10 Ways to Integrate Science Fiction and STEAM in the ELA Classroom

Next time you are teaching a science fiction literary piece, take the opportunity to introduce students to scientific concepts and technological advancements mentioned in the book with STEAM education. This will help engage students’ attention and motivation skills while making the story come alive. It’s difficult to integrate STEAM education and English language arts but with a little help, you will be able to create STEAM lesson plans in a STEAM learning environment.

Here are some steps to help you integrate STEAM activities while teaching a science fiction literary piece

1. Choose a text on your student’s level and that will be easy for you to relate it to STEAM subjects.
2. Before diving into the text, teaching any new vocabulary and basic scientific principles or technological concepts featured in the text will help students navigate through the story.
3. While reading, promote critical thinking and ethical discussions exploring the themes in the book.
4. Post-reading assignments can range from a project-based task that requires students to design a device or gadget mentioned in the story, to a creative writing assignment, or to use digital storytelling to tell their own science fiction story.

Here is a list of science fiction texts that can be used in an ELA classroom with suggested STEAM concept assignments as well as recommended materials and resources. These assignments are part of STEAM education and can fit well while writing your lesson plan. They can also be changed depending on the level of your class.

Elementary Level

1. “The Wonderful Flight to the Mushroom Planet” by Eleanor Cameron

Two boys build a spaceship and travel to a mysterious planet, combining adventure with friendship and environmental awareness themes.

Science

Create a Mushroom Habitat: After exploring the unique environment of the Mushroom Planet, students can research and simulate a mushroom habitat, learning about fungi’s role in ecosystems and their growth conditions.

Materials and resources:

• Informational resources on fungi and their ecosystems.
• Materials for creating a terrarium: glass container, soil, mushroom spores or kits, and moisture control tools.

Technology

Digital Story Mapping: Use digital tools to create a story map of the character’s journey to the Mushroom Planet, incorporating elements such as spacecraft design, trajectory, and key locations on the planet.

Materials and resources:

• Software for digital storytelling or mapping (e.g., StoryMapJS, Google Earth).

Engineering

Design Your Spaceship: Inspired by the boys’ adventure, students can engage in a project to design and build models of their spaceships, considering the materials, structure, and functionality needed for space travel.

Materials and resources:

• Materials for model building: cardboard, plastic bottles, tape, glue.
• CAD software for advanced design projects (e.g., Tinkercad, SketchUp).

Build a Mushroom City: Task students with engineering a model of a sustainable city on the Mushroom Planet, incorporating unique architectural elements that would support life in its distinct environment.

Materials and resources:

• Construction materials: clay, cardboard, paper, recyclable materials.
• Tools for crafting and assembly.

Arts

Illustrate the Mushroom Planet: Encourage students to create their artistic interpretations of the Mushroom Planet, its inhabitants, and key scenes from the book, using various art materials.

Materials and resources:

• Art supplies: paper, pencils, markers, paints, and digital tablets for drawing.

Theater Production: Adapt a chapter or scene from the book into a short theatrical performance, allowing students to explore the narrative through acting, set design, and costume creation.

Materials and resources:

• Scriptwriting materials.
• Costumes and props.
• A space for performance.

Mathematics

Calculate the Journey: Using details from the story, have students calculate the distance traveled to the Mushroom Planet, considering the speed of the spacecraft and the time taken. This can introduce concepts of distance, speed, and time.

Materials and resources:

• Mathematical tools: calculators, graph paper.
• Access to online calculators or software for more complex calculations.

Scale Models: Challenge students to create scale models of their spaceships or the Mushroom Planet itself, applying mathematical concepts of scale, proportion, and geometry.

Materials and resources:

• Rulers, measuring tape.
• Scale conversion charts or software.

2. “My Brother, the Robot” by Bonny Becker

This book explores the dynamics of family and technology through the story of a boy who gets a robot brother, touching on themes of jealousy, acceptance, and what it means to be human.

Science

Robotics in Biology: Discuss how robotics can mimic or enhance biological functions. Students can explore examples of robotic arms and legs, considering how they help humans.

Materials and resources:

• Access to articles, videos, and books on the integration of robotics in biological studies.
• Simple robot kits or online simulations to demonstrate how robots can mimic biological functions.

