of the interface between land and sea. We live on a blue planet, most of which is covered by water; and where water meets the land it has always provided a good location for the development of economic activity.

The first programme examines the demands on coastal resources and the second is more concerned with the environmental impact of economic development. Fact files and map files establish the geographical and historical context for the case studies.

In programme one, we find out why some river estuaries have been especially attractive for human settlement and go to Teesside and Naples to look at regions having to cope with the results of economic recession. Lisbon offers an interesting example of a city regenerated by an imaginative long-term economic plan built around Expo 98.

In programme two, we go back to Teesside to look at the environmental consequences of coastal development, as well as to the Baltic Sea and to Milford Haven, where we see the effects of a nasty oil spillage. Together, the two 20-minute programmes (also available on video for pound;12.99) could provide the starting-point for all sorts of classroom and project work.

Book Box: The Odyssey C4, Friday, May 24, 11.40-11.55am.

This eight-part animated series, which started on March 1 and concludes on May 24, is now available on video (priced pound;14.99). Telling the main stories of “The Odyssey”, from the fall of Troy to Odysseus’ final victory over the suitors (via Lotus Eaters, Cyclops, Circe, Sirens, Scylla, Charybdis, Calypso, Nausicaa etc), it is an excellent example of how effectively animation can be used to introduce young people to these essential canonical stories. There is also a book and Teacher’s Guide to accompany it.

Talk French BBC2 Tuesday, May 14, 4-4.30am

Bonjour, mes amis. ‘Oliday time again, hein? And still not a word of French? Tant pis, as ‘ere is your chance to learn a few useful phrases and take a look at the lovely town of Aix-en-Provence, where the charming presenters will show you how to say “bonjour” and “au revoir”, tell the French who you are and explain what you do in life (as we say).

We also visit Marseille, which is less pittoresque but more mouvemente. Then, next month, you can revise what you already learned and get some ‘ints on booking a room, talking about where you live and buying the food for a piquenique.

Mad About Music BBC2 Thursday, May 16, 2-4am

An introduction to the world of music for 13 to 16-year-olds which looks at different musical styles and ideas. This programme covers fusion, inspiration, motionemotion, form and texture, and something described as “love variations”.

Robin Buss