Frequently Asked Questions
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Why teach this novel?The Time Machine is rightfully considered one of the seminal novels in science fiction. Although not the first novel of scientific speculation, it is one of the first widely popular ones. Also the book provides an intriguing glimpse into some of the social concerns of the late 1890's. Finally, it is an exciting read, appropriate in subject matter and language for high school students.
Where can I get copies of the novel?The Time Machine is now in the public domain. The text is available in its entirety on line (at http://www.literature.org/authors/wells-herbert-george/the-time-machine and other sites) and readily available in inexpensive paperback editions. Also, for sight-challenged students, ESL students or poor readers, there are audio editions (http://members.aol.com/artcradio/sfbg.htm).
Do I have to teach it all at once?No. The novel is divided into twelve chapters and a short epilogue. It can be taught in small units over the course of several weeks. Included on this web site is a chapter by chapter synopsis with discussion questions for each chapter.
How do I engage reluctant or struggling readers?The Time Machine lends itself well to audio or multi-media presentations. Small groups of students working together can draw a comic version of the story, write a version for the stage or videotape their own film adaptation. There is a commercial film adaptation that, while not completely true to the text, can be used to draw poor readers into the ideas of the story (Naturally, as an English teacher I would much rather teach the book than the movie, but there is a lot of value in the movie too. See "a note about the movie."). Also, this is a short novel. It is not initially intimidating. With teacher assistance in vocabulary (see the vocabulary lists), the reluctant or struggling reader can experience success with this novel.
How can I help students who want to know more about this kind of literature when I'm not a science fiction fan myself?In almost every class will be a few science fiction fanatics, or students who are so thoroughly drawn in by The Time Machine that they want to know more. Fortunately the Internet contains a wealth of information about science fiction. Refer to the resources page for specific topics.
What can I do to encourage my young science fiction writers?Most schools sponsor literary magazines. Writers should be encouraged to submit their work there. Also, the Internet provides numerous articles about writing and publishing science fiction. As an alternative assignment you might consider allowing a writing-oriented student to invent a missing episode from the novel. The ending, with the disappearance of the Time Traveller invites speculation. What happened to him? A young writer might enjoy adding her/his final chapter to the story.
I have some ideas of how to teach this novel. How can I share them with other teachers?Please send your ideas to this web site. We will publish them for others. If you are more ambitious, you might consider making your own web site to show your best techniques. The Internet can serve as the world's largest curriculum exchange.
I have designed unique approaches to other science fiction novels or stories. How can I create my own on-line curriculum?There are numerous free or inexpensive software programs to help neophyte web page designers. Some servers offer free web space for members. Many school districts are now establishing their own computer services and might be willing to donate space for an educationally related site. David Brin and Analog Science Fiction and Fact magazine are sponsoring Webs of Wonder, a contest for teacher/web designers/writers to create science fiction curriculum. Their web site includes numerous resources for web design and science fiction in the school.
Where can I find other on-line resources to teach literature?Check the Resources page of this web site. There are a wealth of lesson plans, supplemental information and other resources for teachers on the web. Sometimes, however, it can be difficult to find exactly what you are looking for. It takes planning and some lead time to use the Internet as a teaching resource efficiently.
How can I get a hold of a science fiction author to talk to my class about this kind of writing?The Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA), which is over a thousand members strong, maintains a Speakers' Bureau. If you contact them, they will try to hook you up with a the nearest professional writer. Many writers are willing to talk to a class about writing or science fictional ideas. Contact the SFWA Speaker Bureau at: Kathleen Woodbury <workshop@burgoyne.com>
Can I copy the handouts and quizzes from this web site without violating copyrights? Can I change or adapt the material (add things/subtract things/reword them/etc.)?Yes. All material on this web site is the property of the author and is offered for your use without restriction. The material at other web sites are subject to their own copyright restrictions. If you want to copy something from another web site, please be sure to get permission first.
When you choose an external link, you will leave the Frames version of this site. Use your "previous page" button on your browser to return. Work on outside links may be copyrighted. Ask for permission to use their work.
Who is James Van Pelt?That's me. I designed this web page. You can find about the author side of me here or the teacher side of me here.
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