Foundations of Screenwriting (260-0-20)

Instructors

Joslyn Nicole Mclaughlin

Meeting Info

Annie May Swift Hall 219: Mon 9:00AM - 11:50AM

Overview of class

This course will provide students with a working knowledge of the fundamentals of
screenwriting. Students will learn how core concepts of character, structure, plot, theme, setting,
and tone work together on the page to create narrative. Students will explore these concepts and
their practice in film, as well as how they might utilize these concepts to express their personal
voice and vision.

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to do the following:
1. Write polished short screenplays
2. Understand how core concepts of character, structure, plot, theme, setting, and tone work
together to create narrative
3. Articulate and develop their personal voice and vision
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. There will be weekly assignments, which include writing
assignments, readings, presentations, and viewing films/television.

Class Materials (Required)

● Writing Short Films: Structure and Content for Screenwriters (2nd Edition)
by Linda J. Cowgill; (ISBN #: 1-58065-063-5); (cost: $19.95)
● Additional readings available online via CANVAS
● Each student will be responsible for printing/copying up to 273 script pages during the
quarter
● Internet access, access to laptop or computer, NU email/account, word processing
program, and xeroxing of materials required for writing workshop and class discussion