TV Smarts

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

* Today. “The Sterile Cuckoo” (TCM, 7:30-9:30 p.m.) This is a movie adaptation of the novel by John Nichols (who also wrote “The Milagro Beanfield War”) about the problems of young love. Liza Minnelli is excellent in the role of a very smart, eccentric and lonely girl. Rated PG. VCR+1798913. Also available in video stores.

* Friday. “Lost in Translation: Latinos, Schools and Society” (KCET, 9-10 p.m.) This episode of PBS’ documentary series on American education, “The Merrow Report,” is part of the network’s observance of Hispanic Heritage Month. Focusing on Menlo Avenue Elementary School in Los Angeles, it explores issues facing the children of America’s fastest-growing minority. Topics are English versus Spanish as the language of instruction, and the widespread use of inexperienced, uncredentialed teachers in L.A. schools. VCR+34192.

* Saturday. “Franklin” (KCBS, 7-7:30 a.m.) This is the season premiere of a CBS animation series based on Paulette Bourgeois’ and Brenda Clark’s well-regarded series of children’s books about a young turtle. VCR+39845.

Also, “Anatole” (KCBS, 7:30-8 a.m.) Another season premiere, this one is an animated version of Eve Titus’ Caldecott Award-winning book series featuring a dignified mouse. The story in this episode, about a cheese festival in Paris, is drawn from her book “Anatole Over Paris.” VCR+41608

* Sunday. “Rob Roy” (KNBC, 8-11 p.m.) This is a biographical movie about Robert MacGregor, the charismatic Scottish outlaw leader of the 1700s, and his struggle against the English. Liam Neeson (“Schindler’s List”) and Oscar-winner Jessica Lange star. Rated PG. The classic novel “Rob Roy,” by Sir Walter Scott (who also wrote “Ivanhoe”), was reissued this month as an inexpensive paperback. VCR+432384.

--Compiled by Richard Kahlenberg in consultation with Crystal J. Gips, associate director for teacher education, Cal State University System. For references to books, videos and Web sites recommended in the past month’s TV Smarts. log on to:www.calendarlive.com/HOME/CALENDARLIVE/TVENT/TVSMARTS.