[s2e1] — Bart Gets An F

The episode centers on a grounded, emotional conflict: Bart Simpson is failing fourth grade. After failing four consecutive history exams, he is warned by Mrs. Krabappel and the school psychiatrist that he will be held back if he cannot pass his next test on Colonial America.

Despite a full day of dedicated study, Bart takes the test and fails again with a 59. His emotional breakdown—a scene where he weeps, admitting he actually tried—remains one of the most poignant moments in the series. He eventually passes with a after proving he retained "applied knowledge" about George Washington, which Mrs. Krabappel uses to justify a bonus point. Cultural Impact and the "Bill vs. Bart" Rivalry [S2E1] Bart Gets an F

The episode is famous for its "David vs. Goliath" ratings battle against NBC’s The Cosby Show . The episode centers on a grounded, emotional conflict: