Argues that students of all ages respond to the mystery, possibility, and adventure of science fiction and fantasy and should not be discouraged from reading in these genres under the pretense that they are "less grown up" than more "realistic" genres. Reviews a number of good science fiction books published from 1994-95. (TB)

Notes that African American literature has always had science fiction elements in its focus on narratives of the alienated and marginalized "other." Contends that Octavia Butler and Virginia Hamilton are two African American writers of science fiction who examine the connections between the stories of a culture and the genre of science…

Reviews science fiction films used in a science fiction class. Discusses feature films, short science fiction films, short story adaptations, original science fiction pieces and factual science films that enrich literature. (EL)

Offers a defense of teaching science fiction as an elective in the high-school English curriculum. (RL)

Addresses two misunderstandings about science fiction and fantasy: that fantastic literature is not serious; and that modern scientific civilization neither has nor needs mythology. Argues that values can be transmitted through science fiction and fantasy, which are modern-day forms of mythology. (RS)

Science fiction deserves a greater respect, serious and critical reading and a better place in high school literature classes. Some of the science fiction books by Isaac Asimov, Alfred Bester, Ray Bradbury and Octavia L. Butler and various activities for incorporating science fiction into the English language arts instruction classroom are…

Gives responses of six practicing teachers to the question, "Who is your favorite writer of science fiction or fantasy?" Provides citations, plot summaries, and/or thematic overviews of some of the authors' works. (HB)

Suggests that by analyzing the slang and the modifications of English used on computers today, teachers and students stand to learn more about standard English. Examines the literary origins from which many computer words are taken. Explains alternate spellings, acronyms, metaphors, and use of brand names. (TB)

Relates the experience of a teacher who discovered that students enjoy studying literature if they are allowed to experience it rather than analyze it. Contends that the effort to teach books at the secondary level using literary criticism is a misguided response to a national literacy crisis. (SRT)