Scenario Writing

Scenario Writing is another component of the multi-faceted Future Problem Solving Program. Students develop and submit pieces of writing containing up to 1500 words. These "scenarios" are written in short story format, are based on one of the topics chosen for the year and must be set at least twenty years into the future.

As in the other competitive components, students compete only against those in their own

division. Winning teams in each of the three divisions are invited to attend the International

Future Problem Solving Conference.

The Scenario Writing component of FPS strives to help students enlarge, enrich and make more

accurate those images of the future. Scenario Writing personalizes a student's ever growing

perspective of the future.

An FPS scenario is a short-short story in which one possible outcome of the future is developed

through character(s) and plot. It is a prediction of the future and is written as though the future was the present.

To participate in the competitive portion of the program, and to be eligible for awards, a scenario writer follows standard guidelines:

Each scenario must be set at least 20 years in the future.
Each scenario must have a recognisable relationship to one of the current Future Problem Solving Topics.
Scenarios must not exceed 1,500 words.
The title must be on the first page and the scenario must be double-spaced, typed in Arial or Times New Roman font (12 point).
The scenario must be submitted by the due date, with all relevant coversheets and forms.

Scenario writing serves as an excellent complement for a student participating in Team Problem Solving, and can serve as an extension of work on any of the topics. The creative writing involved in Scenario Writing appeals to students not drawn to the more team-orientated focus of FPS. Scenario Writing can be used as a stand-alone activity by an FPS coach, a writing teacher, or any individual interested in creative writing. Scenario Writing is an excellent option for student portfolios.

While an individual student may submit only one scenario, there is no limit to the number of scenarios a coach may register.

Description Courtesy of Australia FPS