Technology

Program a Simple Robot: Using kits like LEGO Mindstorms or Bee-Bots, students can program simple robots to perform tasks, reflecting on how the robot brother in the story might have been programmed.

Materials and resources:

• Robotics kits suitable for education, such as LEGO Mindstorms, Ozobot, or Makeblock.
• Computers or tablets with programming software like Scratch, Tynker, or Arduino IDE.

Engineering

Design Your Robot: Students design their robot that could be a companion to a child. They should consider what features it would have, how it would interact, and what needs it would meet.

Materials and resources:

• Design software (e.g., Tinkercad for 3D design or paper and pencils for initial sketches).
• Materials for prototype models (cardboard, craft supplies, basic electronic components for advanced projects).

Arts

Robot Character Art: Students create art pieces depicting their version of the robot brother, using various art supplies. This activity allows for the exploration of the robot’s appearance and emotions.

Materials and resources:

• Art supplies (sketch paper, colored pencils, markers, paint).
• Digital art software for students with access to technology (e.g., Procreate, Adobe Photoshop).

Robotics in Theater: Students can write and perform a short play or skit that includes a robot character, exploring themes of technology and humanity, inspired by the book.

Materials and resources:

• Scriptwriting materials or software.
• Props and costumes to create a robot-themed performance.
• A space for rehearsal and performance.

Mathematics

Calculating Robot Movements: Introduce basic coding concepts by having students calculate angles and distances for robot movements in a hypothetical scenario or a simple programming platform.

Materials and resources:

• Basic programming tools to introduce concepts of angles and distances in movement (e.g., Scratch).
• Geometry tools for planning movements on paper.

Design and Geometry: When designing their robots, students can use geometry to plan the shapes and sizes of different parts, ensuring their designs are proportional and functional.

Materials and resources:

• Geometry sets (rulers, compasses, protractors).
• Graph paper for design sketches.

3. “The Magic School Bus Lost in the Solar System” by Joanna Cole and Bruce Degen

Part of the Magic School Bus series, this book takes students on a journey through the solar system, blending factual science education with whimsical adventures.

Science

Planetary Research Project: Assign each student a planet to research, focusing on aspects like composition, atmosphere, and orbit. Students can present their findings to the class, creating a comprehensive overview of the solar system.

Materials and resources:

• Access to library books, scientific articles, and reputable websites about the solar system.
• Software or online resources like NASA’s website for up-to-date planetary data.

Understanding Gravity: Conduct experiments to explain the concept of gravity and how it varies across different planets in the solar system. Simple activities can demonstrate how weight changes on other planets compared to Earth.

Materials and resources:

• Simple materials for experiments, such as balls of different sizes and weights, string, and measuring tape.
• Access to videos or simulations demonstrating gravity’s effects in space.

Technology

Augmented Reality Solar System: Utilize augmented reality (AR) apps on tablets or smartphones to explore the solar system. Students can virtually navigate through space, observing planets and moons up close.

Materials and resources:

• Tablets or smartphones with AR apps focused on the solar system (e.g., SkyView, Star Walk, or NASA’s apps).

Spacecraft Design Challenge: Using software or online tools, students design their spacecraft, considering what features would be necessary for a journey through the solar system.

Materials and resources:

• Computers with access to design software (e.g., Tinkercad, SketchUp) for creating digital models of spacecraft.
• Materials for crafting physical models (cardboard, foil, plastic bottles).

Engineering

Model Rocket Building: Engage students in building simple model rockets, introducing basic aerodynamics and engineering principles. This activity can culminate in a launch day, where students see their designs take flight.

Materials and resources:

• Model rocket kits are available from educational suppliers or hobby shops.
• Safety equipment for launching rockets, such as goggles and launch pads.

Solar System Scale Model: Task students with engineering a scale model of the solar system. This project involves calculating distances and sizes to accurately represent the planets and their orbits around the sun.

Materials and resources:

• Materials to represent planets (e.g., balls of different sizes, clay) and the sun.
• Measuring tools (rulers, tape measures) to accurately space the planets according to scale.

Arts

Create a Planet: Encourage students to use their creativity to design their planet. They can draw or craft their planet, describing its environment, potential inhabitants, and location in the solar system.

Materials and resources:

• Art supplies, including paint, colored pencils, markers, clay, and construction paper.
• Digital art platforms for students who prefer to create digital illustrations.

