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--”After the Fall “(KCET 10-11 p.m.) Shows that although Germans removed the physical wall between communism and capitalism 10 years ago, psychological barriers remain.

* Friday--”In Search of the San Andreas Fault” (HIST 6-6:30 p.m.) Examines evidence that earthquakes can be predicted. Leonard Nimoy hosts. Also, “The Capitol” (DISC 8-9 p.m.) Historical documentary about the U.S. Capitol, opened by George Washington in 1800. Also, “The Beatles Revolution” (KABC 8-10 p.m.) Examines the rise of the Beatles and provides a vivid social history of the latter half of the 20th century.

* Saturday--”Blocked” (AMC 8-9 p.m.) Historical documentary about the writer’s contribution to filmmaking describes the experiences of novelists William Faulkner, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Raymond Chandler and Ayn Rand and includes on-camera commentary by Ray Bradbury and others. Also, “Amelia Earhart: Final Flight” (ODSY 8-10 p.m.) In this biographical movie, the famous U.S. aviator sets out from the San Fernando Valley in 1937 on a record-setting solo flight around the world and disappears. Diane Keaton and Bruce Dern star. Repeats Sunday at 4 p.m.

* Sunday--”BookTV” (C-SPAN2, 1-4:15 p.m.) Author Dava Sobel discusses her book “Galileo’s Daughter: A Historical Memoir of Science, Faith and Love” about a remarkable family collaboration. Also on “BookTV,” at 8 p.m., author David Levering discusses his book about a founder of the National Assn. for the Advancement of Colored People, “W.E.B. DuBois: The Fight for Equality and the American Century 1919-1963.”

* Monday--”Plymouth Adventure” (TCM 1-3 p.m.) Historical movie about the Pilgrims’ voyage to Plymouth, Mass., is recommended for taping and viewing during the Thanksgiving holiday. Spencer Tracy stars. Also, “The Wright Brothers Controversy” (HIST 8-9 p.m.) Examines evidence that other pioneer airplane builders beat the Wright Brothers’ 1903 North Carolina launch of a flying machine--Whitehead in Connecticut in 1901 and Langley on Long Island in 1902. Also, “Eleanor Roosevelt” (KCET 9-11:30 p.m.) Thoughtful and revealing documentary about the first lady against whom all subsequent spouses of U.S. presidents are measured.

* Tuesday--”Understanding the Amazing Brain” (TLC 10-11 p.m.) Uses three-dimensional imaging to show how the brain functions when various parts are surgically removed to treat conditions such as seizures.

* Wednesday--”Inside the Actors’ Studio: Tom Hanks” (Bravo 7-8 p.m.) The actor discusses his film roles that tackle historical and social issues. Also, “Collapse” (TLC 8-9 p.m.) Scientists deal with gravity, weather and geology to keep tall buildings standing, suspension bridges from over-vibrating and dams from bursting.

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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/tvsmart.