* Setting: Science fiction writing often takes place in an alternate universe, a distant planet, or on Earth far in the future. The author carefully describes this world so that it feels complex and “real” despite its elements of fantasy. * Ex. The Martian takes place on Mars. * Plot: Science fiction doesn’t have to be action-packed, but its plots are often full of exciting events that happen to a central hero. * Ex. “Jurassic Park” is full of eventful moments and action scenes. * Social commentary: Even though the story takes place in the future or far from our world, elements of science fiction usually critique, investigate, or somehow explore bits of familiar life right here. Science fiction writing might take on questions of politics, power, gender, race, etc. * Ex. “Star Trek” has a style of government similar to the U.N. and often promoted values like tolerance and cooperation. * Science + Imagination: Obviously, science fiction writing involves science! This doesn’t mean science fiction has to be totally “realistic” by any means. Science fiction uses details of real science, but combines those facts with elements of fantasy. This could mean a plot that centers around a new technological invention, or a particular kind of biological phenomenon that has some basis in scientific laws. * Ex. In Day of the Triffids, carnivorous, mobile plants like giant Venus fly-traps start eating humans. * Flexible time: Science fiction can take place in the future, involve time travel into the past, or simply blend elements of the past and the present. Science fiction writing isn’t limited by linear, realistic time. * Ex. Characters travel through time in “Doctor Who.” * Non-humans: Science fiction writing often involves interesting creatures, from aliens to talking robots. * Ex. In “E.T.”, a stranded alien befriends a human boy.