Dramatic Reenactment: Students can perform a skit or play based on “The Magic School Bus Lost in the Solar System,” incorporating facts about the planets and solar system into their performance.

Materials and resources:

• Scripts adapted from the book or student-created scripts based on their learning.
• Props and costumes to represent different planets, the solar system, or characters from the book.

Mathematics

Calculating Space Travel Time: Teach students how to calculate the time it would take to travel between planets, introducing concepts of speed, distance, and time. This activity can be tied to real missions or hypothetical scenarios.

Materials and resources:

• Calculators or mathematical software to work through space travel calculations.
• Access to data on distances between planets and average spacecraft speeds.

Orbital Patterns and Mathematics: Explore the mathematical patterns in the orbits of planets and moons, such as their elliptical shapes and how orbital speed varies. Students can graph these patterns or calculate aspects of the orbits.

Materials and resources:

• Large sheets of paper or outdoor space with chalk for drawing orbit paths.
• Compasses for accurately drawing circles and ellipses to represent orbits.

4. “Space Case” by Edward Marshall

A humorous tale of a creature from space visiting Earth on Halloween, this story engages young readers with themes of misunderstanding and friendship.

Science

Alien Habitats: Discuss what kind of environments aliens might live in, based on the planets in our solar system or beyond. Students can create dioramas or drawings of imagined alien habitats.

Materials and resources:

• Art supplies (construction paper, markers, crayons, colored pencils) for drawings.
• Materials for dioramas (shoeboxes, clay, fabric scraps, natural materials).
• Books or online resources on different planetary environments.

The Science of Space Travel: Introduce basic concepts of space travel, discussing how astronauts travel to space and what technologies they use. Create simple experiments to understand rocket propulsion, like a baking soda and vinegar rocket.

Materials and resources:

• Baking soda and vinegar for rocket experiments.
• Materials to construct simple rockets (plastic bottles, cork, paper).

Technology

Create an Alien Blog: Students use computer or tablet apps to create a blog from the perspective of the alien in “Space Case.” They can write about their observations of Earth and compare it to their home planet.

Materials and resources:

• Access to computers or tablets with internet connection.
• Blogging platforms suitable for children (e.g., Kidblog or simple website builders like Wix or Weebly).

Digital Storytelling: Using digital tools, students can create their own short stories or comic strips about an alien visiting Earth, incorporating elements from “Space Case” and their creativity.

Materials and resources:

• Digital storytelling apps or software (e.g., StoryJumper, Toontastic).
• Computers or tablets.

Engineering

Design Your Spaceship: Task students with designing and building a model of a spaceship using recyclable materials. Focus on what features a spaceship needs to travel through space and host life.

Materials and resources:

• Recyclable materials (cardboard boxes, plastic bottles, toilet paper rolls).
• Basic crafting supplies (tape, glue, scissors).

Build an Alien: Using a variety of materials (e.g., clay, pipe cleaners, recycled items), students can engineer their alien friend, considering how its design would help it survive in its native environment.

Materials and resources:

• Various crafting materials (clay, pipe cleaners, fabric, beads, recycled items).
• Tools for assembly (scissors, glue).

Arts

Alien Masks and Costumes: Students create masks or costumes representing the alien from “Space Case” or an alien of their design, using art supplies and recycled materials.

Materials and resources:

• Craft supplies (paper, fabric, paints, markers, glue).
• Recycled materials for decoration (foil, plastic caps, etc.).

Interstellar Art Gallery: Create space-themed artwork inspired by the story. Students can draw scenes from the book, imagine their space adventures, or create portraits of the alien visitor.

Materials and resources:

• Art supplies (paper, canvas, paints, brushes, drawing utensils).
• Space for displaying artwork (bulletin boards, digital slideshow).

Mathematics

Alien Math Problems: Create math problems based on the story, such as calculating the distance the alien traveled to get to Earth or figuring out how many candies it saw on Halloween.

Materials and resources:

• Story-specific problem templates or worksheets.
• Calculators or math manipulatives for hands-on learning.

Measuring Space: Using the concept of light-years, parsecs, or kilometers, introduce students to the vast distances in space. Create a scale model of the solar system in the playground or along a hallway, helping them understand the concept of scale and distance.

Materials and resources:

• Measuring tools (tape measure, rulers, string).
• Resources to calculate and understand astronomical distances (reference books, educational websites).

