Night School 2013

What is Science Fiction? Science fiction is a genre of fiction with imaginative, but more or less plausible content.

Science fiction is largely based on writing rationally about alternative possible worlds or futures.

Science Fiction Norms Futuristic settings Aliens Time and Space Travel Futuristic Science and Technology Parallel Universes Paranormal Activities Often explores the consequences of new technological ideas

Elements of Science Fiction A time setting in the future, in alternative timelines, or in a historical past that contradicts known facts of history or the archaeological record. A spatial setting or scenes in outer space (e.g. spaceflight), on other worlds, or on subterranean earth. Characters that include aliens, mutants, androids, or humanoid robots. Futuristic technology such as ray guns, teleportation machines, and humanoid computers.

Elements of Science Fiction Scientific principles that are new or that contradict accepted laws of nature, for example time travel, wormholes, or faster-than-light travel. New and different political or social systems, e.g. dystopia, post-scarcity, or a post-apocalyptic situation where organized society has collapsed. Paranormal abilities such as mind control, telepathy, telekinesis, and teleportation. Other universes or dimensions and travel between them.

Popular Science Fiction The Hunger Games, Suzanne Collins The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy, Douglas Adams Fahrenheit 451, Ray Bradbury 1984, George Orwell The Giver, Lois Lowry Jurassic Park, Michael Crichton Slaughterhouse Five, Kurt Vonnegut I, Robot Isaac Asimov The Time Machine, H.G. Wells

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