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.

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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 available at https://www.latimes.com/tvsmarts.