COMM5925M Scriptwriting for the Studio
30 Credits Class Size: 30
Module manager: Mr Ian Bolt
Email: i.m.bolt@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running
2005/06
Co-requisites
Scriptwriting to Genre COMM5915M
This module is not approved as an Elective
Objectives
On completion of this module, students should be able to write practically for a studio production with particular reference to those genres and sub genres not specifically covered elsewhere on the MA in writing for the small screen.
The areas not specifically covered elsewhere are:
- Studio based children's shows
- Game Shows
- Magazine Shows
- Personality led chat shows
All of the above have slightly different requirements from a drama and also differ from a commentary track for a factual programme. They are quite diverse in themselves but all share the same requirement of being multiparted in construction, many using short links, and have to fit closely with what the director or producer wants to make efficient usage of studio time.
The student should also be able to understand the needs for different approaches within these sub-genres and to become familiar with the technology that influences how and why things have to be done by the writer within a television studio environment. The ultimate test of the skills acquired will be by the practical execution of course work.
Syllabus
Over the semester, through lectures, seminars and practical studio sessions the student should acquire the practical skills required to deliver studio ready scripts in the following genre:
- Studio based children's shows
- Game Shows
- Magazine Shows
- Personality led chat shows
The course is broken down into analysis of the genre, script requirements of the genre and practical delivery of scripts for the various genres. Examination and progress are monitored through formative script writing sessions and a final professionally crewed studio session in which the material is actually shot.
Teaching Methods
Lectures: 6 x 2 hours;
Seminars: 4 x 2 hours;
Practical classes: 10 x 4 hours.
Private study
Script writing: 140 hours;
Reading: 50 hours;
Research and preparation for studio sessions: 50 hours.
Opportunities for Formative Feedback
2 formative scripts of 10" duration;
Practical session observation.
Reading List
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 27/11/2006
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team