Teaching History with Science Fiction Films

Book excerpt: Popular media has become a common means by which students understand both the present and the past. Consequently, more teachers are using various forms of popular culture as pedagogical tools in the history classroom. Science fiction is one of the most popular genres of contemporary film, a genre that permeates much of the current culture. In order to facilitate the use of science fiction films as learning tools, teachers of history need a dependable resource. Teaching History with Science Fiction Films is a guide for teaching U.S. and world history. In addition to covering key themes and concepts, the volume provides • an era-by-era overview of significant issues and related films, • a tutorial in using film in historical methodology, • user guides for 10 key science fiction films, and • sample exercises and assignments for direct classroom use. Among the films covered in this book are staples of American cultural literacy, including Things to Come, The Day the Earth Stood Still, Soylent Green, and Independence Day. Covering conceptual topics such as geopolitics, environmental consciousness, imperialism, immigration, gender roles, and technological innovation across the decades, Teaching History with Science Fiction Films will enable classroom teachers to effectively use movies to examine key social and cultural issues, concepts, and influences in their historical context. With a list of more than 90 recommended films, this volume will be an invaluable asset to any teacher of history.