Foundations of Screenwriting (260-0-20)

Instructors

Ariel Stess

Meeting Info

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

Overview of class

The course will provide students with a working knowledge of the fundamentals of screenwriting. Students will learn how core concepts of character, structure, plot, theme, 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

1. Write polished short screenplays
2. Understand how core concepts of character, structure, plot, theme, 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
including developing new approaches to giving feedback

Class Materials (Required)

● Writing Short Films: Structure and Content for Screenwriters (2nd Edition)
by Linda J. Cowgill; (ISBN #: 1-58065-063-5); (cost: new $19.95, used $14.96)
● Additional readings available online via CANVAS
● Internet access, access to laptop or computer, NU email/account, word processing
program, and xeroxing of materials required for writing workshop and class discussion

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: REASON: Pre-registration is not allowed for this class. Please try again during regular registration.