Module Details

Module Code: DRAM8039
Title: Scriptwriting 1
Long Title: Scriptwriting 1
NFQ Level: Advanced
Valid From: Semester 1 - 2017/18 ( September 2017 )
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits: 5
Field of Study: 2122 - Drama
Module Delivered in: 3 programme(s)
Module Description: An experiential course that looks at the essentials of plotting, character creation and dialogue as key components of script development for stage and screen.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 identify the fundamentals for developing a script
LO2 break down story structures for analysis
LO3 devise and discuss an original idea for development
LO4 construct character biographies
LO5 write an original script
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named MTU module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).

Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module. You may not earn additional credit for the same learning and therefore you may not enrol in this module if you have successfully completed any modules in the incompatible list.
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. You may not enrol on this module if you have not acquired the learning specified in this section.

No requirements listed
 
Indicative Content
Analysis
The essentials of script devising: conflict, plotting and character biographies
Biography
Biographical elements for creating character. The reality tunnels of central characters are explored and developed with a view to creating well-rounded and psychologically believeable characters
Creative Writing
Plotting an original piece of work that has a beginning, middle and end, a central conflict, protagonist, antagonist and supporting characters
Performance
Original work is read and performed with a view to analysing and appraising dialogue in terms of fluidity, believeability, character discovery, reality tunnel, plot advancement and development of central conflict.
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework100.00%

Assessments

Coursework
Assessment Type Project % of Total Mark 30
Timing Week 6 Learning Outcomes 3,4
Assessment Description
Delivery of plot outline and character biographies
Assessment Type Other % of Total Mark 20
Timing Week 12 Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4,5
Assessment Description
Continuous Assessment: student delivery of ongoing class assignments
Assessment Type Written Report % of Total Mark 50
Timing Sem End Learning Outcomes 1,5
Assessment Description
Presentation of original scenework (approximately 10 - 15 pages)
No End of Module Formal Examination
Reassessment Requirement
Coursework Only
This module is reassessed solely on the basis of re-submitted coursework. There is no repeat written examination.

The University reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Scriptwriting and elements of storytelling Every Week 1.00 1
Lab Contact Analysis and exercises for creative writing and feedback on ongoing work Every Week 2.00 2
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Writing assignments Every Week 4.00 4
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 3.00
This module has no Part Time workload.
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Christopher Vogler. (2007), The Writer's Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers, Third. Michael Wiese Productions, Studio City, California, p.300, [ISBN: ISBN-10: 193290736X].
  • Robert McKee. (1997), Story: Substance, Structure, Style and Principles of Screenwriting, Harper Entertainment, New York, NY, [ISBN: 978-0060391683].
Supplementary Book Resources
  • Sylvia K. Butrack. (2008), The Writer's Handbook, Revised. Palgrave Macmillan, Hampshire, England, p.832, [ISBN: 0230573231].
  • David Trottier. (2005), The Screenwriter's Bible, Revised fourth edition. Silman-James Press,U.S., Los Angeles, California, p.352, [ISBN: 1879505843].
  • Frank Pike, Thomas G. Dunn. (1996), The Playwrights Handbook, Revised. Plume, New York, NY, p.272, [ISBN: 0452275881].
  • LeeAnne Krusemark. (2016), Scriptwriting A - Z, CreateSpace, [ISBN: 1530809932].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
This module does not have any other resources
 
Module Delivered in
Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CR_GMUTH_8 Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Musical Theatre 7 Elective
CR_GTHDR_8 Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Theatre and Drama Studies 7 Elective
CR_GTHDR_8 Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Theatre and Drama Studies 5 Elective