Middle School

5. “The Maze Runner” by James Dashner

A dystopian science fiction novel about teenagers who wake up in a mysterious maze with no memory of the outside world, focusing on themes of memory, survival, and the search for freedom

Science

Ecology of the Glade: Explore the ecosystem of the Glade, where the characters live. Students can research and present on different types of ecosystems and compare them to the Glade, understanding the balance needed for survival.

Materials and resources:

• Research materials on ecosystems, focusing on self-sustaining systems.
• Supplies for creating a small terrarium or garden that mimics the Glade’s ecosystem.

The Science of Memory: Investigate how memory works in the human brain. Students can learn about the parts of the brain involved in memory and discuss the implications of memory loss as experienced by the characters.

Materials and resources:

• Access to articles and videos on human memory, brain structure, and how memories are formed and lost.

Technology

Maze Mapping Software: Introduce basic coding and digital mapping by having students use simple software or online platforms to design their mazes. This can tie into discussions on algorithms and how mazes can be solved.

Recommended sites: scratch.mit.edu, www.tynker.com, code.org or blockly.games)

Materials and resources:

• Computers with internet access for online maze creation tools or simple programming platforms like Scratch or Tynker.
• Tutorials or guides on using the selected software for creating digital mazes.

Virtual Reality (VR) Exploration: If resources allow, use VR to explore a digital maze. Students can understand spatial awareness and the challenges of navigating complex structures.

Materials and resources:

• VR headsets are compatible with educational VR software that allows the exploration of mazes or similar environments.
• Pre-selected VR apps or programs that simulate maze navigation.

Engineering

Design a Maze: Task students with engineering a paper or cardboard maze, incorporating principles of design and problem-solving. They can also include traps and challenges similar to those in the book.

Materials and resources:

• Cardboard, paper, and craft supplies for constructing physical mazes.
• Optional: Access to CAD software for advanced students to design mazes digitally.

Survival Shelter Design: Inspired by the living conditions in the Glade, students can design and model their survival shelters, considering factors like materials, location, and defense mechanisms.

Materials and resources:

• Materials for model-making: sticks, leaves, clay, cardboard, and fabric.
• Basic tools for construction: scissors, glue, tape.

Arts

Character Portraits and Graphic Novels: Encourage students to draw character portraits or create graphic novel panels for scenes from the book, focusing on conveying emotion and action through art.

Materials and resources:

• Art supplies: sketch paper, pencils, markers, watercolors.
• Digital art tools for students interested in creating graphic novel panels digitally.

Mathematics

Mathematics of a Maze: Discuss the geometry and mathematics involved in maze design, including concepts like symmetry, perimeter, and area. Students can calculate the dimensions of their mazes.

Materials and resources:

• Graph paper and pencils for manual maze design.
• Access to mathematical modeling or geometry software for advanced design projects.

Probability and Survival: Introduce probability through the lens of making strategic decisions for survival. Students can calculate odds based on hypothetical scenarios in the story, such as choosing paths in the maze.

Materials and resources:

• Calculators or computers with spreadsheet software for calculating probabilities.
• Real-life survival scenarios from the book or created by the teacher for problem-solving activities.

6. “The City of Ember” by Jeanne DuPrau

A story about a city built to sustain human life for generations after an apocalypse, with two children discovering the truth about their world’s impending darkness.

Science

Explore Renewable vs. Non-renewable Resources: Discuss the types of resources used in Ember and have students research and present on renewable and non-renewable energy sources, drawing parallels to our world.

Materials and resources:

• Access to online databases and libraries for research on energy sources.
• Presentation tools: poster boards, digital slideshow software (e.g., Google Slides, PowerPoint).

Light and Electricity Experiments: Conduct simple experiments to understand how light works, how electricity is generated, and the basics of circuits — key concepts in understanding the challenges faced by the city of Ember.

Materials and resources:

• Basic electrical circuit kits (batteries, wires, light bulbs, switches).
• Materials for simple experiments (mirrors, prisms, solar cells).

Technology

Design a Digital Blueprint of Ember: Using digital drawing tools or CAD software, students can design their version of Ember, focusing on how technology could improve its infrastructure and resource management.

