13.6 Writing and Speaking

Writing

1. A paragraph

In about 100 words, explain how Claribel saved the crew and what the story teaches about depending on technology.

2. A log entry

Imagine you are the narrator. Write a space-station log entry (80–100 words) for the day Claribel collapsed and the crew discovered the danger.

3. A short science-fiction story

Write your own short science-fiction story (120–150 words) in which a small or unexpected thing solves a big problem in a future setting. Keep the science believable.

4. A paragraph

In about 100 words, describe what daily life might be like in zero gravity — eating, sleeping, moving — using your imagination and what you learnt from the story.

Writing tip Good science fiction is believable because the science is sound. When you invent a future scene, keep one foot in real facts (gravity, air, machines) so your reader trusts the world you have built.

Speaking

Discuss

1. “We should never rely completely on machines.” Do you agree? Use the story and real examples.
2. Why do you think the crew grew so fond of Claribel?

Role-play

In a group, act out the moment the crew notices Claribel collapse and works out what is wrong. Use modals of deduction (“The air must be bad!”, “The alarm can’t be working!”) as you reason aloud.

Speaking tip In a tense scene, your pace matters. Start calm, then speak a little faster and more urgently as the crew realises the danger - and slow down again with relief once the problem is solved.