Patty Blair

Overview of Science Fiction Mini-Unit/Lesson Plans

This unit was designed for a 6^th grade classroom with appropriate extensions for individuals with advanced levels of reading in mind. Although for theoretical purposes there are only three specifically tailored lesson plans, this unit in reality would likely extend beyond three 90 minute sessions. Nonetheless, the scope of the unit is clearly defined and outlined with appropriate accommodations implied.

Following this overview is a thorough explanation as to “Why Study Science Fiction in the Classroom?” and “Why Study the Science Fiction Genre?” The Green Book selection, as a whole class reading assignment, is uniquely appropriate for this genre. This unit, designed as a beginning of the year lesson, is an important reminder of how reading and writing literature has great relevance to all of our lives.

The back cover summary and book reviews do not do this book justice in the sense that one of the overriding themes is just how precious literature and other forms of text are and how easy it is for us to take them for granted. I consider The Green Book to be a must read for all young adolescent Language Arts teachers. Imagine a world where there were no books or computers, not to mention, a written history of our long lost past.

What better way to build a foundation for the love and respect of literacy skills? This is my purpose in creating this unit. In addition to this goal, young adolescents will be exposed to the major concept of Change. Are death and taxes the only constant? Can today’s Science Fiction become tomorrow’s reality? These questions and many more far-reaching ethical and philosophical issues often come into play when reading Science Fiction. Lastly, what separates good Science Fiction from bad? This type of critical analysis and exploration is a fundamental part of both the national and state Language Arts curricula objectives.

So if you haven’t considered reading, writing, or teaching in the Science Fiction genre, you may want to think again. Unlike the stereotype, it’s not just for Star Trek fans. With the ever increasing technological advancements, science brings us new realities and opportunities, both positive and negative. We should all be mindful of how our choices and decisions today will impact the future of tomorrow. To quote from one of my favorite David Bowie songs, “Time may change me, but I can’t trace time.”