Materials and resources:

• Computers with CAD software (e.g., Tinkercad, SketchUp) or digital drawing tools.
• Tutorials or guides on urban planning and infrastructure design.

Coding for Blackouts: Introduce students to coding by creating a simple program or game that simulates managing Ember’s electrical grid to prevent blackouts.

Materials and resources:

• Access to computers or tablets with coding platforms (Scratch, Python).
• Instructional resources on basic programming concepts related to logic and conditionals.

Engineering

Build a Model of Ember: Challenge students to use recyclable materials to build a 3D model of Ember, emphasizing the design of its infrastructure and how it would engineer solutions to its power problems.

Materials and resources:

• Recyclable materials (cardboard, plastic containers, paper tubes).
• Crafting supplies (scissors, glue, tape, paint).

Water Filtration System Design: Inspired by Ember’s aging and failing systems, students can design and build a simple water filtration system, understanding the importance of clean water and sustainable living.

Materials and resources:

• Materials for building simple filtration systems (sand, gravel, cotton, plastic bottles).
• Guides or kits on DIY water filtration.

Arts

Create Ember Art: Students can create artwork that represents life in Ember, using shadow and light to highlight the city’s unique environment. This could include drawings, paintings, or shadow boxes.

Materials and resources:

• Art supplies: paper, pencils, charcoal, watercolors, and any materials for shadow boxes.
• Examples of artwork emphasizing light and shadow for inspiration.

Dramatize a Scene: Have students act out key scenes from the book, focusing on the dramatic moment when the lights flicker and the city’s fate hangs in balance. This activity can deepen understanding of the characters’ emotions and the story’s setting.

Materials and resources:

• Copy of “The City of Ember” for script excerpts.
• Simple props and costumes related to the novel’s setting.
• Space for rehearsal and performance (classroom, auditorium).

Mathematics

Calculate Ember’s Resources: Present students with a project to manage Ember’s resources (food, energy, water) using math. They can calculate consumption rates, predict when resources will run out, and propose rationing plans or solutions.

Materials and resources:

• Worksheets or software for mathematical calculations and projections.
• Data or scenarios based on the novel for practical application of math skills.

Geometry of Ember: Using descriptions from the book, students can calculate the area and volume of Ember’s buildings and infrastructure, applying geometry to understand the scale of the city and its limitations.

Materials and resources:

• Tools for geometric calculations (rulers, compasses, calculators).
• Graph paper or digital tools for mapping and spatial planning.

7. “Ender’s Game” by Orson Scott Card

This novel focuses on Ender Wiggin, a young boy recruited to train at a space military academy to prepare for a future alien invasion, exploring themes of leadership, ethics, and the consequences of war.

Science

Space and Zero Gravity Physics: Explore the science of space travel and the effects of zero gravity on the human body. Students can conduct experiments that simulate zero gravity conditions or research how astronauts train for space missions.

Materials and resources:

• Access to videos or simulations that demonstrate zero gravity effects.
• Materials for simple experiments related to gravity, such as balloons, strings, and weights.

The Biology of the Formics: Discuss the fictional Formic species, comparing their biological characteristics to insects on Earth. This can lead to a broader discussion on exobiology (the study of life on other planets).

Materials and resources:

• Research materials on insect biology (books, articles, documentaries).
• Supplies for creating models or drawings of fictional Formic species and comparisons to Earth insects.

Technology

Virtual Reality Training Simulations: Discuss the role of virtual reality in training and education. Students can design their own VR training game or simulation, drawing inspiration from the Battle Room in “Ender’s Game.”

Materials and resources:

• Computers or tablets capable of running VR software or simple game design platforms (e.g., Scratch, Unity for beginners).
• VR headsets, if available, for immersive experience demonstrations.

Programming a Simple Game: Introduce basic coding skills by having students create a simple strategy game or puzzle, inspired by the tactical challenges Ender faces.

Materials and resources:

• Access to computers with programming software (Scratch, Python).
• Tutorials or guides on basic game development and programming concepts.

Engineering

Design a Space Station: Task students with designing their version of the Battle School or a space station, focusing on the engineering and architectural considerations for sustaining life in space.

Materials and resources:

• Drawing or CAD software for design projects (e.g., Tinkercad, SketchUp).
• Materials for model-making (cardboard, glue, craft supplies) for physical models.

