Science Fiction

What is Science Fiction? Science fiction is a writing style which combines science and fiction. It is only limited by what we presently know about the basic physical laws of nature. It evolved as a response to fantasy.

Sci Fi Author’s Definitions The author Theodore Sturgeon said, "'A good science-fiction story is a story about human beings, with a human problem, and a human solution, which would not have happened at all without its science content'"

Sam Moskowitz, fan and biographer: "Science fiction is a brand of fantasy identifiable by the fact that it eases the 'willing suspension of disbelief' on the part of its readers by utilizing an atmosphere of scientific credibility for its imaginative speculations in physical science, space, time, social science, and philosophy"

The first true science fiction novel may be Frankenstein by Mary Shelley. She wrote about scientific practices and tried to persuade the reader that her story could actually happen.

Frankenstein was the first novel in English to deal with the possibility that science can create a monster that can destroy science, and possibly mankind. Mary Shelley did not wish the story to be considered "supernatural“. She made the main character a scientist and his scientific efforts were highlighted.

Remember: Writers take scientific possibilities and develop them step-by- step from known data to form a story.

What is Extrapolation? Extrapolation is when a writer takes a known scientific fact and imagines what might happen if certain events or circumstances evolve. For example: 1. Man can build space shuttles. 2. Let’s imagine, man can travel to faraway planets.

Science Fiction VS. Fantasy In Science Fiction, there needs to be some possibility that the events could possibly happen. In Fantasy, the author can use far-fetched assumptions. ie; unicorns, three-legged creatures etc.

Miriam Allen de Ford explains the difference between science fiction and fantasy: "'Science fiction deals with improbable possibilities, fantasy with plausible impossibilities" (Aldiss 26).

Major Themes in Science Fiction Space travel to and from other planets (ie: Star Wars, Star Trek) Time travel to the past and future (ie: Back to the Future) Psychological/biological changes to man brought about by scientific changes (ie: The Incredible Hulk, Spider Man)

Supernormal powers/talents (ie: Superman, Spiderman, Batman) Science applied to human relations for constructive or destructive purposes (ie: Weird Science, Frankenstein) Battle with alien life forms (ie: Signs, The Day the Earth Stood Still, District 9) Alternate Universe (ie: Star Wars)

Plot Conventions of Science Fiction Examples of Story Ideas: The Last Man/Woman on Earth The Robot The First Landing Story Time Travel The Alternate World The Lost Civilization

The Alien Encounter The Colonization of a New Planet The End of the World The Long Spaceship Voyage The Computer From the point of view of an alien

Sci Fi Movies Today What are some famous science fiction movies in your life time? Matrix, Matrix Reloaded, Matrix Revolutions New Star Wars Trilogy Spiderman Men in Black 1&2 X-Men Planet of the Apes Resident Evil I, Robot Avatar War of the Worlds

Why should we study Science Fiction? Entertaining Makes the audience wonder “What If?” Encourages creativity in writing and role- playing Introduces students to a new literary genre Teaches lessons about the value and dangers of advanced technology Enhances imagination