Describes the use of science fiction in teaching about the effects of science and technology on human interaction. Questins appropriate for social studies class discussion and tips to teachers on preparing science fiction stories are included. (Author/DB)

Describes technological images presented to children through television, movies, and science fiction, and explores the possible effects of these images on meanings derived by young readers. The use of speculative fiction to explore personal and social values is discussed. (Five references) (CLB)

Reviews seven assorted books for an older audience. The topics include archaeology, fantastic literature, and suspense. (CRH)

Describes how Bradbury's work can be used in the classroom. Indicates how attitudes towards technology can be found in the work and how these may be used to stimulate mature students. (CRH)

According to renowned physicist Stephen Hawking, "science fiction is useful both for stimulating the imagination and for diffusing fear of the future." Indeed, several studies suggest that using science fiction movies as a teaching aid can improve both motivation and achievement. However, if a movie's plot crosses the line between good…

The end of the world, or civilization, is probably one of humankind's most horrifying fears. The apocalypse has been explored by many writers, and the decision to include this type of literature in a curriculum depends on how the situation is presented and resolved. The work should offer some solution and hope. Two recent works of apocalyptic…

This booklet presents a book list, activities, and teacher resources to provide teachers a starting place for works of adolescent literature that will initiate conversations and questions about gender roles and the perceptions of appropriate behavior and activities. It is designed to bring teachers' attention to more recent titles in order to…

Using supernatural events as motivation, suggests activities for discussion, story telling, and writing. (TO)

Sophomore, junior and senior high-school students studied the city of the future through science fiction, films, architectural slides, lectures, discussions. Then, with clay, junk and classroom flotsam", teams were set to build model future cities. Result: total and disturbing behavior change leading to understanding of need for the humanities.…

Recounts the personal experiences of a science fiction writer and suggests ways these experiences apply to the teaching of creative writing. (JL)

Notes that science fiction has evolved into a literature of serious social commentary while still preserving its origins of romantic escapism and intriguing gadgetry. Argues that science fiction now looks more closely at life on Earth. (FL)

Media and Methods Reviewers discuss recent paperback books in the following categories: books for young adults, media, culture and society, science fiction, and literature and language arts. (FL)

Argues that television convention mitigates against depictions of technology as socially destructive. Argues that the presentation of science as television fiction is a conservative act. Concludes that television reinforces the socially constructed technological imperative of industrial societies, effacing its own role in the preservation of the…

Traces the changes in the depiction of childhood in science fiction films from the 1950s to the present decade. Argues that the contemporary science fiction representation of the sentimental child is a cultural idealization that opposes the social reality of the vanishing child. (FMW)

Science fiction is a good teaching tool for elementary students because it stimulates the imagination and prepares children for the idea that the world will be different when they grow up. The article presents a science fiction unit, recommending books and activities about aliens, the future, and time travel. (SM)