Build a Model Rocket: Engage students in building model rockets, introducing them to basic aerospace engineering concepts and the principles of rocketry.

Materials and resources:

• Model rocket kits and safety equipment for launching.
• Open space for safe rocket launches and supervision by an experienced adult.

Arts

Character Portraits and Graphic Storytelling: Students create art pieces depicting characters from “Ender’s Game” or illustrate key scenes from the novel, using their choice of medium.

Materials and resources:

• Art supplies (paper, pencils, markers, paints).
• Digital art tools (tablets, digital drawing software) for those interested in digital creation.

Sci-Fi Soundtrack Composition: Have students create or curate a soundtrack that captures the mood and themes of “Ender’s Game,” exploring how music can enhance storytelling.

Materials and resources:

• Access to music creation software or apps (GarageBand, online sequencers).
• Instruments and recording equipment, if composing original music.

Mathematics

Calculate Travel Time to the Battle School: Using the distances mentioned in the book (if provided) or hypothetical distances in space, students can calculate how long it would take to travel from Earth to the Battle School at different speeds, introducing concepts of time, distance, and velocity.

Materials and resources:

• Calculators or mathematical software for solving problems.
• Information or data on space distances for calculations.

Strategy and Probability: Introduce students to game theory and probability through simple strategy games that mimic the tactical decisions Ender makes. Students can analyze the probability of different outcomes based on choices.

Materials and resources:

• Board games or online strategy game platforms to explore game theory concepts.
• Resources or materials to create custom strategy games (card stock, markers).

High school

8. “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” by Philip K. Dick

The novel that inspired “Blade Runner,” delves into questions of what it means to be human in a world where androids can scarcely be distinguished from humans.

Science

Biotechnology and Ethics: Discuss the science behind genetic engineering and biotechnology as it relates to the creation of androids. Students can explore current advancements in these fields and debate the ethical implications, drawing parallels to the novel.

Materials and resources:

• Access to articles, documentaries, and online resources on genetic engineering, biotechnology, and ethical considerations.
• Discussion guidelines or debate formats for classroom use.

Ecology and Environment: Investigate the environmental themes of the novel, such as the extinction of animal species and the degradation of the Earth’s ecosystem. Students can research real-world issues related to these themes and propose solutions or preventive measures.

Materials and resources:

• Research materials on environmental science, focusing on species extinction and ecosystem degradation.
• Project presentation tools (poster boards, digital presentation software).

Technology

Artificial Intelligence Debate: Host a debate on the potential and dangers of artificial intelligence, comparing AI development goals today with the androids in the novel. Discuss the ethical considerations of creating machines that mimic human intelligence and emotions.

Materials and resources:

• Resources on the current state of AI technology and ethical considerations (scholarly articles, documentaries, online forums).
• Structured debate guidelines and scoring rubrics.

Programming a Simple AI: Introduce students to basic AI programming concepts using platforms like Scratch or Python. They can attempt to create simple chatbots that respond to human emotions or questions, reflecting on the complexity of truly replicating human thought and feeling.

Materials and resources:

• Computers with internet access and programming environments (Scratch, Python).
• Tutorials or instructional materials on basic AI concepts and chatbot programming.

Engineering

Designing a Robotic Pet: Inspired by the novel’s emphasis on artificial animals, challenge students to design their robotic pet, considering what functions it would have and how it would interact with humans. This can be a conceptual design task or involve basic prototyping with kits like LEGO Mindstorms.

Materials and resources:

• Design materials (paper, pencils) for conceptual drawings.
• Robotics kits (e.g., LEGO Mindstorms, Arduino kits) for prototyping.
• Access to 3D design software (e.g., Tinkercad) for advanced projects.

Urban Planning for a Future City: Task students with designing a city that could survive the post-apocalyptic conditions described in the novel. They should consider sustainable energy, housing, food production, and technology that supports human and android coexistence.

Materials and resources:

• Urban planning and architecture resources (books, software, online articles).
• Materials for model making (cardboard, craft supplies) or digital modeling tools (CAD software).

Arts

Visual Art Inspired by the Novel: Students create artwork inspired by the novel’s themes, characters, and setting. This could include digital art, paintings, or mixed media, encouraging students to visually interpret the ethical and philosophical questions raised by the story.

Materials and resources:

• Art supplies (canvas, paint, brushes, digital tablets with art software).
• Space for an art exhibition or digital platform to share artwork.

