TV Smarts

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

Today--”Christmas Eve at St. Peter’s Basilica” (KNBC, 11:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday) This is a telecast of Pope John Paul II’s celebration of Christmas Eve Midnight Mass in Vatican City. VCR+4096182.

Friday--”Dr Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (TNT, 8-9 p.m.) This TV special about the famous children’s story includes interviews with film animator Chuck Jones and Audrey Geisel, the widow of author Theodor Geisel. VCR+523729. Also, “Chicken Soup for the Soul” (KPXN, 9-10 p.m.) Short stories from the best-selling book by Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen are dramatized by performers including Martin Sheen, Charles Durning, Meredith Baxter and Paula Abdul. Leeza Gibbons hosts. VCR+82816.

Saturday--”Vietnam, Long Time Coming” (KNBC, 1-2 p.m.) This is a documentary about a 1,200-mile bicycle ride along the Ho Chi Minh Trail, a journey of reconciliation involving U.S. and Vietnamese veterans of a decade of fighting there. Dick Enberg hosts. VCR+61065.

Sunday--”Lust for Life” (TCM, 9-11 p.m.) This Oscar-winning movie scripted by Norman Corwin from the Irving Stone biography of Vincent Van Gogh is recommended for viewing in connection with the exhibit of the painter’s works coming to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Kirk Douglas and Anthony Quinn star. Available on video.

Compiled by Richard Kahlenberg in consultation with Crystal J. Gips, Office of the Chancellor, Cal State University System. For past TV Smarts log on www.calendarlive.com/HOME/CALENDARLIVE/TVENT/TVSMARTS.