Cinder

Use these questions or activities to help gauge students’ familiarity with and spark their interest in the context of the work, giving them an entry point into the text itself.

Short Answer

1. What do you know about the differences between robots, cyborgs, and androids? Compose definitions or descriptions in your own words.

Teaching Suggestion: Although many students will know the differences among these terms, it is unlikely that all students will. Students who cannot answer from their prior knowledge might be encouraged to investigate the terms online. Once students are clear on the definitions of these terms, they might view the video or read the article linked below as ways to activate their interest in this topic and to help them visualize the world in which Cinder lives. Students can practice identifying examples of the different types of technology within the video.

• This article features scientist Hiroshi Ishiguro, who has created an android clone of himself.
• This 16-minute video showcases recent developments in robotics and AI (artificial intelligence), including the impact on manufacturing, packaging, and shipping.

2. What is dystopian science fiction? What are some possible ideas that this kind of literature might convey through characters who are androids or cyborgs? What kinds of imagery come to mind with dystopian science fiction?

Teaching Suggestion: As with the previous question, many students will be able to define dystopian science fiction clearly, but others may struggle. The links below may be helpful in establishing clear definitions before students try to answer the second part of the question. Depending on the ability level of your students, you may wish to prime them with an example or two of themes, imagery, motifs, and topics connected to the inclusion of android and cyborg characters before they try to come up with ideas of their own. Examples might include “What does it mean to be human?” or “Can the technology that serves us become dangerous?”

• In this 6-minute video, a science fiction author defines the characteristics of the genre.
• This 6-minute TED-Ed video explains dystopian literature.

Personal Connection Prompt

This prompt can be used for in-class discussion, exploratory free-writing, or reflection homework before reading the novel.

Do you have a favorite fairy tale or folktale, or is there one that especially sticks in your mind? Why do you think these old stories are so memorable and popular? Can you think of any modern books, movies, or video games based on one of these old tales? If you were going to choose a fairy tale or folktale to turn into something new, which story would you choose? What kind of new text would you create?

Teaching Suggestion: If your students are responding in writing to this prompt, it might be beneficial to allow time for discussion of the first question, as hearing a wide variety of answers might promote critical thinking about the remaining questions. If your students are responding orally, consider saving the final two questions for a brief written exercise or for a partner discussion with additional time and space as needed to think about their answers.