Modules

Core Module Information
Module title: Screenwriting: Crafting Original Scripts
SCQF level: 09:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10
Module code: LMD09164
Module leader: Ita Jansen
School School of Arts and Creative Industries
Subject area group: Screen and Performance
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added
Description of module content:

This module aims to help you develop your unique creative voice as a screenwriter. Throughout the module you will explore storytelling, character development, and plot construction while learning to express your creative intent and unique perspective as a writer. The module encourages you to experiment with different approaches to screenwriting and take creative risks. By the end of the module, you will be expected to have completed a fully developed short film script and outlines for a feature film and a 10-minute short. You will be left with a portfolio of work that showcases your ability to use screenwriting craft to communicate your personal creative vision.
Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Demonstrate the ability to take creative risks and push the boundaries of conventional screenwriting practices.

LO2: Demonstrate a detailed understanding of character development and produce protagonists, antagonists, and supporting characters who are fully realised, multi-dimensional, and authentic.

LO3: Apply knowledge of screenwriting craft by creating effective plot structure, strong dialogue, and visually interesting storytelling moments.

LO4: Critically reflect on your writing processes, development as a screenwriter, and personal creative ambitions.
Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2024/5, Trimester 1, In Person,
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: MERCHISTON
Partner:
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Ita Jansen
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Lecture 42 Our weekly lectures will teach key aspects of screenplay theory with the aim of improving your knowledge and understanding of the screenwriting craft. At the end of each lecture there will be a supervised group activity to help embed learning.
Online Guided independent study 152 Each week you will be given assigned reading, which will include both screenplays and chapters of books which describe the screenwriting craft. You will also be expected to spend time developing your own screenwriting portfolio.
Online Tutorial 6 Tutorials will be offered to help you develop your script. One of these tutorials will be a 1:1 session with a screenwriter. The other will be a group tutorial which will involve peer feedback on your short film script.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Portfolio 60 1~2~3 Week 15 , WORDS= 3,300 Students will submit a creative portfolio. This portfolio should include:- Polished 7 page script for an 7-minute short film (roughly 1,300 words)- Developed 2 page treatment for a 10-minute short film (roughly 800 words)- Developed 3 page treatment for a feature film (roughly 1,200 words)
Essay 20 4 Exam Period , WORDS= 800 words. Students will submit a statement of creative ambition. This statement should contextualise the portfolio within the student’s writing journey, reflect on learning from the trimester, and set out goals for future creative development.
Project - Written 20 1~2~3 Week 5 , WORDS= 800 words Students will submit loglines and story outlines for three separate film ideas.
Component 1 subtotal: 80
Component 2 subtotal: 20
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
Screenwriting: Crafting Original Scripts (2024/25)
 

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