1. Elements of Science Fiction and Fantasy

2. Elements of Science Fiction Realistic and fantastic details Grounded in science Unknown inventions Makes a serious comment about the world Often contains a warning for humankind

3. Science Fiction Settings Another planet Under the oceans Another dimension of existence May be a utopia or dystopia May be in the future May time travel to the past or future May take place in present, but alternate reality

4. Science Fiction Characters and Conflict Protagonist (hero) Antagonist (villain) These characters may be a being (human or other) or may be a force Characters may include creatures, robots, aliens, machines, etc. Conflict may center around a society’s laws, a disease or other problem, technology, etc.

5. Science is Important to the Story Advanced technology Genetics Disease Exploration Special powers or senses as a result of science Science can be the savior or the root of the problem

6. Science Fiction vs. Fantasy Science fiction is based in fact: some of the technology is invented, some of the places are made up, but all of it is conceivable Fantasy is not based in reality: it is purely imaginative

7. Elements of Fantasy Contains supernatural elements such as magic and shape-shifting Characters use magical transportation such as flying broomsticks and magic portals Conflict centers around good vs. evil Author’s purpose is to entertain, not to make a social commentary or issue a warning

8. Fantasy Settings A magical world A parallel world that is entered through a portal Fantasy settings: Hogwarts, Narnia, Oz

9. Fantasy Characters and Conflict Characters may include witches, wizards, sorcerers, talking animals, ogres, elves, unicorns, magical beasts, vampires, and werewolves Conflict is usually good vs. evil

10. Final thoughts Sometimes the two genres overlap New term science fantasy Rod Serling said, “Fantasy is the impossible made probable. Science fiction is the improbable made possible."