PLAYWRITING THE-353

COURSE OVERVIEW & OBJECTIVES

Students will learn the theory and practice of writing for the stage by using a step by step, systematic approach that involves weekly writing assignments. In these exercises, students explore the creation of setting, development of characters, working with conflict, putting together a scenario, and writing a scene. The main requirement of the course is the writing of a one-act play.
The purpose of the class is to combine a disciplined system of writing with a collaborative approach to the development of communication and critical thinking skills. Playwriting is language on its feet; thus, all written assignments will be read and discussed with the class. Students are expected to learn how to solicit criticism from others and offer it in a constructive, positive, and supportive manner.
Prerequisites: No previous class or writing experience is necessary.

PROFESSIONAL SCRIPT FORMAT

REQUIREMENTS:

1. ATTENDANCE AND LATENESS: Students are expected to attend every class on time and contact the instructor prior to class should conflicts arise. Repeated lateness, as well as absences, will lower grades.

2. WRITING ASSIGNMENTS: Nine written assignments constitute the major requirement of this course. Half of the assignments exercise the fundamental skills of playwriting; the final assignments help students develop a 25 page one-act play. Late assignments are accepted but lose 20% of the grade.

3. MECHANICS: All assignments MUST BE TYPED in pica or elite type, on 8 & 1/2 x 11 white bond. Follow the standard format for playscript margins: top and bottom - 1 & 1/4 inches; left margin - 1 & 1/2 inches; right margin - one inch. Dialogue and stage directions are single spaced with double spacing between each, and between alternate lines. Character names are always capitalized and centered when speaking. Dialogue is typed from left margin to right margin but stage directions are placed within parentheses and indented. (See example attached)

4. GRADES: Final grades will reflect the student's ability to meet deadlines, complete writing assignments with thoroughness and imagination, incorporate lessons into practice, participate openly in class by thoughtful commentary and active listening, and develop a play which includes believable and interesting human behavior. The one-act play is graded primarily on how well the student integrated lessons from the previous written assignments.

Total 200 points 100%

CRITERIA FOR GRADE OF ìAî

Keeping in mind that the grade of ìAî is often associated with ìoutstandingî or ìsuperiorî work, to obtain an ìAî in this course you must not only meet the minimum criteria delineated in the course requirements, but also accomplish each of the following three objectives:

1) Have perfect attendance and punctuality, speak often in class, and participate openly in drama activities.
2) Compose well-written typed exercises and hand them in on the day assigned.
3) Create a 25 page play that reveals strong organization, dramatic tension, meaningful action, independent thought, interesting characters, and readable, unambiguous dialogue that reflects character and interaction.