A combination of lectures, workshops, screenings and blended learning will be used. Particular emphasis will be placed on workshops and the use of “writers’ rooms” in order to facilitate peer-assisted learning and also reflect elements of industry collaboration in the development of projects. In order to reflect different learning styles, the module will seek to embrace the concept of storytelling through visual, auditory and kinaesthetic means in workshops and assessments.
Module Aim:
To introduce the students to the concept of writing for the screen. To understand and critically analyse the theory relevant to writing for the screen.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1
Demonstrate knowledge of the fundamentals of writing for the screen
LO2
Use practical and professional skills appropriate to the area to plan, design and participate in the development process
LO3
Reflect on and evaluate the quality of his/her own learning and writing
LO4
Analyse the wider industrial and historical context of writing for the screen.
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed.
No requirements listed
Module Content & Assessment
Indicative Content
Historical context
Understanding the rise of narrative filmmaking and screenwriting structure
Narrative theory
Theoretical issues pertaining to narrative and mythological storytelling.
Structure
Structuring a story for the screen. 3 and 5 act structure. Non-linear structures.
Story
Finding the story.
The essence of storytelling and idea generation.
Character
Identifying and developing characters in stories for the screen. Point of view characters and motivation
Dialogue
The purpose of dialogue and its uses on screen for different formats and genres
Research
Introduction to research for the screen. Writing briefs and questions.
Development
Understanding the business of development. Formats, funding and support agencies
Writing skills
Practical guide to general writing skills for assignment and presentation purposes
Assessment Breakdown
%
Continuous Assessment
100.00%
Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Other
Developing an idea for the screen. This includes the submission of a number of documents towards the development process
1,2,3
30.00
n/a
Presentation
Presentation on story and structural analysis of a screen text.
1,4
30.00
n/a
Project
Write a project for the screen
1,2,3,4
40.00
n/a
No Project
No Practical
No End of Module Formal Examination
SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment