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--”District Attorney Debate” (KCET 7-7:30 p.m.) In this “Life & Times Tonight” broadcast, Los Angeles County Dist. Atty. Gil Garcetti and Steve Cooley, one of his deputies who is running against him, present their views. Also, “Investigative Reports--Hype & Glory: Sweeps Month” (A&E; 10-11 p.m.) Useful for students enrolled in one of the growing number of “media literacy” classes, this documentary shows how a big-city TV news department (KCAL-TV, Channel 9 in Los Angeles) tries to balance legitimate news and “stunts” designed to win ratings.

* Friday--”Choose or Lose: Votefest 2000” (MTV 8-9:30 p.m.) Surveys the upcoming election issues and candidates from a young person’s perspective.

* Saturday--”Nova: The Holocaust on Trial” (KCET 6-7 p.m.) Examines evidence presented in the libel trial of journalist Deborah Lipstadt, who was sued by author David Irving because she said he was a liar when he wrote a book claiming the Holocaust never happened. Trial transcript available at https://www.pbs.org/nova/transcripts. Also, “The Next First Lady” (A&E; 8-9 p.m.) Chronicles the professional and political histories of Laura Bush and Tipper Gore, one of whom will move into the White House early next year.

* Sunday--”BookTV: Valley of the Golden Mummies” (C-SPAN2 5-6 p.m.) Archeologist and author Zahi Hawass describes the 1996 discovery of an oasis in his native Egypt, where 10,000 mummies lay buried in a 4-square-mile area. Also, “The Last Debate” (SHOW 8-9:30 p.m.) Movie based on a recent novel by news anchor and presidential debate moderator Jim Lehrer. Cast includes James Garner, Peter Gallagher, Audra McDonald, Donna Murphy and Marco Sanchez.

* Monday--”Air Traffic Cop” (DISC 8-9 p.m.) Explains the work of America’s air traffic controllers who keep our skies safe using dated technology. Also, “Vikings: Fury From the North” (HIST 8-9 p.m.) Documentary about the 300-year reign of terror in northern Europe at the hands of Vikings a millennium ago, revealing that they built cities as often as they destroyed them.

* Tuesday--”Decision 2000--Your Money, Your Vote” (CNBC 5-9 p.m.) Louis Rukeyser, whose financial program has aired on public television for 30 years, anchors election coverage, focusing on the economic consequences of the election. Also, “Life & Times Tonight Election Special” (KCET 10-11 p.m.) Coverage of election results focusing on Southern California races and ballot initiatives.

* Wednesday--”Napoleon” (KCET 9-11 p.m.) Documentary miniseries about the life of Bonaparte--student, soldier, general, emperor and exile--was written and directed by Emmy winner David Grubin. David McCullough narrates. Part 2 airs Nov. 15.

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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.calendarlive.com/go/tvsmarts.