TV Smarts

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

* Today--”The Last Stand: Struggle for Ballona Wetlands--Sequel 2000” (KOCE 7:30-8:30 p.m.) Documentary on the development of the last remaining coastal wetlands in Los Angeles has been updated for broadcast as an Earth Day 2000 special. Martin Sheen and Edward Asner participate. Also, “A Taste of Passover” (KCET 10-11 p.m.) Airing on the first day of Passover, this special explains the Jewish holiday, its music and foods.

* Friday--”The 12 Apostles” (HIST 9-11 p.m.) Airing on Good Friday, this documentary describes the backgrounds and accomplishments of Jesus’ followers and companions.

* Saturday--”People Count: Hot on the Trail” (CNN 7-8 p.m.) Photojournalist Barbara Pyle shows how climate change affects the environment of Easter Island and New Orleans, plus tips on how consumers can lessen global warming. Jane Fonda hosts. Also, “Planet Earth 2000” (KABC 8-9 p.m.) In this ABC News documentary, the effects of global warming on Alaska, Florida, New Mexico and other parts of the world are examined, along with what we can do about it. Leonardo DiCaprio hosts.

* Sunday--”A River’s Bend” (CNN 6-7 p.m.) Television documentary produced by CNN and Time magazine about Gee’s Bend, a black community in Alabama. Also, “Great Writers, Great Cities: Mexico City/Paco Ignacio Taibo II” (TRAV 9-10 p.m.) A look at the renowned Mexican mystery writer and the city he loves. Also, “George Wallace: Settin’ the Woods on Fire” (KCET 9-10:30 p.m.) The Alabama politician who eventually sought forgiveness from those he wronged.

* Monday--”Signs” (NICK 9:30-10 a.m.) The basics of American Sign Language (ASL) are featured in this special episode of Nickelodeon’s “Blue’s Clues” series for preschoolers. Deaf actress Marlee Matlin joins the regular cast.

* Tuesday--”Menuhin’s Children” (OVTN 7-7:30 p.m., repeats 11-11:30 p.m.) Virtuoso Yehudi Menuhin teaches 12 children to play the violin.

* Wednesday--”In Our Own Hands: The Hidden Story of the Jewish Brigade in World War II” (KCET 9:30-11 p.m.) Program tells about the only all-Jewish fighting force in World War II, an Allied unit under British command.

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Compiled by Richard Kahlenberg in consultation with Crystal J. Gips, dean of the School of Education, College of St. Rose, Albany, N.Y. Columns at https://www.latimes.com/tvsmarts.