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 Great Dictator” (TCM 7-9:15 p.m.) In this first full-length “talkie” by silent film comedy genius Charlie Chaplin, the rise of Hitler and Mussolini is satirized in slapstick scenes that no viewer, young or old, will forget. Also, “First Person Singular: John Hope Franklin” (KLCS 10-11 p.m.) Biography on the life and work of the distinguished historian of African American life. Recommended reading: Franklin’s “American Studies in Black and White--Selected Essays 1949-89.”

* Friday--”The Century: America’s Time” (HIST 7:30-9 p.m.) Documentary about the civilian role in World War II shows students the experiences of their grandparents’ generation after the shock of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and the economic changes that occurred when 6 million women entered the work force and African Americans migrated north and west.

* Saturday--”Children’s Books” (C-SPAN2 9-10 a.m.) Interview program with Publisher’s Weekly Children’s Forecast Editor Jennifer Brown surveys new children’s books scheduled to arrive in stores during spring and summer. Also, “Charlotte’s Web” (TOON 4-6 p.m.) This animated movie is faithful to the classic children’s story by E.B. White. Available on video.

* Sunday--”Religions of the World” (ODYS 4-5 p.m.) Documentary shows the development of African Christianity in Ethiopia, Egypt and Sudan. Africans living in the Americas and Caribbean retained non-Christian ideas and practices from their homeland. Also, “Mission Art” (KCET 7-7:30 p.m.) This episode of Huell Howser’s series on California missions looks at how they have been depicted in art.

* Monday--”The Court-Martial of Jackie Robinson” (COURT 3-5 p.m.) Movie about an incident in the life of the pioneering African American who broke the color barrier in professional baseball. While serving in the segregated U.S. military during the 1940s, he fought racism and was tried for misconduct. Andre Braugher and Ruby Dee star. Available on video.

* Tuesday--”Young Bess” (TCM 5-6 p.m.) This 1953 movie account of Elizabeth I’s early years is historically accurate but omits the violence portrayed in the movie versions produced in the ‘90s. Jean Simmons and Charles Laughton star. Available on video.

* Wednesday--”Shakespeare’s Globe” (OVTN 5-6 p.m.) This documentary details actor-director Sam Wanamaker’s construction of an exact replica of the Bard’s original theater, built of wood right down to the “pit” surrounding the stage, where audience members participated in the dramatic action.

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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.