WRIT 306 Writing for Theater & Film

Exploration of the fundamental craft of writing for theater and film, focusing on the creation of dramatic narrative story and the formation of multi-dimensional characters.

Writing for theater and film requires understanding the theories and craft of dramatic writing. Thus, it is imperative that the theater and film artist has a clear understanding of the writing craft required to engage in this highly competitive and rewarding career.

Textbook readings and lecture presentations

Course Requirements Checklist

After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.

Discussions (3)

Discussions are collaborative learning experiences. The student will complete 3 Discussions in this course. For each Discussion, the student will write a thread and 2 thoughtful peer reviews. (CLO: A, B, C).

1. One Short Story Idea: Theater Stage Play or Film Screenplay
2. One Story Outline: Theater Stage Play or Film Screenplay
3. One First Draft: Theater Stage Play or Film Screenplay

Character Backstory Assignment

The student will create two 200-250-word character backstories (protagonist and antagonist) that informs who s/he is at the outset of the story. (CLO: A, B, C).

First Draft and Final Draft Assignments

First Draft Assignment

First Draft of the short Theater Stage Play (8-10 pgs.) or short Film Screenplay (8-10 pgs.) demonstrating a 3-act structure and exemplifying a clear story protagonist noting his/her external objective (want) and internal character flaw (need).

Final Draft Assignment

Final Draft of the short Theater Stage Play (12-15 pgs.) or the short Film Screenplay (12-15 pgs.) The Stage Play or Screenplay should reflect an understanding of story development and the principles of writing for Theater and Film.
(CLO: A, B, C, D).

Quizzes (2)

Each quiz will cover the Learn material for the assigned module. Each quiz will contain 10 true/false questions and have a 1-hour time limit.