TV Smarts

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

* Today. “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn” (AMC, 8-10 p.m.). This is a 1945 Oscar-winning movie version of the classic Betty Smith novel about an intelligent girl at the beginning of the century struggling to better herself in challenging circumstances. Dorothy McGuire stars. VCR+8704034. Also, “Africans in America: Revolution” (KLCS, 9-10:30 p.m.). This episode of the new documentary series about slavery in the United States discusses the relationship between Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemmings. VC+90270.

* Friday. “Salem Witch Trials” (HIST, 5-6 p.m., repeating 9-10 p.m.). This is a documentary about New England long after the landing of the Puritans, when trials began at which hysterical accusations led to the conviction and burning of innocent people. VCR+35042.

* Saturday. “Secrets of the Pharaohs” (DISC, 5-6 p.m.). In this science documentary, DNA tests are used to trace inherited genetic traits and confirm ancient family ties. VCR+268375. Also, “The Incredible Machine” (KCET 6-7 p.m.). This is a National Geographic science documentary in which microphotography is used to film inside the human body and show the workings of our organs, including the heart and lungs. VCR+48220.

* Sunday. “Frank Lloyd Wright” (KCET, Part I at 3-4:30 p.m., Part II at 4:30 p.m.). This is a biographical documentary by Ken Burns (“Civil War”) and Lynn Novick that argues successfully that Wright was America’s greatest living architect (an opinion that Wright himself expressed in an historic 1957 interview with Mike Wallace (KCET 6-7 p.m.).

*

--Compiled by Richard Kahlenberg in consultation with Crystal J. Gips, associate director for teacher education, Cal State University Northridge. Columns available at www.calendarlive.com/HOME/CALENDARLIVE/TVENT/TVSMARTS.nnnn