MFC4272 - Writing for Television

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Demonstrate an understanding of how to write effectively for television
Demonstrate an understanding of the layout and style of a television script
Demonstrate an understanding of how to develop a script from the original idea to the finished product
Develop the basic practical skills required to work as a script-writer and / or editor in the television industry

Content:

The first semester of this 20 credit module will introduce the students to the basics of writing for television. Students will look at how scripts are created for a wide range of programme genres and hear from professionals in the industry who are working as script-writers and script-editors. They will learn the importance of ensuring that words add to the visual images and natural sounds rather than duplicating them. In the second semester, students will develop their individual writing skills by tackling a range of different projects, including creating scripts for studio-based LE programmes, writing voice-overs for documentaries and scripts for short dramas. They will also have the opportunity to see how script conferences work and learn about the role of the writer in any production team.
Students will also learn how to put together the all-important industry commission proposal for a range of different genre, both written and in a personal presentation, learning the importance of identifying and selling the core of any programme idea.

Learning and Teaching Information:

The module will be based around a combination of interactive lectures and workshops which include hearing from guest speakers and making site visits.

Lecture
Contact hours: 10
Intended Group size: Cohort

Workshops
Contact hours: 30
Intended Group size: Cohort

Guided independent study
Hours: 160

Further details relating to assessment
The Semester 1 assessment will involve scripting a voice-over for a pre-recorded factual sequence
The Semester 2 Portfolio will normally involve presenting an idea for a short-drama to an industry professional and completing the accompanying script.

Assessment:

001 Script for voice-over 1,000-word equiv End Sem 1 30%
002 Presentation 1 x 10 minutes During Sem 2 20%
003 Portfolio 2,000-word equiv End Sem 2 50%


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