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--”True Action Adventures: Exploring the South Pole” (HIST 4-5 p.m.) Explorers on skis, sleds and sailing ships try to survive under horrific conditions during 100 years of expeditions to conquer the frozen antarctic subcontinent. Even today’s high-tech equipment does not guarantee survival. Also, “The Democrats” (KCET 5-8 p.m.) Final night of the only live gavel-to-gavel coverage of the Democratic National Convention in Los Angeles. Other cable and broadcast networks will air summaries tonight at various times.

* Friday--”Running Mates” (TNT 8-10 p.m.) Fictional account of presidential politics, written by Claudia Salter and Sue Black to highlight the role of women in managing the election of a candidate for the White House. Provides useful concepts for understanding the 2000 campaign. TV rated PG-14 because of language. Cast includes Tom Selleck, Faye Dunaway, Laura Linney, Nancy Travis and Teri Hatcher.

* Saturday--”Backstory: Norma Rae” (AMC 3:30-4 p.m., repeats 9-9:30 p.m.) Documentary about the struggle to make the movie “Norma Rae,” which was based on the story of labor union organizer Crystal Lee Jordan. Also, “The Brothers Garcia” (NICK 8:30-9 p.m.) New, live-action comedy series, the first English-language sitcom with an all Latino cast, writers, directors and producers emphasizes Latino family values.

* Sunday--”Winslow Homer: An American Original” (HBO 8:45-9:45 p.m.) The solitude of revered American artist Winslow Homer is broken in the New England countryside by a fictional pair of teenagers who work their way into his life and art.

* Monday--”Texas” (ODSY 9-11 p.m.) Miniseries based on James Michener’s well-researched novel about U.S. settlers in the Mexican province of Tejas during the mid-1800s and the war that ensued when they created the independent Republic of Texas. Series concludes Tuesday.

* Tuesday--”Stand and Be Counted” (TLC 9-11 p.m.) Since the 1960s, musicians have used their talent to grab attention in support of civil rights, famine relief and labor unions. This four-hour compilation of concert footage and interviews provides a particularly memorable survey of 20th century issues. David Crosby hosts. Participants include Carlos Santana, Harry Belafonte, Joan Baez, Sting, Willie Nelson, Bruce Springsteen and Woodie Guthrie.

* Wednesday--”Future War” (A&E; 10-11 p.m.) A look at the way future wars will be fought under plans by U.S. and British military bases. Fighting will be conducted mainly in urban settings. Lawyers will be at a general’s right hand and a soldier’s every action carefully regulated to minimize damage to foes, as well as our troops and civilians.

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