TV Smarts

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

* Today-- “National Spelling Bee.” (ESPN live coverage 9-11 a.m., tape-repeat on ESPN2, 5-7 p.m.) Finals of the annual Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee for students under 15 in Washington, D.C. “Rivera in America.” (KCET 8-9 p.m.) Documentary about one of Mexico’s greatest artists airs in conjunction with an exhibition at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Rivera describes murals he painted in New York, San Francisco and Detroit and the influence they had on a generation of American artists.

* Friday--”Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 4 in F Minor.” (KLCS 10-11 p.m.) Complete performance of the Russian classic by the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Sir George Solti.

* Saturday--”High Rollers: A History of Gambling in America.” (HIST 5-7 p.m., repeating 9-11 p.m.) Documentary examines gambling from colonial days to its present status as the fastest-growing U.S. industry. Producers cover mathematical concepts including odds-making, addiction and the growing presence of gambling in the home via the Internet. “Safe Night USA.” (BET 6-7 p.m.) Live “Teen Summit” (repeat by tape on KCET 9-10 p.m.) includes reports from New York, Oregon and New Mexico on student anti-gun, anti-alcohol and anti-argument projects. Also, coverage of “safe night” parties in Milwaukee and Los Angeles.

* Sunday--”King Ralph.” (USA 3:15-5:15 p.m.) Movie based on Emlyn William’s humorous novel “Headlong” looks at the inner workings of the modern British monarchy through American eyes. John Goodman stars. Available on video.

* Monday--”Science Frontiers: Mavericks.” (TLC 7-8 p.m., repeating 10-11 p.m.) Documentary shows scientists risking their reputations and lives to advance our knowledge of biology, medicine and electronics.

* Tuesday--”Tex.” (HBO 6-8 p.m.) Movie based on S.E. Hinton’s classic young-adult novel about a motherless boy. Matt Dillon stars. Available on video.

* Wednesday--”The Making of ‘Turandot’ at the Forbidden City.” (KCET 8-9 p.m.). Behind-the-scenes documentary on the recent $15-million production of Italian composer Giacomo Puccini’s spectacular opera, capturing rehearsals in Italy and opening night in China. Also, “Great Performances: ‘Turandot’ at the Forbidden City.” (KCET 9-11 p.m.) Conductor Zubin Mehta and director Zhang Yimou with a cast and staff of thousands filmed this story of a beautiful, cruel princess in the famous Ming Dynasty (15th century) Forbidden City of Peking. Sung in Italian with English subtitles; Giovanna Casolla plays the title role.

Compiled by Richard Kahlenberg in consultation with Crystal J. Gips, associate director for teacher education, Cal State University. Columns available at www.latimes.com/tvsmarts