Film Screenplay writing with Assignment and Project

Based on the detailed course outline you've provided, this course is designed to take students through a comprehensive journey from understanding different film genres, movements, and techniques to learning the mechanics of writing a screenplay. Here's how you might structure and implement this course:

Course Structure Overview:

Module 1: Introduction to Film Genres and Formats

• Lessons: Overview of film genres, exploration of film movements, understanding film formats (Feature Films, Short Films, etc.).
• Activities: Analyze different films from various genres, discuss the elements that define each genre.

Module 2: Deep Dive into Film Techniques and Styles

• Lessons: Study of specific film techniques (e.g., Found Footage, Mockumentary), exploration of styles and their impact on narrative and audience engagement.
• Activities: Create a presentation or video essay analyzing the use of a specific technique in a chosen film.

Module 3: Understanding Screenplay Elements

• Lessons: Comprehensive study of screenplay elements (Three-Act Structure, Scene Descriptions, Dialogue, Character Development, etc.).
• Activities: Analyze the structure and character development in a selected screenplay.

Module 4: Writing the Screenplay

• Lessons: Writing effective dialogue, developing compelling characters, crafting scenes, formatting a screenplay.
• Assignments:
  • Assignment 1: Critical Analysis of a Film Screenplay - Teams of students will dissect and analyze an existing film's screenplay.
  • Assignment 2: Writing a Film Screenplay - Teams of students will create an original screenplay, showcasing their understanding of character, setting, and plot.

Module 5: From Page to Screen

• Lessons: The process of turning a script into a film, including pre-production, production, and post-production stages.
• Activities: Participate in a table read or create storyboards for select scenes from the written screenplays.

Module 6: Industry Standards and Practices

• Lessons: Understanding industry standards, pitching, query letters, understanding contracts, and navigating legal aspects.
• Activities: Role-playing exercises such as "pitching to investors" or creating a mock query letter for the screenplay they've written.

Module 7: Final Project

• Lessons: Refinement of writing skills, final touches on screenplays, and preparation for submission.
• Assignments: Students submit their original feature film screenplay, integrating all elements learned throughout the course.

Assessment and Evaluation:

• Continuous Assessment: Regular assignments, participation in discussions, and activities will be part of the overall assessment.
• Final Project: A graded component that includes a polished original screenplay ready for submission to industry professionals or competition.

Course Materials:

• A comprehensive guidebook or textbook covering all course material.
• Access to online resources, including film databases, screenwriting software, and industry tools.
• Screening of films and case studies of successful screenplays and film projects.

Implementation Tips:

• Weekly Lessons: Structure the course with weekly lessons, each focusing on a specific aspect of film screenwriting.
• Interactive Learning: Incorporate interactive elements such as workshops, peer reviews, and guest lectures from industry professionals.
• Flexible Learning: Offer online forums or discussion boards for students to engage with each other and the course material outside of class.
• Real-World Application: Encourage students to attend local film screenings, writing workshops, or screenwriting competitions as part of their practical learning experience.
• Feedback Loop: Provide constructive feedback on assignments to help students refine their skills and improve their final projects.

This course structure aims to provide a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical application, equipping students with the expertise they need to succeed in the world of film screenwriting.