Science Fiction Notes



Taking Notes on Science Fiction

Overview: Taking notes on science fiction is similar to taking notes on other fiction; it has the same elements. I have made the questions more specific to help you focus on the specific issues that are important in sci-fi; highlighted questions are especially important. You will complete a short version of the notes for shorter pieces. When you read stories for homework, you should take notes (as usual) based on these questions.

Genre:

Content—Science fiction, of course

Format—novel (PCR) OR short story OR short film (TV) OR full-length film

Setting:

• When was the story written or filmed?

• What is the time of the setting?

o Year

o Season, etc.

o How much time passes?

o Is the story supposed to be about the past, present or future?

o Is the story outdated in any way because it was a product of its own historical moment? (We’ll notice this in older stories more than in new ones.)

• What is the place of the setting?

o Town, country

o Specific locations (important ones)

o Is this a real or imaginary world?

Plot:

• Bullet the main events of the story. Be sure to explain any unusual events, machines, creatures or surprises (even if you are not sure you understand them.) It might be a good idea to label the plot parts of the events, just to keep things organized (exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, resolution).

Characters:

• Who are the characters? Include important individuals and any group that functions as one character (like an angry crowd).

• Is there a main protagonist? If so, what are his/her main quests and conflicts? (Some stories may not have one protagonist. If this is the case, explain the quests and conflicts for all important characters.)

• Who is supposed to be the hero, if there is one? Explain. Why are we supposed to admire him/her?

• Is there a main antagonist or someone who is clearly bad? Explain. Why are we supposed to dislike him/her?

• Are there any other examples of good or bad qualities in people? For example, is there a coward, and if so, of what is he/she afraid?

Motifs and Themes:

• List at least three topics or issues raised by this story. For classwork, you’ll share these with your table and add to your list.

• Generate at least one theme statement that conveys the intended message of the story… AND explain it in 3-4 sentences. Hint: think about what social commentary the author/director makes. In other words, what is wrong with people/society/human nature according to this story?

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