TV Smarts

Some broadcast and cable programs contain material included in the public school curriculum and on standardized examinations. Here are some weekend home-viewing tips:

* Tonight. “Tibet’s Lost Paradise: Shangri-La” (History, 5-6 p.m. repeating 9-10 p.m.) In this documentary, modern explorers search China, Nepal and Tibet in for the mythical paradise of Shangri-La. Romanticized in James Hilton’s classic novel “Lost Horizons,” the fictional setting was also the basis for an excellent 1937 movie (available on video) by Frank Capra--who filmed the paradise scenes in Ventura County, mainly Westlake Village. VCR+43843

Also recommended: “Vis-a-Vis: Beyond the Veil” (KCET, 10-11 p.m.). This is a documentary compiled from four days of video-linked conversation between Tehran and Washington--not between two politicians but between two teachers. Deborah Whitley and Sima Daad confront the social and political differences that have kept their countries and their cultures at odds. VCR+94027

* Friday. “Cecilia Bartoli In Recital” (KLCS, 9-10 p.m.) In this broadcast, taped during a recital at London’s Savoy Hotel, Bartoli sings classics by Mozart, Rossini and Vivaldi. For young viewers, who will stay tuned because of her charm, immense talent and youthfulness, this will be an excellent music appreciation experience. VCR+61428

* Saturday. “Understanding” (TLC 6 a.m.-11 p.m.) This is a marathon broadcast consisting of all 18 science documentaries in the excellent “Understanding” series. Set your VCR on extended play and capture all of them for review on the occasion that the topics covered come up in school. Examples: viruses, oceans, cars, memory, time, flight, the senses, volcanoes and electricity. (For individual broadcast times and VCR+ numbers, see the Times’ Saturday TV listings.)

* Sunday. “Twelfth Night” (KCET, 8-11 p.m.) This is a version of Shakespeare’s most popular romantic comedy direct from the stage at Lincoln Center in New York. It stars Oscar winner Helen Hunt and is directed by Nicholas Hynter, whose recent film work (“The Madness of King George”) won Academy Award and Cannes Festival recognition. VCR+520721

--Compiled by Richard Kahlenberg in consultation with Crystal J. Gips, associate dean, College of Education, Cal State Northridge. For references to books, videos and Web sites recommended in the past month’s TV Smarts log on www.calendarlive.com/HOME/CALENDARLIVE/TVENT/TVSMARTS.