Class Syllabus: How To Write A Screenplay
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Learn Online: How To Write A Screenplay

Syllabus: How To Write A Screenplay

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Course Description

Learn to write a screenplay!  This course is for anyone who loves movies and loves to write.  This is the first exciting step to writing and completing a feature length screenplay. This class will consist of 11 lessons, 10 quizzes, 10 practical assignments, and one final assignment that will be your first screenplay draft of the 1st Act.
 
The student will begin to construct an original completed screenplay one step at a time from story idea through the ending.  The student will learn valuable techniques in creating great characters and dialogue, supercharged scenes, well-constructed acts, and a storyline that jumps off the page. Each Lesson creates screenwriting building blocks that are designed to propel the student to a completed screenplay.  During the screenwriting process the student will be exposed to all types of movies and written screenplays as examples. 

Course Requirements

1.   This course requires basic English, reading and writing skills. 
2.   Special writing courses are helpful, but not necessary to complete this beginning screenwriting class. 
3.   Beginning or intermediate screenwriters welcome.
4.   Any computer word processor program is sufficient, such as Word or WordPerfect. 
5.   Notebook, index cards, binder or writer's journal is helpful and based on individual's preference.
6.   Computer and email access.

Course Goals

The goal of this screenwriting course is to complete a full length screenplay and to improve writing skills as a screenwriter.

Course Materials

1.   Notebook, binder or journal. 
2.   Access to view at least three favorite movies.

Grading Policy

Grading:

 

10 Exams - 100 points each                  

9 Assignments -100 points each                  

1 Final Assignment - 200 points                          

 

Total  2100 points

 

A  1890-2100  (Excellent)

B  1680-1889  (Above Average)                                             

C  1470-1679  (Average)

D  1260-1469  (Below Average)
F   Below 1259  (Failing)

Course Outline

1.                  Lesson #1 – Gearing up and getting organized

2.                  Lesson #2 – Premise & Logline

3.                  Lesson #3 – Format, Copyright & Glossary of Terms

4.                  Lesson #4 – Characters

5.                  Lesson #5 – Dialogue

6.                  Lesson #6 – Story

7.                  Lesson #7 – Hook

8.                  Lesson #8 - 1st Act (set up)

9.                  Lesson #9 – 2nd Act (struggle & conflict
10.              Lesson #10 – 3rd Act (resolution)
      11.       Lesson #11 – It’s a wrap

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