1. Elements of Science Fiction

2. What is Science Fiction
A writing style that combines science and fiction
Theodore Sturgeon, Science Fiction author, (he even wrote episodes of Star Trek) defines Science Fiction as “ a story about human beings, with a human problem and a human solution which would not have happened at all without it’s scientific content.”
Science fiction stories all contain the following elements:
Time or Space
Possibility of the event happening
Affect on humans
Advanced Technology

3. 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 and does not concern themselves with whether or not the events could possibly happen.

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

5. 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

6. Science Fiction Characters
Protagonist (Hero)
Antagonist (Villian)
These characters may be a being (human or other) or may be a force
Protagonist or Antagonist may be a society’s laws, a disease or other problem, technology, etc.
Creatures, robots, aliens, etc.

7. 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

8. Message or Warning for Humans
Science Fiction stories often contain a message or warning
You may want to consider the message BEFORE you begin planning your story. We will discuss this in more detail next week!