Essay Questions

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--Term Test--

The Term Test will consist of the following:

5 content questions worth 5 marks (similar to the quizzes)

5 short answer questions (no more than 1 page) worth 5 marks each

1 longer essay questions (2-4 pages), worth 20 marks

For the test I will select questions from the lists below. There won't be a choice of questions, so you might want to sketch out answers to all these questions beforehand to prepare for the test. I'm also happy to answer any questions you might have or to have a quick look at a point form answer you draw up to any of these questions - as long as you send it to me at least 24 hours prior to the test.

Shorter Questions

Why was "Helen O'Loy" considered to be a "ground-breaking" story? That is, how did it differ significantly from SF stories that came before it?
 In "Nightfall", Anton the director of Saro University, Theremon the reporter, Sheerin the psychologist and Latimer the cultist represent different ideas. Describe the ideas associated with each.
 Is "It's a Good Life" an SF story? Support your argument by referring to concrete examples from the story.
 Names and the use of names are important in "The Cold Equations". What is the author trying to say?
"Flowers for Algernon" is told through Charlie's journal-entries. Why did the author choose this form of narrative?  
Explain the difference between "soft" SF and "hard" SF. Cite examples of each from the assigned readings.


Longer Questions

Ideas often take precedence over characterization in SF stories. Illustrate this using at least three of the assigned readings.
Describe the development of SF as a genre by referring to at least four of the assigned readings.