Script Development

Teaching Responsibility

LJMU Schools involved in Delivery:

Humanities and Social Science

Learning Methods

Lecture

Seminar

Module Offerings

5040CW-SEP-MTP

Aims

1. To further develop key research skills in order to develop original and compelling stories in line with current practice and expectations of the TV and Film industries;
2.To develop a sense of "Voice" in the writer by arriving at a clear sense of the types of story the student is most interested in telling, as well as the tone, style and pace in which they best tell those stories;
3. To develop key scriptwriting skills based on critical and theoretical analysis of existing works and craft texts;
4. To work collaboratively in a writers' room environment;
5. To further develop the ability to communicate ideas effectively both verbally and in writing;
6. To enhance students' understanding of their own creative process.

Learning Outcomes

Identify and evaluate in practice the application of key elements of script structure articulated in industry-standard theory and craft texts.

Test, evaluate and troubleshoot their own creative ideas against objective criteria used in industry editorial scenarios.

Produce a portfolio that includes: a pitching document or treatment outline capable of selling their story idea to potential funders or producers; a short film script without dialogue to prove competence in the visual vocabulary expected of film and TV storytelling; dialogue which advances both character development and story without exposition.

Be able to effectively communicate ideas in a concise and engaging way, verbally and on paper.

Have experience working collaboratively in an environment similar to that of a professional writers' room offering and accepting constructive criticism from their peers.

Demonstrate key research skills including the uses of ITC.

Module Content

Outline Syllabus:
Students will workshop their writing in tutor-led and peer-led sessions, offering and receiving constructive criticism, reading and performing key scenes from their scripts and re-drafting and developing their work. They will also share insights into their ongoing research process with peers. Industry guest speakers will also share their knowledge and experience in seminars and masterclasses.

Module Overview:
Students will workshop their writing in tutor-led and peer-led sessions, offering andreceiving constructive criticism, reading and performing key scenes from their scriptsand re-drafting and developing their work. They will also share insights into theirongoing research process with peers. Industry guest speakers will also share theirknowledge and experience in seminars and masterclasses.

Additional Information:
Key employability skills are embedded throughout the module. These include: Analysis, problem solving & decision making, communication, ICT, numeracy & financial literacy, planning & organisation and team work and collaboration, as well as creativity and enterprise.

Course Catalogue