Subject objectives/outcomes
At the completion of this subject, students are expected to be able to:
a. Write a clear and concise industry standard, script development proposal that engages the reader and maps out an achievable work plan for the semester.
b. Engage critically and creatively with their own work and the work of their colleagues.
c. Investigate a variety of strategies in order to develop the visual and structural aspects of their screenplay.
d. Understand how the production process and performance may change the written text.
Objective(s): a, b, c
Weighting: 40%
Task: Students write an industry standard script development proposal for their creative work this semester. This should include: a one-paragraph synopsis, approximately two pages of writer's notes detailing why you have chosen this idea, the themes, visual style, genre, audience, what stage the project is at and what its strengths and weaknesses are, a detailed outline, step outline or treatment of the project (length to be negotiated with the lecturer) and a concise work plan for the rest of semester.
Assessment criteria:
* Accomplishment in writing an industry standard development proposal that is clear and engaging.
* Articulation of visual style and themes.
* Clarity in communicating the scope and depth of the project.
* Critical engagement with the work and achievability of work plan.
Assessment item 2: The project
Objective(s): b, c, d
Weighting: 60%
Task: To research and develop a screenplay taking into account the Development Proposal submitted earlier in semester. A short film should be a second draft and written in screenplay format. A long form drama may contain script, step outline and/or treatment and should contain the key emotional scene that was workshopped with the actors.
Assessment criteria:
* Creative engagement with the work.
* Development of the cinematic and visual storytelling aspects of the work.
* Understanding of scene and sequence structure and achievement in writing a key emotional scene.
* Integration of critical feedback.
* Adherence to script format.
Minimum requirements
Students are expected to read the subject outline to ensure they are familiar with the subject requirements. Since class discussion and participation in activities form an integral part of this subject, you are expected to attend, arrive punctually and actively participate in classes. If you experience difficulties meeting this requirement, please contact your lecturer. Students who have a reason for extended absence (e.g., illness) may be required to complete additional work to ensure they achieve the subject objectives.
Attendance is particularly important in this subject because it is based on a collaborative approach which involves essential workshopping and interchange of ideas. Students who attend fewer than ten classes are advised that their final work will not be assessed and that they are likely to fail the subject.
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