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Topics in Media Writing (360-0-20)

Topic

Writing Teen-Centered Film/TV

Instructors

Ariel Michel Stess

Meeting Info

Annie May Swift Hall 219: Mon 3:00PM - 5:50PM

Overview of class

Narratives about teens are thrilling, complex, and widely popular. In this class, students will tap
into their experience of being a teen, explore and subvert dramatic and comedic tropes, and write
exciting teen-centered stories for television and film.

Registration Requirements

Completion of RTVF 260 - Foundations of Screenwriting

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to do the following:
1. Develop an original tv pilot or short film
2. Develop complex main characters who are teens
3. Create dynamic action and suspenseful and/or comedic storylines
4. Develop collaborative skills that serve writers within a workshop and writers' room setting

Teaching Method

The course will be workshop-centered with a focus on developing collaborative skills within a
writers' room-style environment. Each student will develop storylines that center the
complicated, dynamic lives of teenagers. There will be weekly assignments, which include
writing assignments, readings, presentations, and viewing films/television.
By the end of the quarter, each student will have created a complete short film or tv pilot (22-30
pages). Graduate students may write up to 60 pages.

Class Materials (Required)

• Subscription or access to Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime
• Each student will be responsible for printing/copying up to 390 pages during the quarter
• Readings will be posted on CANVAS
• Internet access, NU email/account, and screenwriting software or word processing
program
• Access to computer/laptop for writing/formatting scripts, completing writing
assignments, viewing films, and reading

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Students must have completed RTVF 260-0 in order to register for this course (concurrent registration is not allowed) Students must have completed RTVF 260-0 in order to register for this course (concurrent registration is not allowed)