Teaching Students About the Age of William Shatner: An Engaging History Lesson

Introduction:
William Shatner, the famed actor known for his iconic role as Captain James T. Kirk in the original Star Trek series, has lived a long and illustrious life. Born on March 22, 1931, Shatner is now in his nineties, making him a living legend in the world of entertainment. In this article, we will explore creative ways to teach students about how old William Shatner is while also providing some historical context.
Creating a Timeline:
One of the most effective ways to teach students about Shatner’s age is by creating a visual timeline. This can be done either on paper or digitally, using various tools and resources such as images, videos, and articles. By mapping out key moments throughout Shatner’s life and career alongside significant world events, students can better understand the span of his life and recognize his lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Connecting With Star Trek:
Star Trek has been an iconic part of popular culture for over half a century, with numerous spin-off series, films, and countless fan events known as conventions. Teaching students about how old William Shatner is can be connected directly to exploring the cultural impact of Star Trek.
Introduce students to Captain Kirk’s character, and then invite them to watch classic episodes or clips – perhaps even discuss the sci-fi themes raised by these episodes. This way they feel more engaged with the subject matter and want to learn more about the man who helped bring this legendary character to life.
Incorporating Pop Culture References:
Learning about Shatner’s age can extend into various aspects of pop culture that have crossed paths with him throughout his stellar career. For example, if one were to teach students today about how old William Shatner is using recent history (2021), we could discuss the 90th birthday celebration held for the actor in March 2021.
You can also encourage students to investigate other film and television roles that Shatner has taken on, as well as his forays into music and literature, allowing them to see the full breadth of his career.
Comparing Ages of Other Celebrities:
Another method to help students better comprehend William Shatner’s age is to compare his age with other famous individuals, both past and present. Students can research and compile a list of celebrities who are in their nineties or who lived until their nineties, such as Betty White or Sir David Attenborough. This comparison can provide a greater understanding of Shatner’s generation and the diverse careers these individuals have led.
Conclusion:
Teaching students about how old William Shatner is can be an exciting and engaging history lesson that not only piques their interest through pop culture references but also provides valuable context about the world during his lifetime. By combining Star Trek, historical events, and personal milestones, educators can create an immersive learning experience that enables students to better appreciate the tremendous impact Shatner has had on entertainment for almost a century.