As educators, we strive to engage our students in meaningful learning experiences that foster critical thinking, creativity, and curiosity. One such opportunity arises from discussing pop culture and its impact on society. In this article, we will explore a lesson plan centered on teaching students about Scarlett Johansson’s age as a starting point for discussions about ageism in the entertainment industry and the importance of embracing diversity.
Lesson Objectives
1. Help students understand the concept of ageism and its prevalence in the entertainment industry.
2. Foster critical thinking skills by analyzing the portrayal of Scarlett Johansson’s age in media.
3. Encourage open-minded discussions about diversity, representation, and societal expectations.
Materials Needed
– Internet access (for research purposes)
– Projector or other means of sharing videos/images with the class
– Optional: articles or interviews featuring Scarlett Johansson (for discussion purposes)
Lesson Procedure
Step 1: Introduce the topic
Begin by asking students if they are familiar with Scarlett Johansson and her work as an actress. Share a few images or clips from her notable movies to refresh their memory.
Step 2: Present Scarlett Johansson’s age
Reveal to students that Scarlett Johansson was born on November 22, 1984, making her currently 37 years old (as of 2022). Ask students if they are surprised by this information or if it aligns with their perceptions of her.
Step 3: Discuss ageism in the entertainment industry
Guide a discussion about ageism in the entertainment industry, highlighting how actors often face pressure to appear younger than their actual age. Share examples of celebrities who have faced scrutiny due to their age or have been denied roles because they were considered “too old.”
Step 4: Analyze media portrayals of Scarlett Johansson
Ask students to research and analyze the portrayal of Scarlett Johansson’s age in various media platforms. Students should look for any inconsistencies or biases in how her age is discussed or depicted. Encourage students to share their findings with the class.
Step 5: Reflect on societal expectations
Discuss the societal expectations placed on women regarding their age and appearance. Compare these expectations to those placed on men, specifically in the entertainment industry. Encourage students to share their thoughts on why these differences exist and how they personally perceive age.
Step 6: Embrace diversity
Conclude the lesson by discussing the importance of embracing diversity, including age, in all aspects of society. Reinforce the idea that our experiences, talents, and perspectives are valuable at any age.
Assessment and Conclusion
To assess student understanding and engagement, evaluate their participation in discussions and their ability to critically analyze media portrayals of Scarlett Johansson’s age. Additionally, consider assigning a reflection piece where students discuss their feelings and beliefs about ageism and diversity in society.
This lesson plan provides an opportunity to explore complex social issues through a pop culture lens, fostering critical thinking skills and encouraging open-minded conversations about important topics related to diversity and representation. By teaching students about Scarlett Johansson’s age, we can inspire thought-provoking discussions and promote a more inclusive mindset for the future.
