TV Smarts

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

* Today-- “Civil War Journal” (HIST 6 a.m.-7 p.m.) Marathon repeat of the History Channel’s series on the United States from 1860-1865. Recommended for taping. Also, “Sergeant York: The Reluctant Soldier” (A&E; 5-6 p.m. repeats 9-10 p.m.) Documentary about Alvin E. York, a conscientious objector from Tennessee drafted to fight in World War I who distinguished himself in battle and whose life story was subsequently made into a movie starring Gary Cooper.

* Friday--”Body by Nature” (DISC 7-8 p.m.) Documentary on the physics and biomechanical principles that govern animals’ bodies.

* Saturday--”American Revolution” (HIST 1-5 p.m.) Rebroadcast of the History Channel’s series on the U.S. Revolution. Recommended for taping. Also, “The Molly Maguires” (Bravo 7:30-10 p.m.) This movie is based on events in the Pennsylvania coal fields during the 1870s when immigrant miners tried to form a labor union. Sean Connery stars. Parental guidance suggested.

* Sunday--”The Josephine Baker Story” (KCBS 1-3 p.m.) Movie based on the life of the legendary African American stage and film star whose talent captivated Europe in the 1920s and ‘30s but whose advocacy of racial equality disturbed Americans. Lynn Whitfield, Lou Gossett Jr. star. Also, “Restore America” (HGTV 7-7:30 p.m. repeats 10-10:30 p.m.) Premiere of a weekly documentary series on people in each of the 50 states and Washington, D.C., who fought to preserve historic sites and neighborhoods. Hosted by Bob Vila. Each show provides compact historical and geographical information suitable for all grade levels. Tonight is Texas--Galveston, San Antonio, Beaumont and Dallas. Teachers can log on at https://www.hgtv.com.