ABSTRACT
Summary of the chapter
Introduction. Defining science fiction and distinguishing between SF, ‘space opera’ and fantasy. A brief history of SF. Looking at the elements of a short story. Using science fiction as a context for learning more about science and technology, and as a way of developing thinking skills. Considering SF scenarios as metaphors for exploring real-life issues. Exploring how blending SF with other genres can be a stimulus for creative thinking and generating new ideas.
Aspects of a short story. The five commonly noted aspects are characters, setting, plot, conflict and theme. This chapter features the idea of a ‘story pyramid’, a visual tool showing how these and genre are related.
Characters. Looking at personification in the creation of aliens, robots etc.
Plot. Using some plot ideas commonly found in SF to generate further ideas. Also looking at the notion of internal consistency when plotting.
Setting. The focus here will be on vivid details and conciseness in writing, including use of strong adjectives and verbs. Structure and function look at how creatures in SF fit into their various environments. The ‘World Builder’ activity shows how believable SF settings can be created.
Conflict. Touching on the notion of strength of reasons and character motivation in the context of conflict.
Theme. The emphasis in this section will be on how real-life themes can be used in SF.
‘A note on nomenclature’ touches on the use of the Greek alphabet in naming stars. We take a look at prefixes. There are also techniques for creating SF character names and story titles.55
A medley of thinking games that can be used in any genre – What if/The Merlin game/Thumbnails/Word clouds.
The chapter finishes with a handful of story starters.
