The Edvocate
TEACHING STUDENTS ABOUT THE AGE OF BETTE MIDLER
By Matthew Lynch
November 2, 2023
Mister D: Always what Bootleg Betty aimed to be and is very successful at it! It has always been and will be an educational tool. After this article, I feel my work is done. Teacher, teach your children well.
Introduction:
In today’s diverse world of education, teachers constantly seek novel methods to engage their students and cultivate a passion for learning. One such method gaining popularity in recent times is utilizing topics of popular culture as a starting point in discussions, projects, and classroom activities. One fairly unorthodox but intriguing topic that could captivate students’ attention is the age of renowned actress and singer Bette Midler. This article provides an overview of how this interesting topic can be utilized as an educational tool.
The Importance of Bette Midler’s Age:
Bette Midler was born on December 1, 1945, making her 76 years old (as of 2021) – an impressive age in the entertainment industry. Midler’s rich career, spanning over almost six decades, is a testament to her endurance and adaptability throughout the years. Her age is not only an interesting topic for discussion but also a great way to teach students about perseverance, resilience, and the evolution of pop culture from the perspective of an accomplished artist.
Using Bette Midler’s Age in Various Disciplines:
1. History:
Midler’s life can be used as a timeline to teach students about significant events that occurred during her lifetime, including the civil rights movement, the rise and fall of disco music, or the advent of modern technology. Studying these historical changes alongside her career trajectory could help students gain a deeper understanding of society’s transformations over time.
2. Music:
Midler’s eclectic musical style allows educators to introduce different genres such as jazz, pop, rock, and Broadway — all while studying her career progression from albums like “The Divine Miss M” in 1972 to her most recent release “It’s The Girls!” in 2014. Teachers can use this opportunity to discuss the evolution of music over the last six decades and promote further exploration among students.
3. Drama and Performing Arts:
By examining both Midler’s film and theater roles, students can learn more about different styles of acting, how performance techniques have evolved over time, and the differences between stage and screen performances. Additionally, this can spark discussions around the longevity of an artist’s career and the importance of staying relevant and adapting to changing trends in the industry.
4. Social Issues:
Midler’s activism has often matched her artistic endeavors, as she uses her voice to speak out on pressing issues like environmental conservation, LGBTQ+ rights, and women’s equality. Educators can use these topics as a launchpad for broader social issue discussions in the classroom, encouraging students to explore current events with a historical perspective tied to Midler’s life.
Conclusion:
Incorporating unconventional topics such as Bette Midler’s age into a variety of subjects encourages the development of creative thinking, critical analysis, and intellectual curiosity in students. By using real-life examples that fascinate young minds, educators can foster meaningful connections between pop culture and education – proving that there is no limit to what teaching tools can be found in our dynamic world.
