Assignment 5.1: Genre and Its Purpose

1. Learning Targets

2. What if?

What if? Two simple words can be so powerful. This unit of study will challenge you to use your imagination to consider what if? You will also look at the power of story to imagine a different reality that might inspire change or provide caution.

Since the beginning of civilization, stories have done just that. The genre of speculative fiction has inspired rocket ships that go to the moon, video devices where we can talk to each other on a screen, and deep sea vehicles that can go to the bottom of the ocean. In addition, stories have been told that imagine different ways of organizing societies and stories that warn us of how our societies might harm us. How is this more effective than the plain old facts? Research shows that stories affect our emotions, bring us together, provide a vehicle for characters that inspire, and imagine plots that spark new ideas. 

(© Paramount/Courtesy Everett Collection)

So how is this important to you? In this unit you will practice generating ideas, creating something new, and accessing existing resources to do so. In addition you will learn about some writing strategies and how to notices patterns. As well perhaps you will encounter some new stories in the form of speculative fiction that will prompt you to explore further.

3. ASSIGNMENT 5.1

Go to "5.1 Genre and its Purpose" Assignment on the main page of the course to complete this section.