Illustration by Dean MacAdam.
Jan. 17, 2007
A Writer's Homework
Some researchers propose introducing elephants, cheetahs, and other large animals to areas, such as the Great Plains of North America, where these species haven't lived for thousands of years (above). The idea is to restore the ecosystems of ancient times, before humans affected the environment (see "Brave Old World").
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| SAIC, NASA, NSF |
Computer models of the sun's behavior are based on current knowledge. As new observations are made, these models are improved (see "The Sun's Halo in 3-D"). Better models will make it safer to work in space, as we will be able to predict solar weather that could harm astronauts and equipment.
Finding an idea is probably the easiest part of writing science fiction. There are more discoveries, cool facts, and mysteries in science in one day than any author could use. Either of the ideas above would make a great story. The tricky part is writing a story from that idea. The starting point? Homework. It's true. I do it, too. Really. All the time. Otherwise, how would I know what to write?
When you think about it, it makes sense. To write a science fiction story about global warming, for example, I'd start by learning enough about global warming to understand the main idea I want to explore. I don't need to become an expert. I can find out what experts say on the topic. I'd read examples and descriptions until I feel comfortable talking about global warming myself. I'd make notes, too. For example, if my story will include equipment or research, I will need the right words to describe those things.
Anytime you write a story about the real world, you need to do some homework. To write a story about a video gamer, you'd want to learn about the games such a person would play, the equipment used, how many hours a week they'd play, and other useful details. Otherwise, you won't convince anyone reading your story that your character is a gamer. Science fiction is no different. There's simply a little more homework because you're adding real science to your work on the characters and settings.
Challenge: Where to Start?
The images above are from stories that appeared in Science News in 2006. Both contain interesting ideas for a science fiction story. What kind of homework could you do for each? To find out, try this.
- Pick one of the ideas. Think about it. What questions do you have about the idea? What more would you like to know? What don't you understand? Write these down. The more, the merrier. At this point, you're exploring the idea. This will help you figure out what type of story you might write.
- Pick one of your questions as a starting point. Where might you look in a library for an answer? Do you have any resources at home or people to ask? Next, think about word combinations you could use in an Internet search. Write these down. For example, if your question is "what animals lived in North America before humans arrived?" you might list the words: prehistoric animals; North American wildlife; prehistoric humans; early mammals. If what you learn raises more questions, write those down, too. Keep a list of the most useful words.
- Repeat step 2 for your other questions.
Going Further
If you're like me, you'll find this homework stage begins to capture your imagination. You'll head in a particular direction and pay attention to the information that fits together into a story, even if you don't know what that story will be. Certain facts will jump out at you. I keep those treasures in a file. What interests me in my homework, I've learned, makes a great starting point for my writing.
If you wish, send your questions and research words to us at scifizone@snkids.com. If we use yours, you may be eligible to win a prize! Please include your first name, age, city or town, and state. If you are under 13 years old, get your parent's permission to write to us.
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