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--”Colin Powell” (A & E, 5-6 p.m.; repeating 9-10 p.m.) This is a documentary about the child of immigrant parents who rose to the top command of America’s military forces. VCR+761492

* Friday--”Dateline NBC” (KNBC, 9-10 p.m.) This edition of NBC’s regular newsmagazine features a psychiatrist’s evaluation of videotapes showing how parents discipline kids about homework and other habits. Victoria Corderi reports. VCR+3541

* Saturday--”John Henry” (DIS, 10-10:30 a.m.) This is a new animated feature about an African American railroad builder whose achievements in the 1870s are celebrated in a classic American ballad. Denzel Washington narrates. VCR+995690. Recommended reading: “John Henry” by J. Lester. Also, “The Red Badge of Courage” (TLC 6-8 p.m.) This is a documentary about Stephen Crane’s classic Civil War novel that is studied at several grade levels in school. VCR+891874. Also, “Dolphins: The Wild Side” (KNBC, 8-9 p.m.) This new documentary by Emmy-winning marine biologist Paul Atkins reveals the aggressive aspects of dolphin behavior. VCR+3954

* Sunday--”Science and Technology Week” (CNN, 10-10:30 p.m.) Featured in this edition of CNN’s regular Sunday science broadcast is a report on the phorid fly, a species being introduced into the U.S. to combat a recent invasion of fire ants from south of the border.

* Special note: Monday--”Tennessee Johnson” (TCM 1-3 p.m.) This is a biographical movie about Andrew Johnson, a former governor of Tennessee who became president in 1865 and was subsequently tried for high crimes and misdemeanors. Van Johnson and Lionel Barrymore star in this 1942 MGM production. Recommended reading: “Profiles in Courage” by John F. Kennedy.

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