Creative Writing — An Android’s Perspective: Encourage students to write a short story or diary entry from the perspective of an android living in the world of the novel, exploring themes of identity, consciousness, and the desire for freedom.

Materials and resources:

• Writing materials (journals, computers) and prompts related to the novel’s themes.
• Platforms for sharing stories (class blog, printed compilation).

Mathematics

Statistical Analysis of Extinction: Using the novel’s premise of mass extinction, students can study real-world data on endangered species and use statistical methods to predict outcomes over time. They can then compare these findings to the novel’s world, discussing the importance of conservation efforts.

Materials and resources:

• Access to statistical data on endangered species and environmental degradation.
• Statistical analysis tools (calculators, spreadsheet software).

Mathematical Modeling of Populations: Students can use mathematical models to simulate the population dynamics of humans and androids in the novel’s setting. This activity can introduce concepts such as exponential growth, carrying capacity, and logistic models.

Materials and resources:

• Instructional materials on mathematical modeling techniques.
• Software or online tools for creating and analyzing models (e.g., Desmos, MATLAB for educational use).

9. “Snow Crash” by Neal Stephenson

A fast-paced cyberpunk novel that explores the implications of digital reality and the merging of the virtual and physical worlds.

Science

Virology and Epidemiology: Given the novel’s exploration of a mind-altering virus, students can research real viruses, how they spread, and the basics of epidemiology. This could include studying how information spreads in a digital “viral” sense versus biological viruses.

Materials and resources:

• Access to scientific articles, books, and online resources on virology and epidemiology.
• Materials for creating visuals or models, such as poster boards or digital presentation software.

Physics of Skateboarding: Considering the protagonist, Hiro, uses a skateboard for transportation, a physics project could explore the dynamics of skateboarding. Students can examine forces, motion, and energy conservation related to skateboarding techniques.

Materials and resources:

• Skateboards and safety gear (helmets, knee pads) for practical demonstrations.
• Resources on the physics of skateboarding, including force, motion, and energy conservation.

Technology

Creating Virtual Worlds: Introduce students to basic virtual reality (VR) design using platforms like Unity or VR software that allows for simple world-building. Students can design their own “Metaverse” locations, inspired by the novel’s digital universe.

Materials and resources:

• Computers with internet access and software for virtual reality design, such as Unity or simple VR platforms accessible for educational purposes.
• VR headsets for testing and experiencing virtual environments, if available.

Cryptocurrency and Blockchain: Explore the concepts of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, given the novel’s use of digital currency. Students can research how these technologies work and their potential benefits and drawbacks in society.

Materials and resources:

• Educational resources on blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies.
• Access to online platforms or simulations that demonstrate how blockchain works.

Engineering

3D Modeling and Printing: Task students with designing and 3D printing an object that could exist in the world of “Snow Crash,” such as a gadget or tool used by the characters. This introduces them to the design process and the practical applications of 3D printing technology.

Materials and resources:

• Access to 3D modeling software (e.g., Tinkercad, SketchUp) and 3D printers.
• Materials for 3D printing, including filament.

Building a Simple Hovercraft: Inspired by the novel’s technology, students can work on engineering a basic hovercraft model, understanding the principles of lift and propulsion.

Materials and resources:

• Materials for hovercraft models (e.g., balloons, CDs, motors for more complex designs).
• Basic tools and supplies for construction (tape, glue, scissors).

Arts

Cyberpunk Art Project: Students create art projects that capture the essence of the cyberpunk genre, using “Snow Crash” as inspiration. This could involve digital art, collage, or mixed media, emphasizing themes like technology, dystopia, and human-machine integration.

Materials and resources:

• Art supplies for traditional media (paper, pencils, markers, collage materials).
• Digital art software and hardware for students creating digital pieces.

Scriptwriting and Storyboarding: Have students write a short script or storyboard for a scene from “Snow Crash,” focusing on how to visually represent the novel’s dynamic and complex virtual reality scenes.

Materials and resources:

• Storyboarding templates or software.
• Scriptwriting guides or resources to help students structure their stories.

Mathematics

Cryptographic Puzzles: Given the novel’s emphasis on information and coding, introduce students to basic cryptography. They can solve or create simple cryptographic puzzles, learning about the mathematics behind encryption and code-breaking.

