This module is an introduction to science fiction as well as a unit designed to start students thinking about the future and their roles in it. Twenty short stories read, and their similarities and differences discussed. The issues of family relationships, nuclear war, death, overpopulation, and others that appear to provide ample subject matter for a variety of creative activities. As students read through these stories, they will be exposed to many possibilities for life in the future. More important, they will become more aware of the present, and how what we are doing right now will affect all our futures.

Students conduct research on space science and fiction by completing the online space lessons. After completing their research, students will create 3D virtual worlds centered around their science fiction stories. Students' stories will incorporate elements of fact and fiction that they gather during their research.

Students will begin this unit by discussing science fiction and working towards an operational definition of science fiction for the purposes of this unit only. Many students do not realize that movies such as Star Wars, Aliens and E.T. are science fiction. Students will learn that science fiction concepts can be future-oriented, based on real scientific knowledge and predictive.

• 1. Understand the concepts of future and change.
• 2. Understand how their own future effects of change upon their lives.
• 3. Predict possible alternatives for the future.
• 4. Examine themes of adventure, family, relationships, and technology and our responsibility to technology and change.
• 5. Develop organizational skills through record keeping.
• 6. Examine the impact of technology on the space program, in the past, and at present.
• 7. Speculate on the direction that space exploration could (or should) take in the future.
• 8. Create a 3D Future World and society