Module Details

Module Code: MEDI C1614
Module Title: Writing for the Screen
Title: Writing for the Screen
Module Level:: 6
Credits:: 5
Module Coordinator: Cathal Nolan
Module Author:: Paula Mulroe
Domains:  
Module Description: 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 will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
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.
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Additional Requisite Information
No Co Requisites listed
 
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
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Continuous Assessment100.00%

Assessments

Full Time

Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type Other % of Total Mark 30
Timing n/a Learning Outcomes 1,2,3
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
Developing an idea for the screen. This includes the submission of a number of documents towards the development process
Assessment Type Presentation % of Total Mark 30
Timing n/a Learning Outcomes 1,4
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
Presentation on story and structural analysis of a screen text.
Assessment Type Project % of Total Mark 40
Timing n/a Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
Write a project for the screen
No Project
No Practical
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.
Reassessment Description
Learners that fail but achieve a minimum final percentage of 30% in the module will be eligible for one or more of the following: Submit assignment, Re-submit components, Practical examination, Interview or Presentation.

SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Workload Category Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Laboratory Contact Laboratory Every Week 3.00 3
Independent Learning Non Contact Estimate Learner Hours Every Week 3.00 3
Total Weekly Contact Hours 3.00
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Syd Field. (2019), Screenplay : the foundations of screenwriting.
  • Joseph Campbell. (2012), The Hero with a Thousand Faces, New World Library, p.440, [ISBN: 1577315936].
  • Yves Lavandier. Writing Drama; a Comprehensive Guide for Playwrights and Scriptwriters, Le Clown & L'enfant, p.296, [ISBN: 291060604X].
  • Christopher Vogler. The Writers Journey, Michael Wiese Productions, p.300, [ISBN: 193290736X].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
Other Resources
Discussion Note: