Screenwriting

• Credit value: 30 credits at Level 4
• Convenor: Barbara Cox (subject to change)
• Assessment: a character profile of 500 words (0%), 10-minute script, which consists of a complete story in correct script format (75%) and evaluation essay of at least 1000 words (25%)

In film and TV drama, everything starts with the script. In this module we introduce you to the basic principles and practice of screenwriting, and consider the dual function of a script as both a piece of creative writing and a set of instructions for the production team, actors and director.

You will gain practical experience of creating, developing and writing script projects, so that you develop both screenwriting skills and a general insight into the development and production processes, as well as a wider knowledge of existing film and TV drama.

Indicative syllabus

• What's different about writing for the screen?
• What does a script look like and why?
• Characterisation and character motivation
• The importance of a strong beginning to your story
• Using visual elements and sound
• Story structure and story order
• Planning a script
• Research
• Dialogue
• Genre and tone
• The script in production