The Evolution of Winx Thinks – Dinosaurs!
Author’s Notes – Part 2
Winx’s time travel dilemmas follow the process of science and discovery. Here are some examples of how I fluffed and buffed the traditional lab report format (hypothesis, materials, procedure, results, analysis) to structure main plot points and add plenty of problems.
- Hypothesize: To advance knowledge, wonder and thought need creativity and specificity. Winx and Marta persistently puzzle through wacky-to-wonderful ideas to select options and details as they devise new and increasingly focused hypotheses for getting Winx to the Mesozoic.
- Materials: The Socks, Time Tags, and basic backpack supplies are given items. It’s refining the research materials, attire, or tools to bring that gets tricky. Not to mention what happens if anything gets left in Other Times.
- Procedures: The Rules from Shiny Box and the Stinky Socks’ song are not the easiest to interpret or follow. It’s also tricky to judge when and how to vary procedures in the face of danger.
- Research, Re-Think, Retry: This cycle is a never-ending driver for Winx & Marta. And as the core of scientific and historical research, this trio also fuels the book’s plot.
- Luck, Perseverance, & Flexible Thinking: Take it from Winx…even the best-laid hypothesis goes awry. Sometimes “lucky” can be a good thing. Winx makes some of his own luck by staying alert and pivoting quickly.
- Independent and even rebellious thinking help Winx. They hurt him, too. Seeking help and using savvy inputs from others gets him closer to his goal.
See Dino Notes Part 1: Winx’s Paleo Progenitors
Katie Engen 