2017/18 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

COMM2655 Screen Fiction

20 creditsClass Size: 44

Module manager: Dr Beth Johnson
Email: b.l.johnson@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2017/18

This module is approved as a discovery module

Module summary

This module explores current varieties of fiction available on television in order to analyse narrative function in modern broadcasting; the aesthetic conventions by which fiction is produced; and the commercial realities behind the commissioning of fiction. You will consider how popular drama (soap, series and serials) is developed and produced and why this form of television achieves popular status with modern audiences.

Objectives

Students will study in some depth the professional concepts which make up ' 'fiction' in modern broadcasting. In this module, students will analyse the principal fictional forms currently used in broadcasting. They will be encouraged to develop a critical approach to current fictional output and distinguish between the range of output types and genres which determine fictional output. On completion of this course, students should be able to understand the role of fiction in factual and non-factual programme-making; the variety of methods used in producing fiction; the variety of methods used in producing fiction; the commissioning and editorial process behind fiction output; the varieties of genre available to fiction production; how fiction represents and develops society and its issues.

Syllabus

Students will study the current varieties of fiction available on television; how popular drama (soap, series and serials) is developed and produced and why these forms achieve popular status with a modern audience. Students will analyse the aesthetic conventions by which fiction is produced and the commercial realities behind the commissioning of fiction. The function of narrative in modern broadcasting is examined with a view to understanding the varieties of genre that determine fictional output

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Seminar	10	2.00	20.00
Private study hours			180.00
Total Contact hours			20.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			200.00

Methods of assessment

Coursework

Assessment type	Notes	% of formal assessment
Essay	1 x 2,500 to 3,000 word viewing report	50.00
Essay	1 x 2,500 to 3,000 word viewing report	50.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)		100.00

If you are required to resit this module please select an alternative essay question from the module handbook.

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 09/01/2018

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