Materials and resources:

• Resources or tools for creating and solving cryptographic puzzles (online cipher tools, puzzle books).
• Instructional materials on basic cryptography and its mathematical foundations.

Analyzing Network Structures: Explore the structure of networks, both social and internet-based, as they relate to the novel’s depiction of the Metaverse and real-world internet infrastructure. Students can model different types of network structures and discuss their efficiency and vulnerability.

Materials and resources:

• Software or online tools for modeling network structures (graph theory visualization tools).
• Examples and resources on network theory and its applications.

10. “Dune” by Frank Herbert

An epic tale of politics, religion, and power set on the desert planet of Arrakis, offering a complex exploration of ecological, cultural, and spiritual themes.

Science

Ecology of Arrakis: Explore the desert ecosystem of Arrakis, focusing on adaptations of life forms to extreme environments. Students can research desert ecosystems on Earth and compare them to Arrakis, discussing the survival strategies of plants and animals.

Materials and resources:

• Research materials on desert ecosystems (books, scientific articles, documentaries)
• Access to online databases for ecological research

The Science of Spice: Investigate the properties and effects of the fictional spice melange, comparing it to real-world drugs and their impact on human physiology and psychology. This can lead to discussions about drug use, addiction, and medicinal properties.

Materials and resources:

• Informational resources on pharmacology and neuroscience (texts, online courses, articles)

Technology

Navigating Space: Given the novel’s space travel and the navigational role of the spice, students can explore current technologies in space navigation and the potential future of interstellar travel, including the theoretical concepts behind it.

Materials and resources:

• Access to online educational resources or software related to astronomy and space navigation (e.g., Stellarium, NASA educational materials)

Creating a Coding Language Inspired by Mentats: Inspired by the human computers (Mentats) in “Dune,” students can learn about the basics of programming languages and create their simple coding language or algorithms that could perform specific tasks, emphasizing logic and efficiency.

Materials and resources:

• Computers with programming software (e.g., Scratch for beginners, Python for more advanced students)
• Access to online coding tutorials and platforms

Engineering

Design a Still Suit: Task students with designing a still suit that conserves water in a desert environment, drawing on principles of material science and engineering. This can be a theoretical design project or a challenge to create a working model using available materials.

Materials and resources:

• Drawing or CAD design software for conceptual designs
• Materials for model making (fabric, tubing, recyclable materials for prototype models)

Building a Sandworm Robot: Challenge students to engineer a simple robotic model of a sandworm, focusing on movement mechanisms that mimic the burrowing and surfacing actions described in the novel.

Materials and resources:

• Basic robotics kits (e.g., LEGO Mindstorms, Arduino starter kits)
• Instructional guides on simple robotics and mechanism design

Arts

Arrakis Art Project: Students create artworks inspired by the landscapes, characters, and themes of “Dune,” using various mediums. This could include digital art, sculpture, or mixed media, encouraging students to visually interpret the novel’s complex world.

Materials and resources:

• Art supplies (paints, brushes, canvas, digital drawing tablets, sculpting materials)
• Inspiration resources (images of deserts, concept art from “Dune” adaptations)

Dramatizing “Dune”: Have students adapt a scene from “Dune” into a short play or performance, focusing on capturing the essence of the characters and the dramatic tension of the novel’s plot.

Materials and resources:

• Copy of the “Dune” text for script adaptation
• Props and costumes for performance (which can be designed and created as part of the project)
• A space for rehearsal and performance

Mathematics

Calculating Dune’s Ecology: Introduce mathematical modeling to calculate the water needs of a human population surviving in a desert ecosystem like Arrakis. Students can use data on water consumption and retention to understand the challenges of sustaining life in such an environment.

Materials and resources:

• Access to mathematical modeling software or calculators
• Worksheets or templates for data collection and analysis

Geometry of Arrakeen Architecture: Explore the geometry and architectural design of Arrakeen, the capital city of Arrakis. Students can design their structures inspired by the novel, considering how to create buildings that are adapted to desert environments and using geometric principles to plan their layouts.

Materials and resources:

• Geometry tools (ruler, compass, protractor)
• Graph paper or CAD software for design
• Resources on architectural principles and desert adaptations

If you have any ideas on how to integrate STEAM education and Science Fiction, let's see them in the comments!