The Simpsons

Homer is embarrassed by his poor score on a National Fatherhood Institute test, which publicly highlights his shortcomings as a parent. Determined to restore his reputation, he pledges to help Bart build a go‑kart, hoping the project will demonstrate his commitment to fatherhood.

"Saturdays of Thunder" is an episode‑style programme that forms part of the broader series bearing the same title. It presents a self‑contained story within the familiar setting of the show, following the usual format of a single instalment rather than a multi‑part arc. In this particular instalment, Homer finds himself embarrassed after performing poorly on an assessment administered by the National Fatherhood Institute. The disappointment he feels over not achieving a passing mark drives him to seek a way to restore his reputation as a father. Determined to make up for his shortfall, he decides to assist his son, Bart, in constructing a go‑kart. The decision to help Bart serves as Homer's method of atonement. By dedicating his time and effort to the go‑kart project, he hopes to demonstrate his commitment to his parental duties and to repair the shame he experienced from the test result. This act of hands‑on involvement is presented as the central means by which he attempts to regain his standing in the eyes of both the institute and his family.