WR 262 Screenwriting: Feature Films

Lecture Hours: 4
Credits: 4

Introduces the basic elements of the screenplay, the process of writing screenplays for feature-length films, and the workshop system used to share and discuss the work of peers. Includes reading a breadth of representative works, creating and revising the first act of a feature-length screenplay, and writing formal critical analyses.

Prerequisite: Placement into WR 121Z (or higher); or completion of WR 115 with a grade of C or better; or consent of instructor.
Repeatable: Course may be repeated for a maximum of eight credits.
Student Learning Outcomes:

Read and analyze published or produced screenplays. a. Identify and define the traditional narrative techniques (plot, character, setting, scene, sequence) used in screenwriting. b. Identify and define traditional formatting techniques (slugline, action, dialogue, etc) used in screenwriting c. Identify and compare major genres and styles of screenplays. d. Paraphrase, summarize, explicate, analyze, and interpret screenplays.
Identify and explain techniques for creating screenplays that are derived from and reflect the understandings in 1. a. - c. (“screenwriting techniques”).
Use and explain the use of screenwriting techniques in creating the first act of an original feature-length screenplay (20-30 pages)
Identify and critique the use and effects of screenwriting techniques within peer writing.
Clearly communicate responses to peer work, both in written summaries and within small-group discussions.
Revise original work based on peer critiques.
Write critical analyses of feature-length screenplays, including at least one essay in MLA format with documentation.

Statewide General Education Outcomes:

Read actively, think critically and write purposefully and capably for academic and, in some cases, professional audiences.
Locate, evaluate and ethically utilize information to communicate effectively.
Demonstrate appropriate reasoning in response to complex issues.

Content Outline

Introduction of the Screenplay as a Literary Genre; analysis of relationship to other literary genres and discussion of historical and popular reception
Reading a breadth of representative works in the genre
Introduction of General Narrative Techniques (e.g., Plot Structure, Characterization, Setting, Point of View, etc.)
Introduction of Narrative Techniques Specific to Screenwriting (e.g., Scene and Sequence Construction, Visual Aspects of Characterization, Screenplay Format, etc.)
Analysis of techniques used to create screenplays (“screenwriting techniques”) through critical essays and other analytical exercises
Exploration and Practice of Screenwriting Techniques Through Writing Exercises
Introduction of Workshop Process for Sharing and Responding to Peer Work
- Submitting original work for review by other students
- Providing written critiques of peer work for other students
- Participating in discussion of the techniques observed in peer work and the possible effects of these techniques upon readers and viewers
Mandatory and Evaluated Revision of Own Work in Response to Peer Feedback
Introduction to the Process of Submitting Work for Publication