Module and Programme Catalogue

Search site

Find information on

2024/25 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

LLLC2248 Script Writing

20 creditsClass Size: 25

Module manager: Jon Towlson
Email: j.towlson@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2024/25

Pre-requisite qualifications

20 credits of level 1 or equivalent experience in creative writing and writing workshops

This module is approved as a discovery module

Module summary

This module explores a variety of scripts and gives you the opportunity to write your own play, screenplay or radio piece. You will be encouraged to research audiences and to develop new writing that is appropriate for your intended reader. You will build on your creative skills alongside this critical understanding through seminar workshops, sharing work with your peers, and receiving and giving feedback.

Objectives

The aim of this module is to provide the opportunity to critically engage in writing a script/s. On completion of this module students will:
1. Have extended their general knowledge, critical understanding and practical experience of writing scripts.
2. Have a sharpened awareness of the historical development of script writing.
3. Be able to identify a range of genres designated as script writing and will have used select techniques linked to these genres within their own writing.
4. Have developed critical reading skills in relation to their own writing, that of other students, and work by published authors.
5. Have gained practical experience of producing writing in a variety of styles for script.

Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have achieved the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of how audiences read performance in a variety of genres and styles: film, play, radio etc.
2. Critically evaluate scripts to develop an understanding of how to approach editing their own work and give critical feedback to their peers.
3. Demonstrate insight into the history and development of script writing and of current practice within the UK.
4. Create and develop their own scripts, with a synopsis, demonstrating an awareness of critical, creative and commercial contexts.
5. Critically reflect upon their own creative work in relation to critical, creative and commercial contexts and peer/tutor feedback.

Skills Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
1. Academic: Critically evaluate historical, critical and creative contexts to help develop own creative work (links to LO2)
2. Work ready: Use research and peer/tutor feedback to critically reflect on creative work (links to LO5)
3. Enterprise: Communicate effectively for appropriate audiences and with professionals in the creative industries (links to LO4 and 5)


Syllabus

This module examines the genres of Script Writing from a range of critical and creative perspectives. Beginning with definitions and historical development, students will be asked to consider the role of radio, play and film scripts within contemporary society. This will lead to an evaluation of script writing, its traditional parameters, and the ways in which writers can work outside the prescribed boundaries. The module will also look at the value and appeal of writing for performance. Issues and areas to be discussed in this respect may include: the critical study of scripts and status of script writers, age ranges and censorship, and writing for the audience. These subjects will be studied across a variety of texts, which may include theatre, radio, and film extracts. Leading into issues of interpretation and adaptation, this will also enable students to appreciate and understand the widespread popularity of writing for performance.

Teaching methods

Delivery typeNumberLength hoursStudent hours
Practicals112.0022.00
Independent online learning hours11.00
Private study hours167.00
Total Contact hours22.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)200.00

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Student progress will be monitored throughout the module via engagement within group workshops; students will benefit from both peer and tutor feedback. In addition, students will have the opportunity to submit partial drafts of their critical work and scripts for tutor feedback. Draft deadlines will be provided in the Minerva area and students will receive written feedback on their drafts as well as having an opportunity to discuss it further with the tutor.

Methods of assessment


Coursework
Assessment typeNotes% of formal assessment
Written WorkCommentary on research into the conventions of a particular medium of script writing (1000 words).  *To deepen understanding of own writing practice in relation to industry and cultural context20.00
PortfolioThe script (10 pages), synopsis (300 words) + critical reflection on the script (1000 words).  *To develop and apply relevant skills in script writing and presenting work to industry To develop skills in articulating process for an audience/to industry.80.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)100.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 04/03/2024

Disclaimer

Browse Other Catalogues

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team.PROD

© Copyright Leeds 2019