WORTH NOTING ON TV

* FRIDAY

The Language of Life (PBS, 9-11 p.m.): In this episode of the rewarding eight-part weekly series, Bill Moyers leads viewers through the expanding world of public poetry.

Poets are seen in performance, reading their works and lecturing to eager groups. Moyers visits festivals and talks with poets whose compelling insights reveal the modern relevance of this ancient art.

* SUNDAY

CNN World Report (CNN, 1-2 p.m.): Without attempting to settle the contentious issue of the United Nations' involvement in Bosnia, this documentary records the world organization's many roles - not only in Bosnia but in countries like Lebanon and Angola.

Aired on the UN's 50th-anniversary year, the show is anchored from the General Secretariat Building in New York and co-produced with UN Television, a frequent contributor to the program.

Broadcasters from around the world examine the UN's campaign against poverty and drugs, as well as steps to wipe out the Guinea worm in Nigeria and other problems. From Belize and Egypt, broadcasters report on the UN's work to preserve cultural heritage.

Both the UN's current role and its future are discussed and in some cases debated by nations participating in the show.

World Cup soccer (ABC, 1-3:30 p.m.): You don't have to be much of a soccer fan to take some interest in this particular World Cup game.

Having beaten Mexico last Sunday - and rather handily at that - the United States National Team now takes the field against Colombia. Many American eyes will be focused on the US players as they face the country they beat last year, advancing the US beyond the first round of the World Cup for the first time since 1930.

The event takes place at Rutgers Stadium in Piscataway, N.J.

Please check local